Campbell RF401, RF411, RF416, RF430, RF431 Instruction Manual

...

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

RF401-series and RF430-series

Spread Spectrum Data

Campbell Scientific, Inc.

Radios/Modems

Revision: 4/17

Guarantee



This equipment is guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship. We will repair or replace products which prove to be defective during the guarantee period as detailed on your invoice, provided they are returned to us prepaid. The guarantee will not apply to:

Equipment which has been modified or altered in any way without the written permission of Campbell Scientific

Batteries Any product which has been subjected to misuse, neglect, acts of God or

damage in transit.

Campbell Scientific will return guaranteed equipment by surface carrier prepaid. Campbell Scientific will not reimburse the claimant for costs incurred

in removing and/or reinstalling equipment. This guarantee and the Company’s

obligation thereunder is in lieu of all other guarantees, expressed or implied, including those of suitability and fitness for a particular purpose. Campbell Scientific is not liable for consequential damage.

Please inform us before returning equipment and obtain a Repair Reference Number whether the repair is under guarantee or not. Please state the faults as clearly as possible, and if the product is out of the guarantee period it should be accompanied by a purchase order. Quotations for repairs can be given on request. It is the policy of Campbell Scientific to protect the health of its employees and provide a safe working environment, in support of this policy a

“Declaration of Hazardous Material and Decontamination” form will be

issued for completion.

When returning equipment, the Repair Reference Number must be clearly marked on the outside of the package. Complete the “Declaration of Hazardous Material and Decontamination” form and ensure a completed copy is returned with your goods. Please note your Repair may not be processed if you do not include a copy of this form and Campbell Scientific Ltd reserves the right to return goods at the customers’ expense.

Note that goods sent air freight are subject to Customs clearance fees which Campbell Scientific will charge to customers. In many cases, these charges are greater than the cost of the repair.

Campbell Scientific Ltd,

80 Hathern Road,

Shepshed, Loughborough, LE12 9GX, UK

Tel: +44 (0) 1509 601141

Fax: +44 (0) 1509 601091

Email: support@campbellsci.co.uk

www.campbellsci.co.uk

PLEASE READ FIRST

About this manual

Please note that this manual was originally produced by Campbell Scientific Inc. primarily for the North American market. Some spellings, weights and measures may reflect this origin.

Some useful conversion factors:

Area: 1 in2 (square inch) = 645 mm2

Length: 1 in. (inch) = 25.4 mm

1 ft (foot) = 304.8 mm 1 yard = 0.914 m 1 mile = 1.609 km

In addition, while most of the information in the manual is correct for all countries, certain information is specific to the North American market and so may not be applicable to European users.

Differences include the U.S standard external power supply details where some information (for example the AC transformer input voltage) will not be applicable for British/European use. Please note,

however, that when a power supply adapter is ordered it will be suitable for use in your country.

Reference to some radio transmitters, digital cell phones and aerials may also not be applicable according to your locality.

Some brackets, shields and enclosure options, including wiring, are not sold as standard items in the European market; in some cases alternatives are offered. Details of the alternatives will be covered in separate manuals.

Part numbers prefixed with a “#” symbol are special order parts for use with non-EU variants or for special installations. Please quote the full part number with the # when ordering.

Mass: 1 oz. (ounce) = 28.35 g

1 lb (pound weight) = 0.454 kg

Pressure: 1 psi (lb/in2) = 68.95 mb

Volume: 1 UK pint = 568.3 ml

1 UK gallon = 4.546 litres 1 US gallon = 3.785 litres

Recycling information

At the end of this product’s life it should not be put in commercial or domestic refuse but sent for recycling. Any batteries contained within the product or used during the products life should be removed from the product and also be sent to an appropriate recycling facility.

Campbell Scientific Ltd can advise on the recycling of the equipment and in some cases arrange collection and the correct disposal of it, although charges may apply for some items or territories.

For further advice or support, please contact Campbell Scientific Ltd, or your local agent.

Campbell Scientific Ltd, 80 Hathern Road, Shepshed, Loughborough, LE12 9GX, UK

Tel: +44 (0) 1509 601141 Fax: +44 (0) 1509 601091

Email: support@campbellsci.co.uk

www.campbellsci.co.uk

Precautions

DANGER — MANY HAZARD S ARE ASSOCIATED WITH INSTALLING, USING, M AINTAINING, AND WORKING ON OR AROUND TRIPODS, TOWERS, AND ANY ATTACHMENTS TO TRIPODS AND TOWERS SUCH AS SENSORS, CROSSARMS, ENCLOSURES, ANTENNAS, ETC. FAILURE TO PROPERLY AND COM P LE TE LY ASS E M BLE , INSTALL, OPERATE, USE, AND MAINTAIN TRIPODS, TOWERS, AND ATTACHMENTS, AND FAILURE TO HEED WARNINGS, INCREASES THE RISK OF DEATH, ACCIDENT, SERIOUS INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, AND PRODUCT FAILURE. TAKE ALL REASONABLE PRECAUTIONS TO AVOID THESE HAZARDS. CHECK WITH YOUR ORGANIZATION'S SAFETY COORDINATOR (OR POLICY) FOR PROCEDURES AND REQUIRED PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT PRIOR TO PERFORMING ANY WORK.

Use tripods, towers, and attachments to tripods and towers only for purposes for which they are designed. Do not exceed design limits. Be familiar and comply with all instructions provided in product manuals. Manuals are available at www.campbellsci.eu or by telephoning +44(0) 1509 828 888 (UK). You are responsible for conformance with governing codes and regulati ons, including safety regulati ons, and the integrity and locati on of structures or land to which towers, tripods, and any attachments are attached. Installation sites should be evaluated and approved by a qualified engineer. If questions or co ncerns arise regarding installation, use, or maintenance of tripods, towers, attachments, or electrical connections, consult with a licensed and qualified engineer or electrician.

