Model LCA20 - Load Cell Amplifier Manual

LCA20 Load Cell Amplifier User Manual mantracourt.com Page 2 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Contents LCA20 User Manual .............................................................................................................. 5 Overview .................................................................................................................................. 5 Backwards Compatibility .............................................................................................................................. 5 New Features ........................................................................................................................................... 6 How to Use This Manual ................................................................................................................ 7 Using the Wired Handheld Programmer/Display ................................................................................... 8 Overview ................................................................................................................................................ 8 Keypad and Display .................................................................................................................................... 8 LCA15 Legacy Mode .................................................................................................................................... 9 Keys .................................................................................................................................................. 9 Menus ................................................................................................................................................ 9 Password Protection .............................................................................................................................. 10 Menu Tables ........................................................................................................................................ 11 Password Level 1 ............................................................................................................................... 11 Password Level 2 ............................................................................................................................... 14 Password Level 3 ............................................................................................................................... 15 LCA20 Mode ............................................................................................................................................ 18 Keys ................................................................................................................................................. 18 Menus ............................................................................................................................................... 18 Password Protection .............................................................................................................................. 19 Menu Tables ........................................................................................................................................ 19 Auto Calibration ....................................................................................................................................... 26 Procedure........................................................................................................................................... 26 Notes on Auto calibration ..................................................................................................................... 27 MVV Source Calibration ........................................................................................................................... 27 Using the LCA Toolkit Software...................................................................................................... 29 What Can It Do? ....................................................................................................................................... 29 Using the Software .................................................................................................................................... 29 Home Page ............................................................................................................................................. 30 Information ............................................................................................................................................ 32 Save & Restore ........................................................................................................................................ 34 Trend Chart ............................................................................................................................................ 35 Logging ................................................................................................................................................. 36 Analogue Outputs ..................................................................................................................................... 39 Relays ................................................................................................................................................... 42 Measurement .......................................................................................................................................... 43 Communications ....................................................................................................................................... 45 Digital Inputs .......................................................................................................................................... 46 Calibration ............................................................................................................................................. 47 Automatic Tab ..................................................................................................................................... 48 Table Tab ........................................................................................................................................... 49 Advanced Tab ...................................................................................................................................... 50 Shunt Calibration Tab ............................................................................................................................. 51 Cal Info Tab ........................................................................................................................................ 52 Filters ................................................................................................................................................... 53 Communications Protocols for Custom Software & Data Acquisition ......................................................... 54 Communication Port .................................................................................................................................. 54 Protocols ............................................................................................................................................... 54 Software Command Reference for MantraBus2, Modbus and MantraASCII ................................................................. 55 Multiple-Option Selection Table ............................................................................................................. 58 MantraBus1 ......................................................................................................................................... 59 Operation ....................................................................................................................................... 59 Writing to Parameters ..................................................................................................................... 59 Command Table ............................................................................................................................ 59 Command 1 (Read All) ..................................................................................................................... 60 Command 2 (Read Net) .................................................................................................................... 61 Write Commands ........................................................................................................................... 61 Response to Write Commands ............................................................................................................ 62 EEPROM commands ........................................................................................................................ 63 Write Commands That Perform Actions ................................................................................................. 64 MantraBus2 ......................................................................................................................................... 66 Framing Character ............................................................................................................................. 66 Checksum ....................................................................................................................................... 66 Data Transfer ................................................................................................................................... 66 Floating-Point Data Format ............................................................................................................... 66 End of Data Identifier ..................................................................................................................... 67 ACK & NAK .................................................................................................................................. 67 Writing to Parameters ..................................................................................................................... 67 Reading of Parameters .................................................................................................................... 68 Action Commands .......................................................................................................................... 68 Modbus .............................................................................................................................................. 69 Modbus Messages ............................................................................................................................... 69 Parameter Addresses ...................................................................................................................... 69 Page 3 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Parameter Values .......................................................................................................................... 69 Error Codes.................................................................................................................................. 70 Write Command Example ................................................................................................................. 