1.1 Related documentation ............................................................................................................................ 2
1.2 Requirements for service engineers .................................................................................................... 2
2 Versions of the VISY-X system ................................................................. 4
2.1 Wired version ............................................................................................................................................... 4
2.2 Wireless version / radio system ............................................................................................................ 4
3.1 Design and function .................................................................................................................................. 5
3.1.1 VISY-Command – wired version (standard) ...................................................................................... 5
3.1.2 VISY-Command RF – wireless version (radio system) ................................................................... 6
4.3 Service interface .......................................................................................................................................... 9
4.3.3 DIP switch S2 for bias (RS-485 host/extension) ........................................................................... 12
4.4 Supply voltage connection................................................................................................................... 12
4.5 Status display ............................................................................................................................................. 13
4.5.1 Status messages ....................................................................................................................................... 13
The VISY-X system (Volume Information SYstem) provides highly precise and continuous level
measurements for all commercially available fuels in up to 16 tanks. Simultaneously the
product temperature and the water level at the bottom of the tank are measured.
The system includes:
• VISY-Command (central unit)
• VISY-Setup (software application) for configuring the VISY-Command
• VISY-Stick (filling-level sensors) for tank gauging in the versions:
tor and VISY-Sludge probes for monitoring the oil and sludge layer in oil separators,
see chapter 1.1
− VPS for monitoring of pressures
The VISY-Command central unit is installed in the petrol station building outside the potentially explosive area.
The VISY probes are to be connected with the VISY-Command. VISY-Command collects data
from the probes and transmits this to a higher-level system (e.g. POS) on request.
In this manual, you will be guided through the installation and commissioning of the VISYCommand.
Page 1/28 Introduction
Page 5
1.1 Related documentation
Before configuring and operating the VISY-Command central unit, the level and environmental
sensors must be installed and connected to it. The VISY-Command is then configured with the
VISY-Setup software via a PC or notebook. Please also observe the additional instructions in
the following technical documentation:
For the installation and commissioning of the VIMS sensors please contact:
SGBGmbH, Hofstraße 10, 57076 Siegen, Germany
Tel.: +49 271 48964
The VISY-SoftView software application is used for the display module in the VISY-Command
GUI and in the VISY-View Touch. VISY-SoftView provides the capability to view current tank
data, delivery data and the various alarms signalled by the VISY-Command central unit. For
configuration and operation of the display module with VISY-SoftView see the following
technical documentation:
The probes VISY-Stick Oil separator and VISY-Sludge are used for monitoring of oil separators
(COMS Continuous Oil separator Monitoring). The sensor VISY-Stick Oil separator continuously monitors the height of the light-liquid layer, VISY-Sludge continuously monitors the
height of the sludge layer. For installation and operation see the following technical documentation:
The complete VISY-X system should only be installed by trained service engineers.
Introduction Page 2/28
Page 6
1.3 Safety instructions
The VISY-X system is optimised for use in petrol stations and is compatible with all commercially available fuels. It serves to measure and evaluate the filling levels in tanks. The system
must be used exclusively for this purpose. Observe and follow all product safety notes and
operating instructions. The manufacturer accepts no liability for any form of damage resulting
from improper use.
The level and environmental sensors and the VISY-Command central unit have been developed, manufactured and tested in accordance with the latest good engineering practices and
generally accepted safety standards. Nevertheless, hazards may arise from their use.
The following safety precautions must be observed in order to reduce the risk of injury, electric
shocks, fire or damage to the equipment:
• Opening or removing the housing cover from the VISY-Command could result in a
risk of electric shock.
• Do not change or modify the system or add any equipment without the prior consent
of the manufacturer.
• Only use original parts. These comply with the technical requirements specified by the
manufacturer.
• The installation, operation and servicing of the sensors and the VISY-Command must
solely be carried out by expert personnel.
• Operators, installers and service technicians must observe all applicable safety regula-
tions. This also applies to any local safety and accident prevention regulations which
are not stated in this manual.
• The VISY-Command central unit is only suitable for wall mounting inside buildings
and must not be installed in potentially explosive areas.
• The isolating amplifiers type VP-… respectively VISY-RFR, and the interface type VI-…
included in the VISY-Command central unit must always be undamaged and clean.
