Temp-Taker 5 User Guide - support.itdfoodsafety.com€¦ · Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 - The Basics T5UG1-200810 2475 Palm Bay Rd Suite 110 Palm Bay, FL 32905 Office: 321-676-3194

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide

Part 1 - The Basics

T5UG1-200810

2475 Palm Bay Rd Suite 110 Palm Bay, FL 32905 Office: 321-676-3194 Fax: 321-674-7018 [email protected]

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics

T5UG1-200810 - Page 2 Copyright © 2013-2020 ITD Food Safety

Table of Contents

1 Introduction & Safety ....................................................................................................4

1.1 Packaging Contents ........................................................................................................... 4

1.2 Notices............................................................................................................................... 4

1.3 Icons & Terms Used .......................................................................................................... 5

1.4 Safety Instructions & Warnings .......................................................................................... 5

1.5 How to Use This Guide ...................................................................................................... 6

2 Getting Started .............................................................................................................7

2.1 Software Installation........................................................................................................... 7

2.2 Temp-Taker® App Introduction ........................................................................................... 7

2.3 Hardware Basics ................................................................................................................ 9

2.3.1 Maintenance & Battery Replacement ............................................................................................. 10

2.3.2 Probe Usage Instructions ............................................................................................................... 11

2.4 The Device User Interface ............................................................................................... 12

2.5 Bluetooth Setup ............................................................................................................... 13

2.5.1 Procedure to Disable the Bluetooth Power-Saving Property .......................................................... 13

2.5.2 Bluetooth Pairing Procedure .......................................................................................................... 14

2.6 Entering User Names ....................................................................................................... 16

2.7 Entering Your Item List .................................................................................................... 17

2.8 Logging into the Device ................................................................................................... 18

2.9 How to Take & View Temps ............................................................................................. 19

2.10 Temp-Taker® Programs and Processes ........................................................................... 21

2.11 Spot-Check Temps Mode ................................................................................................ 23

2.12 Timers Mode .................................................................................................................... 24

3 Holding-Line Temps .................................................................................................. 25

3.1 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Take Holding-Line Temps .............................................. 25

3.1.1 Define Your Safe Holding Zones .................................................................................................... 25

3.1.2 Tweak Your Corrective Action Directives ....................................................................................... 26

3.1.3 Build Your Holding Program ........................................................................................................... 27

3.2 How to Take Holding-Line Temps .................................................................................... 29

4 TILT ........................................................................................................................... 31

4.1 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Implement a TILT Policy ................................................. 31

4.1.1 Build Your TILT Program................................................................................................................ 31

4.1.2 Adjust Your General TILT Options ................................................................................................. 32

4.2 How to Execute Your TILT Policy ..................................................................................... 33

4.3 Combined TILT/Holding Functionality .............................................................................. 34

5 Cooling Temps .......................................................................................................... 35

5.1 Different Cooling Practices ............................................................................................... 35

5.2 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Take Cooling Temps ...................................................... 36

5.2.1 Build Your Cooling Program ........................................................................................................... 36

5.2.2 Adjust Your Alarm Settings ............................................................................................................ 37

5.3 How to Take Cooling Temps ............................................................................................ 38

5.3.1 ‘Room’ Cooling Type ...................................................................................................................... 38

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics

Copyright © 2013-2020 ITD Food Safety T5UG1-200810 - Page 3

5.3.2 Hot (1-Stage) Cooling .................................................................................................................... 38

5.3.3 Hot (2-Stage) Cooling .................................................................................................................... 40

6 Cooking Temps ......................................................................................................... 41

6.1 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Take Cooking Temps ..................................................... 41

6.2 How to Take Cooking Temps ........................................................................................... 41

6.2.1 When Only One Temp Is Required ................................................................................................ 41

6.2.2 When Two or More Temps Are Required ....................................................................................... 42

7 Question Checklists ................................................................................................... 43

7.1 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Answer Yes/No Questions .............................................. 43

7.1.1 Enter Your Questions ..................................................................................................................... 43

7.1.2 Build Your Question Checklist ........................................................................................................ 45

7.2 How to Answer a Yes/No Question .................................................................................. 46

8 Generating Data Reports .......................................................................................... 47

8.1 Print Settings ................................................................................................................... 48

8.2 How to Customize Report Tabs ....................................................................................... 49

9 Appendix ................................................................................................................... 52

9.1 Device Main Menu Icons .................................................................................................. 52

9.2 The Settings Icon ............................................................................................................. 53

9.3 How to Replace the Probe ............................................................................................... 54

9.4 How to Perform a Hard Reset .......................................................................................... 55

9.5 How to Install a Bluetooth Dongle .................................................................................... 56

9.5.1 Bluetooth Dongle Installation Procedure ........................................................................................ 56

9.6 How to Replace a Bluetooth Dongle ................................................................................ 57

9.7 How to Unpair Temp-Taker® Devices ............................................................................... 58

9.8 Troubleshooting Bluetooth Issues .................................................................................... 59

9.8.1 Bluetooth Issue Indicator ................................................................................................................ 59

9.8.2 Device Bluetooth Radio Is Off ........................................................................................................ 60

9.8.3 Unstable Bluetooth Connections .................................................................................................... 60

9.8.4 Windows 10 Update Installation Failure ......................................................................................... 60

9.8.5 Possible Bluetooth Radio Failure ................................................................................................... 60

9.8.6 Fixing Corrupt Bluetooth Parameters ............................................................................................. 61

9.9 Troubleshooting General Issues ...................................................................................... 62

9.10 Battery-Care Instructions ................................................................................................. 63

9.11 Technical Support ............................................................................................................ 63

10 Index .......................................................................................................................... 63

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Introduction & Safety


1 Introduction & Safety

Congratulations on your acquisition of the Temp-Taker® 5 system. It consists of a Windows® 10 software application and an intelligent data-logging digital thermometer handheld device designed for use in commercial kitchen, food-prep, and food-service environments.

1.1 Packaging Contents

The following items are typically shipped with a single-device purchase of the Temp-Taker® kit:

▪ Handheld device

▪ Windows software installer file, Setup.exe

▪ Stainless steel fast-response penetration-style K-Type probe with mini connector

▪ 4 Alkaline AA batteries

1.2 Notices

T5UG1-200810 is the document code for this guide, where the last 6 digits represents the release date of 2020-08-10. For the latest version of this guide please visit the following webpage:

www.itdfoodsafety.com/support/tt5/

The information in this document is provided ‘as is’ and may be changed at any time without notice. To the maximum extent permitted by law, ITD Food Safety disclaims all warranties with regard to the information contained in this document. ITD Food Safety shall not be liable for errors that may be contained in this document or for any damages that may occur in connection with the furnishing or use of the information contained in this document.

The Temp-Taker® 5 device has been tested and found to comply with the requirements of section 47 CFR PART 15 regulation and ANSI C63.4 – see FCC Certificate of Compliance No. 3F200310. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) The device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) the device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Temp-Taker® 5 devices also satisfy the requirements of the Certification Mark of Ente Certificazione Macchine (ECM) – see Certificate of Compliance No. 3X200310.IT0O38.

Temp-Taker® 5 devices contain a wireless transmitter module with the following regulatory approvals:

▪ USA: FCC ID A8TBM70ABCDEFGH

▪ Canada: IC 12246A-BM70BLES1F2

▪ Europe: Safety No. 10051261 003; Health No. 10053580 001; EMC No. 10051137 002 and 10051137 003; Radio No. 10053580 001, 50067510 001, and 50067510 002

▪ Japan: R202-SMD069

▪ Korea: MSIP-CRM-mcp-BM70BLES1FC2

▪ Taiwan: CCAN15LP0501T3

▪ China: CMIIT ID 2016DJ5729

Introduction & Safety Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


1.3 Icons & Terms Used

Table 1-1 below describes the meaning of some of the icons and terms used in this document.

Table 1-1 Icons & Terms Used

TIP: A specific suggestion to help make things easier or better for the user

NOTE: Interesting and often important information related to the topic

ADVANCED: Advanced feature or option which is likely not essential for a basic setup

ATTENTION: Critically important information

⚫

Icons that represent buttons on a Temp-Taker® device;

⚫ = CENTER

= LEFT

= RIGHT

= UP

= DOWN

For example, ‘press ⚫’ may be read as ‘press CENTER’

[⚫]

[] []

[] []

Used in Figures to represent keypad button presses;

For example, [⚫] = ‘CENTER keypad button-press’

Temp-Taker® device Temp-Taker® handheld device (shown on page 9)

Temp-Taker® app The Temp-Taker® software ap-plication running on a Windows machine

[app section] → [tab] Specifies a particular tab of the Temp-Taker® app; [app section] represents one of the 4 sections shown in Figure 2.3 page 8

1.4 Safety Instructions & Warnings

ATTENTION: Always use Temp-Taker® in accordance with the following warnings and all safety instructions:

▪ Always keep Temp-Taker® devices out of reach of children.

▪ The Temp-Taker® device normally comes equipped with a penetration probe. Exercise caution when using the probe; unsafe usage can cause injury – see Section 2.3.2 page 11 for important probe warnings and safety instructions.

▪ The Temp-Taker® device normally comes equipped with two neodymium magnets. Improper use of magnets can cause a hazard. Physical impacts or collisions with the magnet can make it splinter. The proper operation of medical devices (e.g. pace-makers) may be adversely affected and the loss of digitally stored data may occur when in close proximity to the magnetic field generated by magnets.

▪ The Temp-Taker® device is equipped with 2 LEDs; Improper use of LEDs (e.g. fixing your sight directly on it) may cause injury.

▪ It is the sole responsibility of the user to verify the temperature-measurement accuracy of the Temp-Taker® device before use (e.g. by measuring the temperature of ice water). Accuracy can be affected by a damaged probe, an improper probe calibration performed by the user, the wrong probe-type setting, or operating the device in the presence of strong electromagnetic interference (such as the EMI radiated by radars, broadcast transmitters, and RF heating equipment).

▪ ITD bears no responsibility in ensuring that the Temp-Taker® app and device settings are correct, satisfy all applicable safety regulations, and comply with the policies and procedures of your organization.

▪ Use Temp-Taker® only for its intended use as described in this document.

▪ Never expose the Temp-Taker® device or its batteries to heat or flame. Always dispose of batteries according to local regulations.

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Introduction & Safety


1.5 How to Use This Guide

This guide is for supervisors and administrators who have been tasked with setting up Temp-Taker® and providing training to others. It provides step-by-step instructions on creating and using a basic setup customized for your organization. If ITD Food Safety has already set up Temp-Taker® for your organization, then Chapters 2 and 8 contain most of what you need to learn.

Chapter 2 is a brief introduction to the Temp-Taker® app and device. Each of Chapters 3 through 7 is dedicated to a different food-safety documentation practice or process used in HACCP and supported by Temp-Taker® 5 (see Table 1-2 below). These chapters may be read as the need arises and in any order. However, you may find that once you learn the basics from one of these five chapters, you can figure out the rest on your own. Chapter 8 describes some of the data reporting capabilities of Temp-Taker®.

Table 1-2 HACCP-Based Processes Supported by Temp-Taker® 5

Ch

apte

r

Temp-Taker® Process

Brief Description

3 Holding-Line

Temps

An item is required to hold its temp within a safe zone

(e.g. cold cuts in a sandwich line)

4 TILT

(Time In Lieu of Temperature)

A served food item is given a pre-defined amount of

time before it is deemed unsafe

5 Cooling Temps

Food must be cooled below a target temp within

a pre-defined time limit

6 Cooking Temps

Food is required to reach a safe temp range when cooked

7 Question Checklists

Questions are answered to verify compliance with established

policies, procedures, & standards

TIP: We strongly recommend setting up Temp-Taker® for one of the Processes in Table 1-2 and then putting it to use right away. After

workers have become familiar with using the Temp-Taker® device, you can implement the other needed processes – see flowchart in Figure 1.1 below. This approach has been found to make setup and user training easier.

Train Workers

Select a Process &

Read the Appropriate

How to.. Chapter

(see Table 1-2)

Set Up

Temp-Taker®

& Test Settings

Read

Chapter 2 Learn the Basics

Enter User Names

Enter Item List

Need to

Implement

Another

Process?

Yes

Read

Chapter 8 Start Generating Reports

No

q Holding - # 3

q TILT - # 4

q Cooling - # 5

q Cooking - # 6

q Questions - # 7

Figure 1.1 How to Use This Guide

NOTE: Do not be intimidated by Temp-Taker’s wide range of capabilities and advanced features. Most organizations just need to learn the basics to benefit greatly.

ADVANCED: The Temp-Taker® app is capable of having its settings updated remotely by your organization headquarters. For more information, see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Section 6.2.

Getting Started Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


2 Getting Started

This Chapter covers the basics of the Temp-Taker® 5 app and device.

2.1 Software Installation

This section deals with performing a fresh installation of the Temp-Taker® 5 software.

ATTENTION: If you are upgrading from Temp-Taker® 3, Temp-Taker® 4, or are manually updating your software (because of no internet access), do not uninstall your old version. See the Appendix of Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features.

NOTE: Once you have Temp-Taker® 5 installed on your machine, it will automatically check for software and firmware updates via the Internet (if access is available).

When performing a fresh installation, please note the following:

▪ The Temp-Taker® 5 software requires Windows 10 version 1803 or greater.

▪ If your antivirus and/or other security software interfere with the installation, you may need to temporarily disable them.

▪ Run the Temp-Taker® Setup.exe software installer file included in the kit.

▪ A window will appear displaying the Software License Agreement. Check the box to agree to the license terms and then click the ‘Install’ button. If Windows or other security software requests confirma-tion that you wish to allow the installation, be sure to agree.

▪ A message window will inform you that the ‘Setup’ was successful.

2.2 Temp-Taker® App Introduction

When Temp-Taker® is launched, the initial screen shows the Reports section of the app – see Figure 2.2 page 8. This section allows a regular user (i.e. a non-management user) to perform their entire day-to-day Temp-Taker® activity. Note that there’s no need to log in to the app to see the Reports section. Logging in is only necessary in order to make setting changes.

The Reports section of the app allows the user to view, filter, export, and print the data stored in the app’s database.

All device-generated data is automatically uploaded to the app via Bluetooth. Section 2.5 page 13 walks you through setting up Bluetooth communication.

