GARDASOFT RT Series, RT200, RT260F, RT220F, RT460 User Manual

RTxxx LED

Lighting Controllers

Issue 013

User manual

www.gardasoft.com

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RTxxx LEDcontrollers -User Manual

Copyright and disclaimer notice

Except as prohibited by law:

All hardware, software and documentation is provided on an ‘as is’ basis. This
information is for guidance only. Installers must perform their own risk assessment
specific to each installation.

It is essential that the user ensures that the operation of the product is suitable for

their application.

The user must ensure that incorrect functioning of this equipment cannot cause any
dangerous situation or significant f inancial loss to occur.

Deliberate acts of endangerment and vandalism are not covered by this document and
must be considered by the installer.

While care has been taken in the preparation of this document Gardasoft Vision Ltd will
not accept any liability for consequential loss of any kind except those required by law.

All trademarks acknowledged. This document is Copyright 2019 Gardasoft Vision Ltd.

EC conformity declaration

The EC Certificate of Conformity is available from Gardasoft Vision Ltd on request

Issue status of this document: Issue v013 - July 2019

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Contents

1 Getting started 5

1.1 Summary of features

5

2 Safety 7

2.1 Heat

7

2.2 Electrical

7

2.3 General

8

2.4 Installation guidance (disclaimer)

9

3 Sicherheit 10

3.1 Wärme

10

3.2 Elektrik

10

3.3 Allgemein

12

3.4 Installationsanleitung (Haftungsausschluss)

12

4 Sécurité 13

4.1 Chaleur

13

4.2 Électricité

13

4.3 Généralités

15

4.4 Guide d'installation (clause de non-responsabilité)

15

5 Mounting the RTxxx 16

5.1 Environmental considerations

16

5.2 Electrostatic discharge

18

6 Connections 19

6.1 Power supply

19

6.2 Lighting output

19

6.3 Trigger inputs

22

6.4 12V Power output

23

6.5 Ethernet connection

23

6.6 Serial connection

23

6.7 Connectors

23

7 General description 25

7.1 Output modes

25

7.1.1 Continuous output, switched output, selected o utput 26

7.2 Pulsed output

26

7.3 Fault detection

27

7.4 Light auto-sensing

27

7.5 Cold start

28

8 Lighting setup 29
9 Front panel configuration (RT200) 30

9.1 Startup

30

9.2 Setting the light rating

31

9.3 Setting up continuous output

32

9.4 Setting up switched output

34

9.5 Setting up selected output

36

9.6 Setting up pulsed operation

38

9.7 Setting time periods

41

9.8 Setting the internal trigger timer

43

9.9 Using the key lock

44

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9.10 Viewing the trigger status

47

9.11 Viewing the output current

47

10 Ethernet communication(RT220, RT420, RT820F) 49

10.1 Connection

49

10.2 IP Address

49

10.2.1 DHCP 50

10.2.2 Fixed IP address 50

10.3 Automatic sensing

50

11 Webpage configuration (RT220, RT420, RT820F) 52

11.1 Main page

52

11.2 Configuration page

53

11.3 General setup page

54

12 Command configuration 55

12.1 Ethernet configuration(RT220, RT420, RT820F)

55

12.2 RS232 configuration(RT260, RT460, RT860F)

55

12.3 Command structure

55

12.3.1 General commands 56

12.3.2 Lighting channel commands 59

12.3.3 Command summary 61

13 Reference information 62

13.1 Specification

62

13.2 Restrictions

63

13.3 Error codes

64

13.4 Fatal error codes

65

13.5 Event codes

65

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1 Getting started

This user manual describes the setting up and operation of the RTxxx
range of LED lighting controllers.

Read Section Safety (or Section 3, Sicherheit, or Section4, Sécurité) and

Section 13.1, Specification, and check the RTxx controller fulfils your

requirements.
Mount the RTxxx as described in Section 5, Mounting the RTxxx and

connect the RTxxx up toa power supply as described in Section6,

Connections. The RT200 shows a two alternatinglines on it's display to

indicate it is working properly.
Read Section 8, Lighting setup. Enter the current or voltage rating of the

lights and then connect the lights. Set up the RTxxx for the desired
operation as described in the configuration sections; Section 9, Front

panel configuration (RT200), Section 11, Webpage configuration (RT220,
RT420, RT820F), and Section 12, Command configuration.