• During normal operation, the casing cover of the VISY-Command central unit must
remain closed.
• The product may be powered only via the permissible auxiliary power supply.
The safety instructions in this manual are marked as follows:
If these safety instructions are not observed, it may result in the risk of accident or
damage to the VISY-X system.
Useful tips and information in this manual, you should observe, appear in italics
and are identified by this symbol.
Page 3/28 Introduction
Page 7
2 Versions of the VISY-X system
Two versions of the VISY-X system are available which differ in different data transmission
technology:
(1) The wired version
(2) The wireless version / radio system
2.1 Wired version
In most cases, data is transferred between the sensors and the VISY-Command central unit via
cable. This cable is also in charge of the voltage supply of the sensors. The wired version of the
VISY-X system is the standard version.
2.2 Wireless version / radio system
If no free cable ducts are available at the petrol station, it is possible to instead opt for the
wireless tank gauging system. In this case, the benefit of installing the wireless system is that it
does not entail any excavation work.
In the wireless system, the sensors are connected to a transmitter and powered by a batter y.
The radio version of the central unit is equipped with a receiving module.
The radio system consists of the additional components:
• VISY-RFR (radio frequency receiver, receiver installed in VISY-Command … RF)
• VISY-RFT (radio frequency transmitter, transmitter with battery)
The installation procedure for the wireless system is described in the following technical
documentation:
VISY-RF III radio system, art. no. 350272
Versions of the VISY-X system Page 4/28
Page 8
3 VISY-Command
The designation of the VISY-Command depends on the number of sensor terminals or the
transmission technology, for example, "VISY-Command 8" with eight sensor terminals or "VISYCommand RF" as wireless version.
3.1 Design and function
3.1.1 VISY-Command – wired version (standard)
The wired (standard) version of VISY-Command has 2, 4, 8, or 16 sensor terminals.
At each sensor terminal, it is possible to connect up to three different types of FAFNIR sensors
VISY-Stick/Reed (e.g. one VISY-Stick, one VISY-Stick Interstitial and one VISY-Reed Sump).
These three types of sensors can be connected to each other directly at the installation point.
This means that only one cable (4-wire) is required for the connection to the VISY-Command.
In combination with the VIMS sensors from our system partner for leakage control
(SGB GmbH, Siegen), either 2 FAFNIR sensors and 2 SGB sensors or 3 FAFNIR sensors and 1 SGB sensor can be connected to the VISY-Command central unit using
one single cable (4-wire).
Connecting sensors of the same type (e. g. 3 x VISY-Stick or VISY-Stick Interstitial
with VISY-Reed Interstitial) to one sensor terminal is not supported.
The terminal box/cable connector used to extend the connection cables for the
sensors in the manhole chamber must comply with a degree of protection of IP68
for the housing.
The VISY-Command central unit comprises a VI-4 interface and one or two VP… isolating
amplifiers installed in a housing for wall mounting (IP20). One VP… isolating amplifier is
installed in the VISY-Command 2, 4 or 8; two VP-1 isolating amplifiers are installed in the
VISY-Command 16.
The sensors are electrically supplied with power via the VISY-Command. The VISY-Command
receives the measured values, stores this data temporarily and makes the data available to a
higher-level system (e.g. central computer). A serial interface, either an RS-232 or an RS-485,
is used for communication. Various logs are available for transmitting the data to the service
station computers.
The IFSF-LON interface is also available as an option, see the following technical documentation:
IFSF-LON interface converter, art. no. 207092
Page 5/28 VISY-Command
Page 9
3.1.2VISY-Command RF – wireless version (radio system)
With the wireless version (RF), each VISY-Stick/Reed sensor is connected to one VISY-RFT
transmitter, which transmits the measured data to VISY-Command RF.
Up to 16 VISY-Stick/Reed sensors can be operated in conjunction with the VISY-Command RF.
Each sensor is electrically powered via a battery in the VISY-RFT transmitter.
The VISY-RFT transmitter must not be operated without an antenna.
