Comark RF500 Installation Manual

RF500A Gateway System Manual

Contents

RF500 System Components.............................................................................................................................................4

RF500A Gateway.................................................................................................................................................4

RF500 Transmitters.............................................................................................................................................5

RF512 Temperature Transmitter.............................................................................................................5

RF512M Temperature Transmitter Backbone Option..............................................................................5

RF513 Temperature and Humidity Transmitter........................................................................................5

RF513M Temperature and Humidity Transmitter Backbone Option........................................................5

RF515 Analog Input Transmitter and RF515A Connection Box..............................................................5

RF516 Precision Temperature Transmitter..............................................................................................6

Optional Accessories...........................................................................................................................................6

Know your Gateway.............................................................................................................................................7

RF500A Front Panel Indicators...............................................................................................................7

Bottom Connections................................................................................................................................8

Alarm Outputs.........................................................................................................................................9

Side Switches and Indicators..................................................................................................................9

Know your Transmitter.......................................................................................................................................10

Transmitter Display................................................................................................................................12

Safety Information...........................................................................................................................................................13

Warning..............................................................................................................................................................13

WEEE................................................................................................................................................................14

RF500 Wireless Monitoring System Overview................................................................................................................15

Gateway – Introduction......................................................................................................................................15

Overview of RF500 Mesh Networking................................................................................................................16

Meshing Transmitters and Backbone Transmitters............................................................................................18

Automatic Data Retrieval (ADR)........................................................................................................................18

1

Equipment Installation.....................................................................................................................................................19

Gateway Fixing..................................................................................................................................................19

Transmitter Fixing..............................................................................................................................................19

Mains Wiring......................................................................................................................................................19

Ventilation..........................................................................................................................................................19

Powering On and Off......................................................................................................................................................20

Switch On...........................................................................................................................................................20

Gateway Switch OFF.........................................................................................................................................21

Gateway Reset..................................................................................................................................................21

Transmitter Activation........................................................................................................................................22

RF500ACONFIG Utility...................................................................................................................................................23

Installation of USB Drivers..................................................................................................................................23

Obtain Comark USB Drivers..................................................................................................................23

USB Driver Installation Instructions.......................................................................................................24

Installation of RF500ACONFIG..........................................................................................................................25

Obtain RF500ACONFIG Utility...............................................................................................................25

RF500ACONFIG Installation Instructions..............................................................................................26

Gateway Commissioning................................................................................................................................................27

Requirements for Commissioning.......................................................................................................................27

Setting of Gateway IP Address using RF500ACONFIG.....................................................................................27

Viewing the Gateway Login Page......................................................................................................................29

Setup of First Administrator.................................................................................................................................30

Gateway Language............................................................................................................................................31

Gateway Name..................................................................................................................................................31

Gateway Clock Setup..........................................................................................................................................31

Network Setup...................................................................................................................................................32

Network Details.....................................................................................................................................32

Gateway Programming and Use.....................................................................................................................................33

Gateway Specication – RF500A...................................................................................................................................34

2

Transmitters Specication...............................................................................................................................................35

Changing Lithium Battery on RF500 Series Transmitters...............................................................................................38

Battery Reordering.............................................................................................................................................38

Battery Change Procedure.................................................................................................................................38

Check for Transmitter Errors...............................................................................................................................40

Gateway Indication of Low Battery......................................................................................................................40

Pinout and Wiring............................................................................................................................................................41

Door Connector..................................................................................................................................................41

Power Connector...............................................................................................................................................41

Lumberg Connector...........................................................................................................................................42

Gateway Relay Outputs.....................................................................................................................................42

FCC Approvals................................................................................................................................................................43

Equipment Ratings..........................................................................................................................................................44

Supply Voltage...................................................................................................................................................44

Environmental Conditions...................................................................................................................................44

Gateway Storage/Operating Conditions................................................................................................44

RF51X Transmitter Operating Conditions..............................................................................................44

RF51X Transmitter Storage Conditions.................................................................................................45

RF515 Maximum Input Conditions.....................................................................................................................45

Maintenance and Cleaning.............................................................................................................................................45

EC-Declaration of Conformity.........................................................................................................................................46

Transmitter Error Codes..................................................................................................................................................47

Gateway Fault Conditions...............................................................................................................................................47

Appendix A - Setting a Fixed IP Address.........................................................................................................................48

Appendix B – Gateway Connection via RJ45 Cross-Over Ethernet Cable.....................................................................50

Denitions of Gateway Terminology................................................................................................................................51

Glossary..........................................................................................................................................................................54

3

RF500 System Components

AUX

STAT US

Comark Instruments, PO Box 9090,
Everett, WA 98206, USA
Tel: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.comarkUSA.com

MADE IN UK

FOR INDOOR USE ONLY
DO NOT MOVE WHEN
IN OPERATION

RF500A Gateway

The RF500A Gateway is available in two variants:

• RF500A Standard

• RF500AP Power over Ethernet enabled

The actual Gateway model is indicated on the side label by a check mark adjacent to the model code.

The RF500A and RF500AP Gateway Kit consists of the following items.

• RF500A Gateway Part No. RF500A or RF500AP

• Transmitter Activator Part No. RF525

• High Gain Antenna. Part No. RF504

• AC Adaptor

• Mains Lead with either UK, EU or US plug

RF500A

RF500AP

ON / OFF

Comark Instruments, 52 Hurricane way,
Norwich, Norfolk, NR6 6JB. UK
Tel: 01603 ([phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.comarkltd.com

SERIAL

No.

1 2 3 4

Software and USB drivers are no longer provided on CD and can be downloaded free of charge from our website. See

RF500A Congure Utility for instructions on how to download the software and drivers.

Please conrm that the kit contents are all present and correct. If you believe any parts are missing or damaged

please contact Comark or your local Distributor to arrange replacements.

4

RF500 Transmitters

RF500 Transmitters are available as follows. Each RF500 Transmitter is packed with a mounting bracket and 2-tie­wraps.

