›Universal input›22V excitation›Optional 0.4" display›2 x relay outputs›Optional isolated analog
output (0[4]–20mA or
0–10V, software select)
›Smart, simple, USB
powered setup
›Designed for harsh EMC
environments
›Flexible 32 point
linearization table
General Description
The Sentry Trip Amplier accepts analog inputs from a
range of industrial sensors, including: process, temperature, ow, frequency, and voltage from 200mV to 300V.
It features a wide range power supply that suits both AC
mains and 24V DC applications, and supplies the excitation required for common sensors and transmitters.
The Sentry comes standard with two relays, which can
be set up for a variety of alarm and control functions.
An optional isolated analog output provides both 0(4)–
20mA and 0–10V signals to interface to PLC's and SCADA systems.
The Sentry is a tough and reliable instrument that has been
designed for demanding industrial environments. Advanced
techniques have been used to meet or exceed CE noise immunity requirements. Optional is a
4 digit display for your convenience during commissioning, and to simplify fault-nding in the
event of a system malfunction.
The unit boasts a 1 minute USB setup using the Dene ToolBox conguration soware. All
functions are explained expertly in the dynamic sidebar help - perfect for the novice learning
about industrial applications, or the expert who wants to save commissioning time.
2 x relay outputs (default conguration)
2 x relay outputs, 1 x analog output (0[4]–20mA/0–10V)
SAFETY NOTICES
For your safety and the prevention of damage to the Sentry unit and other equipment connected to it, please read complete instructions prior to installation and
operation of the Sentry, and carefully observe all safety regulations and instructions. Consult this manual carefully in all cases where hazard symbols are marked
on your Sentry unit.
Use of this instrument in a manner not specied by the manufacturer may compromise the protection provided by the instrument. This instrument should not be used
to directly drive valves, motors, or other actuators, unless equipped with appropriate safeguards.
It is the responsibility of the user to identify potential hazards that may arise in
the event of a fault to unit, and implement safeguards for the prevention of harm
to persons or equipment. The safety of any system incorporating this unit is the
responsibility of the assembler of the system.
Symbol denitions
3
CAUTION
Risk of electric shock
Please refer to user manual.
CAUTION
Risk of danger
Please refer to user manual.
1
SPECIFICATIONS
Power
Power supply 24–250V AC / 19.5–250V DC,
47–63Hz, 6VA max
Isolation 2,300Vrms for 1min to all inputs
and outputs
Both direct and alternating current.
Equipment protected throughout by
DOUBLE INSULATION or REINFORCED
INSULATION.
Analog input
Input Universal (see section 7 for full input
specications and wiring)
Slow blink indicates normal operation, faster ashes indicates error.
See 8.2 for troubleshooting
2.2 - Transparent cover
The transparent plastic cover over the front
panel provides protection (mainly from dust
accumulation over time) to the Sentry's display and programming port.
The transparent cover must be opened to
access the PC Setup Port (see 2.1C) for conguration of the Sentry using Dene ToolBox
(see sections 4–5).
To open the cover, slide your ngernail into
the crack between the plastic cover and the
unit case in the bottom right or bottom le
corner, and then ick the cover upwards.
Note that levering from the right or le side,
rather than the centre, is the easiest way to
disengage the cover's clip.
The Sentry should be installed in a location
that do not exceed the maximum operating
temperature, and at a safe distance from
other devices that generate excessive heat.
The installation environment should provide
good air circulation to the unit.
The plastic casing and product label may be
cleaned, if required, using a so, damp cloth
and neutral soap product.
Caution should be exercised when cleaning
the unit to avoid water to dripping inside, as
this will damage the internal circuits.
3.3 - Installation instructions
A - Mount in an Enclosure (Fig 1)
The Sentry is rated IP20, and should be
mounted in an enclosure (not supplied) to
protect it from weather conditions and dust.
Prepare the enclosure as illustrated by
mounting a 35mm DIN rail, and cable glands
or other required components.
