SOLID STATE INSTRUMENTS PRL-1600 Wireless Pulse Link Transmitter and

Receiver System

Introduction

The PRL-1600 Pulse Radio Link is a Transmitter and Receiver system that wirelessly sends up to four channels of KYZ pulses from the transmitter to a paired receiver. The short-hop PRL-1600 has a range of up to 5,000 feet depending on site topography and solves the problem of getting pulses across parking lots, vacant lots, roads, railroad tracks, or other obstacles. With the PRL-1600, you’re now able to connect real-time KYZ pulses from 2 Form C pulse channels or 4 Form A pulse channels. Pulses from each meter output are independently outputted on one of the four channels in the receiver. The PRL-1600 eliminates trenching or other costly methods of getting wires strung between each meter and the destination device as well as providing superior isolation against transients that could be induced in a long cable run. Additionally, ground rise problems are eliminated since there is no electrical connection between the two devices.
The PRL-1600 Radio Pulse Link system consists of one PRT-1600 Transmitter and one PRR-1600 Receiver. The system uses Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) technology to communicate on 64 frequencies between 902 to 927MHz, using one of 6 hop sequence “channels”, and allows unlicensed operation by the user, allowing multiple systems to operate in the same radio airspace. Nominally, the PRL-1600 will transmit pulses between 2,500 and 5,000 feet in an unobstructed line-of-sight configuration but may go farther depending on optimal site conditions.

PRT-1600 TRANSMITTER
The PRT-1600 Transmitter consists of the following:

• PRNT-1600 Pulse Radio Transmitter/Antenna Unit (2.0x Firmware)
• PRT-16 Pulse Transmitter Base Unit (2.0x Firmware)

The PRT-1600 Transmitter receives pulses from a meter’s KYZ pulse initiator and sends them to the PRR-1600 Receiver unit wirelessly. In each 10-second interval, the number of pulses received from the meter’s pulse KYZ initiator is transmitted to the Receiver upon the next transmission cycle. The Receiver will then generate the correct number of pulses at KYZ outputs, over the next 10 seconds. The PRNT-1600 Transmitter/Antenna Unit contains the transceiver radio, a microcontroller, and all the circuitry and software to communicate with the Receiver. The PRT-16 Base Unit contains the power supply, and termination points, and has a built-in low voltage transformer-isolated power supply generating a +13VDC sense (wetting) voltage. The sense voltage is connected to the meter’s dry-contact KYZ pulse initiator. The PRT-1600 Transmitter is capable of operating on supply voltages of 120 or 208-277VAC. In addition to line power, it can be operated with batteries or a solar power supply such as Solid State Instruments’ SPS-1 Solar Power Supply by using the PRT-16S 12VDC Transmitter Base Unit.

PRR-1600 RECEIVER

• The PRR-1600 Receiver consists of the following:
• PRR-16 Pulse Receiver Base Unit (2.0x Firmware)

The PRR-1600 contains the transceiver radio, a microcontroller, and all the circuitry and software to receive pulses from the Transmitter and output them on one of four output channels. The PRR-12 Base Unit contains the power supply, output relays, and termination points where all connections are made. Four output channels are available and can be configured as 4 Form A or 2 Form C. Each output channel contains one KY Form A (2-Wire) solid-state output. The Receiver/Antenna unit is intended to be mounted outdoors, in a direct line of sight with the

Transmitter/Antenna units. It cannot operate if obstructed by trees, metal poles, buildings, or other objects. The Receiver Base Unit is designed to mount indoors, or inside an existing control enclosure suitable for the application. The Base and Radio/Antenna Units are connected using an 8-conductor, #24AWG 4 twisted pair shielded control cable. It is important for noise immunity and error-free communications between the Base and Transceiver that a 4-twisted pair shielded control cable be used. The PRR-1600 is capable of operating on supply voltages of 120VAC or 208-277VAC. Other power supply voltages are available upon special order.

PRL-1600 SYSTEM DESIGN AND PLANNING

SYSTEM CONFIGURATION – The PRL-1600 can be used in one of two configurations: 4 Form A pulse channels or 2 Form C pulse channels. The entire system operates in either one mode or the other. They cannot be mixed.

• Form A Configuration : The Form A configuration will transmit four 2-wire (KY) pulse channels.
• Form C Configuration: The Form C configuration will transmit two 3-wire (KYZ) pulse channels.

Determine the desired mode for the system.
Dip Switch S1’s switches #1 through #3 set the channel # or “hop” sequence. Both the PRT Transmitter and the PRR Receiver units must be set to the same channel or hop sequence. See Table 1 at left.