RF512 Temperature Transmitter

• Integral temperature sensor plus connectors for two external temperature sensors and an external door

sensor

• External temperature range: –40°C to +125°C / -40°F to +257°F

RF512M Temperature Transmitter Backbone Option

• Integral temperature sensor plus connectors for two external temperature sensors and an external door

sensor

• External temperature range: –40°C to +125°C / -40°F to +257°F

• Includes High Gain Antenna and RF520 AC mains adaptor

RF513 Temperature and Humidity Transmitter

• Integral temperature sensor, one integral humidity sensor and connector for an external door sensor

• Integral temperature range: –30°C to +70°C / -22°F to +158°F

• Humidity range: 10-90% RH

RF513M Temperature and Humidity Transmitter Backbone Option

• Integral temperature sensor, one integral humidity sensor and connector for an external door sensor

• Integral temperature range: –30°C to +70°C / -22°F to +158°F

• Humidity range: 10-90% RH

• Includes High Gain Antenna and RF520 AC mains adaptor

RF515 Analog Input Transmitter and RF515A Connection Box

• Two analog input channels, each capable of conguration as 0-1V, 0-10V or 4-20mA using RF515A

connection box

5

RF516 Precision Temperature Transmitter

• Integral temperature sensor, and connector for one external temperature Pt100 sensor and an external door

sensor

• External temperature range: –200°C to +400°C / -328°F to +752°F

Optional Accessories

RF520 AC adaptor for RF512, RF513 and RF516

RF502 Bridge. 0.5m lead to enable transmission through RF resistant barriers
RF503 Bridge. 1.0m lead to enable transmission through RF resistant barriers
RF515A 2-Channel Terminal Box with 0.25m lead terminated with 6-Pin Lumberg Plug

Includes two sets of 10R, 2K and 18K2 precision resistors

RFJACK Alarm Output jack (2.5mm)

RFALARM Alarm Output lead. 2m g-8 wire terminated with 2.5mm jack

6

Know your Gateway

RF500A Front Panel Indicators

ON

POWER /

FAULT ALARM

BATTERY

Figure 1 - Front Panel Indicators

There are four LEDs on the front of the Gateway:

ON Steady Blue The Gateway is running
¼s on / ¼s off Blue Gateway is starting up
2s off / 2s on Blue Gateway is shutting down
POWER/BATTERY Steady Green External power is available
Flashing Green Gateway is on and running off the battery pack
Off Gateway is off and external power is not available
FAULT Flashing Yellow Contact technical support from your local distributor or
Comark Instruments. The Home Page may provide more
information on possible faults
ALARM Flashing Red An enabled alarm event has occurred

7

Bottom Connections

ED

C

B

AA

Figure 2 - Rear view of RF500 Gateway

A. Cable clamps
B. 12 VDC input
C. SW1 - Jack Socket for Relay Output 1
D. SW2 - Jack Socket for Relay Output 2
E. RJ45 Ethernet LAN Socket

8

Alarm Outputs

SW1 & SW2 are two switched outputs provided for connection to customer alarm indicators, via relay contacts with
24Vdc 500mA rating, congurable for either NO (Normally Open) or NC (Normally Closed). These are marked as
SW1 and SW2, and are in the form of 2.5mm Jack Sockets. Plugs to t these sockets can be ordered from Comark

Instruments using part number: RFJACK.

With the Gateway switched OFF the relays are in a Normally Open condition, this may cause any

equipment connected to the contacts to energise.

Side Switches and Indicators

RF500A

RF500AP

ON / OFF

Comark Instruments, 52 Hurricane way,
Norwich, Norfolk, NR6 6JB. UK
Tel: 01603 ([phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.comarkltd.com

SERIAL

No.

STAT US

1 2 3 4

Comark Instruments, PO Box 9090,
Everett, WA 98206, USA
Tel: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.comarkUSA.com

FOR INDOOR USE ONLY
DO NOT MOVE WHEN
IN OPERATION

MADE IN UK

AUX

Figure 3 – Left Hand Side View of Gateway

ON/OFF Gateway Startup/Powerdown switch
STATUS Diagnostic LEDs for technical support use
AUX Reserved Switch

9

Know your Transmitter

A. Alarm LED. Flashes red to indicate any one channel in alarm
B. Active LED. Flashes green to indicate external power detected
C. Infra-Red interface. For Comark use only
D. Antenna. (Do not remove whilst in operation)
E. Lashing eye - Four available
F. Internal temperature sensor

Figure 4 - Front view of RF512 Series Transmitter

BA

C

D

E

F

10

A

B

C

Figure 5 - Connector view of RF512, RF515 & RF516 Transmitter

A. Lumberg Socket for Probe
B. Socket for Door & RF525 Activator (Dual function)
C. External DC adaptor socket

11

Transmitter Display



INT

EXT1

EXT2

RF500 Transmitters all have a liquid crystal display as shown below. Only RF512 is capable of using all three
display areas and annunciators.

Indicates that the door channel reads open.

Indicates that the internal lithium battery requires replacement.

Indicates an unacknowledged alarm on any channel.

When steady, indicates that the transmitter has logged

onto the Gateway.

When ashing, indicates the transmitter is currently

attempting transmission with the Gateway.

Indicates that the sensor or probe is broken. Figure 6 - Transmitter Display

Indicates that the number to be displayed is too big to t on the LCD

E.g. 2000 cannot be shown on a “1999” digit area.

12

Safety Information

Under no circumstances may a user make any changes to the RF500A Gateway that would alter its performance. Any

modication would void the CE compliance of the Gateway and may invalidate the warranty.

If the equipment is used in a manner not specied by Comark Instruments, then the protection provided by the

equipment may be impaired.

No user serviceable parts are provided in RF500 Comark Wireless Monitoring Equipment. Contact Comark
Instruments or your local distributor for all service requirements.

Warning

• Before connecting or disconnecting the antenna, ensure anti-static precautions are observed.

• Use only the FRIWO 12V AC adaptor; Type FW74010/12 as supplied; with the RF500A Gateway.

• Do not modify the RF500A Gateway AC adaptor in any way.

• Use only the PHIHONG, PSM11R-050 5V AC adaptor or FRIWO type FW7662/05 with RF500 Transmitters. It

is supplied by Comark Instruments as three variants:
RF520 Transmitter AC adaptor with UK plug
RF520/EU Transmitter AC adaptor with European style plug
RF520/US Transmitter AC adaptor with North American style plug

• Do not modify the AC adaptor in any way.

