Omniguard
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Topic Applies To
Determining Which Type Of Omniguard You Have
All Models
Users Manuals
All Models
Unable to install / update driver on Windows 10 or Windows 11 All Versions
Paper Jam
All Models
Printer Moves But Doesn't Print
All Models
Incorrect Pressure Reading
All Models
"RTC Failure"
Omniguard II
Lock Up
All Models
No Power
All Models
Keypad
All Models
Choosing An External Modem
Omniguard 4
Can't Connect To Omniguard 4 Via Modem
Omniguard 4
Display Went Blank Or Became Garbled
Omniguard 4
Clearing Job Logs Or Returning Unit To Factory Default
Omniguard 4
Setting Up Your Containment Site
All Models
Downloading Software All Models
Installing USB Drivers Under Windows Vista, 7 and 8 Omniguard Cellular, Omniguard, Omniguard 4
Omniguard Does Not Connect To WiFi Adapter Omniguard
Omniguard WiFi Adapter Will Not Send Emails Omniguard Cellular, Omniguard, Omniguard 4
Internal Cell Modem Not Working Omniguard Cellular
Internal Cell Modem Or Internal WiFi Not Working Omniguard Cellular (S/N C503800+)
Internal Cell Modem Is Not Sending Logs Omniguard Cellular
Unable To Register Omniguard Cellular Omniguard Cellular (S/N C501000-C503799)
End Of 2G Network Service Omniguard Cellular (S/N C501000-C503799)
Repairs and Technical Support
All Models

Determining Which Type Of Omniguard You Have

There are a number of different Omniguard models discussed on this page. Here is how to tell which Omniguard you have.

Omniguard Cellular
"OMNIGUARD" on the front panel and a color touchscreen display. Label on outside of case says "OMNIGUAR CELLULAR". Serial number begins with "C50".
Omniguard
"OMNIGUARD" on the front panel and a color touchscreen display.
Omniguard 4
"OMNIGUARD 4" on the front panel.
Omniguard IIIa
"OMNIGUARD III" on the front panel and a removable tear bar.
Omniguard III
"OMNIGUARD III" on the front panel and a permanent tear bar.
Omniguard IIa
"OMNIGUARD II" on the front panel and a silver pressure inlet nozzle.
Omniguard II
"OMNIGUARD II" on the front panel and a bronze pressure inlet nozzle.

If you have trouble viewing the manual, try right clicking on the link to download the file and then double click on the file on your computer to open.

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Users Manuals

Click on links below to view or download user's manuals for Omniguards and accessories. Adobe Acrobat Reader required.

Omniguard Cellular Manual - OG5cellwifiman.pdf (approx. 6M) for Omniguard Cellular with internal cell modem and WiFi
Omniguard Cellular Manual - OG5cellman.pdf (approx. 6M) for Omniguard Cellular with internal cell modem
Omniguard Manual - OG5man.pdf (approx. 6M) for Omniguards with color touch screens
Omniguard Referencia R�pida - OG5ref_sp.pdf (approx. 127k) para Omniguards con pantallas t�ctiles en color
Omniguard 4 Manual V1.30 - OG4dualusbman.pdf (approx. 500k) for Omniguards with two USB ports
Omniguard 4 Manual - OG4man.pdf (approx. 321k)
Omniguard III & IIIa Manual - OG3man.pdf (approx. 87k)
Omniguard II & IIa Manual - OG2man.pdf (approx. 156k)
Omniguard II Reference Sheet - OG2ref.pdf (approx. 29k)
Omniguard MultiTech MultiModem GPRS User's Guide - OG5MultiTechMultiModemUG.pdf (approx. 112k)
Omniguard MultiTech QuickCarrier USB-D User's Guide - OG5MultiTechQuickCarrierUG.pdf (approx. 112k)

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Unable to install / update drivers on Windows 10 or Windows 11

In Windows 10 / 11 a Vulnerable Driver Blocklist is enabled by default and can cause issues with Omniguard, Accessor and Mistral drivers.

With Admin privileges the driver block list can be disabled in Windows Security by opening "Windows Security" and selecting the "Device Security" tab.