SYSTEM CHANNEL – The PRL-1600 System operates on one of 6 hop sequence channels. Each channel consists of 50 unique frequencies out of 64 frequencies available in the 902MHz to 927MHz range. This allows enhanced reliability since RF transmissions are transmitted on one of the channel frequencies until they are received by the receiver. Set the Transmitter and the Receiver to the same channel number. Multiple PRL-1600 systems can operate in the same radio airspace with each system having a different channel number. Once you have determined the channel # that you will use, configure Dip Switch S1’s switches

1 through #3 on the PRT-16 or 16S Transmitter Baseboard and the PRT-16

Receiver Baseboard. Table 1 shows the dip switch combinations for each channel.

SYSTEM OPERATING MODE – The PRL-1600 System operates in a near real-time operational mode, where the PRT-1600 Transmitter transmits one transmission every 10 seconds with the pulse data it has received from the meter over the previous 10-second period. When the transmission is received by the PRR-1600 Receiver, pulses are generated over the next 10-second period. Additional error checking and pulse verification are used in this mode for the highest possible accuracy. Packet Transmissions and Receptions are visually indicated with an LED on both base units.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR A SUCCESSFUL INSTALLATION

• GENERAL – The PRL-1600 System is designed to provide mirror-image pulses from the transmitter to the receiver. This is important for Peak Demand Control since the KW demand is determined by timing the pulses. The greater the time between pulses, the lower the demand. Conversely, the shorter the time between pulses, the higher the demand. Every effort is made in the PRL-1600 to be a “virtual copper wire” and make the pulses coming out of the receiver the same pulse width as the pulses going into the transmitter.
  The PRL-1600 System is designed for concentrated RF environments where there is a significant amount of RF traffic on these or adjacent frequencies. Pulses are collected by the transmitter for 10 seconds. The number of pulses received in the immediate 10-second period is then sent to the receiver which duplicates those pulses over the next 10 seconds. All output pulses are thus delayed by 10 seconds. The benefit of this method is significantly reduced RF traffic and high accuracy due to the expanded error checking and pulse count “true up”.

• APPROPRIATE PULSE CONSTANT – It is important to properly program the Pulse Constant of the meter such that there are no more than 2 pulses per second at the peak KW demand of the building or facility. Pulses faster than this may be lost. If a high pulse rate is unavoidable from the meter and cannot be slowed down, consider one of the DPR Dividing Pulse Relays (DPR-1, DPR-2, or DPR-4) from Solid State Instruments.

• MINIMUM PULSE WIDTH – Make sure that the pulse width coming from the meter is at least 100mS in duration.

• LINE OF SIGHT – Make sure that you have the Receiver Radio/Antenna Unit in a location where the Transmitter’s Radio/Antenna unit can “see” it with a wide field of view. The PRL-1600 is a Line-Of-Sight system, and the transmitter must have uninterrupted and unrestricted sight with the receiver radio at all times. Make sure that there are no trees, metal buildings, light poles, rail cars, trucks, buses, or any other obstruction that gets in the line of sight between the transmitter and receiver at any time. Interruptions in the line of sight may cause pulses to be lost. Generally speaking, the PRL-1600 will not transmit through concrete, concrete blocks, or masonry walls. We can’t stress this enough: The RF path must be a line of sight!

• HEIGHT – Mount the Transmitter and Receiver Radio/Antenna units up off the ground as high as reasonably possible, 14′ minimum, to eliminate RF reflections, and improve reception and transmission distance. The higher the transmitter is off the ground, the longer the transmission distance and the more reliable the reception by the receiver.

• MOUNTING : If mounting the Receiver Radio/Antenna unit on the side of a metal building, make sure that the antenna in the Radio/Antenna unit is mounted at least 6.1″ away from the metal siding. Use the brackets supplied with the PRL-1600 to get this distance. You may have to rotate the board to ensure that the antenna is not closer to the metal surface than 6.1″  since the antenna is not exactly in the center of the board as well as the board is mounted in an off-set fashion. If the antenna is closer than 6.1″, the signal may be corrupted and transmissions may be affected. Rotate each radio/antenna unit’s board if possible so the board is perpendicular to the transmitter or receiver on the opposite end of the system, keeping the antenna 6.1″ away from any metal.

• INTERFERENCE – The PRL-1600 is a Frequency-Hopping Spread Spectrum system that communicates on 50 of the 64 frequencies. It may or may not work in substations or in other areas where there are high-power energy fields exist or where RF energy may jam the signal. The electromagnetic field arohigh-voltagetage conductors may cause enough interference to keep the system from transmitting correctly or may significantly reduce the range of the system. It has been reported that other high-power RF transmitters mounted within proximity can jam the signal even though they are not using the same frequencies.

