README.TXT for H_PROG V1.2

This is a simple program to run the Hitachi F-2000 spectrophotometer
to measure intracellular ions using dyes such as FURA2, BCECF and FLUO3.
It is very unsophisticated, but it is also $4000 or so cheaper than the
Hitachi version (it's free in fact!).

This disk comes with the following files.

Calcium Measurement
H_SETUP.EXE     The setup program
H_PROG.EXE      The program itself
H_PROG.PIF      A PIF file to run it under Windows (tm)
H_PROG.ICO      The associated icon file
H_HELP1.TXT     The Help files
H_HELP2.TXT
H_HELP3.TXT
H_HELP4.TXT
H_HELP5.TXT

EXCEL demonstration files
APPS1.XLA       Menu add-on
CA_CALIB.XLT    Calibration template
CA_CALC.XLT     Calculation template
CA_PASTE.XLM    Macro files needed for data management

Other files
README.TXT     This file
EXCEL.TXT      How to use the demonstration files
H_MANUAL.TXT   How to use H_PROG
TERMINAL.BAS   A basic program for testing your system

WHAT YOU NEED:

An IBM compatible XT/AT/386/486 with DOS 3.1 or higher, a 
Hitachi F-2000 (or similar members of the series) and an
RS232 cable with a null modem adapter, or a null modem
cable.

INSTALLING:

To install the files put the setup diskette into an appropriate drive 
swap to that drive and type H_SETUP e.g. B:\>H_SETUP. 
H_SETUP will then copy the program and help files to directories you
nominate, and then writes an INI file with the parameters you have
chosen. 

You will have to manually copy the excel and manual files to directories
of your choice. 

STARTING THE PROGRAM:

It is usually best for the Hitachi F-2000 to be already on, as the power 
spike generated when the lamp is turned on may scramble you computer. 
Alternatively make sure a power conditioner is in the circuit.

To start the program, merely type H_PROG at the DOS prompt in the 
subdirectory where H_PROG.EXE has been installed. H_PROG can be run under
Windows (tm) by using the H_PROG.PIF file that has ben provided. The 
program has two switches /ver, which gives you the version of the program,
and /H which gives VERY brief help.

PROBLEMS:

If the program doesn't run the Hitachi, 
1) Check that you have a null modem cable rather than a straight
through RS232 cable connecting the computer and the Hitachi. Null modem
adapters can be bought at any electronics shop.

2) Check that the communication parameters in the HITACHI.INI file match 
the settings on the Hitachi. Remember, the program settings must match 
the machine settings as the program CANNOT change the machine settings.

If all else fails, try using the enclosed QBASIC program to see if
you can get a response by sending the Hitachi commands (see your manual)
over this program.

This program is freeware, please feel free to give it to people who
can use it. WARNING: this is a free program written by an amateur,
you get what you pay for.

Cheers! Ian Musgrave  
email Ian.Musgrave@med.monash.edu.au
phone +61 3 550 4286 fax +61 3 550 6125