Visit www.gardasoft.com

for application notes on this product. There is

also a Support page which has information on troubleshooting problems.

1.1 Summary of features

Throughout this manual, references to the RTxxx refer to all variantsin the
RTxxx range unless otherwise stated. The convention for the product
number is:

RTcd0-vv
RTcd0F-vv

where:

c

Number of channels: 2, 4, 8

d

Configuration option: 0 = Pushbutton, 2 = Ethernet,
6 = RS232

F

Option for fast pulsing. All RT8xx models are fast
pulsing.

vv

Maximum pulse current in amps: 2, 20

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The table below lists the features on each model:

Number of

channels

Pushbutton

setup

Ethernet

setup

RS232

setup

Fast

pulsing

RT200 2 Yes No No No

RT220 2 No Yes No No

RT260 2 No No Yes No

RT200F 2 Yes No Yes Yes

RT220F 2 No Yes No Yes

RT260F 2 No No Yes Yes

RT420 4 No Yes No No

RT460 4 No No Yes No

RT420F 4 No Yes No Yes

RT460F 4 No No Yes Yes

RT820F 8 No Yes No Yes

RT860F 8 No No Yes Yes

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2 Safety

Read this before using the RTxxx. Always observe the following safety
precautions. If in doubt,contact Gardasoft Vision Ltd. The following
symbols are used in this guide:

Warning: Read the instructions to understand the

possible hazards.

Warning: Surface may get hot.

Warning: Possible hazardous voltage.

Where these symbols appear in the manual, refer to the text for the
precautions to be taken.

2.1 Heat

Ensure the RTxxx is mounted correctly (see Section 5, Mounting the

RTxxx), and that you do not exceed any of the ratings for the unit (see
Section 1.1, Specifications and ratings)

At its maximum ratings, the RTxxx’s enclosure can exceed 65°C which is
sufficient tocause a burn if touched. Place in a position where personnel
cannot accidentally touch it and ensure there is a free flow of air around
the unit.

2.2 Electrical

The RTxxx produces high energypulses. Take care to connect the outputs
correctlyand protect the output wiring and load from any short-circuits.
When switched off, energy remains stored in the RTxxx for about 15
seconds.

The RTxxx does not have complete electrical isolation of inputs (including
triggering and communications ports) and outputs, therefore,please
observe the following guidance:

Computer equipment that is connected to the communication or trigger
ports must be internally powered or separated from mains electricity by
double insulation/reinforced isolation or be approved to IEC 60950-1
standard. All other equipment connected to the triggers or other ports
must also have double insulation/reinforced isolation protection from the
mains supply.

The Power Supply Unit (PSU) used toenergise the RTxxx must provide
double insulation/reinforced isolation from mains electricity and protected
against short circuits and overloads. We recommend using a PSU that

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limits its output current to the appropriate rating of the controller by
design, by settingthe current limit on the supply(if possible), or through
over current protection. The PSU should be approved to either IEC
60950-1, IEC 60335-1, IEC 61010-1, IEC61558-1,-2,-16. The PSU may
also be approved to equivalent or superior safety standards.

Any energised conductors derived from mains electricity must also have
Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) output. Refer to Section 13, Reference

information for allowable voltage limits.

At maximum ratings the temperature of the enclosure can exceed 65°C.
Therefore, either all cabling must be rated to at least 100°C, or all cabling
must be additionally insulated by an appropriatelyrated heat resistant
sleeve or prevented from touching the metal enclosure of the controller, or
its heatsink where fitted.

Power supplycabling to the controller must be rated to at least 5A or 10A
(RT8xxF).

The cabling from the channel output tothe load must be rated higher than
the maximum channeloutput current.

If the controller is set up incorrectly, or in the event of failure, the energy
provided by the power supplytothe controller may become directly
connected to any or all output channels. You must consider this during
installation, and if necessary, provide adequate protection.

The DC power supplyto controller must be externally fused to 5A or10A
(RT8xxF) using a slow blow fuse (T5AH, 50V or T10A, 50V).

The installer must provide a clearly marked, nearby and easily accessible
switch as part of the installation to allow the controller to be disconnected
from its energy source on both power conductors.

Transients caused by inductive loads must be suppressed externallyto
the RTxxx.