B - Mount on DIN Rail (Fig 2)
To clip the unit onto the DIN rail:
(1) Hook the upper part of the unit onto
the rail, and then
(2) Press down towards the rail until the
red hook clicks into place
Leave at least 2cm (.79") clear on either
side of the unit, and at least 5cm (1.97")
clear above and below the unit, to allow
room for airow and wiring.
7
Fig 1
Fig 2
C - Wiring
Refer to sections 6 & 7 in this manual.
D - Removal from DIN Rail (Fig 3)
The unit may be unclipped from the DIN rail
if required by inserting a small screwdriver
into the slot on the red hook (just visible
when the unit is mounted), and levering the
red hook down.
This will release the hook, allowing the unit
to be detached from the DIN rail.
The Sentry has been designed to cope
with large EMC disturbances. This has been
achieved by continual testing and improvement of ltering and layout techniques over
many years.
The Sentry not only meets CE noise requirements, but surpasses them in many tests.
(For full details and test results, please see
Appendix A.)
However in some applications with less
than optimum installations and large power
switching, the EMC performance of the
Sentry can be further improved, by:
A Reducing noise from large power
switching devices, like contactors,
using one or several of the following
methods:
Install the Sentry in an earthed metal
enclosure.
If the Sentry is mounted close to large
power switching devices like contactors, then every switching cycle there
is a possibility of generating a large
amount of near eld radiated noise.
The metal enclosure acting as a faraday cage will shunt this radiation to
ground and away from the Sentry.
Increase the physical distance of the
Sentry from power devices.
Further improvements can be made
with this type of noise by increasing
the physical distance from the power
devices. For example, increasing the
control box distance from 6” to 12”
from the noise source will reduce the
noise seen by the control box by a
factor of 4.
Add RC snubbers to the contactors or
power switches.
This oers an inexpensive and eective solution.
B Using shielded cable on sensitive input
and control signal lines.
Good results can be obtained by grounding the shields to the metal enclosure
close to the entry point. All cables act
as aerials and pick up unwanted R.F.
radiated signals and noise; the earthed
shield acts as a faraday cage around the
cables, shunting the unwanted energy
to ground.
Shields can also help with capacitively
coupled noise, typically found in circumstances when signal cable is laid on
top of noisy switching power cables. Of
course, in this case, you are better o to
keep separate signal and power lines.
C Laying cable on earthed cable trays.
This can also help reduce noise seen by
the Sentry, and is particularly useful if
there are long cable runs, or the unit is
close to radiating sources such as two
way radios.
D Adding snubbers for AC signals or a
yback diode for DC coils.
The relay outputs of the Sentry have
built in MOVs to help reduce EMI when
switching inductive loads, however
adding snubbers (for AC signals) or a
yback diode (for DC coils) can further
reduce EMI at the load.
ToolBox oers a smart, no-fuss setup experience for your Sentry Trip Amplier. It features USB
powered programming (no power supply required!) and has been designed to simplify and
speed up conguration.
You must install ToolBox before connecting the Sentry to your computer. If you have
already connected the Sentry using the Bridge Key, please disconnect it before continuing.
A Download the latest version of ToolBox from
www.deneinstruments.com/toolbox
For ease of access, we recommend saving the install le on your desktop. If you
can't nd the install le, check whether your browser has saved it in your 'Downloads' folder.
B Extract the install le from the zip folder (Fig 1). Right-click on the zip folder and choose
'Extract All', (or extract the le using another extraction utility of your choice).
SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
Fig 1
A Double-click on the extracted .msi install
le. This will launch the ToolBox installer.
Depending on your security settings, a
'Security Warning' dialogue may appear
(Fig 2).
Install Dene ToolBox on your
computer BEFORE connecting the
Sentry to the USB port on your PC.
(See section 4)
Once you have installed Dene ToolBox,
connect the Sentry to your computer's USB
port using the Bridge Key (sold separately)
and Interface Cable, as shown (right).
The Interface Cable connects to the PC Setup Port on the Sentry's front display (see
2.1C), which is protected by a plastic ap.
Unclip the ap from the bottom le or right
corner, and then swing it upward, to expose
the programming port (see 2.2).