To log in, click the ‘Log In’ button located in the vertical toolbar (shown in Figure 2.2 page 8). Clicking the button displays the Login window (see Figure 2.1 below). Now select ‘Jason’ as the user and click the ‘Log In’ button.

Select Jason

Click hereto log in

Figure 2.1 Logging In for the First Time

After logging in you will notice that three more buttons are added to the vertical toolbar (underneath the Reports button). The Temp-Taker® app is composed of four basic sections, each represented by one of the top four buttons: Reports, Programs, Process, and System. Figure 2.3 at the bottom of page 8 provides a brief overview of each section.

ADVANCED: Temp-Taker® can be configured to require a 4-digit PIN to log in to the app – see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 4.

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Getting Started


Data is automatically filtered by the Scope dropdown button and

selected date(s)

Data Reports section of the app

Click to display Login window

Adjust window size byclicking and dragging this corner

TIP

5 of the 6 default report tabs are configured to filter data according to common food-safety documentation practices

Filtered data is displayed here, underneath the column headers

Hide/unhide vertical toolbar by clicking handle

TIP

Figure 2.2 Reports Section of Temp-Taker® App

Reports: Generate data reports; print, email, and

export those reports

Process: Options for Holding, Cooking, Cooling,

& TILT processes

System: Manage users and configure various general

software and device options

Programs: Enter food names and questions that are used to create Programs which then

download to your devices

Setting up Temp-Taker® is

mainly focused on this section

Figure 2.3 Overview of App’s Four Main Sections



2.3 Hardware Basics

The Figures on this page provide an overview of Temp-Taker’s hardware features.

Graphical Display

LED #1(3-Color)

Directional Keypad

Fast-Response

Probe

Sanitizing Tube Clip Holder

Cable Strain Reinforcement

Figure 2.4 Front View of Temp-Taker® Device

Probe Storage

Battery-Door Release

2 Wall Mounts

2 Neodymium Magnets

4 Rubber Feet

AlarmBuzzer #1

LED #2

Lanyard Holder

AlarmBuzzer #2

Figure 2.5 Back View of Temp-Taker® Device

#1: Verify probe is removed

#2: Press battery-door release

#3: Slide door out about ¼

#4: Raise the top end

Figure 2.6 How to Remove the Battery Door



2.3.1 Maintenance & Battery Replacement

Removing the battery door provides access not only to the batteries but also to the probe-shaft and probe-connector compartments (see Figure 2.7 below). Being able to access the inside of the probe-shaft compartment is an important food-safety feature of the Temp-Taker® device because it makes it easy to clean and sanitize the compartment. We recommend using a sanitizing wipe to clean the outer surface of the device as well as the probe-shaft compartment.

ATTENTION: Do not spray the device directly or submerge it in a liquid as this may cause damage. Avoid applying harsh chemicals to the device (e.g. bleach or a glass cleaner that contains ammonia).

Figure 2.7 also shows that the Temp-Taker® device is equipped with two separate battery

compartments. The device can be powered by one pair of AA batteries or two pairs for longer life. You may use common alkaline batteries or rechargeable batteries (as shown in Figure 2.7). But, do not mix alkaline batteries with zinc carbon or rechargeable batteries – see Appendix 9.10 on page 63 for general battery-care instructions. Figure 2.8 below shows how to remove the batteries.

ATTENTION: Never use the probe tip to remove the batteries as this may cause damage to the probe.

A probe must be connected to the device before installing the batteries. When installing batteries, make sure the positive and negative ends of the battery are oriented according to the markings on the bottom of the battery compartment. It is easier to insert the negative end of the battery first, using it to compress the battery-contact spring.

Thermocouple Connector

Rechargeable NiMH Batteries Shown

Connector Screw

2 Separate Battery Compartments

Probe-Connector Compartment

Probe-Shaft Compartment

Figure 2.7 Backside of Device with Battery Door Removed

Wedge out from positive end

#1 #2 #3

Use index finger to remove 2

nd batterySelect a

suitable tool

Figure 2.8 How to Remove the Batteries



2.3.2 Probe Usage Instructions

The standard Temp-Taker® kit includes a high-quality stainless-steel fast-response penetration-style K-Type probe with mini connector.

ATTENTION: The following are important probe-usage instructions and guidelines that should always be followed:

▪ The very tip of the probe shaft contains the temperature sensor; therefore, when probing a product, make sure the tip of the probe is inside the product (ideally at the center of its thickest part). If the tip exits the product on the other side, the temperature measurement may not be accurate.

▪ If the initial temperature measurement is slightly out of range, try waiting a few seconds and then re-measuring without moving the probe from its position. If it’s still out of range, probe a different area of the product to verify your initial results.

▪ Always sanitize the probe shaft between food measurements and before placing it in its storage compartment to avoid cross-contamination.

▪ Always stow the probe in its compartment when not in use.

▪ When replacing the probe, follow the instructions in Appendix 9.3 page 54.

▪ Never probe sources of dangerous electri-cal voltages, corrosive substances, or any other hazardous materials.

▪ Do not probe frozen products or other hard items as this may cause damage to the probe.

Figure 2.9 Do Not Use Probe to Remove Batteries

▪ Do not use the probe as a general tool for poking holes, prying objects, or as an icepick – see bad example in Figure 2.9 above; Doing so may cause damage to the probe.

▪ Always exercise caution when probing items that have extreme temperatures – e.g. hot foods just removed from an oven, microwave, etc.

▪ Do not expose the probe tip and shaft to temperatures above 770°F (410°C).

▪ Do not expose the probe handle or cable to temperatures above 221°F (105°C).

▪ Always keep Temp-Taker® devices and probes out of reach of children.

▪ Penetration probes can cause serious injury if not used properly. Always exercise caution when using a penetration probe. The Temp-Taker® device and probe should only be operated by qualified personnel.



2.4 The Device User Interface

NOTE: The Temp-Taker® device turns off automatically after a period of inactivity (80s by default). It can be turned on by pressing any keypad button.

When batteries are installed in the device, the welcome screen is displayed (see left side of Figure 2.10 below). Pressing will exit the welcome screen and display the Main Menu (see

right side of Figure 2.10). The button is often used to exit or go back to the previous screen.

TIP: ‘Pressing ’ may be read ‘Pressing LEFT’, ‘Pressing ⚫’ may be read ‘Pressing CENTER’, etc.

The user interface is straightforward. The buttons are used to navigate through the various screens. Pressing ⚫ usually results in entering a particular mode or executing an action.

[]

Press ⚫ to start pairing

Number of saved data records

Area for date & time

Area for Bluetooth icon

Main Menu Icon-selector rectangle Name of selected icon

Welcome screen after battery installation

LEFT key pressed

Figure 2.10 Welcome Screen & Default Main Menu

A Bluetooth icon is displayed near the lower-right corner of the Main Menu (see Figure 2.10 above). Table 2-1 below shows all the possible Bluetooth icons and their meaning. The next section will guide you through the Bluetooth setup.

Table 2-1 Bluetooth Icons That Appear in the Main Menu

[No Icon] = Bluetooth radio is off; Device may be paired or unpaired; See example in Figure 2.10 above

Bluetooth radio is on; Temp-Taker® app is detected and is attempting to connect

Bluetooth radio is on; Temp-Taker® app is connected

Bluetooth radio is on; Temp-Taker® app is disconnected

The bottom-right corner of Figure 2.10 shows a counter set to 00. This counter is incremented whenever a data record is generated and saved to device memory. The counter is decremented whenever a data record is uploaded to the Temp-Taker® app and subsequently deleted from device memory.

NOTE: The date and time is not displayed in the device screen of Figure 2.10 because the batteries were just installed in the device and it has not yet established a Bluetooth connection with the Temp-Taker® app.



2.5 Bluetooth Setup

Data is exchanged between the Temp-Taker® app and paired Temp-Taker® devices via Bluetooth. Before data communication can take place, you must disable the Bluetooth power-saving property and pair your Temp-Taker® devices.

ATTENTION: In order for Temp-Taker® 5 to work properly on any PC, the Bluetooth power-saving property must be disabled. This is a one-time operation.

2.5.1 Procedure to Disable the Bluetooth Power-Saving Property

A. Log in to Windows with an administrator account and open the Device Manager window by clicking the Windows icon , typing ‘Device Manager’, and pressing Enter (see Figure 2.11 below).

B. In the Device Manager window, expand the Bluetooth section, right-click the name of the radio, and select Properties – the name usually contains the word Radio or Adapter in it (see Figure 2.12 below).

NOTE: To do a right-click on a touch screen, touch and hold down your finger on selected item for a couple of seconds.

NOTE: If the Device Manager window does not have a Bluetooth section, then your PC is not equipped with a Bluetooth radio and you will need to use a Bluetooth USB dongle (see Appendix 9.5 page 56).

C. Select the ‘Power Management’ tab, UNCHECK the box ‘Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power’, then click OK and close the Device Manager widow (see Figure 2.13 page 14).

Click the Windows icon , type Device Manager

and press Enter

Step A

Figure 2.11 Step A: Open Device Manager

Expand the Bluetooth section

Right-click the radio (or adapter)

Select Properties

NOTE: Your radio (also called an adapter) may have a different name than the one shown here

Step B

Figure 2.12 Step B: Open the Radio's Properties Window



Select the Power Management tab

NOTE: If this tab is not present, then the wrong item was right-clicked in Step B

UNCHECK this box

Click OK

Step C

Figure 2.13 Step C: Disable the Bluetooth Power-Saving Property

2.5.2 Bluetooth Pairing Procedure

1. On the Temp-Taker® device, go to Settings, select Bluetooth, press to select Pair, and then press ⚫ to Start looking for the Temp-Taker® app – see Figure 2.14 page 15.

2. On the Temp-Taker® app, log in, navigate to the Bluetooth section of the System → Device tab, and click the ‘Scan for New Devices’ button. When your device is discovered, click the PAIR button – see Figure 2.14 page 15.

NOTE: If a message in red font appears next to the ‘Scan for New Devices’ button (as noted in Figure 2.14), then see Appendix 9.8 (page 59) for instructions.

NOTE: Multiple Temp-Taker® devices may be paired to a single Temp-Taker® app. Conversely, a Temp-Taker® device will normally only be paired to a single app. An exception to this is discussed in the following ADVANCED note.

ADVANCED: Temp-Taker® devices are capable of being paired with two separate Temp-Taker® apps simultaneously (each running on a separate PC). This scenario allows for one app (running on a PC in the manager’s office, for example) to be used exclusively for implementing setting changes, and the second app (running on a PC located in a common work area) to be used exclusively for uploading device-generated data. See the Station Functionality section of the System → Security tab. For more information, consult the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 4.



From the Main Menu, use to navigate to the Settings icon

[⚫]

CENTER key pressed

[⚫]

CENTER key pressed

[] [⚫]

Press ⚫ to Start the pairing process

Use Temp-Taker® App

to complete pairingPress to select

the Pair option

Start with Temp-Taker

® unit

1

Go to System → Device tab

...click PAIR

Click Scan for New Devices then...

NOTE: If the Temp-Taker® unit has not

been paired, a shortcut to Start the pairing process is offered on the welcome screen, which appears upon installing the batteries.

NOTE: If the app detects a problem (e.g. an incompatible Bluetooth radio) a message in red font will appear here.

Finish withTemp-Taker

® app

2

Figure 2.14 How to Pair Bluetooth Temp-Taker® Devices



2.6 Entering User Names

User names are entered in the System → Users tab (as shown in Figure 2.16 below). Names can be added, edited, and deleted at any time. The order in which the names are listed in the app is the order in which they will be listed on the device after downloading.

TIP: Rows can also be sorted in alphabetical order by clicking on certain column headers (see Figure 2.16). Clicking the column header once will order the rows in ascending order (as indicated by an up-facing arrowhead above the column header). Clicking the column-header a second time will sort the rows in descending order (down-facing arrowhead). Clicking the column-header a third time will remove the sorting on that column.

ATTENTION: Temp-Taker® does not allow you to use the Undo Changes button to undo changes after they are saved.

ADVANCED: You can back up your current settings to a *.dt5 file and use that file to restore the settings at any time – see Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 6.

The cells underneath the Access Level column header specify the security access level for the

user. There are three available access levels: User (lowest access), Supervisor (configurable access), and Admin (full access). In a typical basic setup, the ‘Admin’ access level is assigned to supervisors, and trainers. All other users should be assigned the ‘User’ access level. Access-level settings can be changed at any time.

If you have not already done so, we recommend you enter and save some of your user names at this point.

To download any setting changes to your paired Temp-Taker® devices (including user names), save your changes and then click the Download Settings button in the vertical toolbar (see Figure 2.15 below).

Button is inactive before saving setting changes

Button is active after saving setting changes

Figure 2.15 Download Settings Button

Any paired Temp-Taker® devices that do not have an active Bluetooth connection, will download the setting changes the next time they establish a Bluetooth connection with the Temp-Taker® app.

System → Users tab

Copy a list of names from Excel to the clipboard; then right-click this grey cell and select Paste Row

TIP

After entering the name, press the Tab key to advance to the next cell; pressing Tab

on the right-most cell advances you to a new row

TIP

Click-n-drag grey cell up/down to reposition row

Click column header to sort list alphabetically

TIP

TIP

Figure 2.16 User Names



ADVANCED: Temp-Taker® has various optionally-enabled and configurable security features that assist management in auditing food-safety policies and protecting device settings. These security features include enforc-ing access levels, utilizing Personal Identification Numbers (PINs), and the logging of various security events – see Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 4.

2.7 Entering Your Item List

Food item and equipment names (generally referred to as items in this document) are entered in the Programs → Items tab (see Figure 2.17 below).

Figure 2.17 shows the sample items created during default software installation and points out the optional ‘Keypad’ temp method. This method can be used to log the temperature of equipment that have been fitted with an accurate thermometer (e.g. walk-in freezers).

TIP: To delete multiple sequential rows in a grid (e.g. the item-list grid shown in Figure 2.17 below), select the first row then press the Delete key on your keyboard repeatedly.

TIP: You can copy/paste item lists from Excel directly into the Temp-Taker® app – see the TIP at the bottom-left of Figure 2.16 page 16. If you type the names directly into the Temp-Taker® app, you can advance to the next cell by pressing the Tab key. Pressing the Tab key on the right-most cell advances you to a new row.

