Frequently Asked Questions about WattPlot™!
Have a question that is not answered here? Please contact us directly!
General Information
What is WattPlot™?System Requirements
What is WattPlot™ PRO?
What is WattPlot™ FirstMATE™?
What is WattPlot™ MultiMATE™?
What is WattPlot™ CheckMATE™?
I'm a homeowner with an OutBack system. What can WattPlot do for me?
I'm an OutBack dealer or installer. What can WattPlot do for me?
I use OutBack equipment in my industry. What can WattPlot do for me?
I'm a researcher or teacher. What can WattPlot do for me?
Does it work with all inverters from Outback Power Systems? What about other manufacturers, like Xantrex?
How do I get technical support for WattPlot?
Which email address should I use to contact you?
What does the raw MATE data (from the Remote program or captured by WattPlot) mean?
Do I need an OutBack Mate?Features and Capabilities
What are the computer system requirements?
What flavors of the Windows Operating System are supported? What about Vista, Windows 7, or Linux?
How should I run WattPlot under Windows Vista or Windows 7?
Can you run WattPlot on a Mac computer?
My system has no serial COM ports. Can I use a USB port?
I don't have MS Excel. Do I need it to view the monthly spreadsheets?
How much disk space do WattPlot log files use?
Does my computer have to be on the whole time?
Are there low wattage alternatives to a computer always on?
How close does the computer have to be to the Mate? How close does the Mate have to be to the OutBack equipment?
What can it doRemote Monitoring
Can I control my system (through the Mate) from WattPlot?How does it work
Can I program my system settings from WattPlot?
How does WattPlot compare to WinVerter™-Monitor OB?
What is the difference between WattPlot and WattPlot PRO?
Can I use any other monitoring software at the same time as WattPlot?
Can mulitple users monitor the same OutBack System?
Can I monitor mulitple MATEs for one OutBack system?
Does it support the FLEXnet DC System Monitor and the FLEXmax 60/80 Charge Controllers?
Does it work with other equipment like weather stations or battery meters?
Does WattPlot support European regional settings, like a comma as decimal point?
Do I need to set up files, or does the program do it automatically?What does it show me
When I attach it to the Mate, does it just automatically begin taking in & processing data?
If I shut off or disconnect my PC, does the previous data get saved?
When I re-connect it, does it just take off where things ended with a gap in between?
Are the vertical plot scales user-adjustable?
Can I log the volts and amps coming from each array in my solar panel setup?
Can WattPlot show me elapsed charging times?
Can I view the raw data that corresponds to my performance plots?
In the Snaphot bars, why do you show real-time volts and amps for the FX, but not watts?
What does WattPlot's truncation compensation do?
Can WattPlot access the historical data stored in my OutBack device (e.g. 128-day data)?
Can I monitor my Mate remotely?Ordering and Licensing
Can I monitor my system over the internet?
How can I monitor my system by TCP/IP, without a remote computer?
How does the WattPlot Remote program work?
Can WattPlot transmit alerts by phone or email?
Can WattPlot control my Mate remotely?
How much does WattPlot cost?Dealer/Installer Questions
How do I order a copy?
How can I try out the program?
Do I need an internet connection to get the software?
How does the product evaluation work? Can I try it out for a longer trial period?
Can I run WattPlot on more than one computer?
What if my hardware changes or I need to move to a new computer?
I just got a new MATE with a new serial number. Will WattPlot still work?
How many systems can I monitor with one standard license?
I'm a dealer or installer. What do you have for me?
How much does WattPlot cost?Industrial/Commercial Questions
Can I run WattPlot on more than one computer?
Can I connect into my client's system to see their WattPlot screen?
How many client systems can I monitor with one standard license?
Are dealer or installer discounts available?
I'm a dealer. How do I get my logo and company name on your software?
How many systems can I monitor with one standard license?Troubleshooting Problems
Do you have a product that allows me to monitor a large number of sites?
Serial Data Communication Issues
How can I check that the computer is correctly connected to the MATE?Data Value Issues
WattPlot does not appear to be seeing any data from the MATE.
Why do I get communication time-out messages? I'm often having to restart my data reception.
WattPlot is reporting some values that do not agree with values on my MATE.Error Messages
WattPlot is reporting unexpected zero values and/or my summary wattages seem low or inconsistent.
WattPlot's window showing my system settings does not match the settings on my MATE.
PV amps display is not being updated and/or my MX wattage is inconsistent with actual performance.
I don't understand what truncation-compensated values mean. Please explain.
I don't understand what the temperature-compensated voltages mean. Please explain.
Windows Directory Naming Error: 'C:\' is not a valid drive for this directory!General/Display Issues
I'm getting an error message but I don't know what it means.
My program has a problem. How do I know if I have the latest release, or if this problem was fixed?Other Issues
How do I know which color line on my pen-plots correspond to which data set? Is there any legend for the lines?
The Date field in my monthly power summary is always filled with "######" when I open it in Excel. Why?
More being added all the time! Tell us about your issue.
General Information
What is WattPlot™?
WattPlot is the most comprehensive software available for monitoring performance data from OutBack renewable energy systems. If you have an Outback Mate and a serial cable to connect it to your computer, you can now see at a glance precisely what your system is doing and what it has done, every day, down to the second!
What is WattPlot™ PRO?
WattPlot PRO is an enhanced version of the standard WattPlot product. Additional functions include:
Automatic Actions - The ability for WattPlot to respond to a wide range of user-programmable triggers with email, MATE commands, alarms, Windows commands, etc. Track MATE settings - WattPlot PRO can store a copy of your MATE settings in a friendly screen with instant descriptions and help for each one. Email Support - Email your system data as plots or logs to any email address with a few mouse clicks. DC Setting Relationships Viewer - Unique to WattPlot, this viewer gives you a graphical display of how your various MATE DC volts settings relate to each other. You can also see what happens when the temperature-compensated settings change in relation to those that are fixed. System Maintenance Log - Track equalizations, bulk charges, battery maintenance (including detailed cell voltages and specific gravity) all in one on-line log. View the history of specific batteries at a glance.
You can easily upgrade from the standard version to WattPlot PRO.
What is WattPlot™ FirstMATE™?