• RF500 Transmitters contain a C-size lithium cell. This cell must not be incinerated or subjected to
temperatures in excess of 100°C / 212°F. Do not deform, mutilate, crush, pierce, disassemble, recharge or
short circuit. Such abuse can result in loss of seal, and/or cell explosion. Also exposure to humid conditions

for long periods should be avoided.

13

• Do not insert metal objects into connectors.

• Ensure the antenna is securely connected before powering the equipment. Internal damage may result

otherwise.

• The Gateway and Transmitters have been designed to operate with the antenna supplied by Comark, and

having a maximum gain of 7dBi. Antennas not supplied by Comark Instruments or having a gain of greater
than 7dBi are strictly prohibited for use with this device. The required antenna impedance is 50 Ohms. If in
doubt please contact Comark Instruments or your Distributor for advice.

WEEE

RF512, RF513, RF515 and RF516 Transmitters contain a non rechargeable lithium battery.

This bat tery must be disposed of in accordance with local regulations.

14

RF500 Wireless Monitoring System Overview

Gateway – Introduction

The RF500A Gateway is an embedded microprocessor device containing a radio module for RF communications

to the measuring transmitters. The radio module uses a licence free band in the 2.4GHz spectrum. Comark

Instruments RF500 uses proprietary protocols over a standard IEEE 802.15.4 link. These protocols achieve reliable
communication between the transmitters and the Gateway via self-healing mesh radio networks.

Data from measurements taken by the transmitters is stored on the RF500A Gateway in contrast to other systems
which store their data on a PC using special software. For operating the RF500 system the only software required
is a Web Browser such as Internet Explorer or Firefox. There is no requirement to install software on each user’s
computer.

The Gateway contains sufcient data storage capacity for up to 10 years which can be automatically backed up to
external storage using the built in shared drive backup method, or by manual request to generate and download a
backup le via your web browser.

An external power adaptor provides the mains power for the Gateway. An internal Nickel-Metal-Hydride (Ni-Mh)

rechargeable battery is included, this provides normal operation of the Gateway during power failure until the battery is
exhausted, The Gateway then shuts down until power is restored.

Two relay connectors are provided for external alarms, Autodiallers/Klaxons etc. All other connections to the Gateway

are disabled. See Figure 2 – Bottom View of Gateway for further details.

Emails for alarms will be instigated directly from the Gateway. It is also possible to send a text message alarm via
email using a third party provider.

15

The Gateway can be either desk mounted or wall mounted. Wall mount keyhole slots are provided on the case. The

external long range Antenna has variable orientation to suit vertical or horizontal mounting.

Four LEDs on the Gateway display current status of the system – On/Off, Power/Battery, Alarm indication, and Fault

indicators.

Overview of RF500 Mesh Networking

The RF500 Wireless Monitoring System uses the IEEE 802.15.4 radio transmission standard to implement a radio
mesh network.

A mesh network is comprised of the following devices:

• Gateway

• Mesh Transmitter

• Transmitter

On installation each transmitter is associated with a particular Gateway by serial number. Messages are transferred
between transmitters and the Gateway using two-way communication with acknowledgement of successful message
reception.

Transmitters which are physically close to their associated Gateway such as transmitter A in Figure 7 below, will

most likely transmit directly to it. Others such as transmitter B which are further away rely on meshing transmitters to
forward messages to and from the Gateway on their behalf.

The route taken by the message can vary depending on network load and link reliability. The ability to dynamically

recongure the network is termed self-healing. In the gure below the self-healing ability is shown.

16

Mesh Transmitter

Gateway

Transmitter

A

A

B

!

Data transfer interrupted
transmitter continues to
store data.

Figure 7 - A Typical Mesh Network

Transmitter reroutes to
self-heal network and
transfers stored data.

B

17

Meshing Transmitters and Backbone Transmitters

Whenever a RF512 or RF513 transmitter is powered by a RF520 AC adaptor it will become a Meshing unit and will
form part of the radio mesh network. However if external power is removed it will revert back to a regular Transmitter.

RF512 and RF513 have the option to become “Network Backbone” units or routers which will intelligently forward
messages on behalf of other transmitters. This option is enabled using a setup option in the Gateway. Backbone
Transmitters will form part of the mesh network continuously even when not powered by a RF520. Due to the very

large drain on the internal battery, Backbone Transmitters must be powered using a RF520 mains adaptor. The

internal battery is considered only as a backup battery for Backbone Transmitters.

Automatic Data Retrieval (ADR)

The fact that transmissions between Transmitters and the RF500 Gateway are acknowledged ensures that the
Transmitters know exactly which data records have been successfully transferred to the Gateway and those which
must be re-transmitted. Therefore if the Gateway is temporarily unable to receive or transmit messages for whatever

reason, data will not be lost during this period. When the Gateway is again able to receive and transmit properly the

Transmitters will re-transmit those records which were unable to be transmitted during the period of outage.

This re-transmission of data happens automatically without user intervention and results in seamless graphical and
tabular data with no gaps.

18

Equipment Installation

Comark Instruments strongly recommend that RF500 System installation is carried out by a Comark Installation
Engineer or by a Comark Authorised Distributor or Agent.

Gateway Fixing

Mounting of the Gateway is possible using the keyhole screw xings provided on the rear of the Gateway itself.
However the xings used are to be determined by the installation engineer depending on the type of material used
in the construction of the area where the Gateway is to be placed. To avoid accidental disconnection, the DC power

cable and cables connecting to the Relay Outputs should be secured using the cable clamps provided on the Gateway
case. See Figure 2 - Bottom view of RF500A Gateway.

Positioning of the Gateway should be in such a way as to limit the risk of liquid being spilt on it as damage may result.

Transmitter Fixing

Mounting of the Transmitters is possible using the mounting bracket provided. The bracket is xed using 2 screws
and the Transmitter then slides into the bracket from the top. With each Transmitter, Comark Instruments provide
two cable ties which, once the Transmitter is slid into the bracket, can be fed through the slots in both bracket and

Transmitter case to retain it. The door and DC power cables should be tie-wrapped to the bracket to avoid accidental
disconnection.