If you have not already done so, we recommend at this point that you enter and save your item names into Temp-Taker® and delete any names you do not need.

TIP: If your item list is long, we recommend sorting the list in ascending alphabetical order – see TIP near the upper-right corner in Figure 2.16 page 16. This allows you to quickly find desired items when building your settings later.

Programs → Items tab

Device keypad is used here to enter Temp

Optional keypad Temp Method available

Figure 2.17 Food and Equipment Item Names



2.8 Logging into the Device

Table 2-2 below shows the 6 icons that (by default) are visible on the Main Menu with a brief description of each. The Programs icon has been highlighted because it is where all data

saving activity begins. Other icons (not shown in Table 2-2) will automatically appear when the function they represent is needed.

ADVANCED: See Appendix 9.1 page 52 for a complete listing of all Main Menu icons along with a brief description of each.

Table 2-2 Device's Main-Menu Icons (Default Settings)

Icon Name Temp-Taker® Mode or Function

Power Off Turns off the Temp-Taker® device and logs user out (if logged in)

Spot-Check Temps

Activates digital thermometer displaying continuous temp reading Note: No data is saved in this mode

Programs Access the Programs downloaded from the Temp-Taker® app

Timers Access 3 independent count-up/countdown timers

Settings Access certain device settings – see Appendix 9.2 page 53

Info Stored data statistics, probe, device, and Bluetooth information

A user must be logged in before data can be saved in the device. Logging in is usually done by selecting the Programs icon on the Main Menu and then selecting the appropriate user name (see Figure 2.18 below). Every time the user

navigates back to the Main Menu, he or she is automatically logged out.

ADVANCED: Temp-Taker® can be configured to require a 4-digit PIN when logging into the device – see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 4.

[⚫] [⚫]

Pressing CENTER key displays user-login screen

Pressing CENTER key logs you in

Navigate to Programs icon

Scroll to your user name

List of downloaded Programs is displayed

Figure 2.18 Logging into Device to Generate Data



2.9 How to Take & View Temps

The highlighted row in Table 2-2 page 18 says that the Programs icon is used to access downloaded Programs. A Program is essentially a plan of action that is performed with the Temp-Taker® device. These Programs are built with the Temp-Taker® app and are downloaded to the device via Bluetooth. The user then selects the desired Program and uses it to efficiently log the necessary data.

Figure 2.19 below shows an example of how to take a temp with the Temp-Taker® device. The user selects the Programs icon , selects his/her name to log in (not shown in the Figure), and then selects the ‘Hot/Cold Line’ Program. The first item in this Program is Meatballs. Directly below the item name is the target temperature

range (or safe holding zone) for the product (140-212°F). To take the temp of Meatballs, the user simply inserts the sanitized probe into the product. In our example the measured temp was 157.7°F which is within the target range. Temp-Taker® automatically creates a data record for the event (which includes the user name, date, and time) and saves it to device memory. In our example, we proceed to take the temp of the other food items listed under the ‘Hot/Cold Line’ Program.

If a Bluetooth connection exists as the data is generated, the device works in the background to upload the data to the Temp-Taker® app. Otherwise, the data will be uploaded the next time a Bluetooth connection is established. Figure 2.20 below shows the data generated in our example.

Access Programs via this icon

[⚫] [⚫]

Scroll to desired Program

Pressing CENTER key displays Program contents

Probe insertion is detected & temp is automatically taken

Scroll to desired item and insert probe tip into product

Pressing CENTER key displays user-login screen (not shown here)

Figure 2.19 Taking an In-Range Temp on a Hot-Holding Item

Reports → All Data tab

Figure 2.20 Uploaded Data Viewed on Temp-Taker® App



The Temp-Taker® app is capable of filtering the data in any of its report tabs. Figure 2.21 below shows an example where the data in the report is not only limited to ‘Today’ (i.e. only records generated on July 30, 2020 are shown) but is also limited to records that have Tomato as the item – i.e. all other records are filtered out.

It is important to understand that whenever data is printed, emailed, or exported, only the data

currently visible in the view is utilized. This allows the user to customize reports to contain only the data of interest.

NOTE: Five of the six default report tabs (see top of Figure 2.2 page 8) are configured to filter data based on the Program names in the Programs → Programs tab. The next Section has more on this.

Click this icon to filter the data

Select from list of possible values

Search for particular string combinations

Clear this filter

Data is always filtered by currently selected date scope

Click date picker to change date

Figure 2.21 How to Filter Data



2.10 Temp-Taker® Programs and Processes

The previous section stated that a Temp-Taker® Program is essentially a plan of action that is performed with the Temp-Taker® device. When Programs are created, they are usually assigned 1 of 5 Processes (Holding, Cooking, Cooling, TILT, or Question).

NOTE: Table 1-2 page 6 contains a brief description of these HACCP-based processes or practices.

The user then builds the Program by adding items or questions to the Program. For example, when building the ‘Hot/Cold Line’ Program (shown in Figure 2.19 page 19), the assigned Process was Holding because we required each item in the Program to hold a temperature within a pre-defined safe temperature zone.

Figure 2.23 page 22 shows the sample Programs that are created during default software installation. Note that each Program has an assigned Process. These Programs can be modified to suit your needs or new ones can be created from scratch.

NOTE: Five of the six default report tabs (see top of Figure 2.2 page 8) have been configured to filter data based on the default Program names. For example, the Reports → Holding tab is filtered by the ‘Hot/Cold Line’ and ‘Equipment’ Program names (see Figure 2.22 below).

Reports → Holding tab

Only data that contains one of these two Program names will be displayed

Data filter is set

Figure 2.22 Default Reports Are Filtered by Program Names

ATTENTION: Because the filters used in the report tabs are based on the Program names, if you change the name of a Program, you lose the filters that utilized the original name and would need to manually add the new name to the filters. It is therefore good practice to review your report filters after creating any new Programs or making any Program name changes.

Daily alarms can be set up to remind the user to take temps and/or answer checklist questions on specific Programs. These alarms are set under the column header Reminder Alarms (see right-most column in Figure 2.23 page 22). By default, an Overdue Alarm is set to activate 15 minutes after a reminder alarm has activated and only if the related Program has not been serviced. The Overdue Alarm may be disabled and the alarm settings adjusted via the Program Options expander button (shown near the top-left corner of Figure 2.23).



Program members are governed by the selected Process

Programs → Programs tab

Programs are built by adding members (e.g. food items or questions)

Must be checked to download the Program

Adjust reminder

alarm settings

If Check Off = Yes, Program members are removed from list as they are serviced

Click cell to set reminder alarms

Figure 2.23 Sample Temp-Taker® Programs

NOTE: If an alarm activates while another alarm is active, the new alarm supersedes the current alarm and the device emits a distinctive audio/visual notification.

TIP: You can click-n-drag the small grey cell on the left side of the grid to change the order of your Programs. The order in which your Programs appear in the app will be reproduced on your Temp-Taker® device. Establish a Program order that is intuitive for the users.

TIP: A frequently asked question is: Should I set my items to ‘Check Off’ or not? If you intend to take the temp of every item (or answer every question) in your Program, then it would be advantageous to set your items to check off – i.e. disappear from the list as they are serviced. If you check off items, you should also set them to Auto Reset. When you check off all your items in a Program, a Program Complete event is automatically generated – see the last record shown at the bottom of Figure 2.20 page 19.



2.11 Spot-Check Temps Mode

You can also use your Temp-Taker® device to measure the temperature of items without logging any data. This is done via the Spot-Check Temps icon in the Main Menu. Spot-Check Temps mode behaves essentially as a free-running digital thermometer.

To enter the mode, navigate to the Spot-Check Temps icon on the Main Menu and press ⚫ (see Figure 2.25 below). Press to exit Spot-Check Temps mode. Pressing toggles measurement units between °F and °C. The resolution of the temperature reading can be adjusted up and down between 1°, 0.1°, and 0.01° by pressing .

NOTE: These units and resolution settings apply only to Spot-Check Temps mode and are independent from the settings used elsewhere in the device. The latter settings are controlled via the Temp-Taker® app, in the Settings section of the System → Device tab.

ATTENTION: By default, the device will not turn off automatically while in Spot-Check Temps mode. It is therefore important to manually exit this mode when you are done using the device.

ADVANCED: You can configure the device to Auto Off while in Spot-Check Temps mode. This is done via the Temp-Taker® app, in the Settings

section of the System → Device tab. Click the Exceptions expander under the Battery Conservation sub-section and then uncheck the box ‘Prevent Auto Off In Spot-Check Temps Mode’ – see Figure 2.24 below. Make sure to save your changes and then click the Download Settings button.

Unchecking these boxes will allow the device to Auto Off in these modes

Figure 2.24 Battery Conservation Settings

ADVANCED: Figure 2.25 below shows that pressing ⚫, while in Spot-Check Temps mode, activates a statistics feature. When this feature is active, the device indicates (via the LED and buzzer) every new maximum and minimum seen by the probe tip. The elapsed time the statistics feature is active is displayed in the top center of the screen and is automatically reset after 20 minutes (along with the maximum, average, and minimum values).

[⚫] [⚫]

Continuously updated temp reading (no data is saved)

Pressing CENTER key activates statistics feature

LED & buzzer indicate every new Max/Min seen

Elapsed time (mm:ss)

Maximum, average, & minimum temp readings continually update

Figure 2.25 Spot-Check Temps Mode



2.12 Timers Mode

The Temp-Taker® device has three independent count-up/countdown timers designed for the kitchen environment. To use the timers, navigate to the Timers icon on the Main Menu and press ⚫ (see Figure 2.26 below).

Pressing ⚫ while a timer reads 0M 0S makes the timer start counting up. When the timer is stopped, use to set the countdown timer and then press ⚫ to start the countdown. While the timer is counting up or down, pressing ⚫ stops the timer; pressing ⚫ again makes the timer resume counting.

The timers that are actively counting (up or down) are indicated at the bottom of the Main Menu and also in Timers mode, Spot-Check Temps mode, and Clock mode.

When a timer counts down to zero an alarm is activated. The LED/buzzer activation pattern is different for each of the 3 timers. This allows users to audibly distinguish, for example, between a timer used for replacing a coffee creamer and a timer used for the oven.

The timer name and countdown setting are displayed on the screen during an alarm activation (see right-side of Figure 2.27 below). Figure 2.27 also shows that each of the 3 timers can be assigned a custom name via the Temp-Taker® app in the Settings section of the System → Device tab. Make sure to save your changes and then click the Download Settings button.

ATTENTION: The auto-off feature is disabled (by default) while in Timers mode. Figure 2.24 page 23, shows how to change this setting.

[⚫]

Selected timer

Customizable timer name

Timer stopped indicator

Press to navigate timers and exit;Press or hold to set countdown timer;

Press ⚫ to start/resume or stop timer;Hold down ⚫ for timer options

[Hold down⚫]

When Auto-Reset is ‘On’, timer automatically resets and begins counting down again after timer expires

Figure 2.26 Timers Mode

Change timer names via the application’sGeneral Settings → Device Settings tab

Alarm indicates “Timer 1” expired after 2-hour countdown

Figure 2.27 Timer Alarm Activation

Holding-Line Temps Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


3 Holding-Line Temps

This is the first of five chapters that is dedicated to a particular documentation process or practice commonly used in HACCP (see Table 1-2 page 6). As a reminder, Chapters 3 through 7 may be read as the need arises and in any order.

Food products that are served either hot or cold are often required, after prepping, to hold their temperature in a safe zone where bacteria are known to multiply relatively slower. Also, coolers and freezers are expected to hold or maintain a certain target temperature range. Furthermore, the temperature of these food products and equipment must be documented throughout the day and appropriate corrective action must be taken when their temperature falls outside the safe zone.

We refer to these food products and equipment generically as Holding Items and their required safe temperature zones as Holding Zones. In this Chapter we will show you the basics of how to set up Temp-Taker® to implement the Holding process and then consider further how to take temps on holding items (compare with Section 2.9 page 19).

NOTE: If you have not already done so, please enter your item list into the Temp-Taker® app at this time, as this will make following the material in this chapter more productive – see Section 2.7 page 17.

NOTE: Because there are a variety of ways in which organizations apply the Holding Process, Temp-Taker® provides a number of options in this area. Nonetheless, many organizations only need to make a few adjustments to the default settings. Section 3.1 below assumes the Temp-Taker® default settings mostly align with your requirements.

ADVANCED: If you find that the adjustments described in Section 3.1 below are insufficient to fully accommodate your requirements, please see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 2.

3.1 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Take Holding-Line Temps

3.1.1 Define Your Safe Holding Zones

Since each of your Holding Items will have an assigned Holding Zone, your first step is to define the zones you will be using. Table 3-1 below shows the Holding Zones that are automatically created during default software installation.

Table 3-1 Default Safe Holding Zones

Zone Name Temp Stage Min (°F) Max (°F)

Hot Hold Zone

Initial Measurement 140.0 212.0

Corrective Session 165.0 212.0

Cold Hold Zone

Initial Measurement 32.5 41.0


Cooler Zone Initial Measurement 32.5 41.0


Freezer Zone Initial Measurement -15.0 15.0

Corrective Session -15.0 15.0

Why do we have two Temp Stages for each zone? The Initial Measurement stage corresponds to the target temperature range that the item is expected to hold. If the item turns out to be holding a temperature outside this target range, the item can sometimes be placed into what is call, a Corrective Session, where its out-of-range temperature can be corrected. The corrected target temperature range can sometimes be different from the initial target temperature range.

For example, if a hot soup product (assigned the Hot Hold Zone) measures below 140°F, it can usually be placed into a Corrective Session where it would be quick-heated to above 165°F, thereby correcting the initial unsafe temperature condition. Therefore, for Hot Hold Zone, we see that the default initial zone minimum is 140.0°F, but the corrective zone minimum is 165.0°F.

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Holding-Line Temps


If the default Safe Holding Zones are acceptable, you can skip to Section 3.1.2 below. If the temperature ranges need adjustment, you need additional zones, or you would like to edit the zone names, then go to the Safe Temperature Zones section of the Process → Holding tab (shown in Figure 3.1 below) and proceed to make the necessary changes.