A USB extension cable is also supplied with
your Bridge Key for use if required - this may
be used for convenience in accessing USB
ports located at a distance from the Sentry
unit.
Sentry
PC Setup
Port
Bridge
Key
CAUTION
Risk of damage to equipment or PC
Ensure that all connections between the Bridge Key and your Sentry are secure. Connecting your indicator with cables that are not rmly 'pushed in' will result in connection faults,
and in extreme cases could cause damage to your computer.
Do not unplug the Bridge Key or any connecting cables while ToolBox is busy applying
changes to the Sentry. This may cause loss of settings, or unexpected unit behaviour.
The Dene ToolBox soware application enables full conguration of your SentryTrip Amplier. To set up your unit, only the Bridge Key is required - you do not need to supply power.
ToolBox features a comprehensive help panel that will guide you through the setup of your
Sentry Trip Amplier. Helpful hints and explanations will appear when you adjust a setting
using the ToolBox controls.
A Double-click the ToolBox icon on your desktop to launch the ToolBox program.
B With the Sentry connected to your computer's USB port (see 5.1), click the green 'Connect'
button. This will scan your computer's Comm ports and automatically connect to your
device.
Connection problems?
ToolBox will auto-detect and connect to the Sentry when you click the 'Connect' button. If you
have problems establishing a connection, please check the following:
›Ensure that all connections between the device and your computer are secure. The main
interface cable must be fully inserted into both the USB programmer and the Sentry's
programming port. Press firmly.
›Try disconnecting and reconnecting the Sentry USB, or using a different USB port on your
computer.
›Disconnect any additional compatible devices. The software auto-detect feature does
not work if multiple Sentry's are connected simultaneously.
Input/Output, Setpoints, and Advanced conguration pages. (ToolBox will detect your
Sentry outputs and will only display relevant controls.)
13
Control Area & Live Trace
Main control area for conguring your
Sentry. Any changes made in this area will
bring up the Apply Bar (see below)
Connection Panel
Disconnect button
Connection status
Live display
Apply Bar
Appears if you have made any changes in the
Control Area. ToolBox will not allow you to browse
to a new tab in the Main Navigation with unapplied changes to your conguration.
Help Panel
Diagrams, explanations, and
helpful tips will automatically
appear in this panel as you
congure your Sentry.
Electrical connections are made via plug in
terminal blocks on the top and bottom of
the Sentry. All conductors must conform to
the unit's voltage and current ratings, and
be suitably rated for the expected temperature range to be incurred.
When wiring the Sentry, check all connections by comparing the terminal numbers
shown on the label against the appropriate
wiring diagrams in this manual (6.2–6.7 and
section 7), or in the Dene ToolBox soware.
Strip the wire, leaving around 0.25" (6mm)
of bare lead exposed. If you are using
stranded wire, this should be tinned with
6.2 - Terminals
Top View
solder. Insert the lead into the correct plug
in the correct position, and tighten until the
wire is secure. Verify tightness by pulling on
the wire.
Follow all local codes and regulations when
wiring and installing the Sentry. Each terminal is rated to accept one wire from #14
AWG (2.5mm) to #20 AWG. However it is
also possible to accept two #18 AWG wires,
or up to four #20 AWG wires.
CAUTION
All eld wiring must rated at a
minimum of 70°C (158°F).
6.2B Power Supply (24–250V AC, 19.5–
250V DC) (See 6.3, Pins 1–3)
6.2C Relay Outputs (See 6.5, Pins 9–13)
6.2D Analog Output (0[4]–20mA or
0–10V) (See 6.6, Pins 14–17)
6.2E User Input (See 6.7, Pins 18–19)
NOTE
Terminal D on the top side of the
Sentry is only installed on the
'R2A' model.
6.3 - Power supply
See 6.2B, pins 7–8
The Sentry features a wide range Power Supply that suits both AC
mains and 24V DC applications. The Sentry uses a full bridge rectier, so
it is not sensitive to polarity for DC power inputs.
CAUTION
Risk of electric shock.
AC power supplied to the Sentry must be protected by a 10A circuit breaker. DC power supplied to the Sentry must be protected
by a 1A, 250V fuse.