70 Read Command Example .................................................................................................................. 71 Execute Command Example .............................................................................................................. 71 MantraASCII2 ....................................................................................................................................... 72 Host Command Message Format ............................................................................................................. 72 Slave Response Message Formats ............................................................................................................ 73 Write Command ................................................................................................................................ 73 Read Command................................................................................................................................. 74 Action Command ............................................................................................................................... 74 Broadcast Commands .......................................................................................................................... 74 Bad Commands ................................................................................................................................. 75 Using a Printer or Remote display .................................................................................................. 75 Selecting the Printer functions ...................................................................................................................... 75 Label Parameter ...................................................................................................................................... 76 Format of Output String .............................................................................................................................. 77 Installation .............................................................................................................................. 78 Mechanical ............................................................................................................................................. 78 LCB20 Board Module .............................................................................................................................. 78 LAC ABS Case ....................................................................................................................................... 79 LTL Transparent Lid .............................................................................................................................. 79 LSS Stainless Steel Case .......................................................................................................................... 80 LDC Die Cast Case ................................................................................................................................. 81 D2 DIN Rail ......................................................................................................................................... 82 Connections ............................................................................................................................................ 83 Programmer Modules .............................................................................................................................. 83 LP1 ............................................................................................................................................... 83 LP2 ............................................................................................................................................... 83 Power Supplies ..................................................................................................................................... 84 LS1 Mains Supply ............................................................................................................................... 84 Fitting Module to Main Board ................................................................................................................. 84 Supply Connections ............................................................................................................................ 85 97VAC to 120VAC ........................................................................................................................... 85 210VAC to 260VAC ......................................................................................................................... 85 LS3 DC Supply .................................................................................................................................. 86 Fitting Module to Main Board ................................................................................................................. 86 Supply Connection ............................................................................................................................. 87 Load cell Connections ............................................................................................................................. 87 Connector Location ............................................................................................................................ 88 4 Wire ........................................................................................................................................... 88 6 Wire ........................................................................................................................................... 89 Barriers .......................................................................................................................................... 90 Digital Inputs ....................................................................................................................................... 91 Connector Location ............................................................................................................................ 91 Connections .................................................................................................................................... 91 Analogue Output ................................................................................................................................... 92 Connector Locations ........................................................................................................................... 92 Voltage .......................................................................................................................................... 92 Current .......................................................................................................................................... 93 Relay Module LR1 .................................................................................................................................. 94 Fitting Module to Main Board ................................................................................................................. 94 Contact Connections .......................................................................................................................... 94 Communications Module LC4 ..................................................................................................................... 95 Fitting Module to Main Board ................................................................................................................. 95 RS232 ............................................................................................................................................ 95 RS422 and RS485 4 Wire ...................................................................................................................... 96 Multi-drop Connections .................................................................................................................... 96 RS485 2 Wire ................................................................................................................................... 97 Multi-drop Connections .................................................................................................................... 97 Printer ........................................................................................................................................... 97 Programming Cable PGM1 ........................................................................................................................ 98 Driver Settings ................................................................................................................................. 98 Serial / USB Convertors ......................................................................................................................... 100 RS232 .......................................................................................................................................... 100 RS485 .......................................................................................................................................... 100 Driver Settings ............................................................................................................................... 101 LED Indicator ........................................................................................................................................ 102 Push Switch SW ...................................................................................................................................... 103 Appendix A – Calibration ............................................................................................................ 104 Best practices ....................................................................................................................................... 104 Table Calibration Method .......................................................................................................................... 104 mV Source Calibration .............................................................................................................................. 104 Vref ................................................................................................................................................... 105 Shunt Calibration .................................................................................................................................... 105 Using Shunt Calibration ......................................................................................................................... 106 Appendix B – Measurement ......................................................................................................... 107 Page 4 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 107 Zero Tracking ........................................................................................................................................ 110 System Zero .......................................................................................................................................... 