ATTENTION: If you need more hot holding zones, it is best to replicate an existing hot holding zone and then edit the name and temperature limits of the copy as needed. Similarly, if you need more cold holding zones, replicate an existing cold holding zone and then edit the name and temperature limits of the copy. The reason for this is that the set of Corrective Options assigned to cold holding and hot holding zones are different from each other. Figure 3.1 shows how to replicate a zone.

Process → Holding tab

These are Corrective Options that are made available on the device when temp is below target range

These are Corrective Options that are made available on the device when temp is above target range

Display Replicate Row option by right-clicking on the small grey cell

Click cell to edit value

Target range

Figure 3.1 Safe Temperature Zones for the Holding Process

3.1.2 Tweak Your Corrective Action Directives

As you can see in Figure 3.1 above, each Holding Zone has its own set of temperature limits and

Corrective Options. When a Holding-Item temp is Out of Range, the Temp-Taker® device displays a list of Corrective Options for the user to choose from. When a custom Corrective Option is selected, the device displays a corrective-action



directive that provides useful instructions to the user. The text for these directives can be revised in the Custom Corrective Options section of the Process → Holding tab – see Figure 3.2 page 27 (compare with Figure 3.5 page 29).

If you have not already done so, please proceed to edit the default directives in your Temp-

Taker® app. For example, you should enter one or two appropriate telephone numbers that should be called if there is a maintenance issue.

Once you have defined your Holding Zones and tweaked the Corrective-Action directives, you can proceed to build your Holding Programs. This is explained in the next section.

This directive is displayed on the device when option is selected and temp was below the safe zone

This directive is displayed on the device when option is selected and temp was above the safe zone

Process → Holding tab

Click cell to edit text

Figure 3.2 Editing Corrective-Action Directives

3.1.3 Build Your Holding Program

All Programs are built using the Programs → Programs tab (introduced in Figure 2.23 page 22). To build a Holding Program, perform the following steps in the Programs → Programs tab (see Figure 3.3 and Figure 3.4 page 28):

▪ Add a new Program (row).

▪ Select ‘Holding’ as the Process.

▪ Open the Program Builder window.

▪ Assemble your item/zone list.

When you are done, make sure to save your changes and then click the Download Settings button in the vertical toolbar.

As with building any Program, your biggest challenge is deciding how to organize your items into logical groupings that are easy to work with. The goal should be to make it as easy as possible for users to find the items they need to temp.

ADVANCED: If your needs are complex, Temp-Taker® has a set of advanced Program options that provide much flexibility when building Programs, including the capability to add



up to two hierarchical levels to the Program structure plus a calendar-based interface for organizations that perform cyclic changes to their

food menus – see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 7.

Open Program Builder window via this cellPrograms → Programs tab

Select Holding Process

Click cell to set reminder alarms

Figure 3.3 How to Build a Holding Program

Zone is selected from dropdown

Click-n-drag grey cell up/down to reposition row

Item is selected from dropdown

NOTE: The row order in this window determines the item order on the device

With the item dropdown open, press any letter on the keyboard to select the first item in the list that starts with that letter; Then use the up/down keys to find the desired item; Press the Tab key to advance to the next cell; Press Tab on the right-most cell to advance to a new row

TIP

Figure 3.4 Assembling Your Item/Zone List



3.2 How to Take Holding-Line Temps

In Section 2.9 page 19 we showed how easy it is to take in-range temps on food items in a holding line. In this section we focus on what happens when the temp is out of range.

When a temp is out of range, the Temp-Taker® device alerts the user and provides a list of Corrective Options to choose from (see example in Figure 3.5 below). Appropriate Corrective Options are provided according to the item being measured and the circumstances in which the item was measured. If the temp result is close to the target range, a common action is to remeasure the temp.

In the example shown in Figure 3.5, the QUICK CHILL option is selected. This initiates a 30-minute Corrective Session in which the user

needs to follow through on the corrective action and then re-take the product’s temp.

Only certain Corrective-Options start or continue a Corrective Session. For example, the QUICK CHILL and QUICK HEAT options will start or continue a Corrective Session. However, the DISCARD option does not – see the ‘Start/Continue Corrective Session’ column in Figure 3.2 page 27.

ATTENTION: An intrinsic characteristic of a Corrective Session is its time limit. If an item is placed in Corrective Session, the user must complete the prescribed corrective action within the allotted time limit and re-take the item’s temp before the session expires – see the right-most device screenshot in Figure 3.5 below and the ‘Session Duration’ column in Figure 3.2 page 27. The reminder alarm helps the user not miss the opportunity to log the recovery of the item’s temperature before it is too late.

Probe is removed from product and list of available corrective options is displayed

[⚫] [⚫]

Desired option is selected

Custom user-directive for selected option is displayed

Probe tip is inserted into product and temp is automatically taken

Select REMEASURE to take another temp; Select UNDO to ignore the current temp result

TIP

A 30-minute count-down timer is started

A reminder alarm activates 5 minutes before timer expires

Figure 3.5 Taking an Out-of-Range Temp on a Holding Item



Figure 3.6 page 30 shows the Corrective-Session icon in the Main Menu of the device. This icon is only displayed when at least one item is in Corrective Session. Items currently in session can be accessed and re-temped via this icon.

By default, the Temp-Taker® device activates an alarm 5 minutes before a Corrective Session expires, reminding the user that a new temp should be taken to log the recovery of the item’s temperature (see example in Figure 3.7 below).

Any temp taken on an item in Corrective Session will automatically be associated with the original

out-of-range temp. Figure 3.8 below shows the data generated from this example as well as how to view/hide different data fields.

This counter indicates the number of items in

Corrective Session

Figure 3.6 Corrective-Session Icon

[⚫] []

Item is automatically removed from Corrective Session

Remainingsession time

RIGHT key is pressed

Activation of Reminder Alarm

Probe tip is inserted into product & temp is automatically taken

Figure 3.7 Corrective Session Reminder Alarm & Item Re-Temp

NOTE: All data stored in the database is unmodifiable, except for

the Comments and Verified By fields

Right-click anywhere on the grid to display the Column Visibility SelectorReports → All Data tab

Click-n-drag column headers left/right to desired position

Figure 3.8 Out-of-Range Temp Data & How to Configure a Report Tab

TILT Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


4 TILT

TILT stands for Time in Lieu of Temperature – also known as Time as a Public Health Control (TPHC). In TILT, a served food item (hot or cold) is given a pre-defined amount of time before it is deemed unsafe and must be discarded. The temperature of the food product is usually not monitored after it is served.

Facilities that implement a TILT policy must document the temperature and time the food product is served. Furthermore, the elapsed time since the product was served must be monitored and action must be taken before the allowable time limit has elapsed.

4.1 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Implement a TILT Policy

4.1.1 Build Your TILT Program

All Programs are built using the Programs → Programs tab (introduced in Figure 2.23 page 22). To build a TILT Program, perform the following steps in the Programs → Programs tab (see Figure 4.1 below):


▪ Select ‘TILT’ as the Process.


▪ Adjust TILT parameters (if necessary).

▪ Assemble your item list.

Adjust temp limits (if necessary)

Open Program Builder window via this cell

Select TILT Process

AdjustTILT Period

Build Program by clicking desired items


Figure 4.1 How to Build a TILT Program

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics TILT



As with building any Program, your biggest challenge is deciding how to organize your items into logical groupings that are easy to work with. The goal should be to make it as easy as possible for users to find the items they need.

ADVANCED: If your needs are complex, Temp-Taker® has a set of advanced Program options that provide much flexibility when building Programs, including the capability to add up to two hierarchical levels to the Program structure, plus a calendar-based interface for organizations that perform cyclic changes to their food menus – see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 7.

4.1.2 Adjust Your General TILT Options

By default, the Temp-Taker® device will automatically log a ‘TILT Period End – Discarded’ event when an item’s TILT Period expires. Most organizations prefer this behavior over the alternative, which is logging a ‘TILT Period Expired’ event. The default behavior can be changed in the Process → TILT tab – see Figure 4.2 below.

ATTENTION: Make sure the default behavior of automatically logging expired TILT items as ‘Discarded’ complies with your organization’s policy and practices.

One of the main advantages of implementing a TILT policy with Temp-Taker® is that the device automatically monitors the TILT Period of each food item and alerts the user (via an alarm) when action is required. By default, the reminder alarm activates 15 minutes before each TILT Period expires. This behavior can be changed in the Process → TILT tab – see Figure 4.2 below.

Process → TILT tab

Keep this enabled only if it complies with your TILT policy

Adjust this value to your preference

When enabled, a reminder alarm activates at the specified time interval before TILT period expires

If enabled, device notifies user when expired TILT items are purged

If enabled, device allows you to log temps on active TILT items

Figure 4.2 General TILT Options

TILT Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


4.2 How to Execute Your TILT Policy

Executing your TILT Policy with the Temp-Taker® device consists of starting a TILT Period for each item and then (before each period expires), marking the item as Consumed or Discarded.

Figure 4.3 below shows how to start a TILT Period with the Temp-Taker® device. Since the measured temperature of the item in the example was within the required range, an In-Range event was saved to memory and a 4-hour countdown timer was started for the item.

[⚫]

TILT Program created & downloaded from app

Temp is automatically taken

Scroll to desired item and insert probe tip into product

If Temp is In Range, TILT period is started

Figure 4.3 How to Start a TILT Period

When at least one item has an active TILT Period, the TILT items icon appears on the device’s Main Menu, as shown in the first device screenshot of Figure 4.5 page 34. The TILT items icon displays an item count in the upper left corner of the icon. The user may access and process TILT items by selecting this icon at any time. Figure 4.5 also demonstrates how the Lasagna item is marked as “Consumed”. It also shows the data uploaded to the Temp-Taker® app.

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics TILT


4.3 Combined TILT/Holding Functionality

Some organizations have TILT policies that also require periodic logging of the food temperature. Temp-Taker® provides built-in support for this documentation requirement. The TILT-item processing screen allows you to take temps on items that have an active TILT Period (see 3rd device screenshot in Figure 4.5 below). These additional temps are also logged in memory. The Temp-Taker® device is unaware of the target temperature range associated with these temps. It is up to the user to evaluate the result of each temperature measurement and act accordingly.

NOTE: In order to take temps on items that have an active TILT Period, the box ‘Enable Temps on Active TILT Items’ must be checked in the Process → TILT tab (see Figure 4.2 page 32).

Periodically occurring reminder alarms can be enabled to help workers take temps on TILT food items at appropriate time intervals. These alarms

are easily configured within the TILT Program Builder window – see Figure 4.4 below.

Window used to build TILT Programs

Check box and adjust alarm interval to get periodic alarms reminding you to take temps

Figure 4.4 Periodic Reminder Alarms for TILT Items

[⚫] [⚫] []

Navigate to TILT Items icon

TILT Period is ended

TILT Item processing screen

Time remaining in TILT Period

UP key is pressedReports → TILT (TPHC) tab

By default, the TILT (TPHC) tab filters the Programs field by the TILT Line Program

Option to take additional temps

Figure 4.5 Marking a TILT Item as “Consumed”

Cooling Temps Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


5 Cooling Temps

When room-temperature food or cooked food is cooled, its temperature must traverse a danger zone where bacteria are known to grow rapidly. This danger zone is usually specified as 135°F to 41°F. Therefore, during the cooling process, the amount of time a food product remains in the danger zone must be kept within established food-safety limits.

Furthermore, HACCP requires that this process be monitored and documented. If the time the food product is in the danger zone exceeds established food-safety limits, proper corrective action must be taken (e.g. discarding the food).

5.1 Different Cooling Practices

When it comes to food cooling, we have found that different organizations employ different practices. Table 5-1 below describes the cooling practices supported by Temp-Taker®.

Table 5-1 Food-Cooling Practices Supported by Temp-Taker®

Common Food-Cooling Practice Temp-Taker®

Cooling Type

Hot food is required to cool down to an intermediate temperature within an initial time limit (usually 70°F within the first 2 hours of cooling). Thereafter, the food must cool down to a final target temperature before a total time limit expires (usually 41°F within 6 hours total).

Hot 2-Stage

Hot food is required to cool down to a final target temperature within a total time limit (usually 41°F within 2 hours). There is no intermediate cooling stage.

Hot 1-Stage

Room-temperature food (such as prepped vegetables) is required to cool down to a final target temperature within a total time limit (usually 41°F within 4 hours).

Room

A single temperature measurement is required showing that either hot or room temperature food has been cooled down to a target temperature (usually 41°F).

Room

ATTENTION: ITD Food Safety makes no claims or endorsements regarding any food safety requirements or practices.

Table 5-1 above refers to three cooling-process types implemented by Temp-Taker®. These are: Hot (2-Stage), Hot (1-Stage), and Room. When building a Cooling Program, one of these three cooling types must be selected – see Figure 5.1 below.

NOTE: Although the ‘Room’ type is primarily applied to the cooling of room-temperature food, it can also be applied to the cooling of hot food as described in the last row of Table 5-1.

Required minimum start temp of product

First stage in a 2-stage process

2-stage hot foodCooling Process

1-stage hot foodCooling Process

Required minimum start temp of product

Room-temp foodCooling Process

Does not have a required minimum start temp

Figure 5.1 Temp-Taker’s Cooling-Process Types

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Cooling Temps


Both 2-Stage and 1-Stage hot types have a minimum start temperature requirement – see Figure 5.1 page 35. This normally means that at least 2 temps must be taken for this type, one showing that the food started off hot, and the other showing that the food reached its final target temperature.

The ‘Room’ type has no minimum start temp requirement. This means that the cooling process can consist of a single temperature measurement that satisfies the specified target temperature. That is why it can be applied to either hot or room-temperature food cooling. The ‘Room’ type also allows for an arbitrary number of temps to be taken, as long as they are all taken within the total time limit.

5.2 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Take Cooling Temps

5.2.1 Build Your Cooling Program

All Programs are built using the Programs → Programs tab (introduced in Figure 2.23 page 22). To build a Cooling Program, perform the following steps in the Programs → Programs tab (see Figure 5.2 below):


▪ Select ‘Cooling’ as the Process.


▪ Select the appropriate cooling type (see Section 5.1 page 35).

▪ Adjust, if necessary, the cooling-process parameters – e.g. the final target temp.

▪ Assemble your item list.

▪ Adjust (if necessary) the global reminder alarm setting (see Section 5.2.2 page 37).