If the wireless system is used, it should be noted that reception conditions may
vary with the number of cars or lorries passing through the petrol station. This
can, under certain circumstances, result in long data reception failures in the
VISY-Command. Therefore, the tank data may not always be updated at the set
transmission intervals and delivery data could potentially be lost.
For improved wireless communication, the VISY-Command RF should preferably
be equipped with two external receiving antennas.
The VISY-Command RF comprises an interface VI-4 and a wireless receiver installed in a case to
be mounted on the wall (IP20). The data received from the VISY-Command RF is evaluated,
stored temporarily and made available to a higher-level system (e.g. central computer).
Communication takes place via a serial interface, either the RS-232 or RS-485. Various logs are
available for transmitting the data to the service station computers.
The IFSF-LON interface is also available as an option, see the following technical documentation:
IFSF-LON interface converter, art. no. 207092
The installation of the wireless system is a complex installation procedure and is described in
detail in the following technical documentation:
VISY-RF III radio system, art. no. 350272
VISY-Command Page 6/28
Page 10
4 Installation
When installing and operating the VISY-Command central unit, the requirements
of the Explosion Protection Regulations, the Industrial Health and Safety Regulations and the Equipment Safety Regulations as well as generally accepted rules of
engineering and these operating instructions must be observed.
Observe also the local safety and accident prevention regulations, which are not
stated in these operating instructions.
Wiring work may only be performed with the power disconnected.
4.1 Assembly
The VISY-Command central unit must be securely mounted on a wall inside a building.
The VISY-Command central unit is not suitable for outdoor installation.
For mounting the case, the VISY-Command contains the relevant drilling tem-
plate.
4.1.1 Sensor connections
4.1.2 VISY-Command – wired version (standard)
Connect the filling level and environmental sensors to the sensor terminal block on the VP-…
board (see Figure 1 and Figure 2). To feed in the cable, please use the blue cable gland for
intrinsically safe circuits.
The maximum permitted external inductance must not exceed 40 mH and the
maximum permitted capacitance must not exceed 680 nF including the cable (see
data sheet of the used cable).
The connection cable between the sensors and VISY-Command must have the following
characteristics:
• 4-core unshielded, oil-resistant cable
• Cable cross-section (4 x 0.5 mm² up to 100 m or 4 x 1.0 mm² up to 200 m)
• Colour blue or marked blue (cable for intrinsically safe power circuits)
• Maximum diameter of 10 mm to fit through the cable glands in the VISY-Command.
Page 7/28 Installation
Page 11
z
um InterfaceVI-4
13
A
B
A
-
A
+
B
--
B
N
+
A
B
Messwertgeber
++
B
N
Messwertgeber
4
+
BB
B
B
A
7
2
-
--
B
L
Hilfsenergie
-
+
A
A
L
BB
-
+
+
+
-
+
+
PE
+
A
+
-
A
+
--
-
Messwertgeber
8
A
(230V 50Hz)
6
B
A
A
B
5
B
+
A
A
Messwertgeber
-
Messwertgeber
+
B
-
Messwertgeber
Messwertgeber
-
A
Messwertgeber
A
VPPlatine
Figure 1: VISY-Command 8 with one VP-1 board for 8 sensors
Figure 2: VISY-Command 16 with two VP-1 boards for 16 sensors
Installation Page 8/28
Page 12
1
VISY-IC I
S2
8
1
+
5V
Host
-
Rx
D H
o
s
t
4
P
E
RxD Service
-TxD Erweiterung
PE
TxD Service
6
1
Res
et
9 - 16
2
N
5
:
Er
w
e
iterung
Tank
7
1 - 8
Vor
spannung
3
-TxD Host
Service
5
L
RS
-485
Messwertgeber
Display :
S1
Statusder
InterfaceVI-4
O
N
2
2
3
:
RxD
Ser
vice
2:TxD
3
4
O N
DIP switch S1: Service
1
2
Function
OFF
OFF
Configuration of VISY-Command using the VISY-Setup software application
OFF
ON
VISY-Quick protocol (FAFNIR protocol)
ON
OFF
Auxiliary measurement system
ON
ON
No function
Interface VI-4
Status of the
sensor
Extension
Reset
Tank
Host
Bias
Extension
4.1.3 VISY-Command RF – wireless version (radio system)
The installation of the wireless version is described in detail in the manual of the VISY-RF radio
system, see the technical documentation:
VISY-RF III radio system, art. no. 350272
4.2 Interface connections
s
Figure 3: Interface VI-4
4.3 Service interface
The RS-232 serial interface (9-pin D-sub socket) can be used for the connection of three
different applications. The DIP switch S1 is used for the relevant settings:
Table 1: DIP switch S1 settings
The RxD service LED (green) displays incoming data of the service interface.
