›Optional WiFi›Optional Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for
configuration and local control
›Built in support for 3G/4G modems›Built in realtime clock and datalogger›Scripting logic engine for custom applications›Wide connection to leading Cloud service
providers
›Low power design with selectable sleep options›Easy USB programming and data log retrieval
via your PC:
defineinstruments.com/workbench
General Description
The Zen IoT brings measurement and control,
and the Internet Of Things together. This
new genre of products is ideal for many
applications, including AMR (Automatic
Meter Reading), remote monitoring of
assets, and data collation and transmission.
The Zen IoT is ideal for use as a bridging
device, to connect existing infrastructure
like PLCs and discrete control systems to the
Cloud. It can also be used for edge processing, where data is collated from sensors
and existing equipment, calculations are
performed in the device, and the results are
communicated to the Cloud.
A wide range of communication options are
available to connect to other devices, and to
the Cloud, using existing industrial protocols
like Modbus, and new IoT comms like MQTT.
Physical connections include Ethernet, WiFi,
3G/4G, RS485 and Bluetooth.
The Zen IoT features a unique low power
design which can be programmed to start at
power levels of less than ⁄W, making battery packs and solar panel systems smaller
and more cost eective. The unit also features industrial grade analog and digital I/O,
with 4–20mA, RTD, TC and many more available options.
The Zen IoT has an advanced and exible
logic engine which can be programmed with
a powerful scripting language (developed by
Dene Instruments), to tie all these features
together for custom applications. (Please
contact us to discuss your project.)
The standard Zen IoT 4 has four isolated
universal input channels, and comes in a
compact 1.38" (35mm) case. This can be expanded to 12 inputs (2.36" [60mm] case) or
16 inputs (3.35" [85mm] case).
Equipment protected throughout by
DOUBLE INSULATION or REINFORCED
INSULATION.
ORDER CODES
ZEN–IOT––
3
Zen IoTChannel Conguration
Channel Conguration4
12
16
Comms
RS
EIOT
WIFI
Note: Bluetooth and Ethernet Modbus TCP Comms are also supported by this device and are
oered to OEM's, subject to MOQ's. Please inquire.
4 universal inputs, standard 1.38" (35mm) case
12 universal inputs, expanded 2.36" (60mm) case
16 universal inputs, expanded 3.35" (85mm) case
Built in RS485/232 only
Built in RS485/232 + Additional RS485/232
Built in RS485/232 + Additional Ethernet IoT
Built in RS485/232 + Additional WiFi
Comm Port(s)
Accessories
Bridge KeyBRIDGE-KEYUSB Bridge Key, required for PC programming us-
ing our free WorkBench soware
Cellular ModemGT-HE910-NAD
SAFETY NOTICES
For your safety and the prevention of damage to the Zen IoT unit and other equipment connected to it, please read complete instructions prior to installation and
operation of the Zen IoT and carefully observe all safety regulations and instructions. Consult this manual carefully in all cases where hazard symbols are marked
on the Zen IoT 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.
The Zen IoT supports a range of options to connect to the internet. These include:
CLOUD CONNECTION OPTIONS
Wired Ethernet Port
An Ethernet port (order code 'EIOT') is available for wired internet connection.
(Ethernet Modbus TCP is also supported by this instrument and is available to
OEM's on request.)
WiFi
WiFi connection (order code 'WIFI') enables LOS transmission of up to 1476
(450m) using the supplied 3dBi wireless antenna.
External 3G or 4G modem
An external 3G or 4G modem may be used for remote devices, and is especially
useful when other connections are not an option. The Zen IoT supports 3G/4G
modems by default via the included RS485 serial port. (You can also order an
additional RS485 comm if required for connection to your PLC.) The external
modem supported at this time is the GateTel GT-HE910-NAD with type approval
for AT&T and T-Mobile.
Once you have decided on a Cloud connection option, Dene WorkBench (see Section 6) can
then be used to congure your Cloud/server connection settings. Currently supported Cloud
platforms are Xively and deviceWISE (please contact us if your preferred Cloud provider is not
listed).
A Custom connection can also be used to connect to your own server or that of a third party.
The Custom connection is secured using TLS and uses MQTT as the protocol transfer mechanism. It sends JSON packets containing the industry standard SenML (Sensor markup language) data.
The most common operating mode for WiFi enabled Zen IoT's is the Station (or Client) Mode.
This mode is used when the Zen IoT is required to connect to an access point of an existing
WiFi network as a client.
Depending on the plugin, it can be set up to work with a DHCP server (default setting), or to
have a xed (or Static) IP address. The user must enter the SSID and passphrase of the WiFi
network that it is attempting to connect to.
Access Point Mode
Some WorkBench plugins also allow a WiFi enabled Zen IoT to be run as an access point which
is totally independent of any other networks. This can be useful if there are no WiFi networks
available, or if they are not accessible for security reasons.
When running in Access Point Mode, the Zen IoT will function as a DHCP server and can work
with up to 5 Clients. The user can set the SSID, passphrase, and also which WiFi channel to use.
2.2 - Sleep Mode
The Zen IoT has a low power Sleep Mode which allows it to run on low current, to conserve
power. This is useful for battery powered applications. Sleep Mode is installed with selected
Cloud plugins in Dene WorkBench, and can be enabled from the 'Logging' tab.
In Sleep Mode the Zen IoT will wake up periodically to sample analog input data and take a
data log sample. It will also publish data to a Cloud server, (if this feature is enabled), before
returning to Sleep Mode.