Click on "Core isolation details" and then toggle off "Microsoft Vulnerable Driver Blocklist". If a prompt appears click "Yes" to approve. Visit the Omniguard Software Downloads page to get the latest driver version.

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Paper Jam

Omniguard II
If you turn on your Omniguard II and the only thing that appears on the screen is "Omniguard II" or "Initializing..." there is probably a "paper jam". The Omniguard II does not have the ability to detect if the printer is unable to move so it freezes on the introduction screen. Unplug the unit and check the printer for an obstruction. Once the obstruction has been removed your Omniguard should get beyond the starting message and function normally.
Omniguard IIa, III, IIIa, 4
These versions of Omniguard display a "Paper Jam" message when the printer is unable to move. Once any obstruction has been removed, you will need to turn the printer back on by pressing the "PRINTER ON/OFF" button to reset the paper jam.
Omniguard Touch Screen, Omniguard Cellular
These versions of Omniguard display a "Paper Jam" message when the printer is unable to move. Once any obstruction has been removed, you will need to turn the printer back on by pressing the printer icon. You will see a paper jam warning. Press "View Log/Report" and set "Printer" to "On".

If you are unable to remove the obstruction through the paper outlet slot or the printer is really dirty then you will need to either dismantle the Omniguard to get to the obstruction, clean the printer, or send the unit in to ESi for repair. If the Omniguard is under warranty, dismantling it will void the warranty.

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Printer Moves But Doesn't Print

All Omniguard printers use thermal paper. If the printer moves but doesn't print after changing the roll, the paper may not be thermal paper or the roll may not be installed correctly. Verify that the paper is feeding from the bottom of the roll and printing on the shiny side. If neither side is shiny, it's not thermal paper. Contact your Omniguard dealer or call Engineering Solutions at 206-241-9395 to order the correct paper.

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Incorrect Pressure Reading

There are a number of possible reasons the Omniguard is unable to properly read the amount of vacuum in your containment:

  • If you have a larger size hose than the pressure inlet nozzle, then you could have a leak causing erroneous pressure readings. Use a hose with the proper inside diameter which you can purchase from us or we can give you the diameter so that you can find the right hose.
  • If you have wrapped tape around the nozzle to compensate for the larger hose and then cut the tape off you might have gouged the nozzle causing a leak. You will need to send the unit in to us so that we can replace the nozzle for you.
  • If you have tried to unscrew the nozzle, then the internal hose may have become disconnected. You will need to send the unit in to us or you can dismantle the Omniguard to reconnect the hose. If the Omniguard is under warranty dismantling it will void the warranty.
  • Make sure that when you put the hose through a cut slot into the Containment Area that the slot is sealed against the hose.
  • If the reading is at full scale and will not respond to pressure changes, go through these steps:
    1. Disconnect your hose(s) and see if the reading changes. If it does, then you have an obstruction in your hose. Try a different hose.
    2. If the reading doesn't change: For the Omniguard II the unit will need to be sent in for repair, for the Omniguard IIa, III, IIIa, 4, try pressing lightly on the nozzle(s). If the pressure changes then you will need to Zero Calibrate the Omniguard.
    3. If the reading doesn't change, check to see if there is an obstruction in the nozzle. If there isn't then the sensor is probably damaged and the Omniguard will need to be sent in for repair.
  • If the reading is not what you think it should be, remove the hose(s) and check to make sure the reading returns to zero. If it doesn't, then for the Omniguard II send it in for repair, for the Omniguard IIa, III, IIIa and 4, Zero Calibrate the unit. If it does return to zero and you still think the reading is not what it should be send the Omniguard to us and we will check the calibration.

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"RTC Failure"

If an Omniguard II displays this message when turned on, the internal battery has probably failed. You can send the unit in for repair or replace the battery yourself.

To replace the battery, remove the four button screws on the bottom of the case and pull out the front panel which has the ciruit board attached. Remove the battery and take it to Radio Shack. They will be able to provide a suitable replacement. Install the new battery, replace the battery cover and re-install the front panel in the case using the four screws.

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Lock Up

If the unit is an Omniguard II see the section for Paper Jam. If it is an Omniguard IIa, III, IIIa, 4 then the unit will need to be sent in for repair.