WattPlot FirstMATE is just the name for the free viewer mode that the standard WattPlot monitor program will operate in when it is run unlicensed. Using WattPlot FirstMATE, anyone can connect in to a separate licensed WattPlot product anywhere in the world and view the same MATE data stream using the standard WattPlot interface, including pen-plots and snapshot bars. For more information read about WattPlot's built-in TCP/IP server.
Anyone can also use WattPlot FirstMATE to view any output file generated by the regular WattPlot, including pen-plots, event logs, and monthly power summaries.
What is WattPlot™ MultiMATE™?
WattPlot MultiMATE is a specially licensed version of the WattPlot PRO product, which allows you to monitor an OutBack system with multiple MATEs, all on one screen. It allows devices from different MATEs to be combined into one reporting set, and has special enhancements for MATE commands to be directed to specific MATEs or all MATES, etc. WattPlot MultiMATE provides the same level of detailed logging, automated response, and reporting available from the WattPlot PRO version.
While MultiMATE was designed to be used with a single complex OutBack system, many users have successfully used the product to monitor multiple OutBack systems on one screen, using one MultiMATE license, including systems with different battery bank nominal voltages and different communication types. While there is no specific limit to the number of MATEs that can be monitored in this way, the level of detail and screen space make it an impractical solution for a large number of MATEs. For larger numbers of MATEs, the WattPlot CheckMATE product is recommended.
What is WattPlot™ CheckMATE™?
WattPlot CheckMATE is the newest addition to the WattPlot suite of monitoring products, and is designed to monitor a large number of OutBack installations. It has a very sophisticated user interface, allowing you to instantly see the status of up to 100 installations, showing you their operational status, power production, current trends, and any alerts or notifications.
The CheckMATE product logs less detail about each system than the standard WattPlot monitor program, and is designed for industry clients who need to monitor and confirm that a large number of systems are operational and in good health. For each system (daily) WattPlot CheckMATE stores: Battery Min and Max, Total Power IN and OUT, and Monitoring Hours. It also stores all alerts and log entries. The output is in CSV and TXT files, much like the current WattPlot Monthly Summaries and event logs. More information.
I'm a homeowner with an OutBack system. What can WattPlot do for me?
The OutBack inverters and charge controllers that control your renewable energy system are very sophisticated pieces of technology. There are many settings possible that alter the behavior and performance of these devices and, consequently, your entire system. Each installation and situation is different for every installed system. The circumstances of your solar and/or wind exposure, combined with the individual characteristics of your battery bank(s), utility grid (if connected), generators (if used), all contribute to a renewable energy system that is unlike any other. Unique systems call for unique settings to get the most out of your investment. The difficulty resides in how to determine what settings are right for your system.
The WattPlot software was created to help overcome those difficulties. Specifically, it gives you the ability to:
Accurately view the performance and behavior of any component or group of components, over a period of time. Monitor your system in real time. Easily track overall system power usage and production. Diagnose system problems, or email detailed logs to others for technical support. (The WattPlot Viewer program is a free download.) Log Mate settings and maintenance tasks. Monitor your system from a computer connected to your Outback MATE, or to the internet by TCP/IP, or through a network or internet connection to a remote computer connected to the MATE.
I'm a researcher or teacher. What can WattPlot do for me?
WattPlot is the software of choice for colleages and universities around the world. No other product gives the detail and flexibility of output for performing detailed analysis of how well an OutBack renewable energy system is performing. WattPlot's state-of-the-art graphics make it easy for students to follow exactly how the system behaves, and how MATE settings work. The per-second data capture, available as raw MATE output, plots, spreadsheets, or straight text, means that researchers get the detail that they need in whatever format works for them.
Does it work with all inverters from Outback Power Systems? What about other manufacturers, like Xantrex?
Yes, all present OutBack inverters are supported, including North American, European, Caribbean, mobile, 12V, 24V, 32V, 36V, 48V, and 3-phase systems. Inverters from other manufacturers, such as Xantrex, are not yet supported.
How do I get technical support for WattPlot?
We do NOT offer phone support for this product, since we do not maintain an office for the WattPlot aspect of our business. If you need technical assistance, begin with the questions on this page (yes, they are frequently asked!). Next, check the User's Guide. Finally, you can email us at the appropriate address listed below. If you feel that phone contact is crucial to solving your problem, include your contact number in your email, and, if appropriate, we will get back to you by phone.
Which email address should I use to contact you?
That depends on what you need:
General enquiries: WattPlot_info@
License activations: activation@
Technical support: techsupport@
What does the raw MATE data (from the Remote program or captured by WattPlot) mean?
If you want to do some in-depth analysis of raw MATE data yourself, WattPlot can capture the data in a .OBM file. (The WattPlot Remote program also sends data in raw MATE form). OutBack supplies a full technical specifications document which describes exactly what this raw data means.
System Requirements
Do I need an OutBack Mate?
Yes, WattPlot gets all of its information via a serial port connection to the OutBack Mate device. Direct connections to devices like an MX-60 are not supported by OutBack.
What are the computer system requirements?
WattPlot was written for the Windows operating system, and runs under a number of 32-bit Windows environments. So long as one of those operating systems is running, and the computer has a serial port (or USB port and adapter, or you have a serial to TCP/IP converter), then WattPlot should run. The appropriate serial cable (with pins 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 connected through) is also required to connect the computer to the Mate.
What flavors of the Windows Operating System are supported? What about Vista, Windows 7 or Linux?
There are presently two versions of WattPlot: XP (for 32-bit Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, and Windows ME) and NT (for Windows 98, Windows 2000, and Windows NT).
Note that some extra settings are required for proper operation under Windows 7 and Windows Vista.
Windows 7 is not yet an 'officially' supported operating system for any WattPlot program, because we do not have a copy of Windows 7 in-house, however we do have users running WattPlot under Windows 7 with no problems, following the same tips suggested for Vista.
The WattPlot software does run on Linux platforms that emulate a Windows environment, however the licensing software for the WattPlot monitor program unfortunately does not. That means we are unable to activate monitoring from a Linux platform at this time.
How should I run WattPlot under Windows Vista or Windows 7?
Windows 7 and Windows Vista have some new 'security' which is problematic with the WattPlot software. For some ridiculous reason, these new platforms do not always allow programs to create folders, which WattPlot needs to be able to do (at least on the first run) to store device-specific data. This issue is easily resolved:
1. Logon to Windows 7 or Vista on an Administrator-level account in order to install and run WattPlot (at least when first configuring the system).