110 Auto Tare............................................................................................................................................. 110 Filters ................................................................................................................................................. 110 Overview .......................................................................................................................................... 110 Simple Block Averaging ......................................................................................................................... 111 Dynamic Digital Low Pass Filter ............................................................................................................... 111 Peak and Valley Values ............................................................................................................................. 113 Snap Command ...................................................................................................................................... 114 Appendix C – Relays .................................................................................................................. 115 Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 115 Source ................................................................................................................................................ 115 Setpoints ............................................................................................................................................. 115 Inflights ............................................................................................................................................... 116 Hysteresis ............................................................................................................................................ 116 Inversion .............................................................................................................................................. 116 Latching .............................................................................................................................................. 116 Appendix D – Analogue Output .................................................................................................... 117 Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 117 Source ................................................................................................................................................ 117 Scaling ................................................................................................................................................ 117 User Adjustment .................................................................................................................................... 119 Output Override ..................................................................................................................................... 119 Appendix E – Digital Inputs ......................................................................................................... 120 Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 120 Digital Input selection table ....................................................................................................................... 120 Appendix F – Security Locking ..................................................................................................... 121 Menu Passwords ..................................................................................................................................... 121 Handheld/Display Calibration Lock ............................................................................................................... 121 LCA Toolkit Lock .................................................................................................................................... 122 Appendix G – Manual Connect ..................................................................................................... 123 Specifications ......................................................................................................................... 124 Electronics ........................................................................................................................................... 124 Loadcell Input .................................................................................................................................... 124 Analogue Output ................................................................................................................................. 124 Power Supply (LS1, LS3) ........................................................................................................................ 125 Relays (LR1) ...................................................................................................................................... 125 Communications (LC4) .......................................................................................................................... 125 Environmental ................................................................................................................................... 125 Regulatory ............................................................................................................................. 125 CE Approvals ......................................................................................................................................... 125 European EMC Directive ........................................................................................................................ 125 Low Voltage Directive .......................................................................................................................... 125 Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................... 126 General connection and setup parameters. - No display on power up. .................................................................. 126 Display shows (-1 or 1) continually, without a weight applied to the Strain Gauge. ................................................... 126 Display over ranges (-1 or 1) when, or before, the maximum required weight is applied to the Strain Gauge..................... 126 Display very noisy ............................................................................................................................... 126 Display operating in wrong direction ......................................................................................................... 126 Unit will not auto calibrate .................................................................................................................... 126 Relay module: incorrect relay operation ..................................................................................................... 126 No communications ............................................................................................................................. 126 Order Codes ........................................................................................................................... 127 Accessories ....................................................................................................................................... 127 Configuration Record Sheet ........................................................................................................ 128 LCA15 Mode .......................................................................................................................................... 128 Password Level 1 ................................................................................................................................ 128 Password Level 2 ................................................................................................................................ 128 Password Level 3 ................................................................................................................................ 129 LCA20 ................................................................................................................................................. 130 Warranty ............................................................................................................................... 132 Page 5 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 LCA20 User Manual Overview The LCA20 In-Line Intelligent Strain Gauge Amplifier is a compact microprocessor-based unit specifically designed to control and monitor weighing applications. Its flexibility of design allows for the connection of most load cells and pressure or strain gauges over a wide range of sensitivities. Housed in a light grey, ABS case, it is sealed to IP65 standard to meet most environmental conditions. The LCA20’s predecessor, the LCA15 was designed in 1992 with over 10,000 units being sold. It has obtained a well-earned reputation for being a reliable, easy to use and adaptable instrument. The LCA15 has been redesigned as the LCA20 to take advantage of technology that leads to improved performance, increased functionality and the ability to maintain the selling price. The basic unit offers the following facilities:- A simple auto calibration of the highest and lowest weights required, an easy auto tare setting and a peak hold and valley facility. A menu password protects the configuration parameters. DC analogue outputs of 4-20mA and 0-10V are standard with full scaling over any desired range and the ability to invert these outputs if required. Gain sensitivity is available in two ranges, 0.5 to 3.7mV/V and 3.7 to 7.8mV/V. Several 'plug in' options are available. A relay module offers two switched set points which can be inverted and/or latched. Hysteresis can be applied to both set points together with individual In-Flight compensation. Both the relay and the Analogue Output have a high level of electrical isolation. A communications module is available as an option and enables RS232, RS422 or RS485 connection to a printer, PC or PLC thus allowing the measurement values to be viewed and any configuration parameters changed. Baud rates between 2400 and 115200 are available. Internal parameters can be set digitally in real engineering terms by means of an optional plug-in programmer unit or integral display module. Various power supply options are available, 220/240V AC, 110/120V AC and 9-32V DC. The LCA20 is also available in IP65 die cast and stainless steel cases for harsh environments while the LCB20 is a PCB-only Eurocard version for customer’s own enclosure. Backwards Compatibility One of the design criteria for the LCA20 is that it should look and feel the same and be backwards compatible with the LCA15 wherever possible. Existing users will find the same basic menu structure, overall functionality and plug-in modules (with the exception of the communications module) that they are familiar with. Page 6 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 New Features The main change is with the microprocessor. Using the latest RISC technology, the number of support components required by the processor is reduced and allows the device to run faster giving more processing power. New features are made possible such as programming the baud rate using the keypad or the communications interface. The Baud rate in the LCA15 had to be set manually by gaining access to jumper links