Warning: This is a Class A product. Its use in residential areas may cause

radio interference, and such use should be avoided unless special
measures are taken by the user to restrict emissions to a levelthat allows
the reception of broadcast transmissions.

2.3 General

The RTxxx must not be used in an application where its failure could be a
danger to personal health or damage to other equipment.

If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer,
the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.

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2.4 Installation guidance (disclaimer)

This information is for guidance only. Installers must perform their own risk
assessment specific to each installation. While Gardasoft Vision Ltd has
taken every care in the preparation of this advice, Gardasoft Vision Ltd
accept no liability for damagesof any kind except those required by law.

Deliberate acts of endangerment and vandalism are not covered by this
document and must be considered by the installer.

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3 Sicherheit

Bitte lesen Sie vor Verwendung des RTxxx diese Informationen. Beachten
Sie immer die folgenden Sicherheitshinweise.Wenden Sie sich im
Zweifelsfall an Ihren Händler oder Gardasoft Vision. Die folgenden
Symbole haben die folgende Bedeutung:

Warnung: Lesen Sie die Hinweise, um eine mögliche

Gefahr zu verstehen.

Warnung: Oberfläche kann heiß werden.

Warnung:Mögliche gefährliche Spannung.

Wenn diese Symbole in der Anleitung auftauchen, enthält der Text
Hinweise zu den zu ergreifenden Vorsichtsmaßnahmen.

3.1 Wärme

Stellen Sie sicher, dass der RTxxx korrekt montiert ist (siehe Section 5,

Mounting the RTxxx) und dass Sie die Grenzwerte für das Gerät nicht

überschreiten (siehe Section 13, Reference information).
Bei den maximalen Grenzwerten kann das Gehäuse des RTxxx 65°C

überschreiten, was ausreichend ist um bei einer Berührung zu
Verbrennungen zu führen. Positionieren Sie das Gerät so, dass eine
versehentliche Berührung durch das Personalausgeschlossen ist und
stellen Sie sicher, dass Luft frei um das Gerät zirkulieren kann.

3.2 Elektrik

Das RTxxx erzeugt Impulse mit hoher Energie. Achten Sie darauf,die
Ausgänge korrekt anzuschließen und schützen Sie die
Ausgangsverkabelung und Last gegen Kurzschlüsse. Beim Ausschalten
bleibt Energie für etwa 15 Sekunden im RTxxx gespeichert.

Das RTxxx verfügt über keine vollständige elektrische Trennung der
Eingänge (einschließlich Trigger- und Kommunikationsports) und
Ausgänge. Beachten Sie daher unbedingt die folgenden Hinweise:

Computergeräte, die an die Kommunikations- oder Trigger-Ports
angeschlossensind, müssen über eine interne Stromversorgung verfügen
oder vom Stromnetz durch eine doppelte Isolierung/verstärkte Isolierung
getrennt sein oder nach dem Standard IEC 60950-1 zugelassen sein. Alle
anderen Geräte, die an die Trigger- oder andere Ports angeschlossen
sind, müssen ebenfallsdurch eine doppelte Isolierung/verstärkte
Isolierung vom Stromnetz getrennt sein.

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Das Netzgerät, das zur Stromversorgung des RTxxx dient, muss durch
eine doppelte Isolierung/verstärkte Isolierung von der Stromversorgung
getrennt sein und gegen Kurzschlüsse und Überlastungen geschützt sein.
Wir empfehlendie Verwendung eines Netzgeräts, das den
Ausgangsstrom durch konstruktive Maßnahmen, durch Einstellen der
Stromgrenze an der Versorgung (wenn möglich) oder durch einen
Überstromschutz auf den geeigneten Nennstrom der Steuerung
begrenzt. Das Netzgerät muss nach IEC 60950-1, IEC 60335-1, IEC
61010-1 oder IEC61558-1,-2,-16 zugelassensein. Das Netzgerät kann
auch nach gleichwertigenoder höheren Standards zugelassen sein.

Alle stromführenden Leiter, die vom Stromnetz abgeleitet sind, müssen
ebenfalls Sicherheitskleinspannung (SELV) am Ausgang erzeugen.
Hinweise zu den zulässigen Spannungsgrenzwerten finden Sie im Section

13, Reference information.