2. (Optional) If you have a secondary (D:\) hard drive, it might be easier to install WattPlot on that drive, since the security restrictions appear to be more relaxed than on your C:\ drive.
3. Run WattPlot in XP-compatible mode. This can be set by right-clicking on the WattPlot.exe application (in Windows Explorer), selecting "Properties" from the menu", selecting the Compatibility tab, and then choosing Windows XP (Service Pack 2).
Can you run WattPlot on a Mac computer?
Yes, you can. WattPlot does not have a Mac O/S version, however we do have clients who are running it on Mac computers, using the VMware Fusion Windows emulation product. This allows your Mac to run Windows as a Mac application, without losing your other Mac capabilities.
My system has no serial COM ports. Can I use a USB port?
You can purchase USB-to-Serial conversion hardware and drivers to allow a USB port to work like a serial port. Note that we have heard two reports of the Belklin FU5109 adapter working with other accessories, but not working with the Mate. Another report said that a USB-Serial adapter made by Planex (model URS-03) and the AirLink101 model # AC-USBS both worked fine with the Mate. Hint: One problem may be the DTR protocol, pin usage, and how units are powered. For example, we were playing with a serial-to-IP device and discovered that we had to jumper (connect) pins 5 and 7 together in order to get the MATE to talk to it.
(Speaking of serial-to-IP, as of version 4.2, WattPlot can monitor TCP/IP ports directly, eliminating the need for a serial or USB port if you can convert the MATE signal to TCP/IP. Read in detail about how we did that here.) Another solution is to simply purchase a serial port card for your computer (easiest to do if it is a desktop PC).
Here are four more USB-to-serial product reports from users:
"I am using a IO Gear GUC232A USB to serial converter. I like this one because it has a status light and seems to work with all my other programs. It works with the WattPlot Monitor program."
"I used the IO Gear GUC232A USB to serial converter too, but I had some problems under Windows XP. I got it working by using the ATEN 2K drivers (not the XP drivers) and keeping everything on COM3."
Another user reported success with the TRENDnet TU-S9 USB/Serial product from on his Windows XP, but the same product generated an 8020 Error under Windows Vista. I will post an update if the problem is ever resolved. (Subsequent to this, a different user reported that a TRENDnet TU-S9 did not work for them under Windows XP.nbsp; I don't think this is a recommended product.)
"I had purchased an RS232 9 pin to USB cable from my local computer store - $9.00. The only identifier I can see on the package is “HL USB-RS232”. When I loaded the driver that came with it, it shows as a Prolific driver. Well, it looked like WattPlot was running properly, but no data from the Mate. Having read your information on Vista and cable issues, I went and bought a different adapter. This one is a Star Tech, USB to RS-232 Serial DB9 Adapter, M/N: ICUSB232. Plugged it in (I think it used the Prolific driver that was already loaded) and voila – data from the mate. I’m afraid to change to the driver that came with it in case I jinx the whole thing. Oh and of course the new adapter is no where near $9 – it was $46.00. I have just tried a Nexxtech cable, part #: 2608042 and it seems to be working properly. Still using the Prolific driver, but whatever works."
I don't have MS Excel. Do I need it to view the monthly spreadsheets?
No, it has never ever been the case that you needed MS Excel to view WattPlot's monthly power summaries. The files are written in the industry standard Comma-Separated Value (CSV) format that is instantly readable by every major spreadsheet and database program out there, including MS Excel. Early releases of WattPlot used to automatically bring the spreadsheet into Excel right from the monitor program, if Excel was installed on the PC. Our users requested and appreciated this default convenience. Now Wattplot first presents the monthly summaries in a powerful bar and line graph format, allowing you to drill-down to daily detail right from the graph. If you want to go further and see the table of data for the month, WattPlot automatically opens your favourite CSV spreadsheet program and loads the data with a single mouse click.
How much disk space do WattPlot log files use?
We put a lot of effort into compressing the information that WattPlot stores. Both the ‘text’ logs and the data logs are very small for the amount of data that they store. There are two things that will ultimately determine their size: (1) You have a lot of choice about what specific data you choose to log or ignore; and (2) since the logs focus on recording changes rather than regular states, systems that experience more fluctuations will log more data.
Most plot logs will be around 80-100 KB per device (FX, MX, or FM) for a full day of per second data sampling. FLEXnet DC monitors collect more data (300-400 KB). General logs with all options turned on might be about 3-5 KB per day. The Alert logs should be much smaller!
Does my computer have to be on the whole time?
Unfortunately, yes, your computer has to be on with WattPlot running in order to collect MATE data. The MATE has no data storage capability, so if WattPlot is not there picking up the information, it is gone. There are a few very rare exceptions to this with an MX, which will keep accruing things like Daily kWh. Daily kWh data from the MX is passed on by the Mate and displayed/logged by WattPlot.
Are there low wattage alternatives to a computer always on?
As previously noted, WattPlot must be running in order to collect MATE data. One way of using less power is to setup WattPlot to write log data to a USB drive instead of your system's hard drive. Because such drives have no moving parts, they consume less power. There may be other low wattage alternatives in the future, such as WattPlot for handheld computers, but that is not yet available.
You can also have a low wattage device that can send Mate signals over a network connection to a remote computer, without requiring a computer on-site. Read about how to do that.
How close does the computer have to be to the MATE? How close does the MATE have to be to the OutBack equipment?
In a local installation, the MATE usually connected to the computer by a serial data cable. Serial cable lengths in excess of 25 feet (8 meters) are not usually recommended, as they can lead to increased communication errors. (See Remote Monitoring section for some ways around this limitation.)
The connection between the MATE and the OutBack equipment is by CAT5 network cable (using a non-standard protocol), and has been successfully tested at 1000 feet (300 meters). Note that cables should not be run in conduit with AC wiring. Such environments can generate communication errors.
Features and Capabilities
Can I control my system (through the Mate) from WattPlot?
OutBack allows a limited number of commands to be sent to the Mate (for the Master inverter) from an external source (Inverter On/Off, Search, AC Use/Drop, Aux On/Off). WattPlot supports all of these, including through the Remote program.
