6. Operation

This section covers the complete operational sequence: initial startup and system verification, starting a job in the Web App, gas plumbing connections, and ongoing normal operation during measurement. Follow the steps in the order presented.

 6.1 Control Buttons and Indicators

Before powering on, familiarize yourself with the DTU front panel controls. Understanding these controls is essential for safe and correct operation.

6.2 Initial Startup Sequence

Perform the following steps in order after all electrical connections in Section 5.5 have been completed. Gas plumbing connections are made after this sequence.

6.2.1 Pre-Power Checks

1. Confirm the gas inlet is NOT connected to the vent source or any gas line at this stage.
2. Verify all electrical connections on the DTU are secure and all unused ports have their protective caps installed.
3. Confirm the solar panel and antenna are fully deployed, locked in place, and free from obstructions.
4. Confirm the battery charger has been disconnected.

6.2.2 Power-Up Sequence

1. Turn the Power Switch on the DTU front panel to the ON position.
2. Confirm all three LED push buttons (VENT, BUILD, FLOW) blink twice simultaneously. This confirms a successful power-up and internal system check.
3. If LEDs do not blink as expected or show abnormal behaviour, turn the Power Switch OFF and refer to Section 8 — Troubleshooting before proceeding.

6.2.3 Confirm VENT Mode

1. Check the DTU front panel — confirm the VENT button LED is active.
2. If the unit is not in VENT mode, press the VENT button and wait for the LED to confirm the mode is active before continuing.

6.3 Gas Plumbing and Vent Connections

Correct gas connections are essential for safe operation and accurate methane mass flow measurement.

• Inlet Connection: 1/2-inch NPT male (from vent source to inlet)
• Outlet Connection: 1/2-inch NPT male (from outlet to safe discharge)

6.3.1 Inlet Connection (Vent Source to Inlet)

1. Confirm the unit is in VENT mode (Section 6.2.3) before beginning.
2. Wireless Lockout Key Switch to the OFF position. This prevents any remote activation of BUILD or FLOW mode while gas connections are being made.
3. Confirm the venting source (e.g., surface casing vent) is in a stabilized flowing state or otherwise prepared as required by the test procedure.
4. Remove the protective cap from the Measurement Unit Inlet Connection (1/2-inch NPT male).
5. Connect the inlet hose from the vent source using appropriate thread sealant or gasket material per your company standards.
6. Tighten using suitable tools — do not overtighten and damage threads or fittings.
7. Verify the hose routing maintains the required 10 ft (3 m) separation between the cart and wellhead.

6.3.2 Outlet Connection (Outlet to Safe Discharge)

1. Remove the protective cap from the Measurement Unit Outlet Connection (1/2-inch NPT male).
2. Connect the outlet hose to the designated vent or safe discharge location in accordance with site and environmental requirements.
3. Ensure the discharge point is oriented to prevent gas accumulation in low areas or confined spaces.
4. Tighten all fittings and verify the outlet hose is routed to avoid damage and trip hazards.

6.3.3 Leak Check and Verification

1. With the system confirmed in VENT mode, slowly introduce gas to the inlet side following site procedures.
2. Inspect all inlet and outlet connections for leaks using an approved leak-detection method (e.g., soap solution or electronic gas detector). Pay close attention to all threaded joints and hose interfaces.
3. If any leaks are detected, isolate the source, vent safely, depressurize the line, and correct the issue before proceeding.
4. Once all connections are verified leak-free and stable, return the Wireless Lockout Key Switch to the ON position (unless in a radio-sensitive area). The system is now ready for BUILD and FLOW measurement phases.

6.4 Web App — System Verification and Job Start

With the unit powered on and VENT mode confirmed, complete the following steps in the VENTMEDiC® Web or Smartphone App. This ensures device connectivity is confirmed and all job settings, alarms, and data logging are active from the moment gas flow begins.

6.4.1 Verify System Status

1. Log in to the VENTMEDiC® Web App or mobile interface.
2. Confirm the device appears as "Online (Waiting)" on the Device Management page.
3. Check battery status and signal strength. If battery charge is low, connect the charger and allow sufficient time before starting a job.
4. Verify Header data (company name, well name, Job ID) and Configuration settings are correct.

6.4.2 Start a Job

1. Navigate to Device Management and confirm the target device shows as Online (Waiting).
2. Left-click the device serial number to open the Live Device page.
3. Click Start Job and complete the Job Information fields: Client Name, Well Name, Test Type, Surface Location, Bottom Hole Location, and License/API.
4. Set Configuration Settings: Max Pressure threshold, Stabilized Shut-In Pressure range, Flow Alarm settings, and Sample Rate (≥60 seconds recommended for long-term tests).

5. Click Start Job to initiate. The system validates settings and safety limits before sending the start command to the unit.

6.5 Normal Operation

Once gas connections are made and verified leak-free, the system is ready for active measurement. Normal operation cycles through the three modes as required by the test protocol:

6.5.1 Cold Weather Operation

• In cold-weather deployments (below -15°C), expect temporarily reduced battery capacity and backup runtime. Capacity recovers as the battery warms to operating temperature.
• After transport in an unheated vehicle in winter, allow the unit to warm above 0°C (minimum 30 minutes at indoor temperature) before powering on.
• Clear snow and ice accumulation from the solar panel, antenna, and cable runs at every winter site visit.
• If the unit must be stored outdoors between winter deployments, store it fully charged with all doors latched.

6.5.2 Monitoring During Operation

During periodic site visits, verify the following:

• All cable connections remain secure and unused ports have dust caps in place.
• No visible moisture, corrosion, or physical damage to the enclosure or connectors.
• Unit has not shifted from its original placement position.
• Solar panel is clean and unobstructed — remove snow, ice, dust, or bird droppings from the panel surface.
• Ambient temperature is within operating range (-40°C to +60°C).
• Antenna position is correct and cable is secure.
• Mobile app shows expected live data values and the device remains Online.

6.5.3 Ongoing Maintenance Recommendations

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