Bei den maximalen Grenzwerten kann die Temperatur des Gehäuses
65°C überschreiten. Daher muss entweder die gesamte Verkabelungfür
mindestens 100°C bemessen sein oder die gesamte Verkabelungmuss
zusätzlich mit einer angemessen dimensionierten wärmebeständigen
Tülle isoliert sein oder gegen Kontakt mit dem Metallgehäuse der
Steuerung oder deren Kühlkörper, sofern angebracht, geschützt sein.

Die Verkabelung der Stromversorgung zur Steuerung muss für
mindestens 5A (oder 10A für RT8xxF) bemessensein.

Die Verkabelung vom Kanalausgang zur Last muss höher als der
maximale Kanalausgangsstrom dimensioniert sein.

Wenn die Steuerung falsch eingerichtet ist oder im Fall einesFehlers,kann
es vorkommen, dass die von der Stromversorgung an die Steuerung
abgegebene Energie direkt mit einem oder allen Ausgangskanälen
verbunden wird. Sie müssen dies bei der Installation berücksichtigen und
gegebenenfalls für einen geeigneten Schutz sorgen.

Die Gleichstromversorgung der Steuerung muss extern durch eine träge
Sicherung (T5AH, 50V, oder T10A, 50V für RT8xxF) bis 5A oder 10A
gesichert sein.

Der Installationstechniker muss einen deutlich gekennzeichneten, leicht
zugänglichen Schalter als Teil der Installation in der Nähe vorsehen, mit
dem die Steuerung an beiden Stromleitern von ihrer Stromquelle getrennt
werden kann.

Durch induktive Lasten verursachte Einschaltstöße zum RTxxx müssen
extern unterdrückt werden.

Warnung: Es handelt sich hierbei um ein Produkt der Klasse A. Die

Verwendung in Wohngebieten kann zu Funkstörungen führen und eine
solche Verwendung sollte vermieden werden, es sei denn besondere
Maßnahmen werden vom Anwender ergriffen, um die Emissionen auf ein
Niveau zu begrenzen, das den Empfang von Rundfunkübertragungen
ermöglicht.

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3.3 Allgemein

Das RTxxx darf nicht in Anwendungen eingesetzt werden, bei denen es
durch einen Ausfall des Geräts zu einer Gefahr für die Gesundheit von
Personen oder zur Beschädigung anderer Geräte kommenkönnte.

Wenn das Gerät in einer anderen als der vom Hersteller vorgesehenen
Weise verwendet wird, kann die Schutzvorrichtung des Geräts
beeinträchtigt werden.

3.4 Installationsanleitung (Haftungsausschluss)

Diese Informationen dienen nur zur Orientierung. Installationstechniker
müssen ihre eigene spezifische Risikobewertung für die jeweilige
Installation durchführen. Auch wenn Gardasoft Vision Ltd diese
Empfehlung mit größter Sorgfalt erstellt hat, übernimmt Gardasoft Vision
Ltd keine Haftung für Schäden jeglicher Art, außer in dem gesetzlich
erforderlichen Maße. Vorsätzliche Gefährdungs- oder
Zerstörungshandlungen werden in diesem Dokument nicht behandelt und
müssen vom Installationstechniker berücksichtigt werden.

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4 Sécurité

Lisez ce document avant d'utiliser le RTxxx. Respectez les mesuresde
sécurité suivantes en toutescirconstances. En cas de doute, contactez
votre distributeur ou Gardasoft Vision. Les symboles ci-dessous auront la
signification suivante:

Attention: Lisez les instructions pour comprendre quels

sont les risques éventuels.

Attention: La surface peut devenir chaude.

Attention:Risque d'électrocution.

Lorsque ces symboles apparaissent dans le manuel,reportez-vous aux
consignes pour connaître les précautions à prendre.

4.1 Chaleur

Veillez à ce que le RTxxx soit monté correctement (voir Section 5,

Mounting the RTxxx) et à ne dépasser aucune valeur nominale pour l'unité

(voir Section 13, Reference information).
Lorsqu'il atteint ses valeurs nominales maximales, le boitier RTxxx peut

dépasser les 65°C, ce qui est suffisant pour provoquer des brûluresen cas
de contact. Placez l'appareil à un endroit où le personnel ne risque pas de
le toucher par accident et veillez à ce que l'air circule librement autour de
l'unité.