PRNT-1600 PULSE RADIO TRANSMITTER

INSTRUCTION SHEET PRNT-1600 PULSE RADIO TRANSMITTER

MOUNTING POSITION – (See Note Below on Cable Connection before mounting) The PRNT-1600 Transmitter/Antenna unit should be mounted in a UPRIGHT position so that the cable is located on the bottom of the unit. Mount the unit as high as necessary to guarantee LINE-OF-SIGHT with the PRNR-1600 Receiver/Antenna unit. Mount using the aluminum mounting bracket supplied, making sure that the center of the transmitter is at least 6.1″ away from any metal object such as a pole or metal building. Make sure that no metal mounting hardware is placed above the bottom of the PRNT-1600 Transmitter/Antenna unit case.
CABLE CONNECTION TO PRNT-1600 – It is advisable that this task is performed, if possible, in a convenient, clean work area before mounting the Transmitter unit. Connect the 4-twisted pair 24AWG(min) shielded control cable to the 9-position connector on the PRNT-1600 Board. Access the PCB Assembly by unscrewing the Transmitter housing cap on the bottom of the unit. Remove the Transmitter assembly from the housing. Feed the control cable into the housing’s weather-tight connector on the cap so that there is approximately 12″ of cable through the cap. Tighten the weather-tight cable fitting so that the cable is not quite tight and easily slides back and forth. Alternately, a non-metallic conduit (“Seal-Tight” or “Carflex”) may be used to connect directly to the housing and run the control cable to the Base unit inside this conduit.

Strip approximately 2″ of the control cable’s outer jacket to expose the individual conductors, being careful not to cut the insulation of the conductors or any strands of the shield’s drain wire. Strip the insulation of each conductor back 1/4″. Connect each conductor of the cable to the 9-position connector TB1 using a small flat-blade screwdriver or other similar tool to open the spring-loaded connector as shown above in Figure 2. Press down on the connector lever, slip the wire into the hole, and release. When all conductors are attached, attach a cable tie (ty-rap) through the Transmitter PCB Assembly’s holes and tighten the control cable down, leaving about 1/4″ of jacket above the ty-rap to provide adequate strain relief for the cable connections. Pull the cable back through the cap and weather-tight connector and place the Transmitter PCB Assembly back into the cap’s slots. Tighten the weather-tight connector to secure the assembly in place. Put the ring spacer over the Cap’s threads and insert the Transmitter Assembly into the housing. Tighten the cap until the spacer is tight. For best results, keep the length between the Transmitter and the Base Unit to the minimum practical distance. When the Transmitter installation is complete, secure the cap to the mounting bracket using a sheet metal screw in the slot.

• POWER INPUT – The PRNT-1600 receives its power supply from the PRT-16 Transmitter Base unit.
• METER INPUTS – See the PRT-16 Base Unit Instruction Sheet for detailed information on connecting the K-Y pulse inputs to the Electric Meter’s KYZ Pulse output.
• RADIO OUTPUT – The PRT-1600’s Transceiver/Antenna Unit(PRNT-1600) contains a 900MHz band FHSS radio transceiver with an integral antenna mounted inside the unit. See the diagram for the mounting method and considerations. Transmission is LINE OF SIGHT up to approximately 5,000 feet max. Metal poles, buildings, or other objects will affect the distance the radio system will effectively work. Trees may also affect transmission distance. The user bears all responsibility for the proper mounting and operation of the unit within the PRT-1600’s operating parameters.
• TRANSMITTER CHANNEL – Set the channel number (hop sequence) using DIP Switches #1 through #3 ON S1 as shown in Table 1 on page 4. This is set on the PRT-16 Transmitter Base Board.

NOTICE TO USER

FCC ID: TIT-PRT-1600
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference; and
2. This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation.

INSTRUCTION SHEET PRNT-1600 RADIO/ANTENNA UNIT WIRING

PRT-16 BASE UNIT

INSTRUCTION SHEET PRT-16 BASE UNIT

Setting the System CHANNEL – Each system — the Transmitter and Receiver — must operate on one of six different channels. A
“channel” is a collection of 50 specific frequencies that are arranged in a specific “hop sequence”. A unique channel allows multiple systems to operate in the same radio airspace without any interference with each other. Therefore, the transmitter and receiver must have the same channel setting. The channel address is set using a 3-bit binary code. See Table 1 at right for a complete list of the channels. Note that Channel #6 is the highest channel number and even though there are eight unique switch combinations, Channel 6 is the highest channel that can be selected. The last three switch combinations all result in Channel #6 being selected.

• Switch #4 – Not used on line-powered systems.
• Switch #5 – Not used.
• Switch #6 – Not used

Switch # 7 – Setting the Transmitter Input Mode – The PRL-1600 can operate in the Form C or Form A modes. In the Form C (3-Wire) mode, each input channel uses the K, Y, and Z inputs. Two independent 3-wire meter pulse channels can be transmitted. In the Form A (2-Wire) mode, each pulse channel uses the K (common) and a Y input. Four independent 2-wire meter pulse channels can be transmitted. Set Switch #7 to the DOWN position for the Form A mode and UP for Form C mode.