Can I program my system settings from WattPlot?
Unfortunately not. OutBack does not support the programming of the Mate from any external source. Nor can you download your Mate settings automatically to an external device.
WattPlot PRO can however maintain a copy of your system settings in its own custom dialog box, setup to emulate the Mate's menu structure with easy-to-use tabs. WattPlot knows the system defaults, increments, minimums, and maximums, and provides extensive help for each setting, surpassing OutBack's own documentation in some cases. Mate settings can also be exported from this window to a text file, or automatically emailed.
How does WattPlot compare to WinVerter™-Monitor OB [1] ?
Read the complete answer here.
Can I use any other monitoring software at the same time as WattPlot?
WattPlot receives Mate data through a serial data port, and only one application can access a single serial port at one time. However, if you were to create a cable that could split the signal and feed it to 2 different serial ports, then you could probably have other monitoring software (or a separate copy of WattPlot) running at the same time as WattPlot.
Can mulitple users monitor the same OutBack System?
Yes, multiple users can monitor the same Mate in real-time. Simply monitor the Mate using the WattPlot Remote program, direct the data to a network-accessible folder, and then any WattPlot Monitor program that can access that network folder can access the same remote data. (Note that each copy of the Monitor program running on a separate computer must be individually licensed.) If real-time monitoring is not required, then any number of users can view the historical logs produced by the Monitor program, using the free WattPlot Viewer program.
You might also be able to split the MATE's serial signal, effectively giving you two separate MATE data streams to monitor.
Can I monitor mulitple MATEs for one OutBack system?
Yes, WattPlot has a MultiMATE license option that allows you to monitor a system with any number of MATEs. This is designed for single systems, showing all data on a single screen, however some users have implemented it for multiple systems. Read about other multiple system options.
Does it support the new FLEXnet DC System Monitor and the new FLEXmax 80/60 Charge Controllers?
Yes, WattPlot has supported both the FLEXnet DC monitor and the FLEXmax 80 Charge Controller from OutBack ever since they were released (WattPlot version 4.0 and higher). The program is fully compatible with every feature of the FnDC's additional data capapbilities - a great addition to the monitoring tools. WattPlot also supports the improved charge current reporting and additional error messages of the FLEXmax 80 and FLEXmax 60.
Does it work with other equipment like weather stations or battery meters?
Various other devices like weather stations and battery meters can supply data via a serial cable to your computer. So long as your computer has enough serial ports for each device, WattPlot can continue to monitor Mate activity, however data from the other devices cannot yet be included on the WattPlot pen plots and log files.
Does WattPlot support European regional settings, like a comma as decimal point?
Yes, WattPlot uses your computer's regional settings to display and accept decimal points as "." or "," throughout the program. It also uses the appropriate separators when creating the Monthly Power Usage summary files, which are directly readable in any major spreadsheet program.
Do I need to set up files, or does the program do it automatically?
WattPlot will create all the files that it needs, as required. It also creates folders to organize all of the files, although you have the option of specifying other folders for storing logs if you wish. (See “Setup Logging” under the Options menu).
There is an initial setup screen where you define your OutBack system in some detail to WattPlot. Most of this information can be preloaded by the WattPlot Device Wizard which can analyze incoming MATE information and make an educated guess about the devices of your system. This can be further refined in the System Components screen, allowing the program to do more sophisticated functions automatically later on.
When I attach it to the Mate, does it just automatically begin taking in and processing data?
No (and Yes). With the computer attached to the Mate, you have to run WattPlot, and select "Begin Receiving Mate Data" from the File menu. However, if you go to "System Components" on the Options menu, you can turn on "Auto-Start", which means that it starts receiving as soon as you run WattPlot – no need to click that File menu option. With "Auto-Start" on, WattPlot can be added to your Windows "Startup" folder, so that it starts logging data as soon as Windows boots up.
If I shut off or disconnect my PC, does the previous data get saved?
WattPlot attempts to save data at regular intervals (usually every 1-4 minutes or less). If the PC is simply turned off, then there is always a danger of losing data (for any application). Running past midnight, clicking “Stop Receiving Data”, or closing down WattPlot (either by exiting the program or exiting Windows), will generate a more comprehensive and coordinated data save before it continues/stops/exits respectively.
When I re-connect it, does it just take off where things ended with a gap in between?
Yes, sort of. All of your previous data (back to midnight of the current day) will be displayed, and WattPlot will simply pick up where it left off. WattPlot shows no visible gap, however hovering the mouse on the plot will bring up text that shows the time (and other values) for each entry.
Are the vertical plot scales user-adjustable?
Yes, you can change these to your preferences. (Note that it is not possible to see more detail on plots, given limitations with the data from the MATE.) Here's how WattPlot determines the default scales:
The kW scale is determined for each individual plot window, based on the following formula:
Inverters: 10.0kW per device (multiple devices may appear on the same plot), regardless of model. This may seem high, given the inverter specs, but since the MATE only has a resolution of about 100W, it works out to one pixel for 100W on a plot 100 pixels high – a lower maximum would not give a smooth line.
Charge Controllers: 1.0 kW for every 12VDC. In other words, 4.0kW for a 48V system, based on the MX60 spec of 800W maximum solar array for every 12VDC. We appreciate that not every system runs at maximum capacity, so we allow this maximum to be adjustable, but the plot only gets narrower - the resolution will not get better, for the same pixel reasons as the FX inverters.
The vDC scale for the batteries has a minimum voltage that is well below the point at which the MATE should disengage, so users often ask if a higher minimum would make it easier to see low-battery conditions. Here's the problem:
The Mate resolution on a 24V system is 0.2V. The present scale spread of 20V gives a resolution of 1 pixel per 0.4V, which matches the Mate resolution, resulting in a continuous connected line. In this case, the plots are not intended to be the primary indicator of warning conditions. Low battery voltages and other warnings are indicated by the appropriate value in the upper snapshot appearing with a yellow (warning) or red (critical) background, instead of the gray.
Generally speaking, both default scales are also designed to minimize the cross-over of vDC and kW data, reducing overlap (and invisible points).
Can I log the volts and amps coming from each array in my solar panel setup?