General

• Prior to performing site or installation work, obtain required approvals and permits. Comply with all

governing structure-height regulations, such as those of the FAA in the USA.

• Use only qualified personnel for installation, use, and maintenance of tripods and towers, and any

attachments to tripods and towers. The use of licensed and qualified contractors is highly recommended.

• Read all applicable instructions carefully and understand procedures thoroughly before beginning work.

• Wear a hardhat and eye protection, and take other appropriate safety precautions while working on or

around tripods and towers.

• Do not climb tripods or towers at any time, and prohibit climbing by other persons. Take reasonable

precautions to secure tripod and tower sites from trespassers.

• Use only manufacturer recommended parts, materials, and tools.

Utility and Electrical

• You can be killed or sustain serious bodily injury if the tripod, tower, or attachments you are installing,

constructing, using, or maintaining, or a tool, stake, or anchor, come in contact with overhead or underground utility lines.

• Maintain a distance of at least one-and-one-half times structure height, or 20 feet, or the distance

required by applicable law, whichever is greater, between overhead utility lines and the structure (tripod, tower, attachments, or tools).

• Prior to performing site or installation work, inform all utility companies and have all underground utilities

marked.

• Comply with all electrical codes. Electrical equipment and related grounding devices should be installed

by a licensed and qualified electrician.

Elevated Work and Weather

• Exercise extreme caution when performing elevated work.

• Use appropriate equipment and safety practices.

• During installation and maintenance, keep tower and tripod sites clear of un-trained or non-essential

personnel. Take precautions to prevent elevated tools and objects from dropping.

• Do not perform any work in inclement weather, including wind, rain, snow, lightning, etc.

Maintenance

• Periodically (at least yearly) check for wear and damage, including corrosion, stress cracks, frayed cables,

loose cable clamps, cable tightness, etc. and take necessary corrective actions.

• Periodically (at least yearly) check electrical ground connections.

WHILE EVERY ATTEMPT IS MADE TO EMBODY THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF SAFETY IN ALL CAMPBELL SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTS, THE CUSTOMER ASSUMES ALL RISK FROM ANY INJURY RESULTING FROM IMPROPER INSTALLATION, USE, OR MAINTENANCE OF TRIPODS, TOWERS, OR ATTACHMENTS TO TRIPODS AND TOWERS SUCH AS SENSORS, CROSSARMS, ENCLOSURES, ANTENNAS, ETC.

– CAUTION –

Where an AC adapter is used, CSI recommends

Item # 15966.

Any other AC adapter used must have a DC output not exceeding 16.5

Volts measured without a load to avoid damage to the RF401/RF430

Series radio!

Over-voltage damage is not covered by factory warranty!

(See Section 4.2, Power Supplies (p. 13), for AC adapter requirements)

Power plug polarity

PDF viewers: These page numbers refer to the printed version of this document. Use the PDF reader bookmarks tab for links to specific sections.

1. Introduction ................................................................ 1

1.1 RF401-series Radios ............................................................................ 2

1.2 RF430-series Radios ............................................................................ 2

1.3 Combination Mode Communications .................................................. 3

1.4 Retired Spread Spectrum Radios ......................................................... 4

1.4.1 RF400-series Radios ..................................................................... 4

1.4.2 CR205, CR210, CR215 Dataloggers ............................................ 4

2. Specifications ............................................................. 4

3. Installation .................................................................. 6

3.1 Site Considerations .............................................................................. 6

3.2 Quick Start (Point-to-Point or PakBus) ................................................ 6

3.2.1 Step 1 – Set Up Base RF401 or RF430 ......................................... 6

3.2.2 Step 2 – Set Up Remote RF401 .................................................... 9

3.2.3 Step 3 – LoggerNet Set-up .......................................................... 10

3.2.4 Step 4 – Connect ......................................................................... 11

3.3 Antenna Considerations ..................................................................... 12

3.3.1 Line of Sight ............................................................................... 12

3.3.2 Mounting ..................................................................................... 12

3.3.3 Antenna Cable Routing ............................................................... 12

3.3.4 Antenna Cable Weather Sealing ................................................. 12

4. System Components ............................................... 12

4.1 RF401 or RF430 Radios .................................................................... 12

4.1.1 Indicator LEDs ............................................................................ 12

4.1.2 Radio Configuration.................................................................... 13

4.2 Power Supplies ................................................................................... 13

4.2.1 Base Radio Site (radio connected to a PC) ................................. 13

4.2.2 Remote Sites with Datalogger..................................................... 15

4.2.3 Non-datalogger Remote Site ....................................................... 15

4.3 Serial and USB Cables ....................................................................... 15

4.4 Compatible Antennas ......................................................................... 16

4.5 Antenna Cables and Surge Protection ................................................ 21

4.5.1 Antenna Cables ........................................................................... 21

4.5.2 Electro-static Issues .................................................................... 21

4.5.3 Antenna Surge Protector Kit ....................................................... 21

5. Software .................................................................... 22

5.1 DevConfig .......................................................................................... 22

5.1.1 Using DevConfig ........................................................................ 22

5.1.2 RF401/RF411/RF416 or RF430/RF431/RF432 Tab................... 23

5.1.2.1 Active Interface ................................................................ 24

5.1.2.2 SDC Address or CSDC Address ...................................... 24

5.1.2.3 Protocol ............................................................................ 24

Table of Contents

RS-232 Baud Rate ........................................................... 25

5.1.2.4

5.1.2.5 CS I/O ME Baud Rate ..................................................... 26

5.1.2.6 Hop Sequence .................................................................. 26

5.1.2.7 Net Address ..................................................................... 26

5.1.2.8 Radio Address ................................................................. 26

5.1.2.9 Power Modes ................................................................... 27

5.1.2.10 Retry Level ...................................................................... 27

5.1.3 PakBus Tab ................................................................................ 28

5.2 LoggerNet ......................................................................................... 29

5.2.1 Setup Screen ............................................................................... 29

5.2.1.1 Standard Setup (RF400) .................................................. 31

5.2.1.2 Standard Setup (RF400 Remote) ..................................... 33

5.2.2 Network Planner......................................................................... 34

5.2.3 PakBus Graph ............................................................................ 35

6. Troubleshooting ....................................................... 36

Appendices

A. Part 15 FCC Compliance Warning......................... A-1

B. Advanced Setup Menu ........................................... B-1

B.1 Accessing the Advanced Menu ....................................................... B-1