Adjust target temp and time limit parameters

(if necessary)


Select Cooling Process

Select the desired cooling process type

Build Program by clicking desired items


Figure 5.2 How to Build a Cooling Program




As with building any Program, your biggest challenge is deciding how to organize your items into groupings that are easy to work with.

ADVANCED: If your needs are complex, Temp-Taker® has a set of advanced Program options that provide much flexibility when building Programs, including the capability to add up to two hierarchical levels to the Program structure plus a calendar-based interface for organizations that perform cyclic changes to their food menus – see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 7.

5.2.2 Adjust Your Alarm Settings

By default, an alarm is configured to activate every 28 minutes after the cooling process is started for each item. The purpose of this alarm is to remind the user to take periodic temps on items undergoing the cooling process. This facilitates the monitoring of the item’s cooling rate and the taking of corrective action if the rate is deemed insufficient. Corrective action may include transferring the product to shallower

food pans or (in the case of hot foods) reheating the product (usually to above 165°F) and then re-starting the cooling process.

If your organization does not require the taking of periodic temps, you can either disable these reminder alarms or set it to activate just one time 10-15 minutes before the total cooling time limit expires (see bottom of Figure 5.3 below). For example, if your total time limit is 2 hours, then the reminder alarm can be set to 110 minutes – i.e. the alarm will activate only one time, 10 minutes before the time limit expires.

ATTENTION: When the Total Time Limit expires on an item undergoing the cooling process, the Temp-Taker® device will no longer allow any more temps to be taken on that item.

TIP: Use reminder alarms to help prevent the Total Time Limit for cooling items from expiring.

If a cooling item’s Total Time Limit expires, the user will be allowed to mark the item as discarded. This grace period, which occurs before the item is automatically purged, is set to 2 hours by default and can be changed in the Process → Cooling tab (shown in Figure 5.3 below).

Process → Cooling tab

Reminder interval begins counting from start of cooling

session for each item

Clean up unsuccessful Cooling Sessions

Expand this section

Figure 5.3 Cleanup and Alarm Cooling Options

NOTE: Why was 28 minutes selected as the default alarm interval? Note that the Total Time Limit is commonly 2, 4, or 6 hours (see Figure 5.1 page 35). With these time limits, a 28-minute

reminder interval allows the user enough time to take a temp after the final reminder alarm activates. For example, if the Total Time Limit is 2 hours, then reminder alarms will normally activate at 28min, 56min, 84min, and 112min



after the start of the Cooling Session. Note that the 4th and final reminder alarm activates 8 minutes before the Total Time Limit of 2 hours expires, allowing enough time to take a final temp.

5.3 How to Take Cooling Temps

Using the Temp-Taker® device to take cooling temps is easy. This section is organized into three subsections, one for each Temp-Taker® Cooling type – compare with Figure 5.1 and Table 5-1 on page 35.

5.3.1 ‘Room’ Cooling Type

Whether you are using the ‘Room’ type to log cooling temps for hot food or room-temperature food (such as prepped vegetables), the implementation is the same. Simply select the desired food item (in your cooling Program) and insert the probe tip into the food product.

NOTE: If a temp is not automatically triggered, press ⚫ to initiate the temp measurement.

If the measured temperature is within the target range, then a ‘Cooling Completed’ event is generated and a data record is saved. If the temp is out of range, then no data is saved.

ADVANCED: If you would like to log an initial out-of-range temp (e.g. the temperature of a prepped vegetable before it is placed in the cooler), you can do so by pressing to enter the Cooling Track Mode. Information on how to access items that have been placed in a Cooling Session and how to use the Track Mode is available in subsection 5.3.3 page 40.

5.3.2 Hot (1-Stage) Cooling

A common practice used for documenting the cooling of hot foods is to record the temperature of a hot food item before cooling begins and then, before a time limit expires, record the second and final temperature when it has reached its target cold range. Temp-Taker, ‘Hot (1-stage)’ cooling type is perfect for this scenario – compare with 2nd row of Table 5-1 page 35. The following example demonstrates how to implement this on the Temp-Taker® device.

Our example begins by making a few setting changes on the Temp-Taker® app. Go to the

Programs → Programs tab and replicate the sample ‘Cooling Hot Food’ Program. Name the new Program ‘Quick Cooling’.

NOTE: To replicate a Program, right-click on the small grey cell on the left side of the row and select Replicate Row.

Next, open the Cooling Program Builder window (by clicking the Items/Questions cell) and change the cooling type to ‘Hot (1-Stage)’ (see Figure 5.4 below). Make sure to save your changes.

This option is selected in our example

Leave the total time limit set to 2 hours

Figure 5.4 Example Hot (1-Stage) Food Cooling

Finally, revise the reminder alarm interval. Go to the Cleanup & Alarms section of the Process → Cooling tab and change the reminder alarm interval from 28 minutes to 110 minutes (see Figure 5.5 below). When you are done, save your changes and click the Download Settings button.

Process → Cooling tab

A 110-minute interval in a 2-hour total time limit gives the user 10 minutes to take the final temp

Figure 5.5 Cooling Reminder Interval



To start the cooling process for an item in our example ‘Quick Cooling’ Program, we simply navigate to the desired item on the Temp-Taker® device and insert the sanitized probe tip into the product to take its temp. If the product’s temperature is greater than the minimum

required, the measurement is logged and a Cooling Session for the item is started (see example in Figure 5.6 below). Also, a reminder alarm is automatically set to activate 10 minutes before the session ends.

Minimum temp required to start cooling

Temp is automatically taken

Insert probe tip into product to take temp

Temp is >135°F; Meatballs is placed

in a Cooling Session

Figure 5.6 How to Start a Cooling Session

There are two ways to find our item when it is time to take the second and final temp to complete the cooling session. The first way is to look through the items that are currently undergoing the cooling process. These can be accessed via the Cooling icon on the device’s Main Menu. At least one Cooling Session must be active in order for this icon to appear. The second method is to wait until the item’s reminder alarm activates. When the alarm activates, a ‘Jump to Item?’ option is usually

offered which takes you directly to the item in question. This is shown at the top of Figure 5.7 below. The bottom part of the figure shows the device-generated data uploaded to the Temp-Taker® app.

NOTE: How is an item discarded from a cooling session? From the Cooling Items screen, press to enter Track Mode (see 3rd screenshot from the left at the top of Figure 5.7 below), then press to display available Corrective Options – see bottom-right portion of Figure 5.8 page 40.

Reminder AlarmActivation

[⚫] []

Probe tip isinserted into product

RIGHT key is pressed

Reports → Cooling tab

Figure 5.7 Completing a Cooling Session



5.3.3 Hot (2-Stage) Cooling

Temp-Taker’s 2-stage hot food cooling process is implemented in much the same way as the 1-stage process (described in the previous section), except that the reminder alarm is usually set to activate more frequently.

When a temp is taken that falls below the first-stage target temperature, the device generates a ‘Completed 1st Stage’ event and automatically starts the final cooling stage. When a temp is taken that falls below the final-stage target temperature, the device generates a ‘Completed Final Stage’ event and closes out the Cooling Process for the item.

It is worth re-iterating the main advantage of the 2-stage process over the 1-stage cooling process. The 2-stage process provides the user more time to monitor the cooling rate so as to determine if the rate is sufficient to reach the target temperature in time. Detecting a slow cooling rate early enough can give you the opportunity to either increase the rate (for example by distributing the food product in multiple trays) or reheat the product and then restart the cooling process.

A 28-minute reminder interval usually works well because it samples the temperature frequently enough to gauge the cooling rate and also allows

the opportunity to take a final temp just before the session expires (see final NOTE in Section 5.2.2 page 37).

To access Corrective Options for an item undergoing the cooling process, first press to enter Track Mode (see 3rd screenshot from the left at the top of Figure 5.7 page 39) and then press to display available Corrective Options (see Figure 5.8 below). Selecting ‘REHEAT TO 165°F’ will cause the Temp-Taker® device to log a ‘Reheat Selected’ event and require that the Cooling Process be re-started with a minimum temp of 165°F (assuming default settings). Selecting ‘DISCARD ITEM’ will cause the device to terminate the item’s Cooling Process and log an ‘Item Discarded’ event.

ADVANCED: The Cooling Track Mode provides an alternative method to logging temperature measurements. In Track Mode, the screen displays a continuously updating temperature reading of the probe tip. Pressing ⚫ while in Track Mode, simply logs the currently displayed temperature reading. This mode is useful if you want to spot-check the temperature of the food product in different areas without having to log each measurement. The Track Mode screen also contains some useful information about the Cooling Session – see Figure 5.8 below.

Last temp taken and elapsed time since then

First temp taken and elapsed time since then

Remaining time to reach target temp

Target tempItem name

Continuous real-time probe-tip temp reading

RIGHT key pressed

Icon representing Cooling Track Mode

[]

Corrective Options (hot foods only)

Figure 5.8 Cooling Track Mode

Cooking Temps Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


6 Cooking Temps

HACCP principles require foods that are being cooked to reach a target temperature range and remain within that range for a prescribed amount of time (usually at least 15s) before the food item is considered safe to serve. Furthermore, the cooking temperatures of food products must be documented. In this Chapter we will show you how to set up and use Temp-Taker® to take temps on Cooking items.

6.1 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Take Cooking Temps

All that is required to set up Temp-Taker® to take cooking temps is to build your Cooking Programs. All Programs are built using the Programs → Programs tab (introduced in Figure 2.23 page 22). To build a Cooking Program, perform the following steps in the Programs → Programs tab (see Figure 6.1 below):


▪ Select ‘Cooking’ as the Process.


▪ Add your items and adjust (if necessary) the target range.


As with building any Program, your biggest challenge is deciding how to organize your items into logical groupings that are easy to work with.

ADVANCED: If your needs are complex, Temp-Taker® has a set of advanced Program options that provide much flexibility when building Programs, including the capability to add up to two hierarchical levels to the Program structure plus a calendar-based interface for organizations that perform cyclic changes to their food menus – see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 7.

Select item from list


Select Cooking ProcessPrograms → Programs tabAdjust

target range

Figure 6.1 How to Build a Cooking Program

6.2 How to Take Cooking Temps

6.2.1 When Only One Temp Is Required

Many organizations only require logging a single temperature measurement showing that the product’s temperature reached the target range

– see the example in Figure 6.2 page 42. After selecting the desired Cooking Program and scrolling to the desired item, simply take the item’s temp. If the temp is either within or above the target range, then a data record is saved and cooking is considered complete for the selected

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Cooking Temps


item. This is the case in the example of Figure 6.2 below. On the other hand, if the temp is below

the target range, then no data is saved and the user can try again later.

[⚫]

Scroll to the desired item

Select your cooking Program

Insert probe tip into product to take temp

Programs → Cooking tab

Figure 6.2 How to Take a Cooking Temp

6.2.2 When Two or More Temps Are Required

If you need to create a log showing the temperature of the product at more than one point in the cooking process, then (after scrolling to the desired item) press before inserting the probe tip into the product. This puts the Temp-Taker into the Cooking Track Mode where a real-time, continuously refreshing, temperature reading of the probe tip is displayed. While in this mode, pressing ⚫ saves the currently displayed temperature reading into memory. Multiple temps can be logged this way. This mode is similar to the Cooling Track Mode – see Figure 5.8 page 40.

The Track Mode feature allows the user to spot-check the product temperature in multiple areas while controlling how many temps are actually logged.

If you use this mode, you’ll note that logging a temperature measurement that is within or above the target range does not automatically end the cooking session for the item in question. The user needs to manually end the session by pressing . This default behavior can be changed in the Process → Cooking tab by checking the box

‘Auto-End Tracking After First In-Range or Overcooked Temp’.

Manually deciding when to end the cooking session is useful if you need to document that the product remained in the target temperature range for the minimum time required by HACCP. The first count-up timer in the Track Mode screen shows the amount of time elapsed since the last logged temp (see Figure 5.8 page 40). This allows the user to easily determine when to take a 2nd In-Range temp – for example, after at least 15s has elapsed since an initial In-Range temp.

NOTE: When the Cooking Track Mode is used to log the first temp for an item, the item is placed into a Cooking Session. These items can be re-visited at any time via the Cooking icon , which appears to the right of the Take Temps icon on the device’s Main Menu. The Cooking icon is only displayed when at least one item is in a cooking session. In order to associate new temps with previously taken temps, you must access your item via this icon.

Question Checklists Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


7 Question Checklists

Question/answer checklists are used not only to verify compliance with food-safety procedures and standards, but also for numerous other applications.

Temp-Taker® offers a rich set of features for creating highly customizable question checklists. These include the capability to conditionally branch to specified questions based on the answer to the current question, generate audio/visual alerts, display optional comments, and flag undesired answers. The following types of questions are supported:

▪ Yes/No: The answer to the question is either Yes or No.

▪ Pre-defined custom answers: The answer to the question is one or more pre-defined short phrases.

▪ Temperature measurement: The question is answered by taking a temp.

▪ Date: The answer to the question is a date.

▪ Numeric: The answer to the question is a number.

Since the most commonly used question type is Yes/No, this chapter will guide you through creating your own custom Yes/No question checklist and then show you how to use the Temp-Taker® device to answer them.

ADVANCED: For information on how to utilize other checklist features not covered here, see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 3.

7.1 How to Set Up Temp-Taker® to Answer Yes/No Questions

7.1.1 Enter Your Questions

Questions are entered via the Programs → Questions tab, shown in Figure 7.1 page 44. The following is a brief description of each of the columns in the grid:

▪ Short Name: A short name given to the question.

TIP: The Short Name is used to identify the question when building a question checklist (see Figure 7.3 page 45). Give your questions appropriate names to make building the checklists easier (especially if you have a large number of questions).

▪ Full Question: This is the full question text.

▪ Additional Comment: This is an optional comment that is usually used to clarify the question (see ‘Emergency Exit’ example shown in Figure 7.1 page 44).

▪ Possible Answers: This is the list of possible answers or answer type. The default is ‘Yes/No’.

▪ Desired Answer: Most questions can have a desired (or acceptable) answer specified. The app automatically flags questions with undesired answers.

▪ Alert User: This is the parameter used to determine if the Temp-Taker® device should activate an audio/visual alert when displaying the question. If Yes, it alerts. If No, it does not alert. Alert User is typically used when branching to a ‘question’ that is acting as a corrective-action directive.