Mains Wiring

Connections to mains supply for the Gateway and powered Transmitters is via the AC mains adaptors supplied and
a locally installed socket. Any power requirements for the hardware will be determined during survey and should be

installed by qualied electrician and certied as safe to use before installation can be started.

Ventilation

At no time should the ventilation slots on the Gateway be covered or obstructed. At least 100mm of free space must

be provided above and below the Gateway to ensure that sufcient airow is maintained through the case to provide

adequate cooling. Failure to do this may result in damage to the Gateway due to overheating and invalidation of the
warranty.

19

Powering On and Off

Switch On

BEFORE SWITCHING ON, ENSURE THE ANTENNA HAS BEEN FITTED - IT IS ESSENTIAL TO AVOID DAMAGE.

1. Plug the Gateway AC adaptor into the socket on the

underside of the Gateway, or for the PoE model

(RF500AP) plug the ethernet cable into a
PoE enabled network socket . The Power/Battery
indicator should show steady green.

2. Using a paper clip or similar object, press in and

hold the ON/OFF switch on the side of the Gateway
for 4 seconds. The Gateway will beep once and the

On/Off indicator will ash at a half-second interval.
Gateway bootup will begin. On successful boot, the

On/Off indicator will show solid blue.

Figure 8 - Switch On using Paper Clip

20

The Gateway contains an internal backup battery, if this battery is not sufciently charged, the

Gateway will not switch on. Once external power is connected the internal battery will begin

recharging. Whenever the charge state becomes sufcient the Gateway will automatically start as
requested. Whilst in this mode Status LEDs 1, 2, 3 and 4 will ash in sequence. See Figure 3 – Left

Hand Side View of Gateway for location of these LEDs.

It takes a few minutes for the Gateway to initialise. A sequence of 2 beeps followed by 4 beeps
indicates successful initialisation.

Gateway Switch OFF

To turn the Gateway OFF navigate to the hardware page of the website and use the Shutdown Gateway button, this

will initiate the Gateway shut-down procedure.

If for some reason it is not possible to use the Shutdown Gateway button, press and hold the ON/OFF switch for 4
seconds. The Gateway will beep once and the On/Off indicator will ash at 4 second interval to indicate shut-down.
This will initiate an orderly shut-down of the Gateway at the start of which, the Gateway will beep 10 times in quick

succession. The shut-down procedure could take up to 5 minutes to complete. After shut-down is complete the On/Off
indicator extinguishes.

Gateway Reset

There are several circumstances under which the Gateway will perform a software reset. At start of the sequence the
Gateway will beep 10 times in quick succession. The reset could take up to 5 minutes to complete which is indicated
by a sequence of 2 beeps followed by 4 beeps to indicate successful initialisation. Unlike the shut-down described

above, the On/Off indicator will remain steady during the reset sequence.

21

Transmitter Activation

RF500 Transmitters are despatched in a disabled state to preserve the battery. To activate these, insert the RF525
Activator into the 3-pin socket marked B in “Figure 5 - Connector view of RF512, RF515 & RF516 Transmitter” until

the display is enabled then remove the RF525.

Once activated, Transmitters can only be de-activated by removing the battery.

22

RF500ACONFIG - Utility

Each Gateway is shipped with a default IP address of 192.168.25.220. The Gateway IP address must be changed to
the Static IP address provided by your IT department before connecting to the LAN.

Comark Instruments provides a Windows utility RF500ACONFIG to allow changing or viewing the Gateway IP address
via the USB port.

Requirements for RF500ACONFIG

• Windows XP, Windows XP 64-bit or Windows 7, Windows 7 64-bit (Windows 7 requires UAC)

• Comark USB Drivers (The USB drivers must be installed prior to installing RF500ACONFIG)

• Oracle (previously Sun) Java Runtime Environment 1.6.0 or later

Installation of USB Drivers

Obtain Comark USB Drivers

Comark USB Drivers can be downloaded from the following websites:

• http://www.comarkltd.com/software – UK and International

• http://www.comarkusa.com/software – USA, Canada and South America

Click the Comark USB Driver.exe link shown on the web page above. Fill in the form and tick the box to conrm you
have read the Software License Agreement. Proceed to download the le and choose the save option to start the

download.

23

USB Driver Installation Instructions

When the download is complete, click the run button.

NOTE: Windows will ask if the user wants to allow

this program to run, select yes.

Conrm you wish to install.

The screen opposite should be displayed - Click Install.

Once installation is complete you will see the screen
opposite.

Please note your computer may request a restart
after installation completes.

24

Installation of RF500ACONFIG

Obtain RF500ACONFIG Utility

Comark RF500ACONFIG can be downloaded from the following websites:

• http://www.comarkltd.com/software – UK and International

• http://www.comarkusa.com/software – USA, Canada and South America

Click the RF500A Cong Util-1.00-Setup.exe link shown on the web page above. Fill in the form and tick the box to
comrm you have read the Software License Agreement. Proceed to download the le and choose the save option to
start the download.

25

RF500ACONFIG Installation Instructions

• When the download is complete, click the run button

• NOTE: Windows may ask if the user wants to allow this program to run, select yes

• Conrm “English” as the install language. (There is no other choice)

• In response to the question: This will install RF500A-Cong Util on your computer. Continue? Click yes

• The following screen states: It is recommended that you close all that all other applications before continuing After

closing these applications click the Next> button.

• When prompted to Choose Destination Folder accept the default of C:/Program Files/Comark/RF500A Cong Util by
clicking the Next> button

• When prompted to Start Copying Files click the Next> button

• The Installer will copy the les and conrm that it has successfully installed RF500A Cong Util. Click the boxes

to install your choice of short-cuts and click the Finish button

Running RF500CONFIG for the First Time

*Please note this is for Windows 7 only*

The rst time RF500CONFIG runs it requires administratior

priviledges.
Right Click RF500CONFIG Select “Run as administrator”

RF500ACONFIG will examine the Java environment and

update it if necessary. Successful update is conrmed by

the message opposite.