on the communications module. Another benefit of the higher clock rate is the ability to speed up the response of the Analogue Output due to higher PWM frequencies being available. Other benefits from the new processor include in-field re-programming of the device; on-site firmware upgrades are now possible. With more code space and memory available more functionality can be offered such as nine-point linearisation, low pass filtering, programmable digital inputs and self-diagnostics. The load cell input design has also taken advantage of new technology in the form of the delta-sigma 20 bit ADC. This device has a built-in low temperature drift, low noise amplification stage with switchable gain leading to a much improved measurement performance over the LCA15. The DIL switch fitted to the LCA15 for mV/V selection is no longer required as the two ADC gain ranges cover from 0.5mV/V to 7.8mV/V sensitivities. The appropriate range is selected from the Keypad or communications bus removing the need to gain access to the electronics. As with the majority of Mantracourt’s instrument range the excitation voltage has been decreased to 5V thus allowing for easier barrier selection and the drive capability for up to ten 350 ohm load cells connected in parallel. The LCA20 is factory calibrated in mV/V terms to within 0.05% FS, this allows table entry of calibration data straight from a load cell test certificate bringing it in line with other Mantracourt instruments. An advantage of a factory calibration is that units can be swapped in the field by copying across the calibration from one unit to another with calibration accuracy maintained at 0.05%FS The LCA15 has a variant known as LCA15F. This is an LCA15 with a ‘Fast’ 100 Samples per seconds (SPS) measurement rate. LCA20 has two speeds of measurement, 10SPS and 80SPS so now the new version can be used in more dynamic applications requiring only one module to be stocked. Page 7 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 How to Use This Manual There are three ways you may want to use the LCA20 and this manual has been arranged to best allow the information required to be presented without having to read irrelevant information. The three ways to interact with the LCA20 are as follows: • Handheld programmer/display • LCA Toolkit software • Writing your own communications software It may be that only one of the above methods is used or it may be possible that you will need to refer to more than one section. For example, you may use the LCA20 in LCA15 compatibility mode and configure and calibrate the module using the handheld programmer/display then use the analogue output functionality. You would not need the other sections. However, you may use the LCA20 Toolkit to configure and calibrate the module but once configured you connect to it using your own software. In this case two sections are relevant. Where these sections refer to complex operations or subjects, you will find the detailed information in the Appendices. These can be viewed as required and are independent of the methods you use to configure or communicate with the module. Page 8 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Using the Wired Handheld Programmer/Display Overview The LCA20 can be operated in two modes, LCA15 which is the legacy mode which gives a simple linear menu system or LCA20 mode which has a multi-level menu system. Both modes have 3 password levels and depending on what password has been entered alters what can be accessed, the higher the level of password the more parameters can be accessed. The keypad and menu system operates for the two different modes and these are described in the next sections of this manual. Keypad and Display The Programmer Unit - Is a small hand held unit together with a 2 metre connection lead known as LP2 which plugs into a FFC68 socket on the main assembly board. There is also an option for a permanent field programmer fitted internally which is known as LP1. All user controls, displays and indicators are mounted on the front panel which comprises a 4.5 digit LCD display and four flush mounted keys. A flashing ‘?’ symbol in the top left hand corner of the display indicates programming mode. This symbol is also used to indicate there is a load cell integrity issue or that Shunt-Cal is switched on. Unit Panel Layout Page 9 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 LCA15 Legacy Mode For backwards compatibility with the LCA15 the traditional single level menu system has been maintained. There are a number of small changes such as item selection using the c key. Keys d Used to scroll through and change the set up data by displaying mnemonics for each configurable parameter followed by the appropriate data. On reaching the end of the menu “---“ is displayed and the module commits any changes made to its non-volatile memory prior to showing the input variable. b Selects the display digit to be modified. The selected digit will flash together with the program indicator. When in programming mode it should be noted that the first digit in the display may not be visible, but the program indicator ’?’ will flash to indicate that the instrument is in programming mode even though no digits can be seen to be flashing. c Increments each selected display digit 0-9. Pressing the c key under programming conditions will display the leading digit as -, 1, -1, or a blank display for zero. Additionally, for items that can be selected from a list such as the baud rate bAud, then this key cycles through the available options. The currently set value is the first shown data value. a Resets the display to the input variable and enters new data in the LCA20 non-volatile memory. If, during the programming sequence, selection is not completed, the display will revert to showing the input variable after 2 minutes and any changes made will not be saved If on pressing the d or a keys after a new value has been entered that is outside the allowed range for that parameter then Err will be displayed until the d or a keys is pressed again. Pressing the a key will exit the menu restoring the last good value to the parameter. Pressing the d key will show the parameters mnemonic again followed by the last good value. Menus A series of parameters or programmable functions are provided in the LCA20 to allow the user good flexibility for monitoring and control applications. These parameters are held as constants in the LCA20’s permanent memory and are accessed and checked via the programmer keypad or the communications port. Data which is entered by the user is retained in EEPROM for up to 10 years without back up power. New data, when entered, overwrites previous entries when the a key is pressed unless the EEPROM has been disabled via the communications port. Page 10 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Password Protection To enter the menu a 4 digit password number must be entered when 'PASS' is displayed. The factory set number, 1111 allows access to the most common parameters. Additional passwords are required to gain access to the remaining two levels. Page 11 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Menu Tables Password Level 1 Item Range Default Description PASS 1111 - Security Password. Correct value required to proceed further. SP1 ±19999 0000 Desired Set Point trip value for Relay 1 IF1 ±19999 0000 In-Flight compensation for SP1. Relay 1 operates at = (SP1 - IF1) SP2 ±19999 0000 Desired Set Point trip value for Relay 2 IF2 ±19999 0000 In-Flight compensation for SP2. Relay 2 operates at = (SP2 – IF2) HYS 0-19999 0000 Hysteresis amount applied to SP1 and SP2 OA 0-31 0000 Output Action. The value of OA to be entered is the algebraic sum of the following components:- Selection value Description 1 SP1 Inverted 2 SP2 Inverted 4 AN-OP Inverted 8 SP1 Latched 16 SP2 Latched Example 1: If SP1 needs to be latched and inverted and the analogue output is normal, enter 8 + 1 = 9 CALL ±19999 0000 Calibration Low: display value for low calibration point CALH ±19999 0000 Calibration High: display value for High calibration point At ±19999 0000 Auto Tare value. Value added to Gross to give Net Page 12 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Item Range Default Description dA 0000 Display Averaging. Number of reading to block average. Resultant samples per second dependant on rATE setting. If rATE is set to 10 samples per second Selection Value Description 0 2.5 samples per second 1 1.25 samples per second 2 1.6 seconds per sample 3 3.2 seconds per sample 4 6.4 seconds per sample 5 12.8 seconds per sample 6 25.6 seconds per sample 7 10 samples per second If rATE is set to 80 samples per second Selection Value Description 0 20 samples per second 1 10 samples per second 2 5 samples per second 3 2.5 samples per second 4 1.25 samples per second 5 1.6 seconds per sample 6 3.2 seconds per sample 7 80 samples per second OPL ±19999 0000 Output Low: display point for minimum Analogue Output OPH ±19999 0000 Output High: display point for maximum Analogue Output dP 0-5 0002 Decimal point position CP 0-133 0000 Communications protocol Selection Value Description 0-127 Printer functions 128 Mantrabus1 * 131 Mantrabus2 * 132 Modbus RTU * 133 MantraASCII2 * * Followed by power cycle to implement change SdSt 0-254 0001 Serial Device Station number bAud 115.2 Baud rate. Selection table Selection value Description 2400 2400 baud 4800 4800 baud 9600 9600 baud 19200 19200 baud 38.4 38400 baud 57.6 57600 baud 76.8 76800 baud 115.2 115200 baud Page 13 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Item Range Default Description LAb 0-84 0000 Label/units for Printer. See Using a Printer or Remote Display Ln 0-19999 0000 Log Number rS 0-19999 0000 Display Resolution. This value sets the block size that the optional LCD display will increment and decrement by. Page 14 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Password Level 2 Password level two reveals the parameters associated with the analogue signal path and default display in addition to the above: Item Range Default Description FStP 0-255 0000 RC Filter Steps FLVL 0-19999 0000 RC Filter Dynamic Level SEnS 0.5-3 Load cell sensitivity Selection value Description 0.5-3 0.5 to 3.7 mV/V range 3.7-7 3.7 to 7.8 mV/V range rAtE 10S Measurement rate as Samples per Second Selection value Description 10S 10 samples per second 80S 80 samples per second AdCL ±7.8 0000 mV/V Value captured for low calibration point CALL AdCH ±7.8 0000 mV/V Value captured for high calibration point CALH ZEro ±19999 0000 System Zero Value. AOPS 4-20 or 0-10 4-20 Selects Analogue Output, current or voltage ddiS nEt Selects Defaults display type Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value PEAK Peak Value VALY Valley Value SNAP Snap (Held) value Menu items from Password 1 follow on from this menu. Page 15 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Password Level 3 Password level three gives access to the parameters associated with the Analogue Output, Relays and Digital Input options: Item Range Default Description dIP1 Prnt Digital Input 1 function Selection value Description At Perform Tare Lr Latch Relay Reset Prnt Do Print dEFt Display Default display set by “ddiS” GroS Display Gross value nEt Display Net value PEAK Display Peak value VALY Display Valley value SNAP Display Snap (Held) value PV-r Peak & Valley Reset SCon Shunt-Cal On SCoF Shunt-Cal