The TxD service LED (green) displays outgoing data of the service interface.
For connecting to the service interface, a serial interface cable (standard) must be
used.
Page 9/28 Installation
Page 13
4.3.1 Host interface
Extension
Host
The serial host interface (galvanically isolated) for communication with a higher-level system,
e.g. POS, is designed to function as an RS-232 interface or an RS-485 interface. Depending on
requirements, the host computer can be connected to the RS-232 interface or the RS-485
interface. The data protocol for the interface can be selected using the VISY-Setup software
application and is determined by the host code entered. The VI-4 interface automatically
recognises the interface to which the host computer is connected.
Connect the host computer to the corresponding terminals of the host interface, as shown
below.
Figure 4: Host interface
A simultaneous operation of the RS-232 interface and the RS-485 interface is not
supported.
If the RS-485 interface is used, it is advisable (for reasons of interference resistance) to use a 3wire cable in order to also be able to connect the interface ground of the VISY-Command
(terminal ⊥ of the host interface) to the interface ground of the host system (if provided as a
connection terminal) in addition to the ports A+ and B-.
If shielded lines are used, the shield must be placed on the PE connection. Please also observe
the installation instructions for the device to be connected to the interface. If the shield cannot
be fitted on both sides, it is possible to work with a shield fitted to one side of the VISYCommand only.
The RxD Host LED (red) indicates incoming data from the host computer.
The TxD Host LED (red) indicates outgoing data to the host computer.
Do not connect the line shield to the interface ground (
Please note that the longer the line length, the greater the probability of equipo-
tential currents flowing through a line shield earthed on both sides. Depending on
local rules and regulations, it may be necessary to provide an additional equipotential bonding between the connected devices.
⊥
/GND).
Installation Page 10/28
Page 14
Extension
Host
4.3.2 Extension interface (RS-485)
The extension interface is a galvanically isolated RS-485 serial port through which data can be
transmitted to other system components (e.g. VISY-View Touch if the host interface is busy).
This interface is unidirectional. This means that data is only sent from VISY-Command to the
system components connected there. The system components receive the data without having
to send a request. This means that, in contrast to bidirectional interfaces, it is possible to
connect several system components (e.g. several VISY-View Touches) to the extension interface
in parallel. Theoretically, up to 31 system components can be connected to this interface.
By default, this interface is inactive. It can be activated using the VISY-Setup application. To
determine whether other configurations are required, please refer to the technical documentation supplied with the device to be connected.
Figure 5: Extension interface
If shielded lines are used, the shield must be placed on the PE connection. Please also observe
the installation instructions for the device to be connected to the interface. If the shield cannot
be fitted on both sides, it is possible to work with a shield fitted to one side of the VISYCommand only.
The yellow TxD LED of the extension interface indicates data being transmitted through the
extension interface.
Do not connect the line shield to the interface ground (
⊥
/GND).
Please note that the longer the line length, the greater the probability of equipo-
tential currents flowing through a line shield earthed on both sides. Depending on
local rules and regulations, it may be necessary to provide an additional equipotential bonding between the connected devices.
Page 11/28 Installation
Page 15
4.3.3 DIP switch S2 for bias (RS-485 host/extension)
DIP switch S2: RS-485 bias
1 2 3
4
Function
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
Bias off (factory setting)
ON
ON
OFF
OFF
Host bias
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
Extension bias
ON
ON
ON
ON
Host and extension bias
A(+)
+5V
GND
ON/OFF
ON/OFF
820
820
With the DIP switch S2, the RS-485 host interface (2.1./2.2) and the RS-485 extension interface
(2.3/2.4) can be biased when required, in order to achieve a significant improvement of
communication security.