A breakdown of volts and amps by specific PV array is not possible from the data the MATE provides, unless you have a separate charge controller for each array. WattPlot can log data for individual devices (inverters and charge controllers) or can optionally combine devices into logical sets, based on your definition. If you have a FLEXnet DC monitor, it might be possible to wire a shunt so that you can track the production of a specific array.
Can WattPlot show me elapsed charging times, etc.?
We did look into tracking charge times, etc. Unfortunately the MATE interface does not say what mode the charge controller is in - it just says what the inverter is doing. Typical charge cycles include lots of time when the FX Mode is not "Charging", so it is not possible to get such running times from the data now supplied by the Mate.
Can I view the raw data that corresponds to my performance plots?
Yes! There are a number of ways to view the data that generated the device plots, depending on your particular needs. Hovering your mouse over any part of the plot will show the approximate values for that point. If you are looking at a historical plot (not being built in real-time), you can right-click to view more specific data related to that point, or you can select start and end points and then export the selected raw data to a text file or to an spreadsheet (as a CSV file).
WattPlot can also capture all of the raw MATE data that it works with and write it to text files in real-time. These files can be later used to drive session simulations, using the "Captured Data" source option. Note that the MATE transmits 3 KB per minute for each device, so the captured data file will grow by over 175 KB per device every hour (to 4.2MB every day). We recommend this option only be used temporarily to build simulation files, or by advanced users needing deeper data analysis with separate software.
In the Snaphot bars, why do you show real-time volts and amps for the FX, but not watts?
The decision was originally based on a concept that the snapshot bars show raw data from the MATE, without any imposed calculations, etc. While FX voltage is relatively accurate, the resolution from the FX for amps is quite poor (+/- 1.0 amp). Displaying this data in watts would amplify such inaccuracies, giving misleading information. For example, if a charge went from 0.9 to 1.1 amps, the amperage display would go from 1 to 2, but the wattage would jump from 120 to 240 W.
Note that the pen-plots are based on wattage, but the scale is designed to match the resolution of the FX.
Can WattPlot access the historical data stored in my OutBack device (e.g. 128-day data)?
No, unfortunately OutBack does not make this information accessible by external software. The FLEXnet DC monitor does have a few cumulative values and the MX-60 has a Daily kWH tally that are available to WattPlot, and it does track this data, however the daily history logs going back 128 days are only accesible through the device or the MATE.
Remote Monitoring
Can I monitor my MATE remotely?
Yes! There are many ways to monitor a MATE remotely, depending on your specific needs and the situation. Some options are described below, where system site refers to where the MATE is, and other site refers to the distant location:
1. Detailed monitoring - shared, solo, or delayed?
SHARED. I need the detailed real-time data simultaneously visible at both the system and other sites. If the system site has an accessible IP address, you can use the free WattPlot FirstMATE viewer program to Piggy-Back on to the MATE data stream over the internet (only one WattPlot license is required). Or if both sites have access to a common network folder, you can use the free WattPlot Remote program (with a licensed WattPlot monitor program running at both the system site and at each other site). Both solutions support multiple other site viewers.
SOLO. I want to monitor a system that is at a distant location, in real-time, with no monitoring required at the actual system site. If the system site has an accessible IP address, you can use a TCP/IP connection from the standard WattPlot monitor program. This does not require a computer at the system site, however you will need to convert the MATE serial data signal to an IP one. Or if you can have a dedicated serial modem link between the two sites, you can use a pair of modems to simply extend the serial data connection. Or if both sites have access to a common network folder, you can use the free WattPlot Remote program to provide data for your WattPlot monitor program running at the other site.
DELAYED. I want to review the detailed performance logs of a system that is at a distant location, without the need to monitor the system in real-time. A WattPlot PRO monitor program, running at the system site, can be set to automatically email the full second-by-second monitoring data in compact, easily-attached files, on a daily or monthly basis. These files may then be viewed by anyone with the free WattPlot FirstMATE viewer program. Or a user on site can email these logs on-demand from any version of WattPlot.
2. On-demand monitoring - Web page, alerts, or multiple system check-up
WEB PAGE. I want a web page with a snapshot of how the system is doing at any time. The simplest solution is to use off-the-shelf screen capture products that can post a copy of your running WattPlot screen to a web site with whatever frequency you choose. Or you can use off-the-shelf virtual desktop software to connect in to your monitoring computer running WattPlot. Or you can use WattPlot's new System-Summary-by-Minute function which writes a simple text file (CSV), updated every minute, that can be turned into web content by some simple web programming. (Actually, there is something simpler than the first option. One user actually just fed a webcam image of their monitoring computer on to their web site!) You can view a few examples of live web pages with WattPlot output from here.
ALERTS. I need to be informed of system errors, warnings, or alerts that I can define myself. The PRO version of WattPlot allows you to define any number of data triggers that will result in actions such as informative emails to be sent automatically by the monitoring computer. It can also send MATE commands or run other Windows programs in response to these triggers.
MULTIPLE SYSTEM CHECK-UP. I need to monitor multiple systems, not to collect detailed performance data, but instead to ensure that all systems are operating and running properly. These industrial and dealer scenarios can be handled by a central monitoring station running WattPlot CheckMATE, connected to the various system sites by TCP/IP.
Can I monitor my system over the internet?
Yes you can. This can be accomplished in a number of ways. If you need precise monitoring, the best way is to simply convert the MATE's serial signal to TCP/IP (read about how this works) and then point WattPlot to that TCP/IP address and port. Another method is to run the WattPlot Remote program on site with the Mate and direct it to save the data files in a location accessible by the internet (using VPN for example). You can then run a WattPlot Monitor program anywhere, and have it read those data files for input.
For big picture monitoring, a number of clients have used different methods to view what their systems are doing from anywhere by putting WattPlot on their web sites. See for yourself.
How can I monitor my system by TCP/IP, without a remote computer?
If you can convert the MATE's serial signal to TCP/IP, then WattPlot can monitor the data via TCP/IP. Prior to version 4.2, this was done through a virtual serial port on the monitoring computer - now WattPlot can monitor TCP/IP ports directly. However you still need to convert the MATE's serial signal to TCP/IP at one end. Read all about this here.
How does the WattPlot Remote program work?
In a typical (Local) WattPlot installation, the Monitor program runs on the computer that the serial cable from the MATE is plugged into. In a Remote installation, it is the Remote program that runs on the computer connected to the MATE.