Off SCtG Shunt-Cal Toggle on/off dSnP Do Snap (Hold current value) dIP2 Latch Relay Reset Digital Input 2 function Selection value Description At Perform Tare Lr Latch Relay Reset Prnt Do Print dEFt Display Default display set by “ddiS” GroS Display Gross value nEt Display Net value PEAK Display Peak value VALY Display Valley value SNAP Display Snap (Held) value PV-r Peak & Valley Reset SCon Shunt-Cal On SCoF Shunt-Cal Off SCtG Shunt-Cal Toggle on/off dSnP Do Snap (Hold current value) Page 16 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Item Range Default Description dIP3 Auto-Tare Digital Input 3 function Selection value Description At Perform Tare Lr Latch Relay Reset Prnt Do Print dEFt Display Default display set by “ddiS” GroS Display Gross value nEt Display Net value PEAK Display Peak value VALY Display Valley value SNAP Display Snap (Held) value PV-r Peak & Valley Reset SCon Shunt-Cal On SCoF Shunt-Cal Off SCtG Shunt-Cal Toggle on/off dSnP Do Snap (Hold current value) rLS1 nEt Sets what Value the relay 1 operates from Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value PEAK Peak Value VALY Valley Value SNAP Snap (Held) value rLS2 nEt Sets what Value the relay 2 operates from Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value PEAK Peak Value VALY Valley Value SNAP Snap (Held) value AnOP nEt Sets what Value the Analogue Output operate from Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value PEAK Peak Value VALY Valley Value SNAP Snap (Held) value 4.20G 0.9 to 1.025 1.0 User adjustment for 4-20mA gain. Replace function of the LCA15 gain potentiometer. Unit gain = 1.0 4.20o -1000 to 1000 0 User adjustment for 4-20mA offset. Replace function of the LCA15 offset potentiometer. Note the value is in PWM counts not mA 0.10G 0.9-1.025 1.0 User adjustment for 0-10V gain. Replace function of the LCA15 gain potentiometer. Unit gain = 1.0 0.10o -1000 to 1000 0 User adjustment for 0-10V offset. Replace function of the LCA15 offset potentiometer. Note the value is in PWM counts not V Page 17 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Item Range Default Description OVrV ±19999 19999 Over-range value. The Value at which the display will indicate a Positive over-range condition and force the relays and analogue output to behave accordingly. (Display shows +1) undV ±19999 -19999 Under-range value. The Value at which the display will indicate a Negative under-range condition and force the relays and analogue output to behave accordingly. (Display shows -1) tYPE LCA15 Selects the mode in which the LCA operates. Selection value Description LCA15 Restricted functionality as per the original LCA15 LCA20 Full functionality of the LCA20 Menu items from Password 2 follow on from this menu. Page 18 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 LCA20 Mode Keys The LCA20 has a multilevel menu system. The parameters available are dependent on the password level that has been entered. d Used to scroll through the menu items available at the current menu level. When a level has been entered that holds parameters then this key scrolls through the parameters available. At this point if the scroll key is not pressed for 3 seconds then the current value of the parameter is displayed. b Initially used to enter into the next menu level. When displaying a parameter value then this key selects the display digit to be modified. The selected digit will flash together with the program indicator. When in programming mode it should be noted that the first digit in the display may not be visible, but the program indicator ’?’ will flash to indicate that the instrument is in programming mode even though no digits can be seen to be flashing. c Used to move up a menu level. If already at the highest menu level PASS then the menu system will be exited returning to displaying the input variable. When displaying a parameter value this key increments each selected display digit 0-9. Pressing the c key under programming conditions will display the leading digit as 1, -1, - or a blank display for zero. Additionally, for items that can be selected from a list such as the baud rate bAud, then this key cycles through the available options. The currently set value is the first shown data value. a Resets the display to the input variable and enters new data in the LCA20 non-volatile memory. If, during the programming sequence no key is pressed the display will revert to showing the input variable after 2 minutes and any changes made will not be saved If on pressing the d or a keys after a new value has been entered that is outside the allowed range for that parameter then Err will be displayed until the d or a keys is pressed again. Pressing the a key will exit the menu restoring the last good value to the parameter. Pressing the d key will show the parameters mnemonic again followed by the last good value. Menus When in LCA20 mode the menu system operates with multiple levels to allow easier navigation round the parameters. Different levels and parameters being made available depending on the Page 19 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 password level entered. There are 3 password levels which can be considered as Operator, Engineer and Configurator/Calibrator. Password Protection To enter the menu a 4 digit password number must be entered when 'PASS' is displayed. The factory set number, 1111 allows access to the most common parameters. Additional passwords are required to gain access to the remaining two levels. Menu Tables In the table below the hierarchal level of menu items is indicated by a prefix dot. Item Pass Level Range Default Description PASS 1 1111 Security Password. Correct value required to proceed further. tYPE 3 LCA15 Selects mode of operation. Selection value Description LCA15 Restricted functionality as per the original LCA15 LCA20 Full functionality of the LCA20 VALS 1 Values. View generated live values GroS 1 - - Gross nEt 1 - - Net PEAK 1 - - Peak VALY 1 - - Valley SNAP 1 - - Snap (Held Value) mVV 2 - - mV/V CALV 2 - - Calibrated Value. Gross value before System zero, Zero-Tracking rLYS 1 Relay Menu rLY1 1 Relay 1 Menu SP1 1 ±19999 0000 Desired Set Point trip value for Relay 1 IF1 1 ±19999 0000 In-Flight compensation for SP1. Relay 1 operates at = (SP1 - IF1) HYS1 1 0-19999 0000 Hysteresis amount applied to SP1 InV1 1 No Invert SP1 Selection value Description Yes Inverted SP1 operation No Normal SP1 operation Ltc1 1 No Latch SP1 Selection value Description Yes Latching SP1 operation No Normal SP1 operation Page 20 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Item Pass Level Range Default Description rLS1 2 nEt Relay 1 source taken from Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value PEAK Peak Value VALY Valley Value SNAP Snap (Held) value rLY2 1 ±19999 0000 Relay 2 Menu SP2 1 ±19999 0000 Desired Set Point trip value for Relay 2 IF2 1 ±19999 0000 In-Flight compensation for SP2. Relay 2 operates at = (SP2 – IF2) HYS2 1 0-19999 0000 Hysteresis amount applied to SP2 InV2 1 No Invert SP2 Selection value Description Yes Inverted SP2 operation No Normal SP2 operation Ltc2 1 No Latch SP2 Selection value Description Yes Latching SP2 operation No Normal SP2 operation rLS2 2 nEt Relay 2 source taken from Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value PEAK Peak Value VALY Valley Value SNAP Snap (Held) value AnOP Analogue Output Menu OPL 1 ±19999 0000 Output Low: display point for minimum Analogue Output OPH 1 ±19999 0000 Output High: display point for maximum Analogue Output AnOP 2 nEt Sets what Value the Analogue Output operates from Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value PEAK Peak Value VALY Valley Value SNAP Snap (Held) value AOPS 2 4-20 Selects Analogue Output, current or voltage. Selection value Description 4-20 4-20mA current output 0-10 0-10V voltage output Page 21 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Item Pass Level Range Default Description InV 2 No Invert Analogue output. Note this can also be achieved by using OPL greater than OPH. Selection value Description Yes Inverted analogue output No Normal analogue output Adj 3 Adjustment of Analogue output values Menu 4.20G 3 0.9 to 1.025 1.0 User adjustment for 4-20mA gain. Replace function of the LCA15 gain potentiometer. Unit gain = 1.0 4.20o 3 -1000 to 1000 0 User adjustment for 4-20mA offset. Replace function of the LCA15 offset potentiometer. Note the value is in PWM counts not mA 0.10G 3 0.9-1.025 1.0 User adjustment for 0-10V gain. Replace function of the gain LCA15 potentiometer. Unit gain = 1.0 0.10o 3 -1000 to 1000 0 User adjustment for 0-10V offset. Replace function of the LCA15 offset potentiometer. Note the value is in PWM counts not V Page 22 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 diSP 1 Display parameters Menu dA 1 0000 Display Averaging. Number of reading to block average. Resultant samples per second dependant on rATE setting. If rATE is set to 10 samples per second Selection Value Description 0 2.5 samples per second 1 1.25 samples per second 2 1.6 seconds per sample 3 3.2 seconds per sample 4 6.4 seconds per sample 5 12.8 seconds per sample 6 25.6 seconds per sample 7 10 samples per second If rATE is set to 80 samples per second Selection Value Description 0 20 samples per second 1 10 samples per second 2 5 samples per second 3 2.5 samples per second 4 1.25 samples per second 5 1.6 seconds per sample 6 3.2 seconds per sample 7 80 samples per second dP 1 0-5 0002 Decimal point position rS 1 0-19999 0000 Display Resolution ddiS 2 nEt Selects Defaults display source from Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value PEAK Peak Value VALY Valley Value SNAP Snap (Held) value PEAk 2 nEt SelectsPeak value source Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value VALY 2 nEt Selects Valley value source Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value Page 23 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 SNAP 2 nEt Selects Snap value source. Selection value Description nEt Net Value GroS Gross Value OVrV 3 ±19999 19999 Over-range value. The Value at which the display will indicate a Positive over-range condition and force the relays and analogue output to behave accordingly. (Display shows +1) undV 3 ±19999 19999 Over-range value. The Value at which the display will indicate a Negative under-range condition and force the relays and analogue output to behave accordingly. (Display shows -1) LCiP 1 Load cell configuration menu FSTP 1 0-255 0000 Low-pass Filter Steps FLVL 1 0-19999 0000 Low-pass Filter Dynamic Level SEnS 2 0.5-3 Load cell sensitivity Selection value Description 0.5-3 0.5 to 3.7 mV/V range 3.7-7 3.7 to 7.8 mV/V range rATE 2 10S Measurement rate 10SPS and 80SPS Selection value Description 10S 10 samples per second 80S 80 samples per second ACAL 2 Analogue Input Calibration Menu AdCL 3 ±7.8 0000 mV/V Value captured for low calibration point CALL AdCH 3 ±7.8 0000 mV/V Value captured for high calibration point CALH CALL 2 ±19999 0000 Calibration Low: display value for low calibration point CALH 2 ±19999 0000 Calibration High: display value for high calibration point At 2 ±19999 0000 Auto Tare value. Value added to Gross to give Net trbd 2 ±19999 0000 Zero Tracking Band ZEro 2 ±19999 0000 System Zero SErL 1 Serial Port menu CP 1 0000 Communications protocol – requires a power cycle Selection Value Description 0-127 Printer functions 128 Mantrabus1 