4.2 Électricité

Le RTxxx produit des impulsions d'énergie élevées.Veillez à bien
raccorder les sorties et à ce que les câbles de sortie et la charge soient à
l'abri de tout court-circuit. Lorsque le RTxxx est éteint, de l'énergie
résiduelle reste dans l'appareilpendant environ 15 secondes.

Le RTxxx ne possède pas d'isolation électrique complèt des entrées
(notamment des ports de déclenchement et de communication) et des
sorties. Par conséquent, respectez les consignes suivantes :

L'équipement informatique connecté aux ports de communication et de
déclenchement doit être alimenté en interne ou séparé de l'alimentation
secteur par une isolation double/renforcée, ou être approuvé selon la
norme CEI 60950-1. Tous les autres équipements branchés aux
déclencheurs ou à d'autres ports doivent aussi posséder une isolation
double/renforcée pour être protégés de l'alimentation secteur.

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Le boîtier d'alimentation utilisé pour mettre sous tension le RTxxx doit
fournir une isolation double/renforcée pour isoler le RTxxx de
l'alimentation secteur, et le protéger des courts-circuits et des
surcharges. Nous recommandons d'utiliser un boîtier d'alimentation qui
limite le courant de sortie de l'appareilà la valeur nominale appropriée du
contrôleur, en réglant la limite de courant sur l'alimentation (si possible) ou
via la protection contre les surcharges. Le boîtier d'alimentation doit être
approuvéselon la norme CEI 60950-1, CEI 60335-1, CEI 61010-1 ou
CEI61558-1,-2,-16. Le boîtier d'alimentation peut aussi être approuvé
selon des normes de sécurité équivalentes ou supérieures.

Tous les conducteurs sous tension dérivés depuisl'alimentation secteur
doivent aussi posséder une sortie à tension de sécurité extra-basse. Se
reporter à la Section 13, Reference information pour les limites de tension
autorisées.

Lorsqu'il atteint ses valeurs nominales maximales, le boîtier du RTxxx
peut dépasser les 65°C. Par conséquent, tout le câblage doit soit avoir
une capacité minimale de 100°C, soit être en plus isolé par une gaine
suffisamment résistante à la chaleur, soit ne pas toucher le boîtier en
métal du contrôleur ou son dissipateur thermique s'il est installé.

Le câblage d'alimentation vers le contrôleur doit avoir une capacité
minimale de 5A (ou 10A pour RT8xxF).

Le câblage reliant la sortie de la chaîne à la charge doit avoir une capacité
supérieure au courant de sortie maximal de la chaîne.

Si le contrôleur est mal réglé ou en cas de panne, l'énergie fournie par
l'alimentation au contrôleur peut devenir directement connectée à
n'importe quelle chaîne de sortie ou à toutes les chaînesde sortie. Vous
devez prendre en compte ce paramètre durant l'installation et si
nécessaire, fournir une protection adéquate.

L'alimentation en courant continu vers le contrôleur doit être protégée par
un fusible 5A (ou 10A pour RT8xxF)en externe, plus précisément un
fusible à action retardée (T5AH, 50V ou T10A, 50V).

Dans le cadre de l'installation, l'installateur doit fournir un interrupteur
clairement marqué, qui soit à proximité et facilement accessible, pour
permettre au contrôleur d'être déconnecté de sa source d'énergie sur les
conducteurs d'alimentation.

Les coupures causées par des charges inductives doivent être
suppriméesde manière externe vers le RTxxx.

Attention: Il s'agit d'un produit de classe A. Son utilisation en zone

résidentielle peut causer des interférences radio. Ce type d'utilisation doit
être évité, sauf si des mesures particulières sont prises par l'utilisateur
pour restreindre les émissions à un niveau qui permet la réceptiondes
transmissions diffusées.

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4.3 Généralités

Le RTxxx ne doit pas être utilisé dans une application où la santé des
personnes et l'intégrité des équipements seraient mises en danger s'il
venait à tomber en panne.

Si l'équipement est utilisé autrement qu'aux fins prévuespar le fabricant,
la protection offerte par l'équipement pourrait en être altérée.