Switch # 8 – Pairing the Transmitter and Receiver – The PRT-1600 System requires that each Transmitter and Receiver are paired together. Each Transmitter must learn the address of the Receiver it is designated to talk to. This makes it possible for the Transmitter to only talk to the designated Receiver and ignore other devices sending and receiving information on a particular frequency. After installation is complete, perform the pairing procedure described on page 15 ONLY IF the system has not been previously paired at the factory. ***Do not switch #8 UP if the system is already paired

TABLE 1

TABLE 2

TABLE 3

TABLE 4

INSTRUCTION SHEET PRT-16 PULSE TRANSMITTER BASE

• MOUNTING POSITION – The PRT-16 Base unit may be mounted in any position.
• ENCLOSURE – The PRT-16 base unit is housed in a polycarbonate base and cover and is designed to be mounted into another electrical enclosure suitable for the application. Optional NEMA 3R or NEMA 4X outdoor enclosures are available.
• POWER INPUT – For 120 to 277VAC, connect the “hot” lead to the L1 power supply terminal. Connect the neutral lead to the NEU terminal. Connect the GND terminal to the Ground. (**See Note above about Auto-Ranging Power Supply)
• INPUT CONFIGURATION – The PRT-16 accepts either 2 Form “C” (3-Wire) inputs using the K, Y & Z input terminals, or 4 Form “A” (2-Wire) inputs using the K & Y and K & Z terminals. See Dip Switch Definitions and Settings.
• METER CONNECTIONS – Form A (2W) mode: Connect the PRT-12’s “K” and “Y1” input terminals to the meter’s “K” and “Y” terminals. The “Yx” input terminals are “pulled-up” to +13VDC power supply, making it compatible with open-collector transistor meter outputs, as well as all non-polarized mechanical or solid-state pulse outputs. Form C (3W) mode: Connect the PRT-16’s “K”, “Y1” and the “Z1” input terminals to the meter’s “K”, “Y” and “Z” terminals. The PRT-16’s “K” terminal is the system common (return).
• OUTPUT TO PRNT -1600 TRANSMITTER/ANTENNA UNIT – Connect the 8-conductor (4-TWISTED PAIRS) 24AWG(min) shielded control cable to the PRNT-1600 Transmitter/Antenna Unit. For best results, it is advisable to keep the length of this cable to the minimum practical distance.

PRNR-1600 PULSE RADIO RECEIVER

INSTRUCTION SHEET PRNR-1600 PULSE RADIO RECEIVER

MOUNTING POSITION – (See Note Below on Cable Connection before mounting) The PRNR-1600 Receiver/Antenna unit should be mounted in a UPRIGHT position so that the cable is located on the bottom of the unit. Mount the unit as high as necessary (14′ min.) to guarantee LINE-OF-SIGHT with the PRNT-1600 Transmitter/Antenna unit. Mount using the aluminum mounting bracket supplied, making sure that the antenna of the receiver is at least 6.1″ away from any metal object such as a pole or metal building. Make sure that no metal mounting hardware is placed above the bottom of the receiver unit case.

CABLE CONNECTION TO PRNR -1600 – Perform this task in a convenient, clean work area before mounting the Receiver unit. Connect the 8-conductor (4-twisted pairs) shielded control cable to the 9-position connector on the PRNR-1600 PCBA. (See page 14) Access the PCB Assembly by unscrewing the housing cap on the bottom of the unit. Remove the board assembly from the housing. Feed the control cable into the housing’s weather-tight connector on the cap so that there is approximately 12″ of cable through the cap. Tighten the weather-tight cable fitting so that the cable is not quite tight and easily slides back and forth. Strip approximately 2″ of the control cable’s outer jacket to expose the individual conductors, being careful not to cut the insulation of the conductors or any strands of the shield’s drain wire. Strip the insulation of each conductor back 1/4″. Connect each conductor of the cable to the 9-position connector TB1 using a small flat-blade screwdriver or other similar tool to open the spring-loaded connector as shown above in Figure 2. Press down on the connector lever, slip the wire into the hole, and release. When all conductors are attached, attach the cable tie(ty-rap) included through the PCBA’s holes and tighten the control cable down, leaving about 1/4″ of jacket above the ty-rap to provide adequate strain relief for the cable connections. Pull the cable back through the cap and weather-tight connector and place the PCB Assembly back into the cap’s slots. Tighten the weather-tight connector (cable gland, if used) to secure the assembly in place. Rotate the board until it is perpendicular to the transmitter, making sure that the Antenna is 6.1″ away from any metallic mounting surface. Put the ring spacer over the Cap’s threads and tighten the cap until the spacer is finger-tight. For best results, keep the distance between the Receiver and the Base Unit to the minimum practical distance. When PCBA installation is complete, secure the cap to the mounting bracket using a sheet metal screw in the slot.