B.2 Error Handling and Retries .............................................................. B-3

B.2.1 Number of Retries .................................................................... B-3

B.2.2 Number of Time Slots for Random Retry ................................ B-3

B.2.3 Number of Bytes Transmitted before Delay ............................ B-3

B.2.4 Sync Timer Setting ................................................................... B-3

B.2.5 Number of Retry Failures ......................................................... B-3

B.3 Received Signal Strength ................................................................ B-4

B.4 Advanced Setup Standby Modes ..................................................... B-4

C. Address and Address Mask .................................. C-1

D. Setting Up RF401-to-CR206(X)

Communications .................................................. D-1

D.1 CR206(X) Setup Information .......................................................... D-1

D.2 Example Setup 1 - LoggerNet to CR206(X) ................................... D-4

D.3 Example Setup 2 - Router to CR206(X) .......................................... D-7

E. Port Pin Descriptions ............................................. E-1

F. Non-PakBus Example Configurations .................. F-1

F.1 Direct PC to RF401 Series Base Station Setup (Transparent

Protocol) ....................................................................................... F-1

F.2 Remote Station Setup (Transparent Protocol) .................................. F-2

F.3 LoggerNet Configuration (Transparent Protocol) ............................ F-3

F.4 PC208W Configuration .................................................................... F-4

G. Short-Haul Modems ............................................... G-1

Table of Contents

H. Distance vs. Antenna Gain, Terrain, and Other

Factors .................................................................. H-1

I. Phone to RF401 Series ............................................ I-1

I.1 PakBus Network ............................................................................... I-1

I.2 Non-PakBus Network ....................................................................... I-7

J. Monitor CSAT3 via RF401 Series ........................... J-1

K. RF401/RF411 Pass/Fail Tests ................................ K-1

L. RF401/RF411 Average Current Drain

lculations ......................................................... L-1

M. PakBus Networking Details ................................... M-1

M.1 PakBus Aware, PakBus Node, and RF PakBus .............................. M-1

M.2 Minimizing the Number of Small Link State Packets ..................... M-1

M.3 Maximizing the RF Packet Size ...................................................... M-1

M.4 Establishing an Ad Hoc Point-to-Point Link ................................... M-2

M.5 Net and Radio Address Settings ...................................................... M-2

M.6 Hop Metric, Signal Strength, and Standby Modes .......................... M-2

M.6.1 Hop Metric Code ..................................................................... M-3

M.7 RF Router ........................................................................................ M-3

M.8 Optimization ................................................................................... M-4

M.9 Idiosyncrasies .................................................................................. M-4

Figures

1-1. The RF401 is one of the models available of our RF401-series

radios. ............................................................................................... 2

1-2. RF430 has a USB port allowing it to be connected directly to a

PC’s USB port. ................................................................................. 3

3-1. RF401 Basic Point-to-Point Network .................................................. 9

3-2. Point-to-Point or PakBus communications, select direct connect

as the connection type. .................................................................... 10

3-3. The Baud Rate in LoggerNet must match the radio’s RS-232 baud

ate. ................................................................................................. 11

4-1. Item #14310 900 MHz Omnidirectional 1/4 Wave Whip, 0 dBd .... 17

4-2. Item #14204 900 MHz Omnidirectional 1/2 Wave Whip, 0 dBd .... 17

4-3. Item #14201 900 MHz Yagi, 9 dBd w/Mounts ................................. 18

4-4. Item #14205 900 MHz Yagi, 6 dBd w/Mounts ................................. 18

4-5. Item #14221 900 MHz Omnidirectional Collinear, 3 dBd

/Mounts ........................................................................................ 18

4-6. Item #15970 900 MHz Indoor Dipole, 1 dBd Window/Wall

Mounted .......................................................................................... 19

4-7. Item #16005 2.4 GHz Omnidirectional 1/2 Wave Whip, 0 dBd ...... 19

4-8. Item #16755 2.4 GHz Enclosed Yagi, 13 dBd w/Mounts ................. 20

4-9. Example COAX RPSMA-L Cable for Yagi or Omni Colinear ......... 20

4-10. Antenna Surge Protector .................................................................... 20

4-11. Enclosure with Antenna Surge Protector for RF401 .......................... 22

iii

Table of Contents

5-1. Default DevConfig Screen for Setting Up the RF401 radios (OS4

r higher) ....................................................................................... 23

5-2. PakBus tab in DevConfig (with Default Settings) ............................. 28

5-3. Select RF4XX for connection type for a multipoint (non PakBus)

network. ......................................................................................... 30

5-4. For the datalogger settings, the baud rate must match the radio’s

RS-232 baud rate. .......................................................................... 30

5-5. Default Screen for the RF400 Standard Setup in LoggerNet 4 ......... 31

5-6. Default Screen for the RF400 Remote Standard Setup in

LoggerNet 4 ................................................................................... 33

5-7. Point to Multi-Point Network with Two Routers .............................. 35

5-8. Point to Multi-Point Network as Displayed in PakBus Graph ......... 35

D-1. CR206 Setup Main Menu ................................................................ D-1