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No Power

Omniguard II, IIa
Check to make sure you are using the correct power adapter. The adapters output should be 6VDC at 1.2A with the outer shell positive and the inner negative. If it isn't, you can purchase the correct one from us. If it is, try another adapter and see if this fixes the problem.
Omniguard II
If trying a different adapter doesn't fix the problem, the internal battery is probably dead and will need to be replaced.
Omniguard IIa
If trying a different adapter doesn't fix the problem, the unit will need to be sent in for repair.
Omniguard III, IIIa
Check to see if the power cord has been closed in the case lid. If it has, send the Omniguard in for repair. If it hasn't, you will still need to send the Omniguard in for repair.
Omniguard 4
When the Omniguard 4 is first plugged in the LED on the front panel should flash green. If it does not, make sure the outlet you are connecting to has power. If there is still a problem let the Omniguard sit unplugged for at least 10 minutes (or overnight if you have a chance) and then try again. If the unit still does not work you will need to send it in for repair.

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Keypad

For all Omniguards, if any of the keys are unresponsive, the unit will need to be sent in for repair.

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Choosing An External Modem

The Omniguard 4 can be monitored remotely by connecting an external modem to the serial port on the front panel. Almost any serial modem should work with the Omniguard 4 (a USB modem will not work). Modems with a speed of 14.4kbps or faster are recommended. We have had problems with the Motorola modems and can not recommend them for this application. The Practical Peripherals modems seem to work quite well and can be had for as little as $2 on eBay.

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Can't Connect To Omniguard 4 Via Modem

The Omniguard 4 can be monitored remotely by connecting an external modem to the serial port on the front panel (a USB modem will not work). You should test the modem while you are at the job site.

Omniguard 4 with two USB ports
Connect the modem to the Omniguard using the Omniguard USB Port Adapter and the serial cable provided with the modem. Then connect the modem to a phone jack and hook up the modem's power supply. Turn the modem on. Go to the Telephone Modem window on the Omniguard. Select "Test" from the Modem Setup window. The Omniguard will test the Init String and let you know if it worked ok.
Omniguard 4 with serial port
Connect the modem to the Omniguard using the serial cable provided with the modem. Then connect the modem to a phone jack and hook up the modem's power supply. Turn the modem on. Go to the Modem Setup window on the Omngiguard. Make sure the "Dailing Prefix" is set correctly so the Omniguard can connect to an outside line. Select "Test" from the Modem Setup window. The Omniguard will attempt to call a computer at Engineering Solutions. We no longer maintain a computer to reply to this test but watch the Omniguard screen to be sure the Init String works.

If the modem test is successful but you are unable to connect when you use the Omniguard Communication software to call the Omniguard from your computer, there may be a problem with the computer's modem setup. First, make sure you've selected the correct COM port for the modem. Also make sure the phone number entered is correct. If these are correct, you may need to enter a new Modem Init String. Enter each of the strings below into the Modem Init String field in the Connect window and then press Ok to try it out.

AT&F&D0&K3
AT&F&D0&K3E1Q0V1
AT&FE1Q0V1+MS=V34
AT&F&D0&K3E1Q0V1+MS=V34
AT&F&D0&K3&Q5E1Q0V1+MS=V34
AT&F&C1&D2&K3E1Q0V1+MS=V34

If you are still experiencing problems please contact support.

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Display Went Blank Or Became Garbled

If part or all of the Omniguard 4 display goes blank or the display becomes garbled, turning the unit off and then on again may temporarily fix the problem. Note that while the display may not look right, the unit is still monitoring and logging pressure correctly.

To prevent this problem, download and install the latest version of firmware from the Omniguard Software Downloads page.

For all other versions of Omniguard, the unit will need to be sent in to repair any display problems.

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Clearing Job Logs Or Returning Unit To Factory Default

To erase all the Job Logs in an Omniguard 4, press the Start Job and Exit keys at the same time while the unit is turned on and showing pressure. You will be prompted to confirm that you want to erase the log. To confirm, again press the Start Job and Exit keys at the same time.

A key combination can also be used to erase all the Job Logs as well as return all settings (Alarm Setpoints, Log Rates, etc.) to factory default. With the unit turned off press the Start Job, Exit and down arrow keys at the same time. The unit will turn on and show "Factory Default" on the startup screen.