When running in Sleep Mode the following features are disabled to conserve power:
›Power LED is turned off›WiFi/Ethernet/Bluetooth functionality is
disabled
›RS232/RS485 serial port(s) are disabled
›Relays are disabled (except for Relay D,
with retains its state during shut down)
›Analog inputs are disabled
The 4 digital inputs on the Zen IoT remain active in Sleep Mode and can still be used as pulse
counters with ow transducers etc. (See Section 3 Specications for reduced count rates during Sleep Mode).
Note: The Zen IoT will not enter Sleep Mode while a programing cable is inserted into the
programming port on the front of the unit and connected to a PC via the Bridge Key. It will
exit Sleep Mode if an active programming plug is inserted.
USB programmable Via 'PC Setup' port
using Bridge Key USB programmer (sold
separately)
7
Dene WorkBench Simple conguration
using Dene WorkBench. Free download at:
deneinstruments.com/workbench
Datalogging
Real-time clock
Data logging 32MB (31,774 samples for all
channels)
Fast, simple data log retrieval and
visualization, using Dene WorkBench
Environmental conditions
Operating temp –40 to 176°F (–40 to 80°C)
Storage temp –40 to 176°F (–40 to 80°C)
Operating humidity 5–85% RH max,
non-condensing
Compliances
EN-61326-1:2006
EMC Emissions EN 558022-A;
Immunity EN 50082-1; Safety EN 60950
Construction
Casing DIN 35 rail mounting; Material: ABS
inammability V0 (UL94)
Dimensions (H x W x D)
Zen IoT 4 = 3.98 x 1.38 x 4.72"
(101 x 35 x 120mm)
Zen IoT 12 = 3.98 x 2.36 x 4.72"
(101 x 60 x 120mm)
Zen IoT 16 = 3.98 x 3.35 x 4.72"
(101 x 85 x 120mm)
The Zen IoT should be installed in a location
that does 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 dripping inside, as this will
damage the internal circuits.
Zen IoT 12: 2.36" (60mm)
4.3 - Installation Instructions
Antenna mounted
outside enclosure
using antenna
extension cable
The Zen IoT is rated IP20, and should be mounted in a protective enclosure to protect the unit
from weather conditions and dust. If using the Zen IoT with WiFi, the unit must be located
within range of a WiFi network. The maximum distance is 1476 (450m) L.O.S.
A - Plastic Enclosure (Fig 1)
Prepare the Plastic Enclosure (not supplied)
as illustrated by mounting a DIN 35 rail, cable
glands, and any other required components.
If you are using the WiFi model, the antenna
may be mounted directly on the Zen IoT (inside the Plastic Enclosure). A cellular modem
may also be installed inside the enclosure.
Plastic
enclosure
35mm
DIN rail
9
B - Metal Enclosure (Fig 2)
Prepare the Metal Enclosure (not supplied)
as illustrated by mounting a DIN 35 rail, cable
glands, and any other required components.
This enclosure type should be earthed.
If you are using the WiFi model or a cellular
modem, a Metal Enclosure will impede your
signal strength. In these cases, the antenna
should be installed on the outside of the enclosure using a compatible Antenna Exten-
sion Cable.
C - DIN Rail Mounting (Fig 3)
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 0.79" (2cm) clear on either
side of the unit, and at least 1.97" (5cm)
clear above and below the unit, to allow
room for airow and wiring.
To unclip the unit from the DIN rail, power
the unit down and remove the power
connector.
Then insert a small screwdriver into the slot
on the red hook (just visible when the power
connector is removed), and lever it down.
This will release the hook, allowing the unit
to be detached from the DIN rail.
4.4 - EMC Installation Guidelines
Fig 4
The Zen IoT has been designed to cope
with large EMC disturbances. This has been
achieved by continual testing and improvement of ltering and layout techniques.
The Zen IoT meets CE noise requirements,
and even surpasses them in many tests.
(For full details and test results, see Appendix A.) However in some applications with
less than optimum installations and large
power switching, the EMC performance
of the unit can be further improved by:
A Installing the unit in an earthed Metal
Enclosure (as in Fig 2). This is particular-
ly useful if the control box is mounted
close to large power switching devices
like contactors. 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 unit.
B 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. (Probably the cheapest
and best results in this situation could
be obtained by adding RC snubbers to
the contactors or power switches.)
C 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.
D Laying cable on earthed cable trays can
also help reduce noise seen by the Zen
IoT. This is particularly useful if there
are long cable runs, or the unit is close
to radiating sources such as two way
radios.
E The relay outputs of the Zen IoT have
built in MOV's to help reduce EMI when
switching inductive loads. EMI can further be reduced at the load by adding
snubbers for AC signals or a yback diode for DC coils.
Dene WorkBench oers a comprehensive and yet simple-to-use setup tool for your Zen IoT,
complete with data log extraction and visualization.
You must install WorkBench before connecting the Zen IoT to your computer. If you have
already connected using the Bridge Key, please disconnect before continuing.
A Download the latest version of WorkBench from
www.deneinstruments.com/workbench
B Extract the install le from the zip folder. Right-click on the zip folder and choose
'Extract All', (or extract the le using another extraction utility of your choice).
INSTALLING DEFINE WORKBENCH
C Double-click on the extracted .msi
install le. This will launch the
WorkBench installer.
Depending on your security settings,
a 'Security Warning' dialog may
appear. If you see the security
message, click 'Run'.