D-2. This graph represents a transmitting radio that uses a long header

and a receiving radio that is in a sleep cycle. The length of the wake-up initializer exceeds the time interval of cyclic sleep ensuring that the receiver detects the wake-up initializer and

receives the payload (i.e., transmitted data). ................................ D-3

D-3. This graph represents a radio that transmits a wake-up initializer

that is shorter than the cyclic sleep of the receiving radio. The receiver does not detect the wake-up initializer and remains

asleep—missing the data transmission......................................... D-3

D-4. DevConfig Deployment panel showing the CR206(X) setup for

Example 1. ................................................................................... D-5

D-5. DevConfig Deployment panel showing the RF401 setup for

Example 1. ................................................................................... D-6

D-6. DevConfig Deployment panel for CR206(X) Example Setup 2 ..... D-7

D-7. DevConfig Deployment panel showing the RF401#1 setup for

Example 2. ................................................................................... D-8

D-8. DevConfig Deployment panel showing the RF401#2 setup for

Example 2. ................................................................................... D-9

F-1. Point-to-Multipoint System .............................................................. F-4

F-2. PC208W Datalogger Generic Dial String ........................................ F-6

G-1. Short-Haul Modem to RF401 Setup ................................................ G-1

I-1. Configuring a phone-to –RF401 network using the Network

lanner Tool. The Network Planner is available in LoggerNet

version 4 or higher. ........................................................................ I-1

I-2. Phone base configuration. ................................................................. I-4

I-3. Enter the base site’s phone number. .................................................. I-5

I-4. Enter 250 for the Maximum Packet Size. .......................................... I-6

I-5. LoggerNet Point-to-Multipoint Setup ............................................... I-9

K-1. Loop-back Test without Antennas................................................... K-4

K-2. Vertically Polarized 9 dBd 900 MHz Yagi ..................................... K-6

K-3. 3 dBd 900 MHz Collinear Omni Antenna ....................................... K-6

Tables

3-1. PC Driver Installation .......................................................................... 7

3-2. Lacking 12 V on CS I/O Pin 8 .......................................................... 10

4-1. 15966’s Voltage Regulation .............................................................. 14

5-1. Standard Setup Menu ........................................................................ 27

5-2. Standard Retry Levels ....................................................................... 27

B-1. Advanced Setup Menu .................................................................... B-5

D-1. CR206(X) Power Modes and the Recommended Corresponding

RF401 Power Modes.................................................................... D-2

Table of Contents

H-1. 900 MHz Distance vs. Path Loss (Lp in dB) per Three Path

Types ........................................................................................... H-6

H-2. Path Type vs. Path Characteristics Selector .................................... H-6

K-1. 900 MHz Gain Antenna Test Distances .......................................... K-6

L-1. Advanced Setup Menu ..................................................................... L-1

Table of Contents

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread

NOTE

CAUTION CAUTION

Spectrum Radio/Modems

1. Introduction

This manual discusses the RF401-series and RF430-series spread spectrum radios. Spread spectrum radios spread the normally narrowband information signal over a relatively wide band of frequencies. This allows the communications to be more immune to noise and interference from RF sources such as pagers, cellular phones and multipath. The RF401-series and RF430series radios reduce susceptibility to RF interference from other spread spectrum devices by providing user-selectable frequency hopping patterns.

You do not need a communications authority license for the RF401-series or RF430-series configurations described in this manual including U.S. Government Agencies regulated by NTIA Annex K. Spread spectrum radios, like all FCC Part 15 devices, are not allowed to cause harmful interference to licensed radio communications and must accept any interference that they receive. Most Campbell Scientific users operate in open or remote locations where interference is unlikely. If there is a problem, interference can be reduced using methods such as moving the device, reorienting or using a different type of antenna, or adding RF shielding.

The RF401-series and RF430-series radios can provide up to one mile transmission range when using an inexpensive whip antenna. The radios can provide up to 10 mile transmission range when using a higher gain directional antenna at ideal conditions. Compatible antennas are described in Section 4.4, Compatible Antennas

Line-of-sight obstructions and RF interference will affect the transmission distance. See Appendix H, Distance vs. Antenna Gain, Terrain, and Other Factors antenna gain and other factors affecting distance.

You may test the radio communications onsite by using the 21107 900 MHz Spread Spectrum Demo Kit; contact Campbell Scientific for more information.

Campbell Scientific does not recommend using RF401series and RF430-series radios in networks containing RF450 radios. The RF450 radios will interfere with the transmission of the RF401-series and RF430-series radios.

No product using the 24XStream radio, including the RF416 and RF432, can be used in new installs in Europe after 1/1/2015 due to changes in EU legislation.

(p. 16).

(p. H-1), for a discussion of

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

NOTE

1.1 RF401-series Radios

The RF401-series radios have a CS I/O port and an RS-232 port (see FIGURE

1-1). These radios can serve as a field modem/radio while connected to th

atalogger or as a base station modem/radio when connected to a PC’s RS-

t. The following models are available:

por

• RF401 915 MHz Spread Spectrum Radio—transmits data to another

RF401 radio, an RF430 radio, a CR206(X) datalogger, or an AVW206 i

nterface. The 915 MHz frequency is used in the US/Canada.

• RF411 922 MHz Spread Spectrum Radio—transmits data to another

RF411 radio, an RF431 radio, a CR211(X) datalogger, or an AVW interface. The 922 MHz frequency is used in Australia/Israel.

232

211

• RF416 2.4 GHz Spread Spectrum Radio—transmits data to another RF

adio, an RF432 radio, a CR216(X) datalogger, or an AVW216 interface.

This product should not be used in new installs in Europe after 1/1/2015.

416

FIGURE 1-1. The RF401 is one of the models available of our RF401-

series radios.

Unless specified otherwise, throughout this manual RF401 refers to the RF401, RF411, and RF416 radios.