• POWER INPUT – The PRNR-1600 receives its power supply from the PRR-16 Receiver Base unit.
• PULSE OUTPUTS – See the PRR-16 Base Unit Instruction Sheet for detailed information on connecting the KYZ Outputs to the receiving device. The receiving (destination) device may be the input to an energy management system, recorder, SCADA system, RTU, or other device configured to receive pulses.
• RADIO RF INPUT – The PRNR-1600’s Receiver/Antenna Unit contains a low-power 900MHz radio transceiver with an integral antenna mounted inside the unit. Observe the following application guidelines: 1.) Mount the transceiver as directed on the reverse side of this sheet; 2.) Locate the PRNR-1600 Receiver/Antenna unit so it is LINE-OF-SIGHT with the transmitter of the system; 3.) Ensure that all metal objects, trees, and other obstructions, which may affect the distance the radio system will effectively work, are not within the line of sight between the transmitter and receiver.

USER NOTICE – This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, under part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used by the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
  To maintain compliance with FCC regulations, shielded cables must be used with this equipment. Operation with non-approved equipment or unshielded cables is likely to result in interference to radio and TV reception. The user is cautioned that changes and modifications made to the equipment without the approval of the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

INSTRUCTION SHEET PRR-16 BASE UNIT

Setting the System CHANNEL – Each system — the Transmitter and Receiver — must operate on one of six different channels. A “channel” is a collection of 50 specific frequencies that are arranged in a specific “hop sequence”. A unique channel allows multiple systems to operate in the same radio airspace without any interference with each other. Therefore, the transmitter and receiver must have the same channel setting. The channel address is set as a 3-bit binary code. See Table 1 at right for a complete list of the channels. Note that Channel #6 is the highest channel number and even though there are eight unique switch combinations, Channel 6 is the highest channel that can be selected. The last three switch combinations all result in Channel #6 being selected.

• Switch #4 – Not used.
• Switch #5 – Fixed Pulse Width. Sets the output pulse width to 50mS (DOWN) or 100mS (UP) when in Form A mode.
• Switch #6 – Not used.
• RSSI Indicator – The receiver has a Signal Strength Indicator to show the signal strength of the Transmitter. This is a test mode and can only be used during installation. See Diagnostics on page 18. Once the system is operational, set Switch #7 to DOWN to turn off the RSSI.

Pairing the Transmitter and Receiver – The PRL-1600 System requires that each Transmitter and Receiver are paired together. Each Transmitter must learn the address of the Receiver it is designated to talk to. This makes it possible for the Transmitter to only talk to the designated Receiver and ignore other devices sending and receiving information on a particular frequency. After installation is complete perform the Pairing Procedure described on page 16 ONLY if the pairing procedure has NOT been done at the factory. ***Do not put switch #8 into the UP position if the system has already been paired.

TABLE 1

TABLE 2

TABLE 3

TABLE 4

TABLE 5

PRR-16 PULSE RECEIVER BASE UNIT

INSTRUCTION SHEET PRR-16 PULSE RECEIVER BASE UNIT

• GENERAL – The PRR-16 serves as a base unit and termination point for the PRNR-1600 receiver radio/antenna unit. It contains a power supply, output relays, and all connection points for the receiver/antenna unit.
• ENCLOSURE – The PRR-16 base unit is mounted on an aluminum base and is designed to be mounted into another electrical enclosure suitable for the application. Optional NEMA 3R and 4X raintight enclosures are available.
• POWER INPUT – For a supply of 120-277VAC, use the L (Line) terminal on TB3 for the “hot” lead. Connect the Neutral lead to the N terminal. Connect the G terminal to the Ground. GROUND MUST BE CONNECTED TO A GOOD ELECTRICAL SYSTEM GROUND!!! If no true neutral exists, connect both N and G terminals to GROUND.
• SIGNAL INPUT – The PRNR-1600 receiver/antenna unit connects to the 9-position connector labeled TB2. Terminals are numbered in the same order on the PRNR-1600 and the PRR-16. Connect #24AWG 8-conductor (4-twisted pairs) shielded control cable between the PRNR-1600 receiver/antenna board and the PRR-16 making sure that all connections are matched up on both ends: 1 to 1; 2 to 2; etc. Make sure that the control cable’s shield is connected to position 9 on each end.
• STATUS LEDS – The PRR-16 has four status LEDs to indicate the status of the system at all times. See Page 23 for a description of the Status LED functions.
• RSSI SIGNAL STRENGTH INDICATOR – The PRR-16 contains a 3-LED bar graph that tells the relative signal strength coming from the Transmitter. It consists of three RED LEDs in the upper left-hand corner of the board.
• OUTPUT CONFIGURATION – The PRR-16 contains four solid-state Form A dry-contact outputs, two each for both “K”, “Y” and “Z” outputs. Each solid-state output is limited to 100mA@ 250VAC, 800mW maximum. Fuses are sized at 1/10th amp (100mA). Do not exceed this rating as the device will be destroyed. Transient voltage protection for the contacts of the solid-state relays is provided by MOVs on board.

