rako RAK8-MB 8 Channel Modular Dimming Motherboard Instruction Manual
- June 24, 2024
- rako
Table of Contents
rako RAK8-MB 8 Channel Modular Dimming Motherboard
Specifications
- Product: RAK8-MB
- Type: 8-Channel modular dimming motherboard
- Version: 2.4.2
Product Information
The RAK8-MB serves as the base for up to eight pluggable modules that can be
added in any combination to meet system requirements. It supports various
pluggable modules such as dimmers, switching modules, and relay controllers.
The RAK8-MB can be used as a single 8-channel unit or stacked with multiple
units to expand up to 32 circuits or 4 RAK-8 motherboards when combined with a
Link device (RX-LINK or RAK-LINK).
Product Usage Instructions
Installation Installation of the RAK8-MB should be performed by a qualified electrician.
- Secure the metal box housing to the wall or a secure mounting position ensuring proper ventilation.
- Bring a separate 10A protected supply to each RAK case. Connect Neutral and Earth to the busbars as indicated.
- Connect the live wire to the front of the metalwork ready for connection to the circuit board.
- Bring a single Neutral and Earth from the busbars to the front of the metalwork and prepare screws to hold the circuit board in place.
Programming
To program the RAK8-MB, refer to the Wireless RAK Programming Guide or
Wired System Programming Guide for detailed instructions. Diagnostics
The RAK8-MB features a seven-segment display for diagnostic feedback. Refer
to Appendix 1 in the manual for more information on diagnostics. Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQ)
-
Q: How many pluggable modules can be added to the RAK8-MB?
A: The RAK8-MB supports up to eight pluggable modules which can be added in any combination as per system requirements. -
Q: Can the RAK8-MB be used as a standalone unit?
A: Yes, the RAK8-MB can function as a single 8-channel unit or be stacked with multiple units to expand the system. -
Q: What is the purpose of the Address DIP Switches on theRAK8-MB?
A: The Address DIP Switches are used to assign unique numbers to each RAK8-MB for identification and configuration purposes.
For programming information: Wireless RAK Programming Guide or Wired System Programming Guide For general system information: Wireless RAK Application Sheet or Wired RAK Application Sheet
What is the RAK8-MB
The RAK8-MB forms the base for up to eight pluggable modules, which can be added in any combination as per the system requirements.
Pluggable modules to be used with the RAK8-MB are:
- W MT-400 – 400W Trailing Edge dimmer
- WML-300 – 300W Leading Edge dimmer
- WDA-600 – 600W digital dimmer for use with 1-10V, DSI and DLI broadcast
- WMS-600 – 600W Switching Module
- WM-CUB – Twin relay Curtain and Blind controller
RAK8s, combined with a Link device (RX-LINK or RAK-LINK) can either be used as a single 8 Channel unit or formed into a “stack” of up to 32 circuits or 4 RAK-8 motherboards.
NB
The RX-LINK has a limit of 2 RAK8-MBs per unit, if more RAK8-MBs are required
then additional RX-LINK units must be used.
RAK8-MB Circuit Board
-
RJ45 Ports
Used for connecting between the RAK-LINK and the RAK8-MB, as well as between RAK8-MB’s. -
Display
The seven-segment display is used for diagnostic feedback for the RAK8-MB, see the appendix for more information see Appendix 1: Diagnostics for more information. -
Test Buttons
Used for manually switching the outputs on and off, this can be used to test lighting circuits before the RAK8-MB has been programmed. -
Address DIP Switches
Dip switches are used to assign unique box numbers to each RAK8-MB, for more information, see the Wired System Programming Guide. -
Card Sockets
The top and bottom sockets on the RAK8-MB are for the pluggable modules for the RAK8-MB, each two vertical slots houses a single module. -
Mains Input
The mains supply is wired into the three terminals on the Mains Input, for details on input requirements, see the RAK8-MB Datasheet. -
Permanent 230V Outputs
The permanent output may be used to temporarily power lighting circuits should the pluggable modules not be present. -
Card Outputs
The 1-8 outputs relate to the pluggable card slots, for example: if a WMT-400 is plugged into slot 1 of the RAK8-MB, Card Output 1 would be a trailing edge dimmable output.
NB
The WM-CUB has onboard outputs via a 6-way pluggable terminal block.
Installation
Installation should only be carried out by a competent electrician.
Programming
- Before the RAK8-MB can operate via controls, it will need to be configured using Rasoft Pro software.
- If an RX-LINK is being used with the RAK8-MB, follow the Wireless RAK Programming Guide.
- If a RAK-LINK is being used with the RAK8-MB, follow the Wired System Programming Guide.
Diagnostics
The display on the RAK8-MB has useful diagnostic information that can help with fault finding.
WM-CUB wiring diagrams
The WM-CUB is a dual relay unit capable of controlling mains, DC, or dry contact blinds, it can also be used for controlling volt-free or dc interfaces if the loadings permit.
Mains switching
The WM-CUB is most commonly used with “mains switching blinds.” The six-way
terminal block is fed with permanent mains and has two switched mains outputs.
A three-core earth cable should be run from the WM-CUB to the blind.
24V Polarity Switching
The WM-CUB can also be used to control 24V polarity switching blinds. In this case, a separate 24V power supply is required, and a two-core cable should be run from the WM-CUB to the blind.
Contact Closure
The WM-CUB can be used to provide a control signal to the blinds. In this case, a 3-core cable is run from the WM-CUB to the blind control box.
RAK8-MB wiring example:
- The RAK8-MB has a 230V mains supply input, the Earth and Neutral must be connected to the BUS bar behind the circuit board, as do the Earth and Neutral for any of the loads.
- The example shown has a single load connected for demonstration, additional loads can be connected to a single Channel (such as multiple downlights) by looping in and out of the light fittings, providing that the loading is permitted on the RAK8-MB card.