POWER
24–250V
AC
–
250V
19.5
DC
6.4 - Sensor input
See 6.2A, pins 1–6
The Sensor Input terminal can be wired to suit numerous input types. See section 7 for input
wiring, or refer to the ToolBox help panel as you are conguring the unit.
6.5 - Relay outputs
See 6.2C, pins 9–13
Wire your Relay Outputs as shown (right). The setpoints can
be congured using ToolBox for a variety of alarm or control
functions.
If your model includes Analog Output, wire it as shown (right).
The analog output can be scaled to suit your application using the
ToolBox soware.
6.7 - User input
See 6.2E, pins 18–19
The User Input can be connected to a switch as shown, to perform
manual relay reset, latching and zero functions. These options are fully
congurable using the ToolBox soware.
CAUTION
The User Input common is NOT isolated from the Sensor Input.
In order to preserve the safety of the unit application, the User
Input common must be suitably isolated from hazardous live earth
referenced voltages; or the User Input common must be at protective earth ground potential.
If not, hazardous live voltage may be present on the User Input
and the User Input common terminals. Appropriate considerations
must then be given to the potential of the User Input common
with respect to earth common.
Risk of electric shock. Dangerous and lethal voltages may be present on the terminals of
the Sentry. Please take appropriate precautions to ensure safety.
CAUTION
Risk of danger. The sensor input can potentially oat to dangerous and unexpected volt-
ages depending on what external circuit it is connected to. Appropriate considerations
must be given to the potential of the sensor input with respect to earth common.
7.1 - Thermocouple input
17
Thermocouple types B, E, J, K, N, R, S, T
Input impedance 1MΩ min
TC lead resistance 100Ω max
Cold junction comp. -10 to 70°C
Accuracy E, J, K, N, T: < ±1°C.
B, R, S: < ±2°C.
Temperature (thermocouple)
The thermocouple is one of the most
common temperature sensors used in
industry. It relies on the Seebeck coecient between dissimilar metals.
The thermocouple type is selected with
reference to the application temperature range and environment. The most
common thermocouple types for general
purpose applications are J and K type.
TC
Temperature dri E, J, K, N, T: < ±0.05°C/C.
B, R, S: < ±0.2°C/C.
Sensor break output drive
Function high upscale/low downscale
CJC error < ±1°C
Response time 400msec
Supported thermocouple types/ranges
K-200°C (-328°F)1372°C (2502°F)
B400°C (752°F)1800°C (3272°F)
E-200°C (-328°F)800°C (1472°F)
J-200°C (-328°F)1000°C (1832°F)
R-50°C (-58°F)1760°C (3200°F)
S-50°C (-58°F)1760°C (3200°F)
T-200°C (-328°F)400°C (752°F)
N-200°C (-328°F)1300°C (2372°F)
7.2 - RTD input
RTD input PT100 or PT1000 DIN 3-wire
type (2-wire can be used with oset trim)
PT100 lead wire resistance 50Ω/wire
max. 0.02% FSO oset error per Ω of lead
resistance mismatch
PT1000 lead wire resistance 20Ω/wire
max. 0.002% FSO oset error per Ω of lead
resistance mismatch
The RTD (standing for Resistance
Temperature Device) is highly stable and
accurate, and is fast becoming the most
popular temperature sensor in industry.
Oen referred to as PT100 and PT1000,
the PT represents platinum (the dominant
metal in its construction), and 100/ 1000 is
the resistance in ohms at 0°C.
RTD 3 Wire PT100/1000
Supported RTD types/ranges
PT100-200°C (-328°F) 320°C (608°F)
PT1000-200°C (-328°F) 320°C (608°F)
7.3 - NTC input
NTC -50 to 125°C (various thermistors)
Sensor types 10K Beta 3984/3435
Response time 100msec
Temperature (NTC)
NTC (Negative Temperature Coecient),
is a particular type of thermistor.
NTC's are popular in the HVAC industry
due to their low cost, but have a limited
temperature range which makes them less
popular in general industry.
The biggest issue with their general
acceptance is that there is no standard
that covers inter operability between different thermistor manufacturers.
