In short
- Connect over the RS232 socket, then read all values before touching anything.
- Save screenshots of every settings page: it is your way back.
- Change one thing at a time, and leave the protection limits to the seller unless you know why.
PbmsTools is the Windows program used to talk to a Pace board. Versions differ from one battery seller to another, so ask yours for the one that suits your unit rather than taking the first download you find.
Connecting
You need a USB to RS232 adapter with the small RJ11 plug, often supplied with the battery. Plug it into the RS232 socket, choose the serial port in the program and open the connection. The common speed on these boards is 9600 baud, though some use 19200. With several packs, connect to the pack you want to look at.
Read first, always
Press Read on a settings page before anything else. Community reports are clear on this: write without reading first and the program can send values that do not come from your board. Then save a screenshot of each page. If something goes wrong later, those pictures are your way back.
What is reasonable to change
- The inverter protocol on the CAN or RS485 port, when your inverter needs another one. On some firmware that page sits under System Config.
- Alarm thresholds that only warn, when you understand what they mean.
What to leave alone
Cell and pack protection limits, current limits and calibration values all exist to keep the battery safe and within warranty. A limit changed by a few tens of millivolts can have large effects. If you think one is wrong, ask the seller first and keep the reply.
Between two visits
PbmsTools is good for settings but keeps no long history, and it ties up a laptop. That is where a permanent reader helps: Pace Monitor only reads, so it cannot change a setting, and its dashboard shows you the result of any change day after day.
Common questions
Does PbmsTools work on a Mac or on Linux?
It is a Windows program. Most owners use a Windows laptop or an old PC for the rare times they need it.
Can I use PbmsTools while Pace Monitor is connected?
Yes in general: they use different sockets. If readings look odd during a session, unplug one of them for the duration of the check.
Will changing settings void my warranty?
It can. Check with your seller before changing anything other than the inverter protocol.