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Setting Up Your Containment Site

Setting up a containment site can be a complex process and our support staff can not provide detailed design assistance. General information applicable to all Omniguards can be found in the back of the Omniguard 4 Manual. Engineering Solutions Inc. is not responsible for its accuracy nor conformance to specific regulations in your area.

Engineering Solutions Inc. advises all users to obtain the advice of qualified professionals, such as a Certified Industrial Hygienist. Visit the American Board of Industrial Hygiene site to locate a hygienist in your area. Many states also have certification programs for hygienist. Contact your state's occupational safety and health administration or visit the OSHA web site for more information.

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Downloading Software

  1. Click on the link for the file you want to download.
  2. When your browser asks, choose "Save this file to disk" and click "OK".
  3. Change the "Save As" location to the Desktop and click on "Save".
  4. When the download is complete locate the file on your Desktop.
  5. If you've downloaded a "zip" file, double click on it or use a zip utility to open it and run the "install.exe" program it contains. Files with the ".exe" extension can be run by double clicking on them.

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Installing USB Drivers Under Windows Vista, 7 and 8

If your computer does not recognize the Omniguard when using Windows Vista, 7 or 8 or if the computer gives you an error when the Omniguard is connected, download and install the latest version of software from the Omniguard Software Downloads page. If after installing the latest software you are still having trouble, download the drivers, unzip the file and run "dpinst64.exe" or "dpinst32.exe".

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Omniguard Does Not Connect To WiFi Adapter

If your Omniguard with color touchscreen will not connect to your Omniguard WiFi Adapter make sure you are using Omniguard firmware V8.5 or newer. You can download the latest version from the Omniguard Software Downloads page.

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Omniguard WiFi Adapter Will Not Send Emails

Early in 2014 we changed our hosting provider. This resulted in a change to our mail server settings. If you are using the "Test" email settings for your Omnigaurd WiFi Adapters (which use our mail servers), your adapters may connect to your WiFi network but can not send emails (WiFi LED will be orange).

To fix this problem you will need to reprogram your WiFi adapters. Until an update to Omniguard Communications is available, you will need to manually change the "Outgoing Mail Server (SMTP)" from "smtp.engsolinc.com" to "mail.engsolinc.com" in your WiFi setup and then reprogram your WiFi adapters. When Omniguard Communications is updated, the "Outgoing Mail Server (SMTP)" will be set to the correct value automatically but you will still need to reprogram any WiFi adapters that were programmed using the old setting.

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Internal Cell Modem Not Working

Omniguard Cellular units (distinguished by "OMNIGUARD CELLULAR" on the outside of the case and serial numbers beginning with "C50") have a built in cell modem that can be used to email notifications and daily logs. This feature is free for the first two years but you must register to activate it.

You also must have V9.2b2 or later firmware. Firmware can be updated by downloading the latest Omniguard Communications software from the Omniguard Software Downloads page.

Omniguards that have serial numbers after C503800 with V10.3b1 or earlier firmware will not be able to communicate without changing some additional settings. See Internal Cell Modem Or Internal WiFi Not Working below for more information.

If you have activated your service and have the correct version of firmware, make sure you have set up the modem correctly. Touch the modem icon on the home screen. If there are any errors reported, fix those first. On the modem setup screen make sure you have entered the email addresses correctly and checked status and/or log for each one. On the options page make sure you have selected the status messages you would like to receive and set the log time correctly (it is 24 hour time). When everything is set up use the "Test" button to make sure it is working properly.

If only some email addresses are working or if an email address that once worked has stopped working, start by making sure the email address is shown correctly in the modem setup screen. Try sending an email to the address using a computer or cell phone to verify that it is working properly. If the address is okay the email from the Omniguard may be getting blocked by a spam filter. Check your junk mail folder to make sure the emails are not there and also make sure is not being blocked by adding it to your contact list. If you still can not receive emails on certain addresses, contact to see if the address is being blocked because the emails are being rejected by the server.

If your Omniguard Cellular unit has a serial number of C501000 to C503799, see End Of 2G Network Service for information.