1.2 RF430-series Radios

The RF430-series radios have a USB port and an RS-232 port (see FIGURE

1-2). The RF430 can only be configured through the USB port. Usually, thes

adios connect to a PC’s USB port to serve as base station modems/radios. The RF430-series radios may also connect to the datalogger’s RS-232 port to serve as a field modem (requires a null modem cable and a field power cable). The following models are available:

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

NOTE

• RF430 915 MHz Spread Spectrum Radio—transmits data to another

RF430 radio, RF401 radio, or a CR206(X) datalogger. The 915 MH

requency is used in the US/Canada.

• RF431 922 MHz Spread Spectrum Radio—transmits data to another

RF431 radio, an RF411 radio, or a CR211(X). The 922 MHz frequency is used in Australia/Israel.

• RF432 2.4 GHz Spread Spectrum Radio—transmits data to another RF

adio, an RF416 radio, or a CR216(X). This product should not be used in

r new installs in Europe after 1/1/2015.

If the RF430’s operating system is prior to OS2, its USB port will only communicate at 38.4 kbps. Therefore, the RF430 operating system will need to be updated to a newer version if the network will contain dataloggers that do not support 38.4 kbps. Operating system updates are available from

www.campbellsci.com/downloads.

432

FIGURE 1-2. RF430 has a USB port allowing it to be connected

directly to a PC’s USB port.

Unless specified otherwise, throughout this manual RF430 refers to the RF430, RF431, and RF432 radios.

1.3 Combination Mode Communications

Besides the “direct” to PC communications described in the Quick Start and Installation sections, it is possible to combine methods in datalogger communications. Some examples:

• Phone to RF401: PC to external modem to COM220 to RF401 t

datalogger (see Appendix I, Phone to RF401 Series

(p. I-1))

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

CAUTION

• Short Haul modem to radio: PC to short haul modems to radios t

atalogger (see Appendix G, Short-Haul Modems

• Ethernet network to radio: PC to Internet to NL100 to radio to datalogger

(use LoggerNet IPPort, remote IP address, port number)

1.4 Retired Spread Spectrum Radios

1.4.1 RF400-series Radios

On May 2, 2005, the RF401, RF411, and RF416 replaced the RF400, RF410, and RF415, respectively. The newer radios have a choice of three communication protocol settings. The three protocol settings are Transparent, PakBus Aware, and PakBus Node. Transparent is the protocol used by the RF400. RF401 and RF430 radios in networks that also have RF400 radios must use the Transparent protocol setting. Transparent is the default setting for RF401 radios with operating systems of OS3 or lower.

Do not mix the “Transparent” protocol with any of the PakBus protocols. This will produce RF traffic without any RF communications.

The PakBus Aware and PakBus Node settings make the radios easier to use in a PakBus network. Radios set to PakBus Aware and radios set to PakBus Node can be in the same network. PakBus Aware is the default setting for RF430 radios and RF401 radios with an operating system of OS4 or higher. The PakBus Aware setting is the simplest to use and does not require a PakBus address. The PakBus Node setting is intended for radios used as stand-alone routers.

(p. G-1))

RF400 radios can be upgraded to RF401 radios by sending the RF400 to Campbell Scientific; an RMA is required.

1.4.2 CR205, CR210, CR215 Dataloggers

On September 15, 2005, the CR206, CR211, and CR216 dataloggers replaced the CR205, CR210, and CR215 dataloggers, respectively. The newer dataloggers’ internal radios have two RF Protocol settings, which are PakBus and Transparent. The PakBus setting is used with RF430 radios and RF401 radios set to PakBus Aware or PakBus Node. The Transparent RF protocol setting is required when the network contains older equipment (e.g., RF400s, CR205s).

2. Specifications

Power

Voltage: 9 to 16 VDC Current: 75 mA typical during transmit (RF401 series)

78 mA typical during transmit (RF430 series) 24 mA typical receiving a signal (RF401, RF411) 36 mA typical receiving a signal (RF416) 26 mA typical receiving a signal (RF430, RF431) 40 mA typical receiving a signal (RF432)

Quiescent Current in Standby Modes*

Avg. Quiescent Current (mA)

Advanced Setup

Standby Mode

Standard

Setup

RF401/

RF411

RF416

RF430/

RF431

RF432

24.0

33.0

26.2

39.8

0 (no duty cycling)

3.9

5.5

5.7

9.2 3 2

2.0

2.8

2.4

3.8 4 3

1.1

1.5

1.6

2.4

0.64

0.84

1.1

1.5

0.40

0.50

0.60

0.75 7 4

* Not receiving a signal nor transmitting

Physical

RF/Interface

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

Size: 11.4 x 7.0 x 2.9 cm (4.5 x 2.8 x 1.1 in) Weight: 225 g (0.5 lb) Operating temp. range: –25°C to +50°C Humidity: 0 to 95% RH, non-condensing

Transceiver modules: MaxStream

RF401, RF430 – 9XStream XO9-009 RF411, RF431 – 9XStream XH9-009 RF416, RF432 – 24XStream X24-009

Frequency bands: RF401, RF430 – 910.5 to 917.7 MHz

RF411, RF431 – 920.0 to 927.2 MHz RF416, RF432 – 2.45015 to 2.45975 GHz

Interface ports: CS I/O 9 pin (RF401 series only)

RS-232 9-pin (4 wire: Tx, Rx, CTS, GND) USB Port (RF430 series only)

RS-232 baud rates: 38.4 k (default), 19.2 k, 9600, 4800, 1200 bps USB baud rate: 38.4 k (default), 19.2 k, 9600, 4800, 1200 bps;

OS1 only supported 38.4 kbps

Mode: Frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS),

25 hop channels, 7 hopping sequences, direct FM frequency control

Channel capacity: 65,535 addresses Transmitter output: 100 mW nominal (50 mW RF416, RF432)