131 Mantrabus2 132 Modbus RTU 133 MantraASCII2 SdSt 1 0-254 0001 Serial Device Station number Page 24 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 bAud 1 115.2 Baud rate. Selection table Selection value Description 2400 2400 baud 4800 4800 baud 9600 9600 baud 19200 19200 baud 38.4 38400 baud 57.6 57600 baud 76.8 76800 baud 115.2 115200 baud LAb 1 0-84 0000 Label/units for Printer. See Using a Printer or Remote Display Ln 1 0-19999 0000 Log Number dIPS 2 Digital input menu dIP1 2 Prnt Digital Input 1 function Selection value Description At Perform Tare Lr Latch Relay Reset Prnt Do Print dEFt Display Default display set by “ddiS” GroS Display Gross value nEt Display Net value PEAK Display Peak value VALY Display Valley value SNAP Display Snap (Held) value PV-r Peak & Valley Reset SCon Shunt-Cal On SCoF Shunt-Cal Off SCtG Shunt-Cal Toggle on/off dSnP Do Snap (Hold current value) dIP2 2 Lr Digital Input 2 function. Selection value Description At Perform Tare Lr Latch Relay Reset Prnt Do Print dEFt Display Default display set by “ddiS” GroS Display Gross value nEt Display Net value PEAK Display Peak value VALY Display Valley value SNAP Display Snap (Held) value PV-r Peak & Valley Reset SCon Shunt-Cal On SCoF Shunt-Cal Off SCtG Shunt-Cal Toggle on/off dSnP Do Snap (Hold current value) Page 25 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 dIP3 2 At Digital Input 3 function. Selection value Description At Perform Tare Lr Latch Relay Reset Prnt Do Print dEFt Display Default display set by “ddiS” GroS Display Gross value nEt Display Net value PEAK Display Peak value VALY Display Valley value SNAP Display Snap (Held) value PV-r Peak & Valley Reset SCon Shunt-Cal On SCoF Shunt-Cal Off SCtG Shunt-Cal Toggle on/off dSnP Do Snap (Hold current value) Page 26 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Auto Calibration Using the Keypad; a simple two point calibration can be performed. Auto-calibration captures live load cell input values in mV/V terms and relates them to required engineering unit’s values. The input can be acquired by loading the load cells with known weights or by injecting known mV levels for the required engineering values. These known mV/V levels may be taken from a load cell calibration sheet or by measurement. The two calibration points should be near the required lowest point (typically an unloaded structure reading zero weight) and at least 75% of the highest point. This will help provide an accurate extrapolation over the desired calibrated range. The sequence of calibration is not confined to capturing the Low calibration point CALL first. This is useful if a vessel already has a known amount of product in and it is not practical to empty the vessel before starting the calibration procedure. For example: the calibration procedure can be initiated by capturing CALH with a full hopper if the weight is known and CALL captured at a later date when the hopper is empty. Please note that the LCA20 may not display the correct weight until the second data point is acquired. The Sensitivity SEnS and Decimal Point position dP must be set before calibration takes place. Procedure Allow a warm up period of 20 minutes before carrying out the calibration procedure. If It is intended that the calibration is permanent then please ensure the EEPROM has not been disabled by the communications port. See Communications Protocols chapter. The accuracy of the calibration depends upon the input being settled and stable. This procedure is written assuming the low calibration point CALL is followed by the high calibration point CALH but note that CALH could be done first. 1. With the load cells connected and the load cells settled at the low calibration point (this could be the empty vessel) Press the d key until PASS appears. 2. LCA15: Enter the password 1111 using b and c keys, then press d key. LCA20: Enter Level 2 password using b and c keys, then press d key. 3. LCA15: Press the d key several times until CALL appears. LCA20: Press the d key several times until ACAL appears. Press the b key to select and CALL appears. If CALL does not appear your LCA20 may be locked from calibration by your supplier 4. Press the b key and check that the program symbol ‘?’ flashes. Page 27 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Always ensure that the programmer indicator is flashing, even though the displayed value may not need to change. 5. If the required value for CALL is already displayed then move onto to the next step else enter the desired value that the input on the current load cells represents. 6. Ensure that the Strain Gauge has remained settled and is free from disturbance and press the d key to capture and calibrate the CALL value. 7. If the CALH calibration point is to be done at a later date then the a can be pressed and the values for CALL will be committed to memory. Else proceed to calibration high point CALH by pressing the d. 8. Apply the input to the load cells that represents the calibration high point CALH and allow to settle. 9. Press the b key and check that the program symbol ‘?’ flashes. Always ensure that the programmer indicator is flashing, even though the displayed value may not need to change. 10. If the required value for CALH is already displayed then move onto to the next step else enter the desired value that the input on the current load cells represents. 11. Ensure that the Strain Gauge has remained settled and is free from disturbance and press the a key to capture and calibrate the CALH value and also commit these the values to memory. 12. On the display returning to indicating the load cell value and assuming the load has not changed on the load cells the display will now be showing the required values. Notes on Auto calibration • If CALH is set to zero then the display value will be mV/V with decimal point position being that set by dP. • CALL can be greater than CALH. This will have the effect of for an increasing load cell input a decreasing displayed value. • The calibration can be manually adjusted by changing the mV/V values stored in AdCL and AdCH. Care must be taken with changing these values and the resolution of entry is limited to 0.001mV/V. MVV Source Calibration If the load cell manufacturer’s calibration certificate is available, a quality mV source, connected as shown below can be used to calibrate the LCA20 instead of applying the known High and Low calibration weights in the above procedure. This can be useful if it is not practical to load or unload the system for calibration. Page 28 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Fit the jumper link to the pins marked ‘Vref’. See diagram above. Measure and record the excitation voltage across 1 and 6 on the connector. Multiply excitation voltage recorded by the mV/V values on the calibration certificate at the required calibration load. Two mV values are required, one for CALL and for CALH. Now perform the above Auto-Calibration procedure setting the mV source to these values at steps 1 and 8. Remember to remove the Vref jumper link before connecting the Load Cells. Page 29 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Using the LCA Toolkit Software The LCA Toolkit software for Windows will allow a connection with the LCA20 via an optional on-board communications module LC4 or via an optional programming cable PGM1. What Can It Do? The toolkit allows all aspects of the LCA20 to be configured. Everything that can be achieved with the plug-in programmer/display can be achieved with the toolkit plus a great deal more. You can: • Configure settings • Save and restore settings to a file • Calibrate load cell • Calibrate analogue outputs • Log data to a CSV file • View data on a chart • Use as a large display Using the Software These items just display data and you cannot interact with them. These items are editable in place. Click on them to be able to change the contents. These items are dropdown lists. Click on them to drop down a selection of items that can be clicked to select as shown below: These are buttons. They will change colour dramatically when your mouse passes over them and look like this: Click to activate. These items are tabs. The selected tab is not orange but you can click on the other tabs to select them. Different tabs will show different control items when clicked. Page 30 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Home Page This is the first page shown after the software launches. Some of the pages shown here may not be available if your module has been locked by the supplier. The serial ports (COM ports) on the computer are detected and added to the drop down list on the top left of the page. If you are using USB to RS232 or RS485 convertors then you can plug them in at this point. Clicking the drop down list will automatically re-detect available COM ports. To detect the connected modules: • Power off the LCA20 modules. • Select the COM port that you module is connected to and click the Detect button. • Apply power to the LCA20 modules. (Or if you have access to the push button on the module board you can press this (Hold for 1 second). This saves time if you only have one module connected as the software does not then have to wait to detect all other possible modules. See Installation | Push Switch SW for more information.) The Toolkit will automatically detect all LCA20 modules connected to the selected COM port regardless of their baud rate, station number or protocol. If you cannot get physical access to the LCA20, to power cycle or to push the button, you can connect manually by clicking the ‘Manual Connect’ text on this page. See Appendix G – Manual Connect. Page 31 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 If an RS485 bus is used the Toolkit can be operated when any number of LCA20 modules are connected to the bus but they must have already been allocated unique Station Numbers. If you have a group of modules straight from the factory they will all be allocated station number 1 by default so must be attached to the bus one at a time, connected to the Toolkit and their station number changed. If one or more modules are detected they will be displayed in the main list. To connect to a module highlight it in the list and click the Connect button (or just double-click on the required module in the list). If more than one module is detected the software will also check that all the modules are set to the correct baud rate. If they are not you will be notified. If all connected modules are not set to the same baud rate you will need to connect them to the RS485 bus one at a time to set the desired baud rates. Page 32 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Information The Information page shows useful information about the module. The large display may prove useful in simple monitoring projects. Main Display – Displays the module value. If units have been specified at calibration then the units will be shown. Serial Number – Shows the serial number of the module. Firmware Version – Shows the module firmware version. Display Source – Indicates where the display (Parameter and LCD where fitted) gets its value. Mode – Indicates the operational mode of the module. LCA15 is backwards compatible with the LCA15 module and LCA20 supports the new features. Update Rate – Indicates the update rate of the module. This is the rate at which a new value is generated. Select