The Remote program handles all the serial port data communication with the Mate, and writes the performance data out to a series of ten data files (Remote_0.dat, Remote_1.dat, ... , Remote_9.dat). Once all ten files have been written, it returns to the first and cycles through them again, replacing the contents with the latest data.
You specify the location of these ten data files, so they can exist on a network or intranet server, accessible in a wide variety of ways. By telling the Monitor program, running on a different computer, where to find these ten data files, the data may be transferred from the MATE to a WattPlot Monitor located anywhere.
As of WattPlot version 3.5.2, used remote data files are no longer deleted, so that multiple Monitor programs can track the same Remote site.
When the last file has been processed, the Monitor program returns to the first file, which, by this time, will have new data from the Remote program.
Another file (Remote_Cmd.dat) is used to send commands from the Monitor program to the Remote program, which can forward appropriate commands to the Mate if applicable.
Can WattPlot transmit alerts by phone or email?
Yes, the Professional version of WattPlot (WattPlot PRO) has extensive user programming capabilities, including emails in response to events or scheduled. WattPlot can also be customized with dealer logos and special capabilities. Click here for more information.
Can WattPlot control my Mate remotely?
The OutBack MATE supports a very limited command set for controlling your system by computer. WattPlot supports the full capability offered, both through the Monitor program and the Remote program: Switch FX On, Go into Search mode, Switch FX Off, Use AC Input, Drop AC Input, Turn Aux On, and Turn Aux Off. MATE command reception and processing is not an exact science - WattPlot will repeat the command until it has confirmed that the command was received and executed. WattPlot PRO can automatically send MATE commands, either scheduled or in response to system events.
Can I connect into my client's system to see their WattPlot screen?
Yes you can. We call this piggy-backing on to their MATE data stream, and it is easy to do (even over the internet) so long as their computer can be accessed as a unique IP address. The client has to turn on the built-in WattPlot TCP/IP Server (which has optional passwords for access and for MATE command acceptance). You can then connect in to that server and see their MATE data in your own WattPlot screens. You don't even need a licensed copy of WattPlot! Piggy-back monitoring can be done from the unlicensed WattPlot FirstMATE Viewer.
Ordering and Licensing
How can I try out the program?
Fully functional evaluation copies are available here.
How much does WattPlot cost?
WattPlot is $100 per license. Any combination of up to 10 devices (FX inverters, MX or FlexMAX charge controllers, FlexNET DC monitor) may be monitored for one price. WattPlot PRO is $150, or $50 for an upgrade. Since it is licensed by computer, WattPlot PRO can store and organize the settings for (and data from) any number of MATEs, making it a perfect tool for dealers and installers. For multiple simultaneous MATE access, WattPlot MultiMATE is $300 per license, and supports any number of MATEs for one price. The WattPlot FirstMATE Viewer, the WattPlot Remote program, and the WattPlot Tester program are all free downloads.
Note that with licensing by computer, WattPlot can monitor number of MATEs.
How do I order a copy?
Read the complete answer here.
Do I need an internet connection to get the software?
The WattPlot software is typically downloaded from the internet, and activations are typically done by email (within 24 to 48 hours). That being said, a number of clients have dumped the installation ZIP file on to a portable storage device and installed WattPlot in remote locations with no internet connections. Over-the-phone activations can also be arranged when necessary.
Another option is to install WattPlot on a temporary PC, license it, and then install WattPlot on the target PC and transfer the license from the temporary PC yourself. MATE serial number conflicts in this instance are not a problem.
How does the product evaluation work? Can I try it out for a longer trial period?
WattPlot is available as a fully functional trial copy. Simply download the program, install it, and follow the instructions for requesting a trial activation code. The two-week trial period starts when the activation code is created, and should therefore be requested around the time that it can be used. WattPlot will then run for two weeks (usually about 16 days, actually) before the trial period ends. Even if it is at a remote lcoation and you are unable to access your system within the two weeks, all of the data will be retained. You will be able to view all of your information, so you should have more than enough logs and files to determine if the software functions on your system and is going to suit your needs or not. Additional activations (such as activating a permanent license) can be done from the running program, without losing a second of data.
Longer evaluation periods are typically unnecessary for achieving the expected objectives, however they may be granted in specific circumstances.
Can I run WattPlot on more than one computer with just one license?
No, each copy of WattPlot's Monitor program must be separately licensed for the computer that it is to be run on. You may move this license yourself if required. On the other hand, the WattPlot FirstMATE Viewer and WattPlot Remote program are currently free, and do not require a license.
What if my hardware changes or I need to move to a new computer?
Moving the Monitor program to a different computer or making significant hardware changes to your system (such as replacing the hard drive) might require WattPlot to be re-licensed. If you are moving to a different computer, you can generate your own activation key for the new computer, which will take the license off the original system.
Hardware changes that change the original PC's unique ID cannot be as easily transfered since the two configurations do not simultaneously exist. In such instances, you can remove the license yourself and then have it re-licensed after the change. In the case of an unexpected (emergency) hardware change, WattPlot will issue its own 7-day grace period license, in order to allow you to contact us with a description of the change and a request for a new license key. Our typical response time is less than 48 hours.
I just got a new MATE with a new serial number. Will WattPlot still work?
WattPlot Licensing is partial driven by the MATE serial number, however the system has specific internal functions to allow you to switch to a new MATE without any user intervention. Simply plug the serial cable into the new MATE and continue as before.
How many systems can I monitor with one standard license?
WattPlot is typically designed to monitor a single Mate for a unique OutBack system. However, once it has been installed and licensed on a 'home base' system, it can be transported on the same computer to different MATEs without a problem. Installers can therefore take WattPlot on a laptop to a client site for temporary monitoring.
WattPlot can store configurations for multiple systems, allowing dealers and installers to easily switch back and forth between systems.
The standard WattPlot can also be used on one computer to monitor multiple Mates simultaneously. Please contact us for more information on how to do this.
A better solution for monitoring multiple MATEs is the WattPlot MultiMATE product (for detailed monitoring of a small number of systems) or the WattPlot CheckMATE product (for less detailed monitoring of a large number of systems).
Are dealer or installer discounts available?
Yes, absolutely! Read the complete details here.