Table 2: DIP switch S2 configuration
In an RS-485 network, only one bias point is permitted. For this reason, leave the
switches in the OFF position if another device is already biasing the network.
RS-485
B(-)
Figure 6: DIP switch S2
4.4 Supply voltage connection
The auxiliary power (electrical connection) must be supplied using fixed wiring (not via a
connector), and is ducted through the lower right cable gland. Connect the power supply to
the provided terminal blocks (see Figure 1).
Installation Page 12/28
Page 16
o=
VISY-Stick fitted in the tank
VISY-Stick/Reed Interstitial (monitoring of the intermediate chamber in double-walled
tanks)
c=
VISY-Stick/Reed Sump (monitoring of the manhole)
d=
VISY-Stick/Reed Sump (monitoring of the dispenser sump)
P=
VPS pressure sensor
S=
VISY-Sludge
T=
VISY-Stick Temp (temperature measurement with up to 31 temperature sensors)
(=
VIMS Tank (monitoring of the intermediate chamber in double-walled tanks)
l=
VIMS Product Pipe (monitoring of intermediate chamber in double-walled product pipes)
)=
VIMS Delivery Pipe (monitoring intermediate chamber in double-walled filling pipes)
%=
VISY-Input
&=
VISY-Output
4.5 Status display
After switching on or resetting the VI… interface, the firmware checksum is initially checked. If
an error in the firmware is detected, the display shows permanently SE (Signature Error).
Otherwise, the firmware version of the interface is displayed. This is shown in form of three
numbers displayed in sequence, e. g. 4 – 2 – 3 represents version 4.2.3.
If no sensor has been configured yet, the display will show 99 continually. If, however, sensors
have been configured, for each and every configured terminal of the VP-… isolating amplifier,
first the terminal number and then the type of sensor represented by a symbol will be displayed one after the other (see following table):
b=
Table 3: Sensor symbols
VIMS sensors cannot be operated with the VISY-Command RF.
Finally, the status of the various sensors is displayed in the form of a number (see below).
4.5.1 Status messages
As soon as configuration has been completed with the VISY-Setup, you can monitor the
operation of the sensors using the status display on the VI-4 interface. The display consecutively shows the terminal number of a particular sensor, a symbol and the associated status
(e. g. „So=O“ means “VP board terminal no. 5 with VISY-Stick under operation”). In this case,
one sensor after another is then scanned in an endless loop.
Page 13/28 Installation
Page 17
Code
Message (VISY-Setup)
Description
Possible cause
0
Probe running
No measures required.
1
Probe not running
The measured values are no longer being
unit.
If this status is displayed permanently,
5
Probe cannot determine temperature
to be processed.
If this status is displayed permanently,
6
Probe cannot determine filling level
continue to be transmitted.
If this status is displayed permanently,
7
Reduced measuring accuracy
being achieved.
Powerful fluid movements prevent a
8
Relevant to wireless mode only:
Dirty or damaged plug-in connection,
three-phase supply cables, motors).
9
Relevant to wireless mode only:
Dirty or damaged connection, connec-
VISY-Stick/Reed.
recorded and are set to “0” by the central
The central unit is no longer capturing the
temperature and sets the value to 0.0 °C.
The temperature compensation of the
filling volume is no longer being carried
out. The product and water level continue
Required action
it must be assumed that the sensor is
defective.
The sensor must be replaced.
it must be assumed that the sensor is
defective.
The sensor must be replaced.
The product level and water level are set to
“0” by the central unit, the temperature will
All measured values are being processed
normally. However, it must be assumed
that total measurement accuracy is not
Checksum error:
Probe - RF-transmitter
The VISY-RF transmitter is reporting an
error communicating with the sensor. The
central unit is not receiving data from the
sensor.
it must be assumed that the sensor is
defective.
The sensor must be replaced.
fully accurate measurement. This may
be the case during fuel deliveries, for
example.
No measures required.
loose connection, strong interference
radiation, or VISY-RF transmitter defective.
Check cable and plug-in connection,
replace VISY-RFT transmitter, replace
sensor, check surrounding area for
powerful sources of radiation (e.g.
RF-transmitter has no communication with
probe
The VISY-RFT transmitter is reporting that
the sensor is no longer responding.