Display Format – Drop down the list and select a display format for this software only. This does not change any module settings. More - Clicking this button displays more information as shown in the following screenshot. Mode can be changed in the Calibration page. Update Rate is configured on the Filters page. Page 33 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Relay 1 State – Indicates whether relay 1 is on or off. Relay 2 State - Indicates whether relay 2 is on or off. Digital Input 1 - Indicates whether digital input 1 is activated or not. Digital Input 2 - Indicates whether digital input 2 is activated or not. Digital Input 3 - Indicates whether digital input 3 is activated or not. Shunt Calibration State – Allow the shunt calibration function to be activated. Less – Clicking this button hides this extra information again. See Also – Appendix A – Calibration | Shunt Calibration Page 34 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Save & Restore This page allows the configuration of the module to be saved to a file for later restoration. Save – Save the module configuration to a file on the computer. Restore – Restore a previously saved configuration file to the connected module. Firmware Update – If you have a firmware hex file you can click this to select the file and update the firmware in the module. Do not use LC4 communications port to update firmware. PGM1 Programming cable must be used when updating firmware. Warning – A failed attempt at a firmware update will render the module inoperable until a valid firmware update has been achieved. Page 35 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Trend Chart This page allows you to view the module value on a scrolling chart. The chart will hold 10,000 points of data and is updated at the update rate of the module (Displayed at the top right of the chart). This is determined by the settings on the Filters page. The chart Y axis is auto scaling but you can select the view into a stored history of 10,000 data points. Just drag the handles of the range scrollbar under the chart to define the start and end point of the view. The date and time of the first and last point on the chart are displayed in the lower left and right area under the chart. By clicking in the chart you can display a cursor and the date and time at the point of the cursor, also the data point value will be displayed underneath the chart. Pause Button – Pauses the chart. During a pause no more data will be added to the chart. You can use the range scrollbar to change the view or click and drag on the chart to move the cursor. The time and value of the data under the cursor will be displayed under the chart. Range Scrollbar – By dragging the orange ‘thumb’ you can view different areas of the data history. By dragging the left or right side of the ‘thumb’ you can increase or decrease the amount of data shown thus zoom in and out. Right Click Menu – Right clicking the chart will display a pop-up menu with three options: Copy Chart Image – Copy a bitmap image of the chart to the clipboard. Copy Chart Data – Copy tab separated chart data to the clipboard in a suitable format for pasting into MS Excel. Clear Chart – Clear all data from the chart. Page 36 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Logging The toolkit allows you to log data to a CSV (Comma Separated Value) file. This file can be opened for analysis in various applications including MS Excel. The logging session can be manually controlled or automatically stopped after a duration/number of logs limit. Interval Log Interval - Choose a Log Interval in milliseconds between 12 and 32000. For example 20mS will enable a log at 50Hz. Duration Select – Choose whether you want Manual control, so you can click the Start/Stop button whenever you want, or choose Based on number of logs or Based on timed duration. If you choose either of the last two options you can define the length of the log by entering either a number of logs to record or the time to record in hours, minutes and seconds. Number of Logs – if you choose Based on number of logs then you can enter the number of logs here. The hours, minutes and seconds will update to show the actual duration based on the number of logs and the log interval. Hours:Minutes:Seconds - if you choose Based on timed duration then you can choose the hours, minutes and seconds here. The number of logs will update based on the duration and the log interval. Page 37 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Log Filename - Select a file to log to. Each time the log starts it will erase any data already in the file. Start - Clicking this button will start the log. Stop - Clicking this button will stop the log. View - When a log has just been stopped this button will launch the application associated with CSV files. The format of the log file is as follows: DateTime, Elapsed, Value Where: DateTime is the date and time in long format Elapsed is the time elapsed in milliseconds since the start of the log Value is the numeric value logged Example: 08/06/2009 15:41:08,0,-3.253001E-03 08/06/2009 15:41:08,10,-3.253001E-03 08/06/2009 15:41:08,43,-3.253001E-03 08/06/2009 15:41:08,60,-3.253001E-03 If the measurement rate of the module is less than the rate at which you have chosen to log you will be informed with a message as shown below. Either reduce the Log Interval or reduce the Measurement Rate. If you are using a serial / USB convertor there may be some driver settings that can affect the speed of logging. See Programming Cable PGM1 | Driver Settings chapter for information that may be relevant. Page 38 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Once the logging starts the actual achieved log rate will be displayed at the bottom of the window. This is useful for diagnostics such as when a heavily burdened PC is slowing the log rate. Page 39 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Analogue Outputs This page allows the configuration and calibration of the analogue outputs. Output Select – Choose between 4-20mA current output or 0-10V voltage output. Source – Select the source value that the analogue output is based on. Inverted – Select this to invert the output. The original LCA15 did not allow Output Low to be higher than Output High so this option had the same effect as entering a higher value for Output Low than for Output High. This new module will allow you to do this in both modes so this option is for backwards compatibility. Manual Tab – This tab allows you to manually specify the values that relate to the minimum and maximum analogue output levels. Output Low – Enter the value (of the source selected above) at which the analogue output will be at the minimum level (4mA or 0V). Output High – Enter the value (of the source selected above) at which the analogue output will be at the maximum level (20mA or 10V). Value – This shows the current selected source value. Calculated Analogue Output – Shows the calculated analogue output for the current input value. Note that this calculated value may be beyond what the output is capable of providing. Page 40 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Automatic Tab – If you do not know what input value relate exactly to the minimum and maximum analogue output levels but you do know the input values for other output values use this tab. Output Low – Shows the new Output Low value after you click the Calculate button. Output High – Shows the new Output High value after you click the Calculate button. At Input Value – Enter an input value that you know the required analogue output value for. There are one of these for the low level and one for the high level. Required Output Value Is - Enter the required analogue output value for the input value you have specified. There are one of these for the low level and one for the high level. Calculate – Click this button to calculate new Output Low and Output High values based on the information you have entered. Page 41 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Advanced Trimming Tab – Sometimes when the analogue outputs are correct the device you are feeding the analogue output into does not (because of inaccuracies in that device) read the correct value. The gain and offset virtual knobs allow you to tweak the gain and offset of the analogue output to achieve fine control rather than perform measurements and recalculate Output Low and Output High Values. Also tweaking the gain and offset is the only way to push the analogue output past the min and max values (0V, 4mA and 10V, 20mA). Gain – Alter the analogue output gain by clicking and dragging the pointer on the virtual knob. Offset – Alter the analogue output offset by clicking and dragging the pointer on the virtual knob. Default – Clicking this button will return the gain and offset to default values. The gain and offset are interactive. You may need to alternate between the adjustments to achieve the desired effect. These virtual knobs replace the physical trimmers on the original LCA15 module. Page 42 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Relays This page allows you to configure the relays. Source – Select the source of the value that the relays will act upon. Setpoint – The target value at which the relay operation will function. The actual point at which contacts may changeover may be affected by Inflight and hysteresis value. Inflight – Compensates for amount of delivered product still falling even after valves are closed. Hysteresis – This is used to stop relay chatter and affects the actual point that relay contact changeover occurs. Inverted – Whether the operation of the relay is inverted. Latched – Once contacts have changed this option can be used to latch the relays. A serial command or digital input is then required to reset the relay contacts. Relays only latch in deactivated state. Reset – Click this button to reset any latched relays. See Also – Appendix C - Relays for more information. In LCA20 mode each relay has an independent Hysteresis value but in LCA15 mode both relays operate from a single Hysteresis value. Page 43 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Measurement This page shows how the core measurement values relate to each other. Calibrated Value – Shows the calibrated value. Calibration turns the input mV/V value into this value. System Zero – Enter a value here that is added to the Calibrated Value to produce the Gross value. System Zero is used to remove permanent values from an installed system such as the weight of a vessel or weighing platform to give a zero Gross value. Zero Tracking – Zero tracking is applied after the system zero and compensates for small changes in the input to allow for a zero Gross value. See Appendix B – Zero Tracking for more information. Gross – The Gross value of the system. Net – The Net value of the system is generated from the Gross value plus the Tare value. Tare – The Tare value is added to the Gross value to generate the Net value. Peak – Indicates the highest value measured since power up or last Peak/Valley Reset. Peak Source – Select which source the peak value is based on. Valley – Indicates the lowest value measured since power up or last Peak/Valley Reset. Valley Source – Select which source the valley value is based on. Reset Button – Reset the peak and valley values to the current source value. Snap – Shows the last snap