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Operational Best Practices for Advanced Troubleshooting
In this edition, we’re focusing on best practices for TracStar® iSeries and Tritan™ 560 owners and operators that can significantly speed up troubleshooting of auto process errors.
Over the past few years, McElroy Technical Support has gained the ability to diagnose auto process errors using onboard CAN (Controller Area Network) data. When issues arise — such as incomplete drag measurements or aborted fusions — this data is often critical in identifying the root cause.
So how can operators ensure this data is accessible to McElroy technicians?
The good news: your machine is already capturing this data. By following a few simple setup steps, you can make it easy to share this information directly with Technical Support for faster diagnosis.
Best Practices to Enable Faster Troubleshooting
1. Enable “Save Aborted Joints” in DataLogger® Settings
The CAN data collected during operation is stored within each joint report. If a fusion is aborted, enabling this setting ensures that the error data is still saved as part of the report. Without it, valuable diagnostic information may be lost.
2. Use the Vault™ to Store Joint Reports
Saving reports to the Vault allows McElroy technicians (with your permission) to quickly access the data, including the attached CAN logs. This eliminates delays in retrieving and sharing information.
3. Keep the DataLogger Connected to a Network (When Possible)
Maintaining a network connection ensures that joint reports are uploaded to the Vault immediately. This allows Technical Support to access them in real time.
Additionally, a stable connection enables technicians to monitor CAN data live. This is especially useful for troubleshooting issues that occur outside the fusion process such as during pipe facing when data may not otherwise be saved in a report.
Why This Matters
Following these best practices can significantly reduce troubleshooting time. Without them, technicians often need to walk operators through setup changes and attempt to recreate the issue, costing valuable time in the field.
By proactively capturing and sharing diagnostic data, you help ensure faster resolutions and minimize downtime