I'm a dealer. How do I get my logo and company name on your software?
For a limited time, if you purchase a WattPlot PRO Dealer Package and send us your logo then we will make every new copy of WattPlot capable of being branded with your company name and logo. Simply go to the System Components selection of the Options menu, double-click on the Intallact icon, and enter the dealer code that we assign to you. After that, your company name will appear in the title bar and your logo will appear in the opening Splash, System Components, and Help...About windows.
Troubleshooting Problems
Serial Data Communication Issues
How can I check that the computer is correctly connected to the MATE?
The newest addition to the WattPlot suite of programs is our free WattPlot Communications Port Tester (available as a free download from here). This sophisticated program will check the data coming in on the selected system COM or TCP/IP port, show you what it is receiving, and check the integrity of the data. It also has a built-in Raw Data Capture feature, allowing you to write up to 1 MB of MATE data out to a file to use in WattPlot's simulation modes.
WattPlot does not appear to be seeing any data from the MATE.
First, check the PC Communications setting on the MATE. The default setup of the OutBack MATE is not configured to transmit performance data. You must turn on this feature. (From the main menu on the MATE select SETUP, then MATE, then PG2, then COMM, then PC, and then ON, to activate the serial communications port on the MATE.
Second, check the cable. The full specifications are found in the WattPlot User's Guide. If you are using a USB, read this.
Thirdly, you can check your connection with our free WattPlot Communications Port Tester).
Finally, try the Problem Solver from WattPlot's Help menu, or read the User's Guide section on solving communication problems.
Why do I get communication time-out messages? I'm often having to restart my data reception.
There are a number of reasons why the communications might stop between the MATE and the computer. If they drop for more than a minute, WattPlot will log this as an error. (The MATE may have some COMM errors logged itself in these situations.)
One thing you can do is turn on WattPlot's Auto-start option (from the System Components window of the Options menu). This is normally used to have WattPlot start receiving data as soon as it is run, rather than waiting for you to click "Begin Receiving Data", however it also tells WattPlot to keep trying to connect to the Mate after a communications time-out. This option is recommended for unattended operation with a communication link that is having problems.
Data Value Issues
WattPlot is reporting some values that do not agree with values on my MATE.
Some calculated values (especially wattages) may differ between WattPlot and the MATE because these calculations are performed in different ways. For example, when you hover the mouse over a pen plot, the wattages displayed to you will be approximations whose accuracy depends on the resolution of your pen plot screen. (I.e. the wattages are derived from the screen display, not the actual data.) WattPlot uses actual data (not these approximations) for calculated power summaries, and only actual data is logged second-by-second. You can see the real values (as reported by the MATE) for any given second by right-clicking on any historical plot and viewing the Raw Data.
As of version 4.1.9, WattPlot (by default) will also compensate for the value truncation of certain OutBack devices, which might explain some discrepancies between point-in-time calculated WattPlot values and those calculated by the MATE.
WattPlot is reporting unexpected zero values and/or my summary wattages seem low or inconsistent.
The accuracy of WattPlot's data is limited by the poor resolution of data reported to it by the OutBack equipment through the Mate. The worst example of this is in Amps values, which are truncated by the FX to the next lower integer value for 120V systems. This means that a current of 0.9 Amps will be reported as ZERO!
The other impact is that the effect on output wattages is worse because the voltages are higher. In other words, an actual 9.9 Amps at 24 VDC coming into the batteries truncates to 9 x 24, which calculates to 216 Watts IN (instead of 237.6 W). However the corresponding inverter current of 1.9 Amps at 125 VAC is truncated to 1 x 125, resulting in a calculated wattage of 125 Watts OUT (instead of 237.5 W)!
Another example of the effect of this truncation behaviour is 'remarkable' MX efficiency. Since PV panel voltages coming in to the MX are often greater than the battery bank voltage, their truncation has a greater effect on PV wattage-IN values than on the MX charger wattage-OUT values. As a result, it can often look like the MX puts more wattage on to the batteries than was produced by your panels!
There are now three improvements to help deal with this truncation issue. As of version 4.1.9, WattPlot (by default) will compensate for this truncation, improving the accuracy of wattage values. (This is an option which can be turned off.) Also, OutBack's FLEXnet DC monitor will report currents with much greater accuracy. Read about WattPlot and the FLEXnet DC. Thirdly, OutBack's new FlexMAX 60 and FlexMAX 80 charge controllers report charging amperage accurate to 0.1 Amps.
WattPlot's window showing my system settings does not match the settings on my Mate.
OutBack does not support the functionality of external software reading your system settings from the MATE. WattPlot has the facility to record these values itself, but only if you enter them manually. If you see values that you did not put in, then they are likely just the MATE default values, filled in by WattPlot to save you time. (The program asks you to confirm the loading of any defaults before it does so.)
WattPlot has this window to allow fast and easy setting look-ups (as opposed to a lot of button pushing). It also provides extensive help and descriptions for settings, and allows you to print or email your settings for technical support. Read more here.
PV amps display is not being updated and/or my MX wattage is inconsistent with actual performance.
OutBack has confirmed a known bug in the MX software that you must leave the MX showing the Status screen in order for PV amps to be reported correctly. If you leave the MX in the MISC screen, for example, the PV amps will not change to reflect actual values until you leave the screen!
If WattPlot detects non-zero PV amps unchanged for 2 hours, OR unchanged for 5 minutes AND Charger wattage exceeding twice PV production, then an alert will be issued to check the state of the MX screen.
What does WattPlot's truncation compensation do?
The amperage reported by the MATE from many OutBack devices is truncated to the integer value below the actual value. This means, for example, that all actual values between 3.00 and 3.99 amps would be reported as 3 amps, resulting (on average) in reported amperage and wattage values well below the real world values. WattPlot can compensate for this by adding 0.5 Amps to appropriate reported values when devices are in relevant operating modes, resulting in more accurate power summaries.
Note that to balance MATE display compatibility with data accuracy, WattPlot displays a mix of reported Amps (as reported by the MATE) and adjusted values (as calculated internally when truncation compensation is turned on). The Snapshot bars for individual devices at the top of the display show reported Amps. The Snapshot bars for reporting sets show adjusted values. The wattage values in the pen-plots and in the power summary spreadsheets are all based on the adjusted values.