-4

Receiver sensitivity: −110 dBm at 10

bit error rate

(−104 dBm for RF416)

Antenna impedance: 50 Ω, unbalanced (SMA male connector) Interference reject: 70 dB at pager and cellular phone frequencies

(RF401, RF411, RF430, RF431)

RF packet size: up to 64 bytes, half-duplex Error handling: RF packet CRC failure detection/rejection or

configurable retry levels

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

3. Installation

3.1 Site Considerations

Location of a radio near commercial transmitters, such as at certain mountaintop sites, is not recommended due to possible “de-sensing” problems for the radio. A powerful signal of almost any frequency at close range can simply overwhelm a receiver. Lower power and intermittent repeater sites may not be a problem. Test such a site with a representative setup before committing to it (see Section 6, Troubleshooting commercial sites tend to evolve. Such a site may work now but could change in the future with the addition of new equipment.

3.2 Quick Start (Point-to-Point or PakBus)

This section is intended to serve as a “primer” enabling you to quickly build a simple system and see how it operates. This section describes in four steps how to set up a pair of radios in a direct connect, point-to-point or PakBus network. We recommend that you do this before undertaking field installation. For additional help on point-to-point networks and for help on creating pointto-multipoint networks, refer to Section 5, Software Non-PakBus Example Configurations

(p. 36)). Keep in mind that

(p. 22), and Appendix F,

(p. F-1).

For this system you will need the following hardware or the equivalent:

1. Two radios (either two RF401s or an RF430 and an RF401)

2. Two antennas

3. AC adapter (Item # 15966)

4. RS-232 serial cable or USB cabl

C12 cable (included with RF401)

5. S

6. Datalogger (e.g., CR800, CR1000, CR3000)

7. Field Power Cable (Item # 14291) if datalogger or wiring panel doesn’t

have 12 V on pin 8 of CS I/O port

You will also need:

• An IBM

• LoggerNet installed on PC

compatible PC with one available COM port or USB port

3.2.1 Step 1 – Set Up Base RF401 or RF430

a. Connect an antenna (or antenna cable with Yagi or omnidirectional

antenna attached) to the radio’s antenna jack. The main objective is to provide an antenna. If you should transmit without an antenna attached, there will be no equipment damage as the transmitter is protected agains

oad mismatch. The separation between the base radio antenna and th

emote radio antenna can be any convenient distance. (See Sections 3.3

r Antenna Considerations antenna considerations and options.)

(p. 12), and 4.4, Compatible Antennas (p. 16), for

b. If using an RF430, go to step c. If using an RF401, use the RS-232 serial

cable to connect the RF401’s RS-232 port to the PC’s RS-232 port. Then go to step d.

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

TABLE 3-1. PC Driver Installation

NOTE

c. If using an RF430, install the USB drivers to the PC by doing the

following procedures. Install drivers BEFORE connecting the RF430 t the

PC.

You cannot use the RS-232 port to configure the radio.

• Obtain software drivers from one of the following sources.

Source 1: Insert the CD supplied with a new RF430. The CD shoul

uto run and present a menu (if not, open AutoRun.exe). Click o

Install Drivers] button.

[

Source 2: Obtain the file at www.campbellsci.com/downloads, and copy it to a PC drive. Open the file and follow the prompts.

• Follow the on-screen prompts to copy driver files to the PC.

• Install drivers for RF430 as outlined in TABLE 3-1. PC Driver

Installation. Procedures differ for different Windows® operating systems and assume driver files have been copied to the PC.

Windows® XP Windows® Vista Windows® 7

1. Connect the RF430 radio to a computer USB port via the USB cabl

2. T

he Found New

Hardware Wizard

window will open. Select “No, not this time,” whe asked to connect to Windows U

pdate, then click

3. S

elect “Install the softwar au

hen click Next

f the Windows®

4. I Security windo ap “Install this driver software anyway to c

5. Click Finish to close the f

Ne Wizard window.

tomatically,

pears, select

ontinue.

ound

w Hardware

”

1. Connect th R

F430 radio to a computer USB port via the USB cable

he Found New

2. T

Hardware

window will open. Click on “Locate and install driver software.

3. I

f the Windows®

Security windo

pears, select

ap “Install this driver software anyway.”

”

1. C

onnect th

F430 radio to a computer USB port via the USB cable

indows® 7

2. W configures the driver au

tomatically.

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

NOTE

d. If using an RF401, plug AC adapter into AC outlet and plug barrel

connector into the base radio’s “Power” jack. The RF430 is powered through its USB port. After connecting the radio to its power source, you will see the red “Pwr/TX” LED light immediately followed by the green RX LED in about 5 seconds. The green LED goes off after a second and the red after ten seconds indicating a successful power-up. The red LED then begins to flash on and off. The red LED flashes once every half second in the default “< 4 mA, ½ sec Cycle” standby mode as the radio wakes up briefly and listens for RF transmissions with an average current consumption less than 4 mA.

e. Access the Device Configuration (DevConfig) Utility to configure radio

(see Section 5.1, DevConfig

(p. 22), for more information).

• Active Interface: Use AutoSense (default).

• Protocol: Use PakBus Aware (default for RF430s and RF401s with

OS4 or higher) if remote radio is connected to a PakBus datalogger (CR200(X), CR800, CR1000, CR3000). Otherwise, use Transparent (default for RF401’s with OS3 or lower).

• SDC or CSDC Address: Use default “7” (only needed if remote radi

is connected to a PakBus datalogger).

• RS-232 Baud Rate: Use 38.4 kbps setting if the datalogger attached t

he remote radio supports 38.4 kbps. Use 9600 kbps setting if the

t datalogger does not support 38.4 kbps (e.g., CR200(X), CR10X, C

R510). The 38.4 kbps setting is default for RF401 radios with OS

higher and all RF430 radios. RF430 radios with OS1 only support

38.4 kbps.

www.campbellsci.com/downloads.