INSTRUCTION SHEET PRNR-1600 RADIO/ANTENNA UNIT WIRING

USING THE OUTPUT IN 3-WIRE MODE – When the PRL-1600 is operated in the Form C (3-Wire) mode, each output channel “toggles” back and forth like a single-pole, double-throw switch. For one pulse there is continuity between K and Y (a closure) while there is no continuity between K and Z (an open). Upon the next pulse being received from the meter they reverse positions, K-Z closes and K-Y opens. In Form C mode, Y and Z are always opposite of each other. When one is closed and the other is open. There is logic in the PRNR-1600’s software that disallows two pulses of the same type in a row in Form C mode. They MUST alternate.

Each KYZ output is isolated, meaning there is no voltage applied to it internally. The wetting voltage for each KYZ output of the PRR-16 output must be supplied by the receiving (“downstream”) device or by an auxiliary power supply. The outputs are solid state and are non-polarized. They may be used for AC or DC voltages. The output is limited to 100mA@ 250VAC, 800mW maximum. Fuses are sized at 1/10th amp (100mA). Do not exceed this rating as the solid- state MOS-FET switching device may be destroyed. Transient voltage protection for the contacts of the solid state relays is provided by MOVs on board between the K and Y, as well as the K and Z outputs. Depending on user requirements the PRL-1600 can be operated in Form C mode and only two wires are used on the output for the downstream device. This is perfectly acceptable, but remember to double the Form C pulse constant if your receiving device does not automatically adjust the pulse value.

USING THE OUTPUT IN 2-WIRE MODE –
The PRR-16’s two KYZ outputs contain four solid state Form A dry-contacts and may be used independently as four Form A outputs. In this case instead of Y and Z being opposite of each other they are independently used. See the numbering of the output terminals in the diagram below. Even though the devices are operated independently in Form A mode, each set (Y1-Y2 and Y3-Y4) must be operated at the same voltage, from the same voltage source.

Transmitter and Receiver Pairing Procedure

Transmitter and Receiver Pairing Procedure (Learn Mode)

THE PRL-1600 IS FACTORY PAIRED. DO NOT PAIR THE SYSTEM UPON INITIAL INSTALLATION.

• Required only if re-pairing has not been done or if one end has been replaced.
• This procedure pairs the PRT-1600 Transmitter with a specific PRR-1600 Receiver. The PRL-1600 system WILL NOT work unless this procedure is completed. The PRL-1600 system is factory-paired and tested as a system, so the pairing procedure is not normally necessary to do at installation. If Dip Switch #8 is put in the UP position either accidentally or intentionally, the unit may be unpaired. Therefore, this procedure will need to be performed.

1. With the system powered down (OFF) at both ends, set the transmitter and receiver channel numbers (Dip Switches 1-3) to the same setting. (See instructions on pages 9 and 13 for the transmitter and receiver, respectively.
2. Set Dip Switch #8 on both the transmitter and receiver to the “UP” position to put the system in the Learn mode.
3. Turn on power to the PRR-1600 Receiver. The RED system status LED should flash slowly about once per second.
4. Turn on power to the PRT-1600 Transmitter. The RED system status LED should flash in slow mode about once per second for a few seconds and then flash fast, about 4 times per second. The fast flash means that the system has paired itself together. Once each end has learned the digital serial number of the other end, the Receiver LED will also start to flash fast when paired.
5. Return Dip Switch #8 to the “DOWN” position on PRR-16 Receiver Base FIRST. This puts the Receiver in the RUN (normal operation) mode.
6. Return Dip Switch #8 to the “DOWN” position on the PRT-16 Transmitter Base SECOND. This will put the Transmitter into the RUN (normal operation) mode.
7. Once both units are in the RUN mode, after 10 to 20 seconds, you will see the KYZ outputs on the Receiver changing state to reflect the state of the transmitter’s inputs.
8. Once the system has been paired and is in RUN mode, AND data is being received by the Receiver, the LEARN/PAIRED LED on both ends will light in about 30-45 seconds and stay lit assuming a valid transmission is received and acknolwledgement is sent back within the last 35 seconds. If this LED is on, this is definitive proof that the system is paired and receiving data.
9. If the Transmitter and Receiver boards ever need to be changed or if the transmitter and receiver units ever have to be deployed in a new system with a different transmitter or receiver board, the pairing procedure will have to be performed again.

PRL-1600 Wireless Pulse Link Application

Notes:

1. Configure each end to the same mode Form A or Form C. Make sure that the utility configures all the meter’s outputs for toggle mode, not momentary mode. Form C (3-wire) mode is preferred from the meter to the transmitter’s input. Set both the transmitter and receiver to Form C by setting Dip Switch #6 to the UP position. Using two wires (K and Y) on a Form C output is acceptable.
2. Dip Switch #8 must be DOWN on the both ends for normal operation (in RUN mode).
3. Transmission is Line-Of-Sight and must not be blocked by trees, buildings, metal poles, trucks, railcars, etc.
4. Transmission distance is variable up to 5000′ depending on conditions. Distance and reliability will increase as the height mounted above the ground increases. During extremely heavy rain, transmissions may not be reliable.