▪ Log Answer: This is the parameter used to determine whether the answer to the question should be logged in memory or not. If Yes, the answer is logged. If No, the answer is not logged.

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Question Checklists


Programs → Questions tab

This name appears in the device screen title with

the full question below it []

RIGHT key is pressed to show the additional comment

MORE is automatically inserted at the end of the question when an additional comment is available

Scroll through the checklist using

Figure 7.1 Questions in Temp-Taker® App and Device

TIP: Before you start entering your questions, we recommend you first delete all the existing sample questions. A quick way to do this is by selecting the first row (i.e. clicking the small grey cell on the left side of the row) and then pressing the DEL key on your keyboard repeatedly.

You may either enter your Yes/No questions directly into the Temp-Taker® app or you may copy/paste them from Excel – see TIPs in Figure 2.16 page 16.

To copy/paste from Excel, do the following:

▪ In Excel, select the range of cells you wish to copy and then press CTRL+C to copy the cells to the clipboard. The maximum number of columns allowed is 3.

▪ In the Temp-Taker® app, click the ‘Add new row’ button.

▪ Right-click the small grey cell on the left side of the row to get a pop-up menu, then click ‘Paste Row’ (see Figure 7.2 below).

Right-click grey cell to display pop-up menu

Figure 7.2 Pasting Clipboard Contents

▪ Make any needed changes to the ‘Desired Answer’ column.

NOTE: Clicking on the ‘Possible Answers’ cell (or pressing the SPACEBAR key on the keyboard) after the cell has been selected, will open the Answers Builder window. For simple Yes/No questions, there is no need to make any changes in this window.

Question Checklists Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


7.1.2 Build Your Question Checklist

In Temp-Taker®, a question checklist is often built as a Program with questions as its members. All Programs are built using the Programs → Programs tab (introduced in Figure 2.23 page 22). To build a Program that contains a list of questions, perform the following steps in the Programs → Programs tab – see Figure 7.3 page 45:


▪ Select ‘Question’ as the Process.


▪ Assemble the question checklist.


As with building any Program, your biggest challenge is going to be deciding how to organize your questions into logical groupings that are easy to work with.

ADVANCED: If your needs are complex, Temp-Taker® has a set of advanced options that provide much flexibility when building Programs, including building a checklist composed of a large number of questions, the capability to add up to two hierarchical levels to the Program structure, and a calendar-based interface for organizations that perform cyclic changes on checklists – see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 7.


Select Question Process


Build Program by clicking desired questions

Figure 7.3 How to Build a Question Checklist

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Question Checklists


7.2 How to Answer a Yes/No Question

Go to the Program that contains the questions you want to answer. Find the desired question

and press ⚫ to display the possible answers. Finally, select the correct answer and press ⚫ to enter the answer (see Figure 7.4 below).

[⚫]

Full Question

[⚫]

Answer is entered

CENTER key is pressed

Reports → Checklist tab

Possible answers

Answer logged; next Question is displayed...

Figure 7.4 How to Answer a Checklist Question

Generating Data Reports Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


8 Generating Data Reports

ATTENTION: If you create any new Programs or change the name of a Program, corresponding changes must be made to the report tabs to keep them working as expected (see ‘ATTENTION’ in Section 2.10 page 21).

The Temp-Taker® app generates spreadsheet-style data reports that can be printed or exported in PDF, CSV, or XML formats (see Figure 8.1 below).

Click to export

Click to print/email

Figure 8.1 Print, Email, and Export Reports

Peppered throughout this guide are the following examples that describe various data-reporting features of the Temp-Taker® app:

▪ Figure 2.2 page 8: How to filter data by date scope

▪ Figure 2.21 page 20: How to filter data by data fields

▪ Figure 3.8 page 30: How to hide/unhide columns and change their position

In this Chapter we will show you how to configure your print settings and customize the Reports section of the Temp-Taker® app.

ATTENTION: Temp-Taker’s fiscal week is set to start on Sunday by default. If you need to change this, go to the View Options section of the Reports → [gear] tab – see Chapter 5 of the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features.

NOTE: You will get more out of this Chapter if you already understand the concepts presented in Section 2.10 page 21 and Figure 2.21 page 20.

ADVANCED: Temp-Taker® is capable of automatically generating PDF reports on a periodic time interval (daily, weekly, or monthly). Furthermore, the auto-generated reports can be automatically saved, emailed, or both. If saved, they can be saved to a local network, or cloud storage folder or to a WebDAV URL. This feature is called Auto-Generated Reports. See the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 5.

TIP: Auto-Generated Reports can be used by an organization to implement a basic data reporting service where reports (in PDF format) from multiple locations are consolidated in one location (either on a network or cloud-storage folder e.g. OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox) without any monthly fees.

ADVANCED: Alternatively, the Temp-Taker® app can be configured to serve as a raw-data portal between Temp-Taker® devices and a custom data-reporting service. As such, once the data is uploaded from the device, the app automatically sends the data via SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) to a predefined server in the form of a CSV file. At this point, your own custom software can parse the incoming CSV file, extract the data of interest, store it into its own database, and display/utilize it as desired. This feature is called SFTP Mode. See the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 5.

ADVANCED: Temp-Taker® is also capable of sending email and/or mobile-phone text messages when temps or checklists have not been started or completed by a certain time of the day. This feature is called Insufficient Activity Notifications (IAN) – see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 5.

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Generating Data Reports


8.1 Print Settings

When a report is printed or a PDF is generated, a page title and subtitle is included at the top of the page – see print preview in Figure 8.2 page 48. These settings are entered in the Print Options

section of the Reports → [gear] tab (also shown in Figure 8.2). The default page layout can also be set in this tab. If you have not already done so, please proceed to enter a meaningful page title and subtitle. These fields can be changed at any time.

Enter page title and subtitle to be used on

generated reports

Reports → [gear] tab

This tab is only visible when user is logged in

Print preview option is available from any report tab

Report tab name

Figure 8.2 Print Settings and Sample Print Preview



8.2 How to Customize Report Tabs

Temp-Taker® allows you to configure your own custom report tabs to display only the data of interest. Feel free to customize the Reports section the way you like it – i.e. eliminate unneeded tabs and create/customize existing tabs so they can be used to quickly generate needed reports.

To create a new report tab, you can simply click the ‘add row’ button. However, a more efficient way is to replicate an existing tab that already approximates the configuration you want your new tab to have.

TIP: If you need a new report tab that will display temperature data, replicate an existing temperature-data report tab. On the other hand, if you need a new report tab that will display checklist data, replicate an existing checklist-data report tab.

After creating a report tab, make sure to configure the tab as needed by hiding/unhiding columns, repositioning them, and setting up filters to show only the data of interest.

As an example, consider a School district that is required to generate reports showing a log of all the temperature measurements taken on the milk stored in their walk-in cooler. They have created a Holding Program called ‘Walk-In Cooler’. The Program contains various items stored in the cooler including the ‘Milk’ product. In this case we would perform the following steps to customize a dedicated ‘Milk’ report tab:

▪ Go to Reports → [gear] tab, expand the ‘Report Tabs’ section, and then click the maximize icon (see top part of Figure 8.3 page 50).

▪ Replicate the ‘Holding’ tab (row), name the newly created tab ‘Milk’, and (if desired) reposition the row, which will ultimately determine the order in which the report tabs will appear – see Figure 8.3 page 50.

NOTE: Since our new ‘Milk’ report tab will contain temperature data, we chose to

replicate the ‘Holding’ tab. We could have replicated any of the other temperature-data tabs (i.e. Cooking, Cooling, or TILT).

▪ Save changes and then go to the ‘Milk’ tab.

▪ Filter the Program column to display only data with ‘Walk-In Cooler’ as the Program.

▪ Filter the Item/Question column to display only data that has ‘Milk’ as the item.

▪ Make any other needed changes to the tab’s configuration – e.g. hiding/unhiding columns and repositioning the columns.

TIP: Making only the needed columns visible keeps the report simple and may allow you to use the Portrait page layout (see Section 8.1 page 48).

ADVANCED: Temp-Taker® allows you to add short comments to any data row in the view. To do so, first you would need to make the ‘Comments’ column visible (see Figure 3.8 page 30). Once the ‘Comments’ column is visible, you can click any cell under the Comments column and type a short comment.

ADVANCED: The Temp-Taker® device automatically generates supervisor-type data designed to help monitor employee activity for the purpose of determining if food-safety violations are taking place. The following events are considered supervisor-type data: ‘UNDO’, ‘REMEASURE’, ‘False Measurement Detected’, ‘Insufficient Time Lapse’, and ‘Insufficient Correction Time’. For a description of each of these, see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 2. If you would like granular control over which report tabs display supervisor-type data, uncheck the box ‘Only Show Supervisor Data When Logged In’ (see Figure 8.3 page 50).

ATTENTION: You may want to keep regular workers from not seeing supervisor-type data. Temp-Taker’s food-safety monitoring features are most effective when regular workers do not know they exist. Also, consider whether reports will be accessible by inspectors external to your organization.

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Generating Data Reports


Create/delete data report tabs

Reports → [gear] tab

Expand this section Maximize the section

Uncheck this box to hide

report tab when not logged in

Keeps related events grouped together and in the correct sequence

(even if other events were logged within the same time frame)

Allows supervisors to add their name to data reports as a verification that they have seen or approved it

Vertical toolbar can be collapsed by clicking this bar

Click-n-drag cell to reposition tab

When this box is checked, the app hides supervisor data in all report tabs when not logged in

Right-click cell to see Replicate Row option

Figure 8.3 How to Customize Report Tabs



ADVANCED: Temp-Taker® allows supervisors to add their name to the data log as a verification that they have seen or approved the report. If you would like to use this feature on a particular report tab, perform the following two configuration changes: 1) In the Report Tabs section of the Reports → [gear] tab, check the box under the column Use ‘Verify By’ and save changes – see rightmost column in Figure 8.3 page 50. 2) Go to the report tab and make the ‘Verified By’ column visible – see Figure 3.8 page

30. Now a supervisor is ready to use this feature. To verify a report, click the ‘Verify…’ button, select your name in the ‘Verified By’ dropdown, and click the Verify button (see Figure 8.4 below). Doing so will enter the supervisor’s name on every data row in the view. Afterward, you can double-click any ‘Verified By’ cell to delete your name or replace it with a short comment. You may also clear the entire column by clicking the ‘Clear Verification’ button in the Verify Data window (also shown in Figure 8.4).

Any Reports tab

Cell was double clicked and comment entered

Button only appears when Verify By feature is enabled

Click button

Select name and click Verify

Clicking Verify button fills entire column

Click to clear entire Verified By column

Figure 8.4 How to Use the Verified By Feature

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Appendix


9 Appendix

9.1 Device Main Menu Icons

Table 9-1 below describes all the icons that can appear in the Temp-Taker® device’s Main Menu.

Table 9-1 Temp-Taker® Device Main Menu Icons

Icon Name Icon Visibility Temp-Taker® Mode or Function

Power Off User Controlled# Turns off the device and logs user out (if logged in)

Log Out

User Controlled# with Auto Visibility*

Logs user out Note: When this icon is not enalbed, the user is automatically logged out upon navigating back to the Main Menu. Icon is required when using PINs.

Spot-Check Temps

User Controlled# Activates digital thermometer displaying continuous temp reading Note: No data is saved in this mode.

TILT Items Auto Visibility*

Access the items that have an active TILT Period to mark them as ‘Consumed’ or ‘Discarded’; Can also take temps (if enabled) Note: TILT Periods are initialized via the Programs icon.

Corrective Sessions Auto Visibility*

Access the items that are currently in Corrective Session and re-take their temp (after correcting the out-of-range condition) Note: Items that are expected to hold a cold or hot temp range, but measure out-of-range, can be placed in Corrective Session by the user.

Programs

Auto-Disabled If No Programs Download

Access the Programs downloaded from Temp-Taker® app

Cooling Items Auto Visibility*

Access the items whose cooling process is currently being tracked and take their temp to add a new event to the set Note: The Cooling process is initialized via the Programs icon.

Cooking Items Auto Visibility*

Access the items whose cooking process is currently being tracked and take their temp to add a new event to the set Note: The Cooking process is initialized via the Programs icon.

Timers User Controlled# Access 3 independent timers

Clock User Controlled# Displays a digital clock

Settings User Controlled# Access certain device settings – see Appendix 9.2 page 53

Info User Controlled#

Stored Data (statistics), Probe (e.g. last calibration date), Device (e.g. serial number and firmware version number), and Bluetooth Radio (e.g. Bluetooth name/address and paired/connected status)

# User Controlled means the user can enable/disable the icon via the app’s System → Device tab

* Auto Visibility means the device automatically makes the icon visible only when needed

Appendix Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


9.2 The Settings Icon

There are 12 device settings controlled via the Settings icon on the Main Menu of the Temp-Taker® device. Pressing ⚫ on the Settings icon will display a vertical listing of the following settings:

▪ Bluetooth Initiate pairing, perform unpairing, and turn the Bluetooth radio on/off – see Section 2.5 page 13.

▪ Help Messages When on, spontaneous ‘Quick Help’ messages appear at the bottom of the screen. These are designed to help new ones become aware of input options.

▪ Auto Temp When on, the Temp-Taker® device automatically takes a temp when it senses insertion of probe into product.

▪ Target Range When on, the target temperature range is shown underneath the item name, where applicable.

▪ Question Names When on, the device interjects a screen that displays the list of question names within a Program or Question Group. This setting is off by default.

TIP: Leave this setting off, unless your question list is very long.

▪ LCD Brightness This setting controls the LCD backlight brightness. The brightness level can be adjusted up/down in increments of 1%.

TIP: Setting LCD Brightness to lowest comfortable level saves battery power.

▪ LCD Contrast This setting controls the LCD contrast level – i.e. the difference in luminance between the LCD’s on and off pixels.

▪ Probe Type This setting configures the device to use either a ‘Fast Response’ probe or a ‘Medium’ (slower-response and thicker)

probe. A graphic is shown on the device screen to help you determine which probe you are using (see Figure 9.1 below).

NOTE: The Temp-Taker® device uses a temperature measurement algorithm that takes into account the probe’s response time. Entering the correct setting here is essential for measurement accuracy.