• Net Address: Use “0” (default) unless there is a neighbouring

network.

• Radio Address: Use “0” (default); only used when Protocol setting is

Transparent.

• Hop Sequence: Use “0” (default) unless there is a neighbouring

network.

• Standby Mode: < 4 mA ½ second (default)

• Retry Level: Use Low (default)

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

LoggerNet

AC Adapter

RS-232

CS I/O

Datalogger CS I/O

- RX LED Test -

To determine if there is a neighbouring radio network in operation using the same hopping sequence as yours, stop communications on your network and observe your radio’s green LED for activity. A flashing green LED would indicate that there is a nearby network using the same hopping sequence.

• Click apply after changing settings.

GURE 3-1. RF401 Basic Point-to-Point Network

3.2.2 Step 2 – Set Up Remote RF401

a. Connect an antenna (or antenna cable with Yagi or omnidirectional

antenna attached) to the RF401 antenna jack. The separation between the base RF401 antenna and the remote RF401 antenna can be any convenient distance (see Sections 3.3, Antenna Considerations Compatible Antennas

b. Use the SC12 serial cable to connect the datalogger CS I/O port to the

remote RF401 radio’s CS I/O port. The CS I/O port on newer dataloggers applies power to the remote RF401.

With older dataloggers lacking 12 V on pin 8 (see TABLE 3-2), you can power the RF401 using a Field Power Cable (see above hardware list) between the datalogger’s 12 V (output) terminals and the RF401’s “Power” jack.

(p. 12), and 4.4,

(p. 16)).

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

TABLE 3-2. Lacking 12 V on CS I/O Pin 8

EQUIPMENT

SERIAL NUMBER

CR500

< 1765

CR7 700X Bd.

< 2779

21X

< 13443

CR10 Wiring Panels

All (black, gray, silver)

PS512M Power Supply

< 1712

hen you connect power to the RF401 (through the SC12 cable or the optional Field Power Cable) you should see the power-up sequence of red and green LEDs described in Step 1 (assuming datalogger is powered).

Current dataloggers and wiring panels (not mentioned in TABLE 3-2) provide 12 V on pin 8. For older products not listed, check for 12 V between CS I/O connector pin 8 and pin 2 (GND) or contact Campbell Scientific.

c. Configure the remote radio using the same settings as the base radio (s

e” in Section 3.2.1, Step 1 – Set Up Base RF401 or RF430

“ assumes the base radio is set to AutoSense.

3.2.3 Step 3 – LoggerNet Set-up

a. The next step is to run LoggerNet and configure it to connect to the

datalogger via the radio’s point-to-point or PakBus network you have set up. For point-to-point and PakBus communications, the radios ar

epresented as direct connect in LoggerNet (see FIGURE 3-2). Refer to

r Section 5.2, LoggerNet multipoint.

(p. 6)). This

(p. 29), for the LoggerNet setup of point-to-

IGURE 3-2. Point-to-Point or PakBus communications, select direct

connect as the connection type.

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

CAUTION

b. For the datalogger settings, set the Baud Rate to match the radio’s RS-232

aud rate. (The radio’s default RS-232 baud rate is 38.4 kbps.) The

datalogger “Extra Response Time” can be left at 0 (see FIGURE 3-3).

For safety, maintain 20 cm (8 inches) distance between antenna and any nearby persons while the radio is transmitting.

3.2.4 Step 4 – Connect

FIGURE 3-3. The Baud Rate in LoggerNet must match the radio’s RS-

232 baud rate.

You are now ready to connect to your datalogger using the LoggerNet Connect screen. After you connect, notice the flashing of the green LEDs on both radios. This indicates that RF packets with the same hopping sequence are being received by the radios. The red LEDs light solid while the connection lasts. When you Disconnect, the red LEDs remain on for five seconds, which is the default setting of the “Time of Inactivity to Sleep.”

Datalogger program transfer and data collection are now possible. Refer to Appendix H, Distance vs. Antenna Gain, Terrain, and Other Factors

(p. H-1), for

a treatment of communication distance vs. factors in the RF path.

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

3.3 Antenna Considerations

3.3.1 Line of Sight

The single most important factor in radio performance is antenna placement. As Appendix H, Distance vs. Antenna Gain, Terrain, and Other Factors states, “height is everything.” The two radios must be able to ‘see’ each other if distances over a mile or two are required. This can be accomplished with a mast or tower.

3.3.2 Mounting

The higher the gain of a yagi antenna, the more important it is to aim the yagi precisely and mount the yagi solidly to prevent movement due to strong winds, large birds, etc.

3.3.3 Antenna Cable Routing

The antenna cable should be routed in a protected area and made secure against damage from wildlife, wind, and vandalism.

3.3.4 Antenna Cable Weather Sealing

The presence of water inside the antenna cable’s plastic sheath can attenuate your transmitted and received signals significantly. The RF energy, instead of traveling the length of the cable with little loss, is absorbed according to the amount of water present (like in a microwave oven). A small amount of water can ruin a once good communication link.

(p. H-1),

When moisture gets inside the sheath it is very difficult to remove. Some careful cable handling (even pinholes can let in significant amounts of water), thoughtful cable routing, and good weather-proofing can prevent this.