Troubleshooting and Tech Support

1. Use shielded 4 twisted pair control cable between the PRT-16 Base Unit and the PRNT-1600 Transmitter/Antenna unit, as well as between the PRR-16 Base Unit and the PRNR-1600 Receiver/Antenna unit. Solid State Instruments’ part number 0715-1050 is an 8-conductor (4 twisted pairs) #24AWG shielded control cable sold by the foot. This cable is not UV rated so must be enclosed in seal-tight, liquid-tight or other non-metallic conduit. You can acquire your own twisted pair cable but insure a high-quality communications cable with four #24 stranded conductor pairs. Do not use solid conductor wire, especially thermostat wire. Do not use any heavier wire than #22 AWG since there is limited space and it will be difficult to work with.

2. Make sure that the transmission path between the Transmitter and the Receiver is free of ANY obstacles or anything that can interrupt the radio transmission line-of-sight path between the transmitter and receiver. The Transmitter or Receiver Radio/Antenna units MUST be in continuous sight of each other – no interruptions from cars, trucks, railcars, trees, light poles, metal buildings, ANYTHING!

3. Mount the Transmitter or Receiver Radio/Antenna units as high up off the ground as reasonably possible to prevent RF reflections from the ground. This will increase range and reliability, and also allow for certain obstacles to be avoided. Do not mount the Transmitter Radio/Antenna unit within 50 feet of high-voltage powerlines.

4. Program the pulse constant (Ke value) of the electric meter high enough to allow for a pulse rate that will not exceed 2 pulses per second at maximum KW demand. This is well below the system’s maximum pulse throughput rate but ensures excellent reliability. NOTE: the PRL-1600 system does not change or modify the pulse values in any way. The pulse value is completely determined by the Ke value of the meter and the metering installation multiplier, which is based on Current Transformer (CT) and Potential Transformer (PT) ratios. Some meters are different, and the programming of the pulse constant may vary from meter brand to meter brand.

5. In extremely heavy rain or snow, the system may not be able to accurately receive all pulses transmitted. Like any other RF system, with enough interference, communications can be lost.

6. RED System Status LED Light – The PRT-16 and PRR-16 Base Unit boards have Status LEDs to help the installer determine whether the system is operating correctly. Please see the tables on the Page 22:

7. If there is interference on the “hop sequence” channel you have selected, change to another channel. There are six channels to choose
   from. Both ends must have the same channel number. The system does not need to be powered down to change the channel #. However, it will not communicate while the channel numbers are not identical.

8. The system’s maximum reliable transmission distance will change with each installation since it is dependent on all of the environmental and electrical factors of each particular installation. While the distance is nominally specified as up to 5,000 feet, it may not work at the full range in some installations.

9. The PRT-16 Transmitter and PRR-16 Receiver base units are designed for mounting inside another control cabinet or enclosure appropriate and suitable for the particular application. If a NEMA 4X enclosure is required, order SSI P/N: 05000-47001A for the NEMA 4X Fiberglass 12” x 10” x 4” enclosure option. This option includes an interior mounting plate that the PRT-16 or PRR-16 mounts onto.

Troubleshooting Procedure

• Check all wiring connections, especially the control cable connections between each Radio/Antenna unit and its respective Base unit.
• Check that power is on and applied properly to all components.
• Check the RED and GREEN LEDs on the Transmitter and Receiver Radio/Antenna boards in the white tube and make sure they are flashing a burst of about 6-8 rapid flashes, once each 10 seconds.
• Check to make sure that all Transmitter and Receiver units are both on the same channel (Dip Switches #1-3).
• Make sure that there is not another system operating in the same RF airspace that has the same channel hop sequence selected.
• Make sure that the Transmitter is set for the desired Input Mode, Form A (2-wire) or Form C (3-wire). (Dip Switch #7 on Transmitter base unit).
• Make sure the output is set to the desired 2-Wire Output mode, either Toggle or 100mS Fixed. All channels operate in the same mode depending on Dip Switch #5.
• Check Red LEDs on each Base Unit’s input or output, and make sure they are flashing with pulses received from the meter.
• Use the Signal Strength LEDs (RSSI) on the Receiver to measure signal strength. Put Dip Switch #7 on the Receiver base unit in the UP position to enable the RSSI indicator. Put in the DOWN position when the test complete to turn off RSSI. Do not leave the RSSI indicator on during normal operation. Pulses will be lost if the RSSI is left on. The RSSI is a diagnostic tool only and not for normal operation.
• Check that the antennas are securely screwed to the Radio/Antenna board.
• Use an ohmmeter or continuity checker across the KY terminals of each output and determine whether each is opening and closing by watching the output’s resistance change. When the output is open, there should be infinite resistance. When the output is closed, the on-state resistance should be approximately 18 to 25 ohms.
• Is the “downstream” equipment, that is receiving the pulses from the Receiver, providing a wetting voltage to the dry-contact output of the Receiver? Is the wetting voltage within the maximum specifications?