After clicking OK RF500ACONFIG will attempt to restart automatically
but on some systems this may not occur. In this instance simply
restart RF500ACONFIG using the Start Menu or other installed short-cut

RF500ACONFIG is now properly installed and ready for use during Gateway Commissioning as follows:

26

Figure 9 - Java Environment Update Successful

Gateway Commissioning

This section covers:

• Network conguration

• Setup of rst Administrator

• Setting Gateway language

• Setting Gateway name

• Setting date and time

Requirements for Commissioning

• Computer with USB port and RJ45 ethernet jack.

• Comark RF500ACONFIG Utility and USB cable.

• Static IP address and subnet mask (Usually allocated by IT Department)

• Default gateway IP address (To enable access from different subnets)

• Email server name or IP address

• DNS server IP address (required if email server is named)

Setting of Gateway IP Address using RF500ACONFIG

Each Gateway is shipped with a default IP address of 192.168.25.220. The rst stage of commissioning is to change

the Gateway IP address to the Static IP address provided by your IT department. Comark provide a Windows utility
RF500ACONFIG to allow changing or viewing the Gateway IP address.

Connect the RF500A Gateway to the computer using the USB lead.

Switch on the RF500A See “POWERING ON and OFF”

Start the RF500ACONFIG Utility using the Windows Start Menu - The following screens will be displayed:

27

Enter the Serial Number of the Gateway connected

Click the View Current Settings button

- Wait until the various elds are populated.

Software Issue For Comark Instruments use only.
Comms Port For Comark Instruments use only.
Mac Address Hardware address of the ethernet interface.
IP Address The IP address allocated to the Gateway.
Net mask The subnet mask associated with the
IP address.
Default Gateway The IP address of the network gateway
to allow access from a different subnet

Usually your IT Department will allocate an IP address and
subnet mask for the Gateway. Enter these using dotted decimal

notation into their respective elds.

Click the Save New Settings button - After successful transfer
RF500ACONFIG will Reset the RF500A.

The Generate Report File button is for use under instruction
from Comark Technical Support.
Figure 10 - RF500ACONFIG Screenshot

28

Viewing the Gateway Login Page

Recall the IP address that was congured in

(Setting of Gateway IP Address using RF500ACONFIG) above.

1. Start the Web Browser on the PC

2. Enter the IP address into the Address Bar as displayed below

3. Press “Enter” key or click “Go”.

Figure 11 - Browser Address Bar

The Gateway login screen will be displayed.

Figure 12 - Gateway Login Screen

29

Setup of First Administrator

As shipped, the Gateway has no users congured except for a special “one-time-use” installation user which enables

an installer to add the main Administrator to the Gateway. Thereafter this Administrator’s username is used to perform
all subsequent commissioning.

1. At the Gateway user login screen, type the username “comark” and click Enter

2. At the password screen enter “42” and click Enter

3. You will be logged into the Gateway as the installation user

4. The Gateway will inform you that “You are about to commission a new system”

5. Click on the Enter Administrator Details button

6. When the Add 1st Administrator screen appears ll in the elds with the username and password of your

choice

7. In the top left box, marked “Password Required”, enter the installation password:”42” and then click the

Submit button

8. If successful the Gateway will return the message “New user added”

9. Click the OK button to return to the Gateway user login screen

10. Login as the new Administrator you just created

30

Gateway Language

The language the Gateway uses in web pages and in emails can be changed as follows:

1. Click the Administration button then the Language button.

2. Click the radio button below the ag corresponding with your choice of language. Enter your password and

click the Submit button.

The language selected is used immediately for all web pages and emails generated for all users. There is no need to
reset the Gateway or Login again.

Gateway Name

A Gateway name is required for email operation.

Click the Administration button then the Gateway Name button.

The Gateway Name is any name you choose for the Gateway and will be used in the “From:” eld in email and SMS
notications. This is important if you have more than one Gateway in your wireless system and all should be unique.

Gateway Clock Setup

1. Click the Administration button then the Set Clock button.

2. Enter the current date and time using a 4-digit year.

3. Enter your password and click the Submit button.

The Gateway will automatically reset after this step.

31

Network Setup

The Network Settings page has many elds but at this stage for a basic LAN connectivity test, only the Network

Details section is required.

1. Click the Administration button then the Setup Network button.

Network Details

Usually the IT Department will allocate a static IP address and subnet mask for the Gateway. Enter these using

dotted decimal notation into their respective elds. If access from different subnets is required also enter the Network
Gateway IP address. Users who implement MAC address access security will nd the MAC address of the LAN

interface displayed in this screen.

Static IP Address The IP address which has been allocated to the Gateway. E.g.

192.168.25.217

Net mask The subnet mask associated with the above IP address. E.g.

255.255.255.0

Default Gateway The IP address of the network gateway to allow access by users on a different subnet
DNS No The IP address of your LAN Name Server

2. Double-check the Static IP Address entered because any entry mistake here can cause problems connecting

after settings are saved.

3. To save changes, enter your Gateway password and click the Save button. The Gateway may automatically

reset after this step.

4. Remove the cross-over ethernet cable after the Gateway has reset. (See Gateway Reset)

5. Using (Appendix A - Setting a Fixed IP Address) as a guide, restore the computer network settings back to as

existed previously.

6. Connect both the PC and RF500 Gateway to the LAN using regular ethernet patch leads.

7. Verify that a connection can be made to the Gateway by following the (Viewing the Gateway Login Page)

steps using the newly congured IP Address instead of 192.168.25.220.

32

Gateway Programming and Use

This, the RF500A System Manual covers installation and commissioning of the RF500 Wireless Monitoring system

from a hardware point of view.

A Web-View Help Guide for the RF500 Wireless Monitoring System is available online via the Gateway itself. This is a

detailed manual incorporating help and detailed information on use of the Gateway and transmitters, including all the

available pages.

Using the Web-View manual as a guide the remainder of the RF500 Gateway conguration can be performed. This

includes:

• Email Setup

• Email Account

• Adding Transmitters

33

Gateway Specication – RF500A

No of Channels Up to 256

No of Transmitters Up to 64

Storage Capacity Up to 10 years storage

RF Frequency 2.4GHz using IEEE 802.15.4

Operating Conditions 0°C to +40°C / +32°F to +104°F,

10-90% RH non-condensing

Power Sources AC power adaptor, rechargeable Ni-Mh battery

RF500AP only:
Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability. Compliant to
IEEE 802.3af Device class 0

Power Adaptor 100-240VAC 1.5A 50/60Hz

Battery Backup 4.3Ah Ni-Mh Rechargeable Battery.