4.4 Guide d'installation (clause de non-responsabilité)

Ces informations sont seulement à titre indicatif. Les installateurs doivent
effectuer leur propre évaluation des risques, pour chaque installation.
Même si Gardasoft Vision Ltd a préparé minutieusement ces conseils,
Gardasoft Vision Ltd décline toute responsabilité pour tout dommage,
quel qu'il soit, à l'exception de ceux requis par la loi. La mise en péril
volontaire ainsi que les actes de vandalisme ne sont pas couverts par le
présent document et doivent être pris en compte par l’installateur.

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5 Mounting the RTxxx

In order to provide fixing points to mount the unit onto a flat surface or
bracket, insert M3 nuts into one or more of the slots in the base, see the
illustration below. The quantityand position of these nuts depends on the
user’s requirements. One of the end coversfeatures cut-outs to allow the
M3 nuts to be easily slid into place without dismantling the controller.
Ensure that the fixing screws used do not extend past the lower base
surface by more than 5.5mm.

The PP704 kit is available for mounting the RTxxx on a DIN rail.

5.1 Environmental considerations

The RTxxx enclosure is a fire enclosure as long as it is mounted so that
none of the connectors are facingdownwards.

If a fire enclosure is used, the enclosure should be metal or plastic (with a
flammability rating of UL94 V1 or better); with no holes below or to the
sides of the RTxxx when mounted. Cable entries below the RTxxx should
be through glands that also have a flammability rating of UL94 V1 or
better. The RTxxx should be at least 10mm from any other part or side of
the enclosure.

The RTxxx does not have an IP rating and must be mounted so that
moisture and dirt cannot enter the unit.

The illustration below shows the dimensions of an RT2xx controller:

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The illustration below shows the dimensions of an RT4xx controller:

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The illustration below shows the dimensions of a TR-RT8xxFcontroller:

5.2 Electrostatic discharge

Electrostatic discharge (ESD)can damage equipment and impair the
electricalcircuitry inside your RTxxx. ESDdamage occurs when electronic
components are improperly handled and can result in complete or
intermittent failures. On the RTxxx, this is relevant only to the trigger
connections and power input.

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6 Connections

See Section 13, Reference information for information about connection
ratings

6.1 Power supply

In the unlikely event of a fault in the RTxxx, the maximum power
dissipation in the unit can be:

Power supply voltage x Max current delivered by power supply

Either limit the power supply output current so that the RTxxx cannot
dissipate more than 30W, or mount the unit in a fire enclosure.

Choose a PSU that is designed to limit its output current, or by setting the
current limit on the supply (if this feature exists), or use a fuse. The fuse
should be de-rated if mounted in an enclosure, as the temperature can be
higher than the ambient temperature.

The external power supplymust be capable of supplying at least the
average output power for all active channels.

We recommend you use a regulated power supply with 100% short circuit
protection. If however a non-regulated power supply is used, then the
maximum ripple voltage of the power supply must not exceed 10% of the
DC voltage.

Route the low voltage and mains wiring separately. If they must be loomed
together, ensure that the insulation rating of the low voltage wiring is
sufficient, or that you use supplementary insulation. The input connections
are illustrated below:

6.2 Lighting output

The lighting connections can exceed 46.7V but should not exceed 70V
DC. Pulse peak voltages above 72V are considered hazardous. The
lighting connections must be shielded so they cannot be being touched
both within the light and along the whole length of the cable.

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The lighting connections to an RTxxx are made through 4-way connectors
as shown below:

Ensure you set the current or voltage rating of your light before you
connect it, see Section 8, Lighting setup.

The connectorsfitted to anRT2xx, RT4xx, and an RT8xx seriescontroller
are shown in the illustrations below. You should refer to Section 6.3,

Trigger inputs for the pin allocations of the trigger connectors.

RT2xx

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RT4xx

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RT8xxF

6.3 Trigger inputs

The trigger inputs are opto-isolated 3V to 24V input, drawing a minimum of
3mA. The table overleafdescribes the pin allocations for the RTxxx
controllers’ trigger connectors:

Note: All RTxxx controllers are fitted with Connector ET12. Connector

ET34 is present on the RT4xx and RT8xxFseries controllers. Connectors
ET56 and ET78 are present only on RT8xxFcontrollers.