Apply a 1/8 inch thick coat of pure silicone rubber compound (RTV) 1) where the cable connector screws onto the antenna connector (apply after the connector is in place allowing future removal) and 2) at the junction between plastic cable sheath and cable connector. If carefully done this should last for years. An alternative approach is to wrap self-vulcanizing rubber tape around these same areas of the antenna connector, cable connector and cable sheath. This tape can be purchased at most electrical supply stores (see Section 6, Troubleshooting

4. System Components

4.1 RF401 or RF430 Radios

4.1.1 Indicator LEDs

The radios have a red LED labeled “Pwr/TX” and a green LED labeled “RX.” When 12V power is applied the red LED lights for ten seconds. About 3 seconds after power-up the green LED lights for a second. Ten seconds after power-up the selected standby mode begins to control the red LED. The red LED lights to indicate when the receiver is actively listening. When the receiver detects RF traffic (header or data with the same hopping sequence), the red LED will light steadily. When the RF401 is transmitting, the red LED will pulse OFF as the RF packets are transmitted (it will not be on solid).

(p. 36), item 6).

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

NOTE

Green LED activity indicates that there is an RF signal being received whose hopping sequence corresponds to the configured hopping sequence of the RF401. This does not necessarily mean that the network/radio address of the received packet corresponds with that of the RF401 (where a neighbouring network exists it is a good idea to choose a unique hopping sequence).

4.1.2 Radio Configuration

The RF401 and RF430 radios are designed to be easily installed, and for many applications, the radios work out of the box using the default settings. RF401s with operating systems of OS4 or higher and RF430s are configured for PakBus networks. These radios have a Protocol setting of PakBus Aware and an RS-232 Baud Rate of 38.4 K. RF401 radios with an operating system of OS3 or lower have a Protocol setting of Transparent and an RS-232 baud rate of 9600. The 9600 baud rate needs to be used if the network contains older dataloggers (e.g., CR510, CR10X) or other devices that do not support the

38.4 K baud rate.

www.campbellsci.com/downloads.

If the default settings need to be changed, our Device Configuration Utility (DevConfig) is often the preferred method to use (see Section 5.1, DevConfig

(p. 22)). DevConfig provides the settings for the standard setup (see Appendix

B, Advanced Setup Menu

(p. B-1), for the advanced setup menu).

If the spread spectrum radios are used in a PakBus network, the radios may also be configured using the Network Planner or PakBus Graph. The Network Planner assists you in designing PakBus networks. Refer to Sections 5.2.2, Network Planner

(p. 34), and 5.2.3, PakBus Graph (p. 35), for more information.

4.2 Power Supplies

Appendix L, RF401/RF411 Average Current Drain Calculations

(p. L-1), provides information about calculating current drain for

your system.

4.2.1 Base Radio Site (radio connected to a PC)

The USB port supplies power to the RF430. If an RF401 is used as a base radio, the #15966 wall charger typically supplies 12 Vdc power to the radio. The barrel connector of the wall charger connects to the radio’s Power jack.

TABLE 4-1 shows the CSI AC adapter Item # 15966 voltage regulation (typical) while plugged into an AC outlet delivering 120.0 VAC:

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Radio/Modems

TABLE 4-1. 15966’s Voltage Regulation

Current Drain

(mA)

Resistive Load

(Ohms)

AC Adapter Output

(Volts)

0 (no load)

∞ (open circuit)

12.22

122

100 Ω

12.20

807

15 Ω

12.11

CAUTION

The voltage regulation of the 15966 is exceptionally good.

Power connector polarity: inner conductor positive (+)

There are many AC adapters available with barrel connectors (plugs) that will fit the RF401 or RF430. Some of these (including the CSI AC adapter Item # 272) will cause immediate damage if plugged into the RF401 or RF430 even briefly. It is also possible to damage the RF401 or RF430 with an AC adapter labeled as low as “12 VDC” because it may output an open-circuit (no current drain) voltage exceeding the maximum. The very low quiescent current (170 µA) of the RF401 or RF430 in its default and other standby modes allows the supply voltage to rise at times virtually to its open-circuit level.

The RF401 or RF430 radio will sustain damage if the Power jack voltage ever

exceeds 18 Volts!

120 VAC line voltages vary from location to location and from time to time so observing a 16.5 VDC maximum is wise. Unconsidered AC adapter selection raises the specter of over-voltage damage to the RF401 and non-warranty repairs!

There are several things to consider. Beware of AC adapters outputting an AC voltage. An AC adapter can output the correct voltage but the wrong polarity. The center conductor of the barrel connector must be positive (+). The AC adapter must also be capable of supplying the instantaneous peak currents demanded by the RF401 transmitter. The best approach is to obtain the AC adapter recommended by CSI (Item #15966). If this is not possible, obtain an AC adapter that matches the voltage vs. current characteristics shown below.

To be sure that the candidate AC adapter’s “no load” voltage is below the 16.5 VDC recommended maximum, measure the output with a DC voltmeter while the AC adapter is plugged into the outlet but not powering anything.

+ 100 hidden pages

Campbell RF401, RF411, RF416, RF430, RF431 Instruction Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Guarantee

PLEASE READ FIRST

Precautions

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

1.1 RF401-series Radios

1.2 RF430-series Radios

1.3 Combination Mode Communications

1.4 Retired Spread Spectrum Radios

1.4.1 RF400-series Radios

1.4.2 CR205, CR210, CR215 Dataloggers

2. Specifications

3. Installation

3.1 Site Considerations

3.2 Quick Start (Point-to-Point or PakBus)

3.2.1 Step 1 – Set Up Base RF401 or RF430

3.2.2 Step 2 – Set Up Remote RF401

3.2.3 Step 3 – LoggerNet Set-up

3.2.4 Step 4 – Connect

3.3 Antenna Considerations

3.3.1 Line of Sight

3.3.2 Mounting

3.3.3 Antenna Cable Routing

3.3.4 Antenna Cable Weather Sealing

4. System Components

4.1 RF401 or RF430 Radios

4.1.1 Indicator LEDs

4.1.2 Radio Configuration

4.2 Power Supplies

4.2.1 Base Radio Site (radio connected to a PC)