The following table shows four examples of how truncation compensation adjustments are applied:
Device FX-1 FX-2 FX-12 (set) MX Actual Volts (real world voltage) 119 121 120 30 Actual Amps (real world current) 3.0 - 3.9 1.0 - 1.9 4.0 - 5.9 7.0 - 7.9 MATE Reported Amps (truncated value) 3 1 n/a 7 Snapshot Amps (with compensation OFF) 3 1 4 7 Watts accumulated/plotted (with compensation OFF) 357 121 480 210 Adjusted/Calculated Amps 3.5 1.5 5.0 7.5 Snapshot Amps (with compensation ON) 3 1 5 7 Watts accumulated/plotted (with compensation ON) 416.5 181.5 600 225 Actual Wattage (real world power) 357 - 475 121 - 241 478 - 716 210 - 239 Note that actual Amps and actual Wattages are a range. The truncated value reported by the MATE means that the real value could be anywhere in that range. With compensation turned OFF, only the lowest value in the range is used. With compensation turned ON, the middle value of the range is used.
I don't understand what the temperature-compensated voltages mean. Please explain.
Temperature-Compensated Voltage has a tricky implementation in OutBack devices so it may be difficult to grasp at first. Both FXs and MXs have target settings that the devices compare to the battery voltage in order to know when to start and stop various charging stages (and other functions). These are set on your MX or on your FX, using the MATE display.
Battery voltage is a chemical reaction, which slows down as temperature drops and increases as temperature rises. When the temperature is low, more energy is required to get to comparable battery states, and vice versa when the temperature is high. If you have a Remote Temperature Sensor (RTS) connected to your system, then OutBack devices can adjust their operation using a voltage compensation, calculated based on the battery temperature. For example, if you are in a battery Absorb cycle, then you want the system to put more energy into the batteries when they are cold (below 25 degrees Celcius).
There are two ways that the system can 'fool' the charger into raising the battery voltage during cold conditions - the FX uses one method, the MX uses the other:
1. If an FX is trying to reach a target (say Absorb point), then instead of comparing the actual voltage to the setpoint, it compares a lower Temperature-Compensated Voltage to the setpoint. This will result in more energy being pushed into the batteries.
2. If an MX is trying to reach a target (say Absorb setpoint), then instead of comparing the actual voltage to the user-defined setpoint, it compares it to a higher, compensated setpoint. This will result in more energy being pushed into the batteries.
Some settings use temperature compensation, others do not. (This can also vary with different firmware releases.)
If you have a WattPlot PRO license, you can call up the DC Voltage Setting Relationships dialog box, which gives you a graphic representation of exactly how the settings interact, and how their operation changes at different temperatures. The settings on the right are temperature compensated - the ones on the left are not. If you don't have a FLEXnet DC monitor attached to your system you can enter either the Temperature-Compensated Voltage or the battery temperature (RTS value) - both available from the STATUS/FX/BATT menu on your MATE - in order to see the effects.
The WattPlot PRO MATE Settings dialog box will also tell you which settings use temperature compensation.
If you have a FLEXnet DC monitor attached to your system, then WattPlot can access the temperature reported by the RTS, and will show the FX Temperature-Compensated Voltage when you hover your mouse over any battery voltage or temperature field.
The actual voltage compensation is 0.005 VDC per degree off 25 C per 2V cell. For example, a 24V FX, reporting a 26.0 VDC at a 15 degree temperature, will show a TCV of:
26.0 - (0.005 * (25-15) * (24V/2V))
= 26.0 - (0.005 * 10 * 12)
= 25.4 (a difference of 0.6 VDC)Using the same calculation as above, if an MX Absorb point is set to 30.0 VDC, then at 15 degrees celsius, it will use a compensated set-point of 30.6 VDC for the absorb function.
Note that the limits of compensation are +2C (35.6F) to +60C (140F). Thus the maximum voltage compensation will be 1.2 VDC (0.6 for a 12V system, 2.4 for a 48V system).
Error Messages
Windows Directory Naming Error: 'C:\' is not a valid drive for this directory!
This error has been reported on some Windows Vista installations of WattPlot. The problem is caused by Vista's incompatibility with earlier Windows programs - one of Vista's well-known frustrations. It is possible to resolve this issue by running WattPlot in "XP-compatible" mode, as well as trying some other options. More information. Specifically, installing WattPlot software on drive D:\ (instead of the usual C:\) if possible, also seems to correct this issue. (You will probably have to move your license or have your copy re-activated by us.)
I'm getting an error message but I don't know what it means.
The WattPlot User's Guide has appendices with detailed descriptions of most error messages and how to resolve them. If you need further help, contact us.
General/Display Issues
My program has a problem. How do I know if I have the latest release, or if this problem was fixed?
The WattPlot update page tells you the latest version number for each program, and allows you to directly download updates for free. There is no need to re-activate after an update. The update page also tells you exactly what changes are included for each version number. Use the About screen, under the WattPlot Help menu, to determine which version you are currently running.
How do I know which color line on my pen-plots correspond to which data set? Is there any legend for the lines?
A shortage of screen space made an explicit legend impractical. Instead, the same colors used in the pen-plots are standardized in the Snapshot bars at the top of the WattPlot window, and in the power usage summaries at the bottom of active pen-plots. For FXs the colors are:
Red = Battery Voltage
Blue = Inverter Watts
Purple = Charger Watts
Brown = Buy Watts
Green = Sell WattsFor MXs the colors are:
Red = Battery Voltage
Purple = Charger Watts
Brown = PV Watts
The Date field in my monthly power summary is always filled with "######" when I open it in Excel. Why?
WattPlot uses .CSV files to compile monthly power summary data files. These are actually very simple text files that Excel (and every other spreadsheet program) recognizes and loads easily, using default values for such things as column widths. Alas, in Excel, the default column width happens to be too narrow for dates, so to see them, you simply have to widen the column a touch!
Note that, since these simple text files have no memory of such adjustments, you unfortunately have to do this every time you open the summary file into Excel. We note that other spreadsheet programs do not have this inconvenience.
Other Issues
Questions and Answers are added regularly! Got one you don't see here? Send it to us...
[1] WinVerter™–Monitor FX-MX is a trademark of RightHand Engineering, LLC