value recorded. Snap Source – Select which source the snap value is based on. Page 44 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Snap Button – Perform a snap recording now. (This control is included for demonstrating the function and has limited use for a single module. In actual use the snap command would be a broadcast communications command to enable multiple modules to record values at the same time. The snap value can then be retrieved from each module. Display – Shows the main value that is indicated on the optional display. Note that the actual value shown on the LCD may differ from this floating point value due to the Resolution parameter setting. Display Source – Select the source for the display value. LCD – Mimics the actual display that would be shown on the optional LCD display. Resolution – This parameter value sets the block size that the optional LCD display will increment and decrement by. This setting does not affect anything other than the LCD display. Page 45 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Communications This page configures the communications interface for communication via other software. The settings do not affect the ability of the Toolkit to connect to the module. However, at low baud rates it may not be possible to log data or update the chart page at the measurement rate of the module. A higher baud rate will result in a more responsive experience with this Toolkit. Protocol – Select the required communications protocol. All modules on the same communications bus should be set to the same protocol. Station Number – When using multiple modules on a suitable communications bus, such as RS485, each module must have a unique Station Number to allow communications to work. Here the module station number can be selected. Baud Rate – Select the required baud rate for the module. All modules on the same communications bus should be set to the same baud rate. The module will require power cycling to enable changes to any of the above settings. The Home button should be clicked before power cycling the module as the Toolkit will not be able to communicate if the module is power cycled while left on this page. Page 46 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Digital Inputs Allows the function of digital inputs to be set and indicates the current state of the inputs. For each of the three digital inputs the following settings are available: Action – Select the action to execute when the digital input is activated. State – Indicates the current state of the digital input. See Also – Appendix E - Digital Inputs for more information. Page 47 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Calibration The calibration page offers three ways to calibrate the module and also allows configuration of shunt calibration. The Input Sensitivity and Decimal Point parameters should be decided on before calibration takes place. Changing either after calibration may void that calibration. Input Sensitivity – Choose the appropriate range for the load cell sensitivity that is connected. Decimal Point – This setting determines the maximum range of the engineering units for the module. This must be selected to allow for the maximum value likely to be encountered. Mode – Choose whether the programmer menu structure will be the same as the previous version LCA15 or whether it will contain newer parameter access for the LCA20. Underrange Value – Enter the engineering unit value of the Gross value below which the underrange flags will be set. The output value will change to -20001 with the decimal point as defined above. The optional LCD display will show -1 with no other digits shown. Overrange Value – Enter the engineering unit value of the Gross value above which the overrange flags will be set. The output value will change to +20001 with the decimal point as defined above. The optional LCD display will show +1 with no other digits shown. mV/V Input – The mV/V value measured at the input. Calibrated Value – The mV/V value after having the calibration applied. Units – Optional 6 characters of units that will be displayed on the main Information page. Page 48 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 The following sections will deal with each of the tabs available on the calibration page. Automatic Tab Select this tab to calibrate the module by applying known loads. Each time you enter this page it will hold the last data entered or will be blank ready to accept values. i.e. The page is used to generate the calibration data seen in the Advanced Tab but does not reflect any data held in the module. Measurement Points – Enter between 2 and 10 measurement points. These are the points at which weights will be applied. This process will linearise as it calibrates. The following pair of controls will be available for the number of measurement points selected. Applied Weight – Enter the known weight applied at this measurement point. The weights must be applied in ascending order. Acquire Button – Once the input has been given enough time to settle click this button to acquire the point and start calculating calibration values. You can then redo the calibration at this point again or move on to the next calibration point. Start Again – Click this button to restart the calibration process. Page 49 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Table Tab Select this tab if the mV/V input values are known for 2 or more known weights. This can be used to calibrate based on load cell manufacturer certificates and there is no need to apply actual weights. Each time you enter this page it will hold the last data entered or will be blank ready to accept values. i.e. The page is used to generate the calibration data seen in the Advanced Tab but does not reflect any data held in the module. Calibration Points – Enter the number of known mV/V and engineering unit value pairs. The following pair of controls are repeated for each calibration point. mV/V – Starting from the lowest mV/V value enter the known value for this point. Engineering Units – Enter the known engineering unit weight for the stated mV/V value. Calibrate – Click the Calibrate button to calculate the calibration settings based on the information entered. Page 50 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Advanced Tab This gives access to the internal gain and offset values. This is considered advanced and care should be taken in this tab. The data shown on this page is the actual calibration data held in the module. Use with caution Calibration Points – Shows the number of calibration points in the calibration. The following triplets of controls are repeated for each calibration point. mV/V – Between this mV/V value and the next the following gain and offset will be used to convert the value to the Calibrated Value. Gain – The gain (multiplication factor) applied to the mV/V value. Offset – The offset added to the mV/V * Gain value to give the Calibrated Value. Defaults – Click this button to revert all calibration data to factory defaults. The Calibrated Value will then be mV/V. Page 51 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Shunt Calibration Tab This tab allows the calibrating of the shunt calibration function. After a load cell has been connected to the module and all wiring and connectors have been finalised the Shunt Calibration can be calibrated so that the Shunt Calibration output always indicates 100.00 if nothing has changed on the load cell or wiring. This value will indicate 100.0 regardless of the weight on the load cell at the time the shunt calibration is activated. This allows very quick checking of calibration and hardware integrity. Calibrate – Click this button to calibrate the shunt to the current load cell attached. Shunt Calibration State – Allows the control of switching on or off the shunt calibration. Shunt Calibration Value – This is the special shunt calibration value that should read 100.0 when shunt calibration is activated and the integrity of the calibration and hardware is correct. Page 52 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Cal Info Tab This tab shows the last date the Toolkit was used to perform calibration and shows the Calibration Counter parameter that the module increments whenever a calibration related parameter is written to. Last Calibrated Date – Indicates the last date that calibration was performed by the Toolkit. Calibration Counter – Shows the internal calibration counter. Page 53 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Filters This page allows the selection of filter settings that are applied to generate the Gross value. Rate – Here the basic selection of A/D measurement rate can be selected. The slower rate will have an improved noise free resolution. Filtering – This section allows the choice between simple block averaging or digital low pass filtering. Choosing block averaging will slow down the generation of new values which will be noticeable on the optional display or via the communications bus. The digital low pass filter will result in new values being generated at the A/D measurement rate. Block Averaging – Select the required rate at which new readings are generated. This is in the form of samples per second or seconds per sample. Filter Level – If the difference between the newest unfiltered value and the previous filtered value is greater than this filter level value then the filter is bypassed and the gross will jump straight to the unfiltered value. If the difference is less than the filter level value then the filter will be operational. Filter Steps – Set the fractional part of the difference between the newest and previous values that is added to the previous value to generate the next gross. i.e. if filter steps is 10 then only a 10th of the change is applied to the gross value. Update Rate – This indicates the samples per second or rate at which new values are generated. 3db Down Point – When using the digital low pass filter there is an attenuation of higher frequency components on the input signal. This indicates the frequency at which the output value would be half of what it would be at a fixed level. See Also – Appendix B – Measurement | Filters for more information. Page 54 LCA20 User Manual 517-182 Revision 1.4 Communications Protocols for Custom Software & Data Acquisition If you intend to communicate with the LCA20 with custom software or to connect the module to a PLC or existing data collection system this section explains the various protocols available. Communication Port All Protocols use the serial settings which define the way the serial data is encoded. These are fixed and cannot be changed. • One start-bit • One stop-bit • 8 data bits • No parity Bus flow control is managed as part of the protocol (managed differently by each). No hardware or software flow control signals are to be used for any of the bus standards. Protocols The LCA20 supports a number of serial communications protocols and are explained below. All protocols except when in printer mode have a Master-Slave topology where the LCA20 is a slave device. The Master has control of the bus and is responsible for ensuring correct flow of messages on the bus, that is to say, waits for a response from the Slave device, if one is due, before transmitting other Master messages. Note: This document refers to bits in the range of 0-7 or 0-15. Protocol Type 2 Wi