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M3 Software FAQs
How do I access the M3 Web App?
You can access the M3 Web App by:
- Clicking Analytics inside M3
- Using the M3 Web App desktop shortcut
- Browsing to https://marsserver
- Browsing to the server IP address if applicable
What username and password do I use for the Web App?
The Web App uses the same username and password as the M3 Win App.
Why does M3 say “Invalid Account”?
Common causes include:
- Incorrect username or password
- Server computer is powered off
- Lost network communication between benches and server
Can different users have different permissions?
Yes. User permissions are controlled through Roles and Permissions in Administration.
How do I create a new user?
Navigate to Administration → Users & Roles → Add New User.
How do I deactivate a user?
Administrators can deactivate or reactivate accounts through Users & Roles.
What is the difference between Automated Tests and Manual Tests?
Automated Tests
- Use predefined test configurations
- Follow AWWA standards
- Require minimal setup
Manual Tests
- Allow custom flow rates
- Allow custom volumes
- Allow custom tolerances
- Can be saved for future use
Can I save a custom test for future use?
Yes. Select “Save For Future” during manual test creation and the test will become available in Automated Test Selection.
Why can’t I select a meter size?
This usually indicates a communication issue. Verify:
- M3 Control is green on the PLC
- Panic Stop is released
- Only one M3 Win App instance is running
What does Reverse Order Testing do?
It runs subtests from low-to-high or high-to-low flow depending on your selected preference.
What is a Water Quality Test?
A Water Quality Test allows operators to record contamination measurements using water test strips after testing is complete.
Can I test compound meters?
Yes. Enable the Compound checkbox during meter data entry.
How many meters can I enter into a test?
Multiple meters can be entered based on bench configuration and capacity. Each meter is added individually during data entry.
How do I know when purging is complete?
Purging is complete when there are no visible air bubbles in the line.
Why is purging important?
Trapped air can significantly impact meter accuracy and produce inconsistent results.
Why are my meter accuracies outside expected ranges?
Possible causes include:
- Improper valve positions
- Incomplete purge
- Turbulence between ultrasonic meters
- Insufficient system pressure
- Debris in the line
- Valve leak-by issues
How much pressure should I have when testing multiple meters?
A common guideline is:
Pressure = (6 × Number of Meters) + 25 PSI
Example:
10 meters = 85 PSI minimum recommended pressure.
Why do ultrasonic meters test inaccurately?
Ultrasonic meters may require spacing between meters to reduce turbulence. MARS recommends at least one spool space between ultrasonic meters.
Where can I view completed tests?
Reporting → View & Print.
Can I search reports by Job Number?
Yes. Use the column filters available on reporting screens.
Can I search reports by Serial Number?
Yes. Meter Reports can be filtered to display results for specific meters.
What are orphaned tests?
Orphaned tests are tests that were aborted or never completed.
Can orphaned tests be removed?
Yes. Administrators can clear orphaned tests through Database Tools.
What report layouts are available?
M3 supports:
- Default
- Meter Pass/Fail
- Flat Average Accuracy
- Weighted Average Accuracy
What is the difference between Flat Average and Weighted Average reports?
Flat Average:
- Every subtest contributes equally
Weighted Average:
- Low, Mid, and High flow tests contribute based on configured weights.
Can I display pass/fail on reports?
Yes. Pass/Fail indicators can be displayed on reports and enabled by default in Report Settings.
Can M3 export test data?
Yes. M3 supports manual and automated exports.
What file formats can M3 export?
Exports can be generated as text files and configured for CSV output.
Can exports run automatically?
Yes. Automated exports can be scheduled and configured within Data Integration.
How many automated exports can be configured?
Up to five automated export configurations can be created.
Can I export only recent test data?
Yes. Manual Export settings allow filtering recent records.
What is the Pivot Table feature?
The Pivot Table allows users to organize testing data by manufacturer, meter size, type, and other metrics.
Can Pivot Table layouts be saved?
Yes. Custom configurations can be saved and reused later.
What metrics can be displayed in Pivot Tables?
Common metrics include:
- Average Accuracy
- Meter Counts
- Manufacturer Data
- Size-Based Results
What is a Meter Testing Plan?
A Meter Testing Plan helps utilities track testing goals and budgets across meter populations.
Can I create multiple testing plans?
Yes. Multiple plans can be created, saved, and selected.
How do I know if we are behind schedule?
The Actuals screen compares planned testing quantities against completed testing quantities.
Can I model future testing scenarios?
Yes. The Planning section allows management to evaluate future testing scenarios and variances.
Can I add new meter manufacturers?
Yes. Manufacturers can be added through Meter Parameters.
Can I add new meter models?
Yes. New models can be added and assigned to manufacturers.
What are Extended Properties?