Installation Page 14/28
tion cable defective, sensor or VISY-RFT
transmitter defective.
Check cable and plug-in connection,
replace VISY-RFT transmitter, replace
Page 18
Code
Message (VISY-Setup)
Description
Possible cause
10
Checksum error:
In case of wired operation, the cable
etc.).
11
No communication with probe
Sensor not connected / available /
appropriate to the possible causes.
12
Incompatible data
The sensor or the particular version of
Probe - Control Unit
The central unit displays an error message
when communicating with the sensor or
the RF receiver.
Required action
connection (also connectors and terminals) to the sensor is loose, dirty, or
damaged, or there is severe interference.
In wireless mode, the cable connection
(also connectors and terminals) between RF receiver and VI-4 interface is
loose, damaged, or there is severe
interference.
Check cables, plug-in connections and
terminal connections.
The central unit is no longer able to
establish data communication with the
sensor. The measured values are not being
captured and are set to "0" by the central
unit.
There are no transmission errors in the
data communication with the sensor, but
the central unit cannot interpret the data.
The measured values are not being
captured and are set to "0" by the central
unit.
In wired mode, replace sensor, VP-
…
isolating amplifier, VI-4 interface.
In wireless mode, replace RF receiver,
VI-4 interface. Check surrounding area
for powerful sources of radiation (e.g.
three-phase cables, power switches,
defective, wiring fault, incorrect serial
number configured for the sensor,
central unit (VI-4 interface or VP-
…
isolating amplifier) defective.
Take the necessary measures as
the sensor is not supported by the
central unit.
Ask the manufacturer whether the
sensor and the central unit are compatible, and whether any updates are
available. When doing so, please have
the type and version number of the
central unit, and the type, serial number and/or version number and possibly the model of the sensor (e.g.
number of floats or density measurements installed) to hand.
Page 15/28 Installation
Page 19
Code
Message (VISY-Setup)
Description
Possible cause
13
Relevant to wireless mode only:
Waiting for first wireless transmission
Data from the sensors is only being
to 11.
99
Probe not configured
When the central unit is delivered, all
using the VISY-Setup.
--
Reset central unit
The central unit is reset by its switch-
central unit.
Required action
transmitted periodically.
After switching on or resetting, the VISYCommand RF is reporting that no data has
been received from the sensors.
The central unit assumes that the sensor is
not connected. No data communication is
taking place via the relevant connection
point (tank 1
… 16). All the measured
values for this connection are set to "0".
The central unit is not working. During a
reset, there is no communication with the
sensors, host and VISY-Setup. Here, the
VISY-Setup is reporting that the central
unit is no longer responding.
Not required because of normal
reset/switch-on behaviour. If data is still
not being received following the lapse
of the configurable timeout in the
VISY-Command (1
– 99 hours), the
status automatically changes from 13
the connected sensors/tanks show this
status initially. In order for communication with a sensor to be established
through a particular terminal, it is necessary to enter the serial number of the
sensor and also the type of product. If
this status is displayed, either one or
both of these items of data have not
been input.
The central unit must be configured by
ing-on or pressing the reset button. If
this status is displayed permanently,
even after you have pressed the reset
button, it should be assumed that the
central unit (VI-4 interface) is defective.
Replace the VI-4 interface inside the
Table 4: Status messages
Installation Page 16/28
Page 20
4.6 Reset button
This button can be used to trigger a reset of the VI-4 interface. All saved settings will be
retained.
5 Configuration
After installation, the VISY-Command has to be configured using the VISY-Setup software
application. Please follow the relevant instructions in the following document:
VI-4 interface and VP-… isolating amplifier can be replaced each as complete assembly units.
The boards are mounted on a support rail from which they can be easily removed using a
screwdriver.
7 Maintenance
7.1 Return shipment
Before returning any FAFNIR equipment, the Return Material Authorization (RMA) from FAFNIR
customer service is required. Please contact your account manager or the customer service to
receive the instructions on how to return goods.
The return of FAFNIR equipment is possible only with authorization by the FAFNIR
customer care.
Page 17/28 Configuration
Page 21
8 Technical Data
Details of the technical data can be found in the approvals and instructions.