Running time approximately 1 hour

Clock Accuracy 4ppm (2 minutes per year)

Relay Outputs (SW1 & SW2) Two individual 2.5mm jack sockets.

Contacts: 24Vdc 500mA maximum

Power Consumption 12W typical

Dimensions L 225mm x W 150mm x D 40mm

Weight 1.3kg

Note: Specications are subject to change without prior notice.

34

Transmitters Specication

Temperature Measurement Range

Integral Thermistor Sensor - RF512, RF516

Integral Thermistor Sensor - RF513
External Sensor
External Pt100 Sensor

Humidity Measurement Range 10 to 90% RH

Pt100 Connection Type 4-Wire

Pt100 Sensor Drive Current 400µA Nominal

System Accuracy with Standard Sensors
Temperature

Internal Thermistor – 0°C to +70°C / -32°F to +158°F
External Thermistor – -20°C to +70°C / -4°F to +158°F

Thermistor – full range
Pt100 – full range
Pt100 – with 2-point correction over a

maximum range of ±50°C / 122°F

Pt100 – full range (Instrument only)

Humidity

10-90% RH

-30°C to +70°C / -22°F to +158°F

-30°C to +70°C / -22°F to +158°F

-40°C to +125°C / -40°F to +257°F

-200°C to +400°C / -328°F to +752°F

±0.5°C / ±1°F
±0.5°C / ±1°F
±1°C / ±2°F
±0.5°C / ±1°F plus probe
±0.1°C / ±0.2°F

±0.05°C / ±0.1°F(excluding probe)

±3%

Analog Input (23°C) / (73°F)

0.3% of reading

35

Resolution
Temperature
Thermistor
Pt100

0.1°C / 0.2°F

0.015°C / 0.03°F

Door Sensor

Humidity

7.5 seconds

±0.1%

10 to 90% RH

Analog Input
0-1V
0-10V
4-20mA

0.1mV
1mV
1µA

Storage Temperature -40°C to +85°C / -40°F to +185°F

RF Frequency 2.4GHz using IEEE 802.15.4

Standard Antenna

External, removable, Omni directional with pivot.

Length: 90mm from pivot

High-Gain Antenna (optional)

Length: 235mm from pivot

Radio Range* *Typically 50 metres indoors

Clock Accuracy** 20ppm (1 minute/month) at 25°C / 77°F

Logging Memory 32000 records

Logging Frequency Programmable between 1 minute and 60 minutes

36

Monitoring Frequency 1 minute

LEDs Red – Warning

Green – External Power (Not RF515)

Case Material Over moulded food safe clear polycarbonate with

BioCote® antimicrobial

Environmental Protection Case enclosure designed to meet IP67 BS EN 60529

Battery Type Replaceable Lithium ‘C’ Cell

Saft LSH14 LIGHT
Saft LS26500 (Restricted for transport)

Battery Life*** Up to 3 years

Dimensions L 134mm x W 83mm x D 34mm

Weight 270g

Mains PSU Optional Mains PSU Part No RF520

100-240VAC 0.3A 50/60Hz

* Internal RF range cannot be guaranteed as it varies from building to building. Requirement for all hardware is
always determined on site by a physical site survey.
** Transmitters will synchronise their clocks with the Gateway at midnight.

*** When used at 23°C / 73°F room temperature and Radio Rate of 15 minutes.

Note: Specications are subject to change without prior notice.

37

Changing Lithium Battery on RF500 Series Transmitters

Battery Reordering

RF500 transmitters are tted as standard with a high power 3.6V Primary lithium-thionyl chloride C-size cell.

Manufacturers part number Saft LSH14 LIGHT or Saft LS26500.

The Saft LS26500 battery can only be used in transmitters manufactured after April-2009. The date-of-manufacture is
encoded in the serial number. The serial number has the format MMYYxxxx where MM represents the 2-digit month
and YY represents the 2-digit year in which the transmitter was manufactured.

Comark recommend that only the Saft LSH14 LIGHT be used in Backbone transmitters. The Saft LS26500 battery
can suffer from short lifetime when installed in Backbone transmitters.

Only use Saft LSH14 LIGHT or Saft LS26500 as replacements. Use Comark part number: ‘RFBATT’ to order a
replacement battery.

Battery Change Procedure

The Transmitter latches any low battery condition and must be powered off fully for it to clear. Waiting for the display to
go blank ensures that the low battery status is cleared.

38

BATTERY

COVER

f

s

a

t

1. Disconnect all plugs from the Transmitter and remove it from its mounting bracket by sliding it upwards.

2. Using a at-blade screwdriver undo the two retaining screws and remove the battery cover.

3. Remove the exhausted battery and wait a few seconds for the display to blank.

4. Replace with a fresh one ensuring the polarity is correct and taking care to snap the new battery in cleanly

without making and breaking the contacts repeatedly.

5. Replace the battery cover and do up the two screws taking care not to overtighten them.

6. Observe any local restrictions on disposal of the used cell.

39

Check for Transmitter Errors

The removal of the battery will cause the internal clock on the transmitter to reset and so generate an Error-100

condition. This will be cleared automatically by the Gateway, see (Transmitter Error Codes) for details. Verify that the

transmitter display shows either no error or Error-100 only.

Should an Error-400 or Error-500 occur after battery change on a previously working transmitter try removing and
reinserting the battery taking care to snap the new battery in cleanly without making and breaking the contacts
repeatedly.

Gateway Indication of Low Battery

Once a transmitter shows “low battery” the radio is disabled, monitoring and data logging however will continue until
the battery becomes completely exhausted. If a transmitter is left in a state of low battery for a long period, there may

be many logged records awaiting transmission to the Gateway.

On changing the battery the transmitter logs a “battery good” record but due to (Automatic Data Retrieval (ADR)) this
record is only transmitted to the Gateway after any previously logged temperature records have been transmitted.
Therefore it may take several hours before the “battery good” record is received by the Gateway which in turn clears
the indication of Low Battery for the transmitter.