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Internal Cell Modem Or Internal WiFi Not Working

In December of 2019 we were required to make some changes to our server setup that prevent Omniguard Cellular units from initializing properly when turned on. (If the unit was already running when the change was made, the network communication may continue to work until the next time it is turned off.) This problem affects Omniguards with serial numbers after C503800 with V10.3b1 or earlier firmware. You can correct this issue by downloading the Omniguard Communications software and using it to install the latest firmware.

You can also fix the problem by making the following change on your Omniguard to manually set the server specifications.

  1. Turn the unit on.
  2. Touch the cellular or WiFi icon on the lower right of the main screen to display the network settings screen.
  3. Press the "Left/Up" and "Right/Down" keys at the same time.
  4. Change the "Fixed IP" to "54.203.44.169" and press the return key.
  5. Change the "Fixed IP Path" to "/ogworld/" and press the return key.
  6. Change the "APN" to "pwsdia.gw8.vzwentp" (if it is not already set to that value) and press the return key.
  7. On the network setup screen change "Network" to "Off".
  8. Press the return button or touch the return icon to exit the network settings screen.
  9. Touch the cellular or WiFi icon on the lower right of the main screen to return to the network settings screen.
  10. Change the "Network" to "Cellular" if you are using the internal cell modem or "WiFi" or "WiFi+" if you are using WiFi.
  11. Press the return button or touch the return icon to exit the network settings screen.
  12. Turn the Omniguard off for at least 10 seconds and then back on.

Your cell modem or WiFi should now be working. If you ever do a "Restore Factory Defaults" from the main menu, you will need to perform the above steps again.

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Internal Cell Modem Is Not Sending Logs

Omniguard Cellular units (distinguished by "OMNIGUARD CELLULAR" on the outside of the case and serial numbers beginning with "C50") have a built in cell modem that can be used to email notifications and daily logs. This feature is free for the first two years but you must register to activate it.

If your Omniguard Cellular is not sending daily logs, first make sure that you have reliable cell service and the device is configured correctly. Touch the antenna icon on the Omniguard's home page. Make sure the cell modem is turned on and you have entered at least one email address and checked "Log" for that address. Then press the "Test" button and make sure you receive an email that says you will be getting logs. Press "Options" to see the time of day logs are sent.

If you receive the test email but still don't get logs, try turning your Omniguard off and back on. If that does not work you may need to reset the log in the Omniguard. Touch the pressure on the home screen and select "Erase Job Logs". Confirm you wish to clear the job log.

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Unable To Register Omniguard Cellular

As of July 1, 2018 Verizon Wireless is no longer activating "2G" (CDMA) devices as part of their plan to discontinue the service. This affects Omniguards with the serial numbers C501000-C503799.

If you need remote communication capability and you own one of the affected Omniguard Cellular units but did not activate it by the deadline, please look at our accessories and supplies page for more information on the OG-Wireless, a external cellular wireless modem. We also have the OG-Dial, an autodialer that offers a remote communication option as well.

We apologize for any inconvenience but unfortunately we can no longer support this service for the affected Omniguard. If you have any questions please call Customer Support at 206-241-9395.

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End Of 2G Network Service

Verizon Wireless originally announced that they would shut down "2G" (CDMA) service at the end of 2019. They later extended support for existing devices until December 31, 2022. If you are using the network features of an original Omniguard Cellular unit with a serial number of C501000 to C503799, those features will likely stop working some time in 2023. You can continue to use your Omniguard for monitoring and logging pressure but it will no longer be able to send emails when 2G service is discontinued. If you own one of the affected units please look at our accessories and supplies page for other options or contact us at 206-241-9395 or

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Repairs and Technical Support

If you need to send your Omniguard in for repair you must get a Return Materials Authorization (RMA). You can fill out the RMA Request Form, call 206-241-9395 ext. 112 or email your complete contact information including address and phone number along with serial numbers of all units to be repaired to

The minimum repair charge for an Omniguard II, III or 4 is $50 plus shipping. Call for information on Omniguard I repair.

If you have questions about your Omniguard call tech support at 206-241-9395 ext. 112 or email

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Engineering Solutions Inc. · Renton, WA · (206) 241-9395 · Fax (206) 241-9411