Extended Properties allow organizations to create custom data fields for meters and reports.
Can I edit job numbers after a test is complete?
Yes. Database Tools allows editing Job Numbers and Remarks.
Can I back up the database?
Yes. Database backups can be created through Database Tools.
How do I install a new M3 license?
Navigate to License Management, select the license file, and import it.
Do I need to update every bench?
Yes. The Web App license is installed once, but the Win App license must be installed on each bench. This will be performed by a MARS Technician.
Where can I see my license expiration date?
License Management displays:
- Expiration Date
- MCC Expiration
- Usage Limits
- License Start Date
Why am I getting license expiration warnings?
M3 begins displaying reminders approximately 90 days before expiration.
M3 Hardware FAQs
What is M3?
M3 is MARS Company’s meter testing software used to automate meter testing, collect results, calculate accuracy, and store test records.
Can M3 run tests automatically?
Yes. M3 supports automated test sequences and custom test configurations.
What meter sizes can MARS test benches support?
Depending on configuration, benches can test meters from 5/8″ through 2″.
How many meters can I test at one time?
The number depends on bench configuration, meter size, pressure loss, and available water supply.
How do I start a test in M3?
Select a test profile, load the meters, verify setup, purge air, and start the test.
Why should I purge before testing?
Purging removes trapped air, which can negatively impact test accuracy.
How many times should I purge?
Repeat the purge sequence until no air bubbles are visible in the rotameters.
What happens if I skip the purge?
Air in the system can cause inaccurate test results.
Can I pause a test?
Yes. Tests can be paused through the PLC, though this is generally not recommended for best accuracy.
What is a Stability Check?
A Stability Check verifies system conditions before results are finalized.
What is a Leak Check?
A Leak Check verifies that water is not passing through closed valves or leaking from the system.
How do I calculate meter accuracy manually?
Accuracy = (End Read − Start Read) ÷ Test Volume × 100%.
What flow rates are supported?
Flow rates depend on the selected line:
- ULF: 0.02–0.20 GPM
- ½”: 0.21–1.5 GPM
- 1″: 1.51–15 GPM
- 2″: 15.1–200 GPM
Where are test results stored?
Results are stored in the M3 database and can be reviewed through reporting tools.
What does it mean if a meter tests high?
Possible causes include trapped air, turbulence, valve leak-by, or worn meter components.
What does it mean if a meter tests low?
Possible causes include debris, sticking meter components, dirty ultrasonic transducers, or an inaccurate meter.
What does the PLC do?
The PLC controls valves, monitors scales and sensors, and manages test bench automation.
Why can’t I continue past the splash screen?
The PLC license may have expired or communication requirements may not be met.
What does the Panic Stop do?
It immediately closes automated valves and stops pump operation.
What is Open Bench?
Open Bench depressurizes the test bench by opening it to atmosphere.
When should I use Open Bench?
Before maintenance, unclamping, or troubleshooting pressure-related issues.
Why won’t my test bench respond?
Check:
- Console power
- E-Stop status
- PLC Play/Pause state
- Valve positions
- VFD faults
Which tank should I use?
- 10 Gallon Tank: Ultra-low flow testing
- 100 Gallon Tank: Most standard testing
- 500 Gallon Tank: Large volume and large meter testing
Why won’t my tank drain?
Check drain valves, return pumps, and debris around the drain opening.
Is it normal for the final tank volume to be slightly negative?
Yes. Small positive or negative residual values after draining are normal.
Why can’t I reach the desired flow rate?
Common causes include:
- Insufficient pressure
- Partially closed valves
- Meter restrictions
- Debris
- Pump settings
How often should filters be cleaned?
Filter cleaning frequency depends on environmental conditions.
How do I clean a console filter?
Remove the filter, wash it with warm water, dry completely, and reinstall.
How often should chlorinator components be serviced?
- Pre-filter: Weekly
- Chlorinator: Monthly
- Primary filter: Quarterly
How do I replace an O-ring?
Remove the damaged O-ring, inspect the sealing surface, and install a replacement.
Why are my carrier bars sticking?
Lubricate guide rails and carrier bar contact surfaces.
Why is my Leak Check failing?
Possible causes:
- Bypass valves left open
- Water leaks
- Solenoid leak-by
- Actuator failure
Why is water leaking from a solenoid?
The solenoid may have debris, gasket damage, or Open Bench may have been left active.
Why are my rotameters not reading correctly?
Debris may be trapped inside the rotameter.
Why is my recirculation tank water dirty?
The chlorinator may need maintenance, filters may need cleaning, or the tank may need draining and refilling.
Why is my Liberty pump not draining?
Check for debris, float switch issues, or motor problems.
What should I do if my VFD displays an error?
Record the fault code and contact MARS Customer Support.