40

Pinout and Wiring

These connectors are drawn from the point of view of looking into the socket from outside the transmitter

Door Connector

A Door Positive
B RF525 Activator Positive

C

A

B

C Common Ground for Door and RF525

Power Connector

A Positive +5 VDC

A

B

B Negative Ground

41

Lumberg Connector

Pin No RF512 Pinout RF515 Pinout RF516 Pinout

1 Thermistor External 2 External 2 Positive Pt100 Positive Voltage Input

2 Thermistor External 1 External 1 Positive Pt100 Positive Current Drive

3

2

4

6

5

1

3 Thermistor External 4

(Reserved for future use)

Reserved for future use

Do Not Connect

No Connection

4 Thermistor Common External Common Pt100 Negative Current Drive

5 Thermistor External 3

(Reserved for future use)

Reserved for future use

Do Not Connect

Pt100 Negative Voltage Input

6 No Connection No Connection No Connection

Gateway Relay Outputs

The two relay outputs each accept a 2.5mm jack plug. These are individually controlled SPST relay contacts. Comark
can supply jack plugs for wiring external equipment to be activated by the Gateway.
The maximum lead length for the relay outputs is 3m.

Ensure that any external equipment presents only a low voltage on the jack so as to prevent
any chance of personal injury due to electric shock should the jack plug become disconnected.

42

FCC Approvals

The RF500 Gateway and Transmitters comply with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following four
conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

• To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that

the equivalent isotropic radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that permitted for successful communication.

• Changes or modications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the

user's authority to operate the equipment.

Transmitters must be placed greater than 20cm from the body.

43

Equipment Ratings

Supply Voltage

Comark will provide mains adaptors with plugs to suit your country, if the correct socket adaptor has not been provided

please contact Comark for a replacement.

AC adaptors supplied for use with RF500A Gateway and Transmitters have been designed for worldwide use over the
following voltage and frequency ranges.

Voltage 100-240 VAC
Frequency 50/60Hz

Only use adaptors as supplied by Comark and do not attempt to use others as damage to the equipment and voiding
of the CE approval may occur.

Environmental Conditions

All RF500 equipment is designed for indoor use only.
(Some outdoor installation of RF500 Transmitters is permitted. Contact Comark for details)

Gateway Storage/Operating Conditions

Temperature +0°C to +40°C / +32°F to +104°F
Humidity 10-90% RH (Non-condensing)

RF51X Transmitter Operating Conditions

Temperature –30 to +70°C / -22°F to +158°F
Humidity 10-90% (Non-condensing)

44

RF51X Transmitter Storage Conditions

Temperature –40°C to +85°C / -40 to +185°F
Humidity 10 to 90% RH (Non-condensing)

RF515 Maximum Input Conditions

0-1V Range 0 - 3V
0-10V Range 0 - 30V
4-20mA Range 0 - 100mA

Maintenance and Cleaning

No specic maintenance is required for the Gateway or the transmitters. Should service be required then a “return

to base” service is provided by Comark. Please contact Comark Instruments or your local distributor to make
arrangements for return of any items for repair.

Cleaning of the Gateway should be limited to a dry lint free cloth to remove dust and debris from the fan exhaust and
air intake grill. A damp cloth may be used in the event that a more stubborn mark needs to be removed. At no time
should a wet cloth or any detergent agent be used to clean the Gateway.

45

EC-Declaration of Conformity

Comark Instruments
52 Hurricane Way
Norwich
Norfolk.
NR6 6JB

Declare that the products:

Comark Wireless Monitoring System Comprising Part Numbers:
RF500A, RF500AP, RF512, RF513, RF515, RF516 & RF520

Is in conformity with the requirements of the following documents (Directives):

Radio & Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Directive (R&TTE) 1999/5/EC
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2004/108/EC.
The Low Voltage Directive (2006/95/EC) Annex-1

Standards:

EN 61010-1:2010 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory
ETSI EN 301 489-17 V2.1.1 (2009-05) Specic conditions for 2.4 GHz wideband transmission systems and 5 GHz

high performance RLAN equipment

David Goulden
Development Manager
Comark Instruments

46

Transmitter Error Codes

Under certain conditions the transmitter display can show an error. These errors can help in diagnosing the reason a
transmitter may fail to transmit data to the Gateway.

This is not an exhaustive list of errors; only the most common will be described here.

Error Meaning Resolution
004 Fault with Radio Module Try removing the battery then replacing it
010 Battery is Dead. Replace the battery
100 Date and time lost Wait for the transmitter to receive correct date and time from the Gateway
400 Invalid Programmed Task Program a new task from the Gateway
500 Errors 100 & 400 combined Resolve Error 100 & Error 400 individually

Gateway Fault Conditions

Under certain conditions the Gateway Fault LED can ash to indicate an error. The possible faults which can cause
the Fault LED to ash are:

• Overheating

• Battery Pack fault

• Clock error

• PSU fault

• Software errors

• Radio Module fault

47

Appendix A - Setting a Fixed IP Address

The following instructions detail the Windows 98, ME, 2000 and XP procedure for setting a computer for a xed IP

address.

1. Go to the Windows control panel and double-click

the Network icon or the Network Connections icon

2. Right-click on the “Local Area Connection” and

select Properties

3. In the General Tab select the “Internet Protocol

TCP/IP” item and click on the Properties button

Figure 13 – Local Area Connection Properties

48

4. Record the original settings so that they can

be restored after RF500 conguration

5. Select the “Use the following IP address”

button

6. Enter the following IP address:

192.168.25.200

7. Enter the following subnet mask:

255.255.255.0 then click OK

The Computer is now setup to use a xed IP address.

Figure 14 – General Tab

49

Appendix B – Gateway Connection via RJ45 Cross-Over Ethernet Cable

1. Set up your computer temporarily with a xed IP address using the instructions given in (Appendix A - Setting

a Fixed IP Address)

2. Connect the cross-over ethernet cable between computer and RJ45 jack on the Gateway.

3. Congure the RF500A Gateway as in (Gateway Commissioning)

4. Remove the cross-over ethernet cable after the Gateway has reset. (See Gateway Reset)

5. Using (Appendix A - Setting a Fixed IP Address) as a guide, restore the computer network settings back to as

existed previously.