ATTENTION: The wrong probe-type setting can cause inaccuracies when taking temps.

Figure 9.1 Probe-Type Setting

▪ Calibrate Probe Calibrate the attached probe following the on-screen instructions. This is also referred to as a thermometer calibration.

NOTE: The calibration that is currently in effect is displayed in the device’s Probe info screen accessible via the Info icon .

ATTENTION: The user accepts complete responsibility when performing a probe calibration. An incorrect probe calibration can produce inaccurate temperature measurements. To perform a good calibration, you will need to thermally couple the probe tip to a stable and very accurate 0°C (32°F) medium. An ice bath is used by some to create an approximate 0°C (32°F) liquid medium. A good ice bath uses plenty of crushed ice and is stirred vigorously for at least 3 minutes using the probe’s shaft just before calibrating. During calibration, maintain the probe tip in the center of the ice-bath liquid volume.

TIP: Before performing a user calibration, use Spot-Check Temps mode on your 0°C (32°F) medium to verify that a probe calibration is actually needed.



ATTENTION: If you are replacing the probe on the Temp-Taker® device, make sure to follow the instructions in Appendix 9.3 below.

▪ Restore Factory Cal. If a user-performed probe calibration is currently in effect, this setting provides the option of restoring the original factory calibration.

▪ Reset PIN This setting is available only when PINs are enabled. It allows a supervisor to reset the PIN of a user (or of another supervisor). The first time a user attempts to log in after a PIN reset, the device will ask for a new PIN to be created. The Temp-Taker® app and device automatically maintain synchronization of PINs via Bluetooth. For information on available security features see Chapter 4 of the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features.

▪ Auto Flip When this setting is on, the display automatically flips upside down depending on device’s physical orientation.

ADVANCED: Access to many of the above device settings can be restricted by requiring a supervisor PIN. Alternatively, the device’s Settings icon can be hidden via the Settings section of the System → Device tab – see the Appendix in Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features.

ADVANCED: There are other device settings that are controlled through the Temp-Taker® app. These include: Hiding/unhiding Main Menu icons, temperature measurement resolution and units, time format and resolution, battery conservation settings, and custom Timer names – see the Appendix in Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features.

9.3 How to Replace the Probe

The device accepts any K-type thermocouple probe with a standard mini connector. Perform the following steps when replacing the probe:

▪ Remove all batteries from the device. For help on doing this, see Figure 2.6 page 9 and Figure 2.8 page 10.

▪ Remove the screw that secures the cable to the thermocouple connector (see Figure 2.7 page 10).

TIP: If a small flathead screwdriver is not available, the corner of a credit card can be used to turn the screw.

▪ Disconnect the old probe from the thermocouple connector.

▪ Connect the replacement probe to the device.

ATTENTION: Temp-Taker® requires a K-type thermo-couple probe with a standard mini-connector.

▪ If the connector of the new probe allows for it, install the screw that secures the cable to the thermocouple connector. Tighten it only until it is very lightly snug or its head is flush with the connector surface.

ATTENTION: Do not overtighten the probe cable-connector screw.

▪ Re-install batteries, close battery door, and place the probe shaft in its storage compartment for safety. The probe must be connected to the device before installing the batteries.

▪ Verify the probe type setting is correct.

ATTENTION: The wrong probe-type setting can cause inaccuracies when taking temps. For more info, see the bullet point ‘Probe Type’ in Section 9.2 page 53.

▪ Verify the temperature measurement accuracy of the new probe and, if needed, calibrate the probe (see the bullet point ‘Calibrate Probe’ in Section 9.2 page 53)



9.4 How to Perform a Hard Reset

Temp-Taker® devices are capable of being reset to their factory default settings. We call this a ‘hard reset’. Performing a hard reset may be necessary to recover from an error condition or as a prerequisite to a special diagnostic test. A hard reset will implement the following changes in the device:

▪ The original factory Bluetooth parameters are restored.

ATTENTION: If the device is paired to a Temp-Taker® app at the time a hard reset is performed, the device will be automatically unpaired, but only at its end – i.e. the Temp-Taker® app will continue to retain its paired status and must be manually unpaired at its end (see Figure 9.6 page 58).

▪ All settings made via the Settings icon on the Main Menu are restored to factory defaults.

▪ The device’s non-volatile memory is erased; This permanently deletes all data currently saved in the Temp-Taker® device.

▪ The probe-type is set to its default setting – ‘Fast Response’.

▪ The next available ‘Event #’ is set to 1000

ADVANCED: When a new record is logged in memory it is assigned the same ‘Event #’ as all previous related events. If there are no related events, the new record is assigned the next sequentially available ‘Event #’ (which is reset to 1 at 12AM). Event #s can be made visible in any data report tab by checking the ‘Event #’ box in the Column Visibility Selector window – see right side of Figure 3.8 page 30. A hard reset initializes the ‘Event #’ to 1000 as a precautionary measure to avoid a potential ‘Event #’ duplication.

Apply the following procedure to perform a hard reset:

▪ Remove all batteries except one. For help on doing this, see Figure 2.6 page 9 and Figure 2.8 page 10.

▪ Wait about 15s, then press and hold .

▪ While keeping pressed, install a second battery into the same compartment as the first – see Figure 9.2 below.

Install 2nd

battery while keeping pressed

Mirror used onlyto illustrate steps

Press and hold

Figure 9.2 Triggering the Hard Reset Option

▪ Keep pressed until the buzzer starts to emit a sound, then release .

NOTE: About 6 seconds elapse between the time power is applied and the buzzer (and red LED) become active.

▪ Install the other two batteries (if available) in the other compartment.

▪ Close battery door and return the probe to its storage compartment for safety.

▪ Follow the on-screen instructions to reset the device, including verifying the probe-type setting – see ‘Probe Type’ bullet point in Section 9.2 page 53.



9.5 How to Install a Bluetooth Dongle

If your PC is not equipped with a compatible Bluetooth radio, you will need to obtain and install a Bluetooth USB dongle (e.g. the Avantree DG40SA).

ATTENTION: Make sure to obtain a dongle (also called adapter) that specifies compatibility with Windows 10 and Bluetooth version 4.0 or greater. The product’s use description usually includes terms such as stereo headset, mouse, and keyboard.

ATTENTION: Before connecting the dongle to your PC, you must disable your PC’s internal Bluetooth radio, if it has one. The dongle’s Bluetooth power-saving property must also be disabled. To avoid issues, please follow the procedure in Section 9.5.1 below.

9.5.1 Bluetooth Dongle Installation Procedure

1. If the Temp-Taker® app currently has any devices paired to it, unpair them now and make sure the unpairing takes place at both ends (see Appendix 9.7 page 58).

2. Make sure the Temp-Taker® app is closed (if installed).

3. If you had prematurely connected the dongle to the PC, disconnect it now.

4. Log in to Windows with an administrator account and open the Device Manager window by clicking the Windows icon , typing ‘Device Manager’, and pressing Enter (see Figure 9.3 below).

Click the Windows icon , type Device Manager

and press Enter

Figure 9.3 Opening the Device Manager Window

5. In the Device Manager window, expand the Bluetooth section, right-click the name of the Bluetooth radio (also called adapter), select ‘Disable device’, and

answer Yes to confirm (see Figure 9.4 page 57).

NOTE: If there is no Bluetooth section in the Device Manager window, then skip to Step #7 below.

NOTE: Only one of the entries under the Bluetooth section represents the main radio hardware. The name usually (but not always) contains the word Radio or Adapter in it.

6. Make sure the radio becomes disabled and all the Bluetooth entries disappear from the list, except one (see example at bottom part of Figure 9.4 page 57).

NOTE: If more than one entry remains in the list, you probably disabled a component of the radio but not the entire device. You can verify if you have disabled the correct entry by right-clicking on it and selecting Properties. If the ‘Advanced’ tab (see Figure 2.13 page 14) is missing, you have disabled the wrong entry. To correct the problem, close the Properties window, right-click on the disabled entry, select ‘Enable device’, then try Step #5 again.

7. Connect the Bluetooth dongle to an appropriate USB port. After the Device Manager window refreshes, you should see the new Bluetooth radio in the list, along with all of its components.

ATTENTION: If you see an operation failure icon (see example in Figure 9.10 page 61), you likely disabled the wrong entry in Step #5. To correct the failure, disconnect the dongle and follow the instructions in the NOTE under Step #6.

8. Disable the Bluetooth power-saving property on your dongle by following Steps B & C in Section 2.5.1 page 13. A common name given to dongle radios is Generic Bluetooth Radio.

9. Install the Temp-Taker® software (if you have not yet done so), start the app, and then pair your Temp-Taker® devices (see Section 2.5.2 page 14).



Expand the Bluetooth section

Right-click the radio (or adapter)

Select Disable device

Answer Yes to confirm

Only one entry should remain, displaying the disabled icon

Figure 9.4 How to Disable the Active Bluetooth Radio

9.6 How to Replace a Bluetooth Dongle

If your PC has been using a Bluetooth USB dongle and it is disconnected, you can simply re-connect the original dongle to the same USB port and restart the Temp-Taker® app.

ATTENTION: If you connect the dongle to a different USB port, its Bluetooth power-saving property must be disabled again. Follow the procedure outlined in Section 2.5.1 page 13.

If the original dongle is lost (and assuming it had been installed correctly), apply the following procedure to replace the dongle:

1. Start the Temp-Taker® app.

2. Connect a replacement dongle to any appropriate USB port.

ATTENTION: See Appendix 9.5 (page 56) for the dongle specifications.

3. Make sure that the dongle’s Bluetooth power-saving property is disabled (as outlined in Section 2.5.1 page 13).

4. On each of the paired Temp-Taker® devices, go to the Bluetooth settings screen and execute the Un-Pair option (as shown in Figure 9.5 page 58).

5. On the Temp-Taker® app, go to the Bluetooth section of the System → Device tab and click all the Un-Pair buttons – one for each paired device (as shown in Figure 9.6 page 58).

6. Restart the Temp-Taker® app and pair your Temp-Taker® devices (see Section 2.5.2 page 14).



9.7 How to Unpair Temp-Taker® Devices

When a Temp-Taker® device and app are paired via Bluetooth, an association is created between the two devices. In simple terms, each of them knows who the other is, allowing them to communicate freely. Un-pairing breaks that association.

Unpairing can be initiated by either the Temp-Taker® device or the app. If unpairing is initiated while the two share a Bluetooth connection, then the unpairing takes place on both ends – i.e. both the device and the app agree to break their association with the other.

However, if unpairing is initiated when there is no Bluetooth connection (for example, when the device is out of Bluetooth range), then the association is broken only on one side, leaving either the device or the app falsely thinking it is still paired. It is therefore good practice to always verify that unpairing takes place on both ends.

ATTENTION: After initiating unpairing via a Temp-Taker® device, verify that unpairing also took place on the Temp-Taker® app and vice-versa.

To unpair via the Temp-Taker® device, from the Main Menu, go to the Settings → Bluetooth screen, select the Un-Pair option, and press ⚫ (see Figure 9.5 below).

NOTE: The top of Figure 2.14 (page 15) shows how to get to the Bluetooth settings screen.

Press 3 times to select Un-Pair option

Current status

Press ⚫ to execute selected option

On Main Menu, go to Settings → Bluetooth

Figure 9.5 How to Unpair Via the Temp-Taker® Device

To unpair via the Temp-Taker® app, go to the Bluetooth section of the System → Device tab and click the Un-Pair button corresponding to the device you want to unpair (see example in Figure 9.6 below).

NOTE: The bottom part of Figure 2.14 (page 15) shows how to get to the Bluetooth section of the app.

Bluetooth section of System → Device tab

A unit s SN, Bluetooth name and address can be viewed under the Main Menu s Info icon

Click to unpair

Address of PC s Bluetooth radio

Figure 9.6 How to Unpair Via the Temp-Taker® App



9.8 Troubleshooting Bluetooth Issues

If you are experiencing a Bluetooth issue, restart your PC, start the Temp-Taker® app, go to the Bluetooth section of the System → Device tab,

and look at the right-side of the ‘Scan for New Devices’ button (see Figure 9.7 below). If you see a message in red font, go to Section 9.8.1 below. Otherwise, skip that section and continue with Section 9.8.2 page 60.

System → Device tab

Message indicating a Bluetooth issue

Figure 9.7 Indication of Bluetooth Issue

9.8.1 Bluetooth Issue Indicator

If, after restarting your Temp-Taker® app, you see a message in red font next to the ‘Scan for New Devices’ button (as shown in Figure 9.7 above), consult the corresponding bullet point in the following list:

▪ Incompatible Windows Version: You need to update Windows 10 to version 1803 or greater.

NOTE: You can check the version number by clicking the Windows icon , typing ‘About your PC’, and pressing Enter. Look under the section entitled ‘Windows specifications’.

▪ No Active Bluetooth Radio Available: The problem may be one of the following:

⬧ Your Bluetooth radio may have been switched off via Windows settings. Make sure the radio is turned on (see Figure 9.8 page 60). If your PC does not have a Bluetooth radio, you will need to

use a Bluetooth USB dongle – see Appendix 9.5 page 56.

⬧ If you are trying to set up Temp-Taker® Bluetooth communication on your PC for the first time and you see this message, your PC likely does not have an internal Bluetooth radio. The solution to this is to use a Bluetooth USB dongle – see Appendix 9.5 page 56.

⬧ Another possibility is that the radio you have been using has been disabled in the Device Manager window. As an example, the bottom part of Figure 9.4 (page 57) shows ‘ASUS Bluetooth’ radio disabled. Go to Device Manager and verify that your Bluetooth radio has not been inadvertently disabled.

NOTE: The ‘ASUS Bluetooth’ radio in Figure 9.4 was inten-tionally disabled before installing a Bluetooth USB dongle.



▪ Incompatible Bluetooth Radio: If you see this message, the currently active Bluetooth radio (likely your PC’s internal one) is incompatible because its version number is less than 4.0 (LMP 6). You will need to use a Bluetooth USB dongle – see Appendix 9.5 page 56.

ATTENTION: If you did not disable your incompatible internal Bluetooth radio before connecting a good Bluetooth USB dongle, the dongle will fail to operate and you will not be able to pair your devices. To fix the problem, follow the procedure in Appendix 9.5 page 56.