0/4–20mA DC is the most commonly used
analog signal in industry, and is universally
accepted. As a current loop, it is unaected by voltage drops in cables, and can be
transmitted over long distances without
signal degradation.
Current 0/4−20mA
Max over-range 50mA DC continuous
Linearity and repeatability
<±0.02% FSO typical
Temperature dri <50ppm/°C
Response time 100msec
0/4–20mA DC, 3 or 4 wire transmitter
The Sentry can provide up to 25mA to
power an external 3 or 4 wire transmitter,
and at the same time measure the signal.
3 Wire Transmitter 0/4−20mA
+ Signal 0/4-20mA
Supply +22V DC 25mA max
4–20mA DC, loop powered
transmitter
The Sentry can provide power to a loop
powered transmitter, and at the same
time measure the signal. This conguration is ideal for when there is a long distance between the sensor and the Sentry.
For low signal applications the Sentry supports a ±200mV DC range. Typical applications include measuring large DC currents
using external current shunts.
±200mV DC
-200mV to 1V DC
A -200mV to 1V range is provided for
interfacing to sensors and other electronic apparatus that provide this output.
This is a general purpose voltage measuring range, typically used to measure battery voltages, power supply outputs etc.
−10 to 30V DC
7.6 - Digital pulse
0–300V DC
This higher voltage general purpose range
is typically used to measure battery voltages, power supply outputs, etc.
0−300V DC
CAUTION
Risk of electric shock
Exercise extreme caution when
handling high voltage inputs.
CAUTION
Rated voltage between pins 5 &
6 and earth is 300V DC max.
Frequency range 0–2000.0Hz
Sensors Open collector (NPN, PNP)
Excitation +22V DC, 25mA max
Response time 100msec
General frequency mode
General Frequency mode allows an NPN or
PNP input (up to 2KHz) to be measured
and scaled to any engineering unit.
The Sentry can also provide up to 25mA to
power an external device.
Soware modes General frequency, Flow
rate (pulse), or RPM (pulse)
Linearity and repeatability 0.05%
Temperature dri <50ppm/°C
Flow rate mode
Flow Rate mode enables an input from an
NPN or PNP paddle type ow meter to be
converted to a ow rate. The input signal
(up to 2KHz) is converted into a ow rate
by programming the unit with the sensor
manufacturer's K-factor value.
The Sentry can also provide up to 25mA
to power a 3 wire NPN paddle type ow
sensor.
ToolBox RPM mode enables an input from
an NPN or PNP proximity sensor to be converted to an RPM (Revs Per Minute) value.
The input signal (up to 2KHz) is converted
into RPM by programming the unit with
the pulses per revolution value.
The Sentry can also provide up to 25mA to
power a 3 wire NPN proximity sensor.
PNP open collector output
P.N.P Open
Collector Output
7.7 - Potentiometer input
Potentiometer input 3-wire
Excitation voltage Variable
Potentiometer resistance <1kΩ low pot;
1–4kΩ med pot; 4–20kΩ high pot
Field prog zero 0–90% of span
NPN open collector output
N.P.N Open
Collector Output
+22V DC, 25mA max
N.P.N Open Collector Output
With Excitation
Field prog span 0.1–100%
Linearity and repeatability
<±0.05% FSO typical
Response time 100msec
Temperature dri <50ppm/°C
3 wire potentiometer
A 3 wire potentiometer is typically used
to measure position. The low, medium
or high potentiometer range can be programmed to your unit using the ToolBox
soware.
These ranges must be calibrated using the
two point calibration method.
The Sentry has been fully calibrated at the factory, and can be recalibrated in soware using
Dene ToolBox (see section 5). Scaling to convert the input signal to a desired display value is
also done using ToolBox.
If the Sentry appears to be indicating incorrectly or inaccurately, refer to troubleshooting
before attempting to calibrate it. When recalibration is required (generally every 2 years),
it should only be performed by qualied Dene Instruments technicians using appropriate
equipment.
Calibration does not change any user programmed parameters. However, it may aect the
accuracy of the input signal values previously stored.