Appendix A

Appendix A – PRT-1600 Dip Switch Settings and LED Indicators

PRNT-1600A Transmitter Radio/Antenna LED Indicators

V2.01

PRT-16A Transmitter Base LED Indicators

V2.01

Appendix B

Appendix B – PRR-1600A Dip Switch Settings and LED Indicators

PRR-16A Receiver Base DIP Switch Settings

V2.01

PRNR-1600A Receiver Radio/Antenna LED Indicators

V2.01

PRR-16A Receiver Base LED Indicators

V2.01

APPENDIX C

APPENDIX C STATUS LED DEFINITIONS – A-Series

RSSI INDICATOR LEDS

• GENERAL – The RSSI is the Receiver Signal Strength Indicator bar graph which shows the relative signal strength of the PRT-1600A’s RF Signal as received by the PRR-1600A. This helps troubleshoot non-connectivity problems between the transmitter and receiver.
• PROCEDURE – Slide DIP Switch #7 to the UP position on the PRR-16A Receiver Base unit. You should see one or more of the three RSSI LED’s turn on.
• MEANING – The three LEDs on the PRR-16A(only) are labeled L, M and H for Low, Medium and High. If you have a strong or “High” signal, all three LEDs will turn on. If you have a Medium-strength signal, you will see the M and L LEDs turn on. If you have a Low signal then you have a signal of low strength but it may be sufficient for the PRL-1600A to operate. If you have NO LED’s on, then the PRL-1600A system will not operate. Please note that DIP Switch #4 must be down to disable the LED Timeout function.

SYSTEM STATUS LEDS

GENERA L – The PRT-16A and PRR-16A have four System Status LEDs to indicate the status of the system at all times. These LEDs allow the installer and user to tell if the system is paired and operating correctly. More Detail in Appendices A and B, pages 21 and 22.

• HEARTBEAT – LED #1 – LED#1 is the “heartbeat LED and blinks once every 3 seconds to tell the user/installer that the processor(microcontroller) on the PRT/PRR-16A base units is running and its software program is being executed. If LED #1 is not blinking, the processor is not running or the board has no power being applied to it. Check wiring and power.
• DATA TRANSFER – LED #3 – LED #2 is the Data Transfer LED that shows that the data has been passed from the Base unit to its respective Radio/Antenna unit. This will blink twice every 10 seconds in normal operation. The first blink indicates that the Base unit’s processor has sent the data to the Radio/Antenna unit’s processor. The second blink, which should immediately follow the first blink, means that the Radio/Antenna unit’s processor has received the data packet and sent back an acknowledgement to the Base unit indicating that it has received and processed it.
• DIP TRANSFER – LED #3 – LED #3 is the Dip Transfer LED which shows that the dip switch settings data has been transferred from the Base unit to the Radio/Antenna unit. This will blink twice every second in normal operation. The first blink indicates that the Base unit’s processor has sent the DIP data to the Radio/Antenna unit’s processor. The second blink, which should immediately follow the first blink, means that the Radio/Antenna unit’s processor has received the DIP data packet and sent back an acknowledgement to the Base unit indicating that it has received and processed it.
• LEARN STATUS – LED #4 – LED #4 is DUAL PURPOSE. This a new feature in Version 2.0x firmware. When in the LEARN mode, LED #4 shows the status of the Learning process. (See Page 17). Please refer to the Pairing process sheet for a description of this LED’s blinking pattern.
  In the RUN Mode, this LED shows definitively that the system is paired and operating correctly. LED #4 on the PRR-16A Receiver Base Unit shows that the receiver has received a valid transmission from the transmitter in the last 35 seconds. LED #4 on the PRT-16A shows that the transmitter has received an acknowledgment back from the receiver in the last 35 seconds. If this LED is not lit, it is an indication that power is off at the opposite end, that the transmitter and receiver are not paired, or that some other condition exists that is causing the transmitter and receiver not to communicate or communicate reliably every 35 seconds. This could be caused by a Line-of-Sight path interruption or blockage, or a high ambient electrical noise issue.

FCC STATEMENT

FCC / IC NOTICES
This product contains FCC ID: OJM-HUMA-900 / IC: 5840A-HUMA900
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standards. Operation of this device is subject to the following two conditions:

1. this device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, under Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used by the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Any modifications could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

SOLID STATE INSTRUMENTS
a division of Brayden Automation Corp. 6230 Aviation Circle, Loveland, Colorado 80538

• Phone: (970)461-9600
• E-mail : [email protected]

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