Make sure this is on

To verify that the Bluetooth radio in your PC is turned on, click the Windows icon , type Bluetooth & other devices and press Enter

NOTE: If you do not see the on/off switch, it means your PC does not have a Bluetooth radio or it has been disabled in Device Manager. If you have been using a Bluetooth USB dongle, perhaps it has been disconnected.

Figure 9.8 How to Verify Your Bluetooth Radio Is On

9.8.2 Device Bluetooth Radio Is Off

If all of a sudden you find that a paired Temp-Taker® device is unable to establish a Bluetooth connection with its Temp-Taker® app, verify that the device’s Bluetooth radio is turned on. On the device’s Main Menu go to Settings → Bluetooth and verify that the center of the screen says ‘On’ (see Figure 9.9 below). If it says ‘Off’, simply press to select the ‘On’ option and then press ⚫ to execute the option.

The current status is shown when entering

Bluetooth settings

Figure 9.9 Device's Bluetooth Radio Status

NOTE: If you do not know how to get to the device’s Bluetooth settings screen, see Figure 2.14 page 15.

NOTE: Detailed Bluetooth status information can be found on the device via the Main Menu’s Info icon – see last row in Table 9-1 page 52.

9.8.3 Unstable Bluetooth Connections

When a Temp-Taker® device is taken out of Bluetooth range of its paired Temp-Taker® app, it loses its wireless connection. This is normal behavior. When they are brought back into wireless range, they should automatically re-establish a Bluetooth connection within a minute (often after just a few seconds). Similarly, a Temp-Taker® device should quickly establish a Bluetooth connection with its paired app after its batteries are installed (assuming the PC running the Temp-Taker® app is within Bluetooth range).

If your Temp-Taker® devices often experience difficulty establishing and/or maintaining their Bluetooth connection, or if the pairing procedure or a firmware update fails partway (although the devices are in close proximity), then it is likely that the Bluetooth power-saving property has not been disabled (see Section 2.5.1 page 13).

9.8.4 Windows 10 Update Installation Failure

A failure in the installation of a Windows 10 update can affect the operation of the Temp-Taker® app, including Bluetooth communication. Check for any failed Windows updates on your PC. To do this, click the Windows icon , type ‘Check for updates’, press Enter, and click View update history. If you see any entries that say ‘Failed to install’, try to resolve them by doing online research or consulting with your IT department.

9.8.5 Possible Bluetooth Radio Failure

Some Bluetooth issues are caused by a radio failure that is attributable to a Windows driver or operating system error. If you have not done so already, try restarting your PC.

If your issues persist and you are using a Bluetooth USB dongle, it is possible that the problem is a malfunctioning USB port. To rule this out, try disconnecting the dongle, waiting at



least 15 seconds, and then re-connecting it to a different USB port. After verifying that the Bluetooth power-saving property is disabled, restart the Temp-Taker® app and check if your Bluetooth issues have been resolved.

ATTENTION: Whenever the dongle is connected to a different USB port, its Bluetooth power-saving property must be disabled again – see Section 2.5.1 page 13.

If the issues persist, open the Device Manager window and expand the Bluetooth section (see Steps A & B in Section 2.5.1 page 13). Look for an icon that indicates an operation failure (see example in Figure 9.10 below). If you see a failure-indication icon, try right-clicking on it, selecting ‘Update driver’, and choosing the ‘Search automatically for drivers’ option (assuming you have internet access).

This icon indicates a Bluetooth radio operation failure

Figure 9.10 Indication of a Bluetooth Radio Operation Failure

If you are unable to resolve the operation failure icon on your Bluetooth radio, try disabling the radio and installing a Bluetooth USB dongle – see Appendix 9.5 page 56.

9.8.6 Fixing Corrupt Bluetooth Parameters

At this point we want to rule out the rare possibility that the Bluetooth parameters in your Temp-Taker® device have been corrupted. We will do so by restoring the original factory parameters in the device. Please perform the following repair procedure:

1. Via the Temp-Taker® app, unpair all the Temp-Taker® devices that are exhibiting Bluetooth issues (see Figure 9.6 page 58).

2. Make sure the Bluetooth power-saving property has been disabled (see Section 2.5.1 page 13).

3. Restart your PC.

4. Perform a hard reset on the problematic Temp-Taker® devices (see Appendix 9.4 page 55).

5. Open the Temp-Taker® app.

6. Pair your Temp-Taker® devices (see Section 2.5.2 page 14).

If you are still experiencing issues, please contact ITD Technical Support for assistance (see Appendix 9.11 page 63).



9.9 Troubleshooting General Issues

Table 9-2 below describes how to resolve some common Temp-Taker® issues.

Table 9-2 General Issues and How to Resolve Them

Issue How to Resolve It

I made a change in the Temp-Taker® app, but I don't see it in my device.

Any changes made in the Temp-Taker® app must download to the device in order to see the changes reflected in the device. Save your changes and click the ‘Download Settings’ button located in the vertical toolbar (see Figure 2.15 page 16). Your Temp-Taker® devices must first be paired with the Temp-Taker® app before settings can download (see Section 2.5.2 page 14).

I entered a new item in the app’s Programs → Items tab, but I don’t see it in my Temp-Taker® device.

Before you can see a newly created item in your paired devices, you must add that item to a Program that is set to load. This is usually done by adding the item directly to a Program in the Programs → Programs tab, making sure that the ‘Load’ checkbox for the Program containing your new item is checked. Make sure to save your changes and then click the ‘Download Settings’ button located in the vertical toolbar (see Figure 2.15 page 16). The same method applies to newly created Questions. They must also be added to a Program that is set to load before they will download to the device.

I created a new Program but it didn’t download to my device.

Verify that the ‘Load’ checkbox for the Program is checked. If you do not see the ‘Load’ checkbox in the Programs grid, you likely have Program Groups enabled. In which case, make sure the Program has been assigned to a Program Group that is itself set to load to your devices. If the Program you created is in the Calendar Programs tab, make sure the Program font color is green which means it is set to load. For more information on Program Groups or Calendar Programs, see the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features, Chapter 7.

I don’t see the Programs icon in the Main Menu.

This indicates that no Programs are set to load to your devices. When no Programs are downloaded to a device, the Programs icon is hidden (compare with previous row in this table).

The device says ‘The probe is either disconnected or damaged’.

If you see this message and your probe is not connected to the device, then remove all the batteries from the device, connect the probe, and then re-install the batteries. If you see this message although a probe was connected to the device at the time power was applied, then the connected probe is likely damaged. Call ITD Technical Support for assistance. See the Appendix of the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features for troubleshooting information.

I suspect my probe is damaged.

If you see erratic temperature readings or otherwise suspect your probe is damaged, see the Appendix of the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features.

Auto Temp doesn’t work.

On the device’s Main Menu, go to Settings → Auto Temp and turn on the feature.

My device display doesn’t auto flip.

On the device’s Main Menu, go to Settings → Auto Flip and turn on the feature.

The device display becomes too dim after a short while.

You can disable this battery-conservation feature or extend the period of inactivity before it activates. This can be done on the Temp-Taker® app, in the Settings section of the System → Device tab. Look for the subsection entitled ‘Battery Conservation’.

Index Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


9.10 Battery-Care Instructions

Always follow standard battery-care instructions which include the following precautions:

▪ Do not mix alkaline batteries with zinc carbon or rechargeable batteries.

▪ Do not mix partially discharged batteries with new batteries.

▪ Remove fully-discharged batteries immediately – i.e. do not let discharged batteries remain in the device’s battery compartment.

▪ When disposing of batteries, always do so according to local regulations.

▪ Do not place the device into storage with the batteries installed.

ATTENTION: If old and new non-rechargeable batteries are mixed, the new battery will attempt to charge the depleted one and may cause gassing. This applies to all battery-powered devices, not just Temp-Taker®.

9.11 Technical Support

If you experience a Temp-Taker® error or are having difficulties, please contact us for assistance via any of the following methods:

▪ Fill out an online support request via the following webpage:

www.itdfoodsafety.com/tickets/open.php

▪ Email [email protected]

▪ Call (321) 676-3194 between 9AM and 5PM Eastern Standard Time

TIP: Keep your Temp-Taker® software up-to-date. Maintaining your Temp-Taker® software up-to-date allows you to benefit from any new features and enhancements as well as bug fixes that may have been implemented since your current version was released. This applies not only to the application running on your computer or tablet, but also to the firmware that is running in your Temp-Taker® devices.

NOTE: Temp-Taker® 5 automatically checks for software and firmware updates via the Internet (every time the app is started). If your machine does not have internet access, please see the Appendix in the Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 2 – Advanced Features for information on how to manually update your software.

10 Index

A

access level ................................................................................. 16 application buttons

Auto Off Exceptions (expander) ............................................ 23 Clear Verification .................................................................. 51 Data (vertical toolbar) ............................................................. 7 Install....................................................................................... 7 Log In (vertical toolbar) ........................................................... 7 Paste Row ............................................................................. 44 Process (vertical toolbar) ........................................................ 7 Programs (vertical toolbar) ..................................................... 7 System (vertical toolbar) ......................................................... 7

application tabs Process → Cooking ............................................................... 42 Process → Cooling ................................................................ 37 Process → Holding .......................................................... 26, 27 Process → TILT ...................................................................... 32 Programs → Programs ............................ 22, 27, 31, 36, 41, 45 Programs → Questions ......................................................... 43 Reports → [gear] .................................................................. 48 Reports → All Data ................................................................. 7 System → Device ...................................................... 23, 24, 54

application windows

Answers Builder .................................................................... 44 Column Visibility Selector ............................................... 30, 55 Cooking Program Builder ...................................................... 41 Cooling Program Builder ....................................................... 36 Holding Program Builder ....................................................... 27 Login ........................................................................................ 7 Question Program Builder............................................... 45, 47 Software Installation ............................................................... 7 TILT Program Builder ....................................................... 31, 34

Auto-Generated Reports ............................................................ 47

B

back up settings to *.dt5 file ...................................................... 16 batteries

disposal ................................................................................... 5 how to remove ...................................................................... 10 precautions ........................................................................... 63 using rechargeable cells .................................................. 10, 63

Bluetooth Device Manager .................................................................... 13 device radio ..................................................................... 60, 61 Incompatible Bluetooth Radio .............................................. 60 No Active Bluetooth Radio Available .................................... 59 pairing ................................................................................... 14

mailto:[email protected]

Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics Index


power-saving property .......................................................... 13 setup ..................................................................................... 13 troubleshooting .................................................................... 59 unpairing ............................................................................... 58 USB dongle ...................................................................... 56, 57

C

Check off items ........................................................................... 22 Clock mode ................................................................................. 24 cloud storage .............................................................................. 47 cooking track mode .................................................................... 42 cooling track mode ..................................................................... 40 cooling-process types ................................................................. 35 copy/paste from Excel ................................................................ 44 Corrective Options ............................................................... 26, 29 Corrective Session ................................................................ 25, 29 corrective-action directives ........................................................ 27 countdown timer........................................................................ 24

D

danger zone ................................................................................ 35 data reporting service ................................................................ 47 data reports

automatic generation ........................................................... 47 emailing .......................................................................... 20, 47 exporting (PDF, CSV, XML) .............................................. 20, 48 print settings ......................................................................... 48 printing ............................................................................ 20, 48

data verification ......................................................................... 51 delete multiple rows .................................................................. 17 device

Auto Flip ................................................................................ 54 Auto Off feature .............................................................. 12, 24 battery compartments .......................................................... 10 cleaning and maintenance .................................................... 10 icons (Main Menu) .......................................................... 18, 52 LCD brightness ...................................................................... 53 logging in ............................................................................... 18 memory ........................................................................... 52, 55 reset (to factory defaults) ..................................................... 55 settings .................................................................................. 53

E

Event # ....................................................................................... 55

F

food safety ............................................. 10, 25, 31, 35, 41, 43, 49

H

HACCP ............................................................ 6, 21, 25, 35, 41, 42 how to use this guide ................................................................... 6

I

ice bath ....................................................................................... 53 icons ............................................. See device - icons (Main Menu) Info ............................................................................................. 52 inspectors ................................................................................... 49 installing software ..................................................... See software Insufficient Activity Notifications (IAN) ...................................... 47

K

Keypad Temp Method ................................................................ 17

M

magnets ........................................................................................ 5

P

periodic cooling temps ............................................................... 37 probe

calibration ......................................................................... 5, 53 cleaning ................................................................................. 10 replacing ............................................................................... 54 storage compartment ........................................................... 10 thermocouple connector ...................................................... 10 type ....................................................................................... 53 usage instructions ............................................................. 5, 11 warnings .................................................................................. 5

Process .................................................. See Temp-Taker® Process

Q

Question checklists..................................................................... 43 Quick Help messages .................................................................. 53

R

REMEASURE ............................................................................... 29 reminder alarm .............................................................. 30, 34, 37 reordering grid rows................................................................... 16 Reports ................................................................................... 7, 47

S

Safe Holding Zones ..................................................................... 25 safety instructions ........................................................................ 5 security access level ............................................. See access level security PINs ........................................................................... 7, 54 software

errors .................................................................................... 63 performing a fresh installation................................................ 7 upgrading ................................................................................ 7

sorting (in alphabetical order) .................................................... 16 Spot-Check Temps mode ............................................................ 23

Index Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 – The Basics


T

temperature-measurement accuracy .......................................... 5 Temp-Taker® Process ........................................................... 21, 25 Temp-Taker® Program ......................................................... 19, 21 thermometer calibration ............................See probe - calibration TILT Items ................................................................................... 31 TILT Period .................................................................................. 32 TILT-Item processing screen ....................................................... 34 Time as a Public Health Control ................................................. 31 Time in Lieu of Temperature ...................................................... 31 Timer Alarm ................................................................................ 24 Timers mode .............................................................................. 24

U

UNDO ......................................................................................... 29

V

vertical toolbar ............................................................................. 8

W

warnings ....................................................................................... 5

Z

zones ......................................................... See Safe Holding Zones

Documents

Temp-Taker 5 User Guide - support.itdfoodsafety.com€¦ · Temp-Taker® 5 User Guide Part 1 - The Basics T5UG1-200810 2475 Palm Bay Rd Suite 110 Palm Bay, FL 32905 Office: 321-676-3194