8.2 - Troubleshooting
No. of ashes
Display shows:
Does not
illuminate
c.err
Er.CL
ER.Fl
er.01 to10
Sens
over
undr
on Status LED
(No-display model)
Does not
illuminate
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Resolution
Check power connections.
Internal Comms Error
Try re-starting unit. If the problem is intermittent, this error
could be caused by an EMC issue. Please refer to 3.4 for
potential remedies.
Analog Output Calibration Error
Factory calibration of analog output is corrupt or missing.
Return unit to factory for re-calibration.
Display Flash Error
Settings such as decimal point, scaling, and brightness will be
lost. Reconnect to Dene ToolBox (see section 5) and set up
the unit again.
Analog Input Error
Error type indicated by a numerical error code (01-10). Please
return to factory for repair.
Sensor Error
Sensor is missing or faulty. Check your sensor wiring.
A/D Overow
Check your sensor wiring. If the sensor wiring is correct, check
the signal level.
A/D Underow
Check your sensor wiring. If the sensor wiring is correct, check
the signal level.
Attempting to show number with more digits than the display
allows e.g. a 5 digit number on a 4 digit display. Display shows
numbers less than 9999. Try adjusting your scaling.
Display Underow
Attempting to show negative number with more digits than
the display allows e.g. a 5 digit number on a 4 digit display.
This display shows numbers greater than -1999. Try adjusting
your scaling.
No. of ashes
For further assistance, please contact technical support using the contact details listed at the
end of this document.
8.3 - Service
Please return this product to the manufacturer if servicing is required.
THE SENTRY HAS NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS.
For further assistance, please contact technical support using the contact details listed at the
end of this document.
A
APPENDIX A - EMC TEST RESULTS
The Sentry has been designed to cope with large EMC disturbances. This has been achieved by
constantly testing and improving ltering and layout techniques over many years. The Sentry
oers superior R.F. ltering on all inputs, outputs and power supplies, when compared to
most competing products.
The Sentry not only meets CE noise requirements, but surpasses them in many tests. Furthermore, all testing was performed in plastic enclosures without shielded cabling.
Immunity - Enclosure Ports
PhenomenonBasic Standard Test ValuePerformance Criteria
EM FieldIEC 61000-4-310Vm (80Mhz to 1GHz)
Electrostatic
Discharge (ESD)
IEC 61000-4-24KV/8KV contact/airMeets Criterion A (Note 1)
Dene Instruments warrants that its products are free from defects in material and
workmanship under normal use and service for a period of one year from date of
shipment.
Dene Instruments’s obligations under
this warranty are limited to replacement or
repair, at its option, at its factory, of any
of the products which shall, within the applicable period aer shipment, be returned
to Dene Instruments’s facility, transportation charges prepaid, and which are, aer
examination, disclosed to the satisfaction of
Dene Instruments to be thus defective.
B.2 - User’s Responsibility
We are pleased to oer suggestions on the
use of our various products, by way of printed matter, on our website, or through direct
contact with our sales/application engineering sta.
However, since we have no control over the
use of our products once they are shipped,
NO WARRANTY, WHETHER OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR PURPOSE OR OTHERWISE is made beyond repair, replacement, or
refund of purchase price at the sole discretion of Dene Instruments.
Users shall determine the suitability of the
product for the intended application before
using, and the users assume all risk and liability whatsoever in connection therewith,
regardless of any of our suggestions or statements as to application or construction.
The warranty shall not apply to any equipment which shall have been repaired or
altered, except by Dene Instruments, or
which shall have been subjected to misuse,
negligence or accident.
In no case shall Dene Instruments’s liability exceed the original purchase price. The
aforementioned provisions do not extend
the original warranty period of any product
which has been either repaired or replaced
by Dene Instruments.
In no event shall Dene Instruments’s liability, in law or otherwise, be in excess of the
purchase price of the product.
Dene Instruments cannot assume responsibility for any circuitry described. No circuit
patent or soware licenses are implied.
Dene Instruments reserves the right to
change circuitry, operating soware, specications, and prices without notice at any
time.