9 List of figures
Figure 1: VISY-Command 8 with one VP-1 board for 8 sensors ................................................................. 8
Figure 2: VISY-Command 16 with two VP-1 boards for 16 sensors .......................................................... 8
Table 4: Status messages......................................................................................................................................... 16
Technical Data Page 18/28
Page 22
Page 23
Page 24
Page 25
Page 26
Page 27
Page 28
Page 29
Connection
Terminal
Contacts
Power supply
Power
PE, N, L
Sensor circuits
VP1: 1 … 8
+, A, B, -
Communication
(Cradle connector)
1 … 10
Instructions in accordance with Directive 2014/34/EU TÜV 98 ATEX 1380 X
Isolating amplifier VP-… Edition: 08.2017
I Range of application
The isolating amplifiers VP-… are primarily used to supply electronic fill level sensors and forward the measured data to a superordinate evaluation system.
II Standards
The isolating amplifier is designed in accordance with the following European standards
EN 60079-0:2012 + A11:2013 Equipment - General Requirements
EN 60079-11:2012 Equipment protection by intrinsic safety "i"
III Instructions for safe …
III.a … use
The isolating amplifier serves as associated equipment and is not suitable for use in potentially explosive
area. The intrinsically safe sensor circuits may be routed into the Zone 0 or Zone 20 and are applicable for
all gas groups (IIA, IIB and IIC) as well as all dust groups (IIIA, IIIB and IIIC).
The approval applies to the device versions
VP-1 Isolating amplifier with eight intrinsically safe sensor circuits
VP-2 Isolating amplifier with two intrinsically safe sensor circuits
VP-4 Isolating amplifier with four intrinsically safe sensor circuits
III.b … assembling and dismantling
The isolating amplifier is manufactured with an open plastic housing for DIN rail mounting. The housing
must not be opened!
III.c … installation
The wiring must be carried out only with the power disconnected. Special rules and regulations, including
EN 60079-14 and local installation regulations, must be observed.
The isolating amplifier must be installed outside the potentially explosive area in a housing with degree of
protection of at least IP20. If the isolating amplifier is mounted outdoors, the housing protection class must
be at least IP54.
For the wiring (preferably blue cable) from the sensor to the isolating amplifier, the permissible inductance
and capacitance under item V must not be exceeded.
Terminal designation:
VP-2: 1 … 2
VP-4: 1 … 4
Table III.c: Terminal designation on the isolating amplifier
No Ex-relevant equipment is required for operating the isolating amplifier.
III.e … putting into service
Before putting into service, all devices must be checked of right installation and connection. The electrical
supply, as well as connected devices, must be checked.
III.f … maintenance (servicing and emergency repair)
The isolating amplifier is generally maintenance-free. In case of a defect, it must be send back to FAFNIR or
one of its representations.
There is consistency with the requirements for the dielectric strength (according to EN 60079-11, clause
6.3.13) between the intrinsically safe sensor circuits and the auxiliary energy as well as the communication
connection.
The auxiliary power for the isolating amplifier depends on the model:
U = 24 V
/115 VAC/230 VAC ± 10 %, 50 Hz … 60 Hz
AC
P ≈ 2 VA
U
= 36 V@24 VAC / 138 V@115 VAC / 253 V@230 VAC
m
The sensor circuits are designed in ignition protection type "intrinsic safety" (ia) with a linear output characteristic. Output values per electric circuit are
Output voltage U
Output current I
Output power P
Internal inductance L
Internal capacitance C
≤ 14.3 V
o
≤ 27.5 mA
o
≤ 98.1 mW
o
negligibly small
i
negligibly small
i
The permissible external inductance and capacitance are:
≤
The maximum values of the parameter pairings may simultaneously be
used as concentrated capacitance and concentrated inductance. The values
written in bold can be found also in the device marking.
The signal and maximum safety voltage of the communication interface is
U = 5 V
U
= 134 V
m
The isolating amplifier can be used in the following ambient temperature range:
= -20 °C … +55 °C
T
a
The isolating amplifier achieves a housing protection degree of
Degree of protection IP00
VI Specific conditions for use
The isolating amplifier must be installed in a housing which has a degree of protection according to EN
60529 of at least IP20.