6. Connect both the PC and RF500 Gateway to the LAN using regular ethernet patch leads.

7. Verify that a connection can be made to the Gateway by following the (Viewing the Gateway Login Page)

steps using the newly congured IP Address instead of 192.168.25.220.

50

Denitions of Gateway Terminology

Avg – This is the average reading recorded in the Period being displayed. On the Home Page this is the average
reading over the period of time from midnight to the timestamp of the latest reading received. In the summary pages
the average reading could be over a much longer period of time.

Backbone – A Transmitter during setup can be designated to be part of the Wireless Network Backbone. This

requirement is identied during site surveys. A Backbone Transmitter will be mains powered and constantly active. It

will therefore (almost) always be available to re-transmit messages received from nearby Transmitters.

Event Logging – All transmitters have the capacity to measure from one or more sensor inputs at a number of pre-

dened logging intervals. However should an alarm event occur between log intervals then the transmitters will wake
up to record this event. As soon as the alarm is triggered, the transmitter will wake up and transmit the alarm back to

the Gateway via the mesh network. This technique allows for long intervals between logging static readings knowing
that if an alarm does occur it will be captured. This results in a robust system that will log an extra reading when there
is an event to record.

Gateway Name – A customer selectable name for each Gateway for easy identication.

Last – This is the last known good reading from the Transmitter. It does not imply that the Transmitter is functional or

currently within range.

Location – A logical grouping of transmitters for the purpose of ltering and directing alerts. These Locations

may correspond to the physical siting of transmitters but more usually group transmitters monitoring equipment or
environments “owned” by an individual person or department.

Login Page – A user name and password are required in separate pages to log in to the Gateway to perform any
setup changes or maintenance.

51

Max – This is the maximum reading recorded in the Period being displayed. On the Home Page this is the maximum
reading over the period of time from midnight to the timestamp of the latest reading received. In the summary pages
the maximum reading could be over a much longer period of time.

Min – This is the minimum reading recorded in the Period being displayed. On the Home Page this is the minimum
reading over the period of time from midnight to the timestamp of the latest reading received. In the summary pages
the minimum reading could be over a much longer period of time.

Mesh Network – The technology used in the RF500 system to increase wireless reception reliability. Transmitters
are setup to be either part of a Backbone or to be a regular Transmitter. Those designated as part of the Backbone
remain in RF contact with each other. By doing this the system is able to dynamically adapt to changing conditions
automatically ensuring the integrity of the system at all times.

No Signal – The Gateway has not received any signal from a Transmitter for a long time. Usually 1 hour or 5 times the
radio rate whichever is longest.

Period – A continuous session of logged records. Any break in monitoring will result in the creation of a new logging
Period.

PST – Precision Semiconductor Technology or Thermistor, a sensor for measuring temperature.

Radio Rate – The rate at which a Transmitter enables its radio to contact the Gateway. The default is once every 15
minutes.

Restricted User – A user of RF500 who can only perform a selection of functions.

Self-Healing – As part of the Mesh technology the system is able to adapt automatically if one part of the system is

damaged, i.e. Radio Contact is lost with part of the Backbone. Only regular Transmitters directly reliant on the faulty
part of the system will be affected with the rest of the Transmitters simply nding alternative routes for the data.

52

Task – The name given to the collection of logging parameters for a specic monitoring job. Tasking is the action of

entering these parameters into RF500 and sending them to the Transmitter.

TextMagic™ – Internet SMS provider (www.textmagic.com). Warning emails sent from the Gateway can be converted
to SMS messages using this service. Other service providers may also work but only TextMagic has been tested.

Transmitter – A transmitter is a device connected wirelessly to the system. This device records data locally from a
number of sensors and sends the information back to the Gateway using RF. A transmitter is powered via battery or
AC adaptor.

53

Glossary

21 CFR – The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in the USA, issued regulations Title 21 CFR (Code of Federal

Regulations) Part 11 that provide criteria for acceptance by FDA or an approved regulatory body, for the acceptance
of electronic records, electronic signatures, and handwritten signatures executed to electronic records as equivalent
to paper records and handwritten signatures executed on paper. These regulations, which apply to all FDA program
areas, are intended to permit the widest possible use of electronic technology, compatible with the FDA’s responsibility

to promote and protect public health. Part 11 applies to any record governed by an existing FDA predicate rule that is

created, modied, maintained, archived, retrieved, or transmitted using computers and/or saved on durable storage

media. In other words any record from a data logger for instance that is at some stage stored on a PC or where a PC

is used to retrieve the data, 21 CFR Part 11 can be applied. The RF500 system is designed to aid compliance with 21

CFR Part 11.

Administrator – An Administrator is a user who has unrestricted access to all Gateway functions.

Antenna – Electrical device for collecting or disseminating RF energy. The interface between a radio transmitter or

receiver and transmission medium (air).

Autodialler – A device when triggered (by Gateway alarm for example) to dial a specic telephone number to

playback a pre-recorded alarm message.

Ethernet/Network/LAN – Terms used to describe the connection of the Gateway to various users with access to the
system. Personal Computers are connected together using a network via ethernet ports combining to make a Local
Area Network.

FCC – Federal Communications Commission.

Firmware – The software program operating the various components of RF500 e.g. Transmitter, RF module and

RF500 Gateway.

54

Frequency – Number of oscillation cycles-per-second of a radio signal.

IE – Microsoft Internet Explorer.

IP address – Internet Protocol address. Unique identier for each device connected to a network.

ISP – Internet Service Provider.

Licence free – Term used to describe the frequency band in which the system operates in terms of licence to

broadcast. RF500 uses the licence free Industrial, Scientic and Medical (ISM) band of 2.4GHz where operators and

users are not required to purchase any kind of licence in order to use the product.

Password – A password is a string of characters that is used for user authentication. The password is personal and
should be kept secret.

Pt100 – Platinum Resistance Device for measuring temperature.

RF – An abbreviation of the words Radio Frequency. Commonly used to describe “wireless radio communication”.

RH – Relative Humidity. The amount of water vapour present in the atmosphere expressed as a percentage of the

maximum that could be present at the same temperature.

User Account Control - Windows 7 will ask the user to authorise certain actions when software tries to access or
modify system folders.

Users – A user is anyone who is able to log onto an IT system such as RF500.

55

56