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Pin

Connector
ET12

Connector
ET34

Connector
ET56

Connector
ET78

1 TRIG1 – TRIG3 – TRIG5 – TRIG7 –
2 TRIG1 + TRIG3 + TRIG5 + TRIG7 +
3 TRIG2 – TRIG4 – TRIG6 – TRIG8 –
4 TRIG2 + TRIG4 + TRIG6 + TRIG8 +

6.4 12V Power output

RT2xx and RT4xxx controllers have one
12Vpower supply output. The RT8xxF
controller has two. These can supply up to 1A
at 12V for powering cameras and other
devices. Do not connect inductive loads or
devicesthat take large peak currents. Do not
exceed the current rating as these outputs are
not fused.

The pin allocation for the power supply output
connector is shown opposite:

6.5 Ethernet connection

Ethernet connectivity is standard on RT220, RT420, and RT820F
controllers. The RJ45 Ethernet connector requires a straight through cable
to connect into a network switch, hub or router. It operates at 10Mbits per
second
(10Base-T).

6.6 Serial connection

The RS232 connector fitted to RT260,
RT460, and RT860F controllers is a
standard 9-way female D-type. A
standard straight through cable can be
used to connect the controller to a PC
serialport. The communications port
settings are 115Kbaud, no parity, 8
data bits and 1 stop bit.

The pin allocation for the serial
connector is shown opposite:

6.7 Connectors

The RTxxx packagingincludes mating
connectors for the power supply input, digital outputs, 12V power output,
and lighting output.

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Should spare parts be required these can be obtained from Würth
(www.we-online.com), Farnell (www.farnell.com), or Newark
(www.newark.com). See the table overleaf for further information.

Connector Description

Würth part
number

Farnell/Newark
part number

Power input

2W screw terminal
free socket

691-351-500-002 164 1952

Trigger input

4W screw terminal
free socket

691-361-100-004 184 1351

12V output

2W screw terminal
free plug

691-348-500-002 N/A

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7 General description

The RTxxx seriesof current controllers provide repeatable intensity
control of LED lighting for machine vision applications. This includes the
intensity control, timing and triggering functions required for machine
vision systems.

LED lighting needs a constant current supply as small variations in voltage
can cause large variations in light output. The RTxxx series of controllers
can set currents in steps of 0.1% (with a lower limit of 2.5mA steps) to give
very fine control of intensity.

Several modes of operation are separately available for each channel:

Continuous

In continuous mode the output is a continuous brightness.

Pulse (Strobe)

In pulse mode output is pulsed once per trigger. One trigger input is used
as a trigger. The delay from trigger to pulse, the pulse duration and the
brightness can be set.

Switched

In switched mode a trigger input is used to switch the output current on
and off. The output is only enabled when the trigger input has a voltage
on it.

Selected

In selected mode a trigger input is used to select between two
different intensities.

Tandem

It is possible to connect, in parallel, between two and four channels to
provide additional power for lighting. The operation of tandem mode is
beyond the scope of this users’ manual and further information is available
from your local distributor or Gardasoft Vision.

With the exception of the RT200, controllers in the RTxx series are set up
using an Ethernet port or serial port. The set up is non-volatile, so the
RTxxx resumes the same operation after a power cycle.

7.1 Output modes

The trigger inputs are used as described overleaf:

Note: The P flag inverts the sense of the trigger input, see Section 6.3,

Trigger inputs.

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7.1.1 Continuous output, switched output, selected output

Mode Trigger input Output

Continuous Unused Output is on

Switched Trigger = off

Trigger = on

Output is off
Output is on

Selected Trigger = off

Trigger = on

Output is continuous brightness 2
Output is continuous brightness 1

Pulsed Trigger rising edge

Trigger falling edge

Pulse is triggered if P flag = 1
Pulse is triggered if P flag = 0

In continuous mode the output current is fixed and continuous. Switched
mode uses a trigger input toswitch the output on or off.

Selected mode uses a trigger input to select between the two different
brightness settings. Brightness 1 must be greater than brightness 2. The P
flag can be used to invert the trigger input.

The output current can be varied from 0% to 100% of full brightness.

7.2 Pulsed output

The output is off by default. When the RTxx is triggered, it waits for a delay
and then pulses the output. The delay,pulse width, retrigger delay and
pulse intensity are all configurable.

Retrigger delay is the minimum allowed time from one trigger to the next.
Any triggers that happen too soon after the previous trigger are ignored.
The retrigger delay is set in multiples of 100μs.

When connected to a light, the brightness can be set up to 1000% of its
rating, but only for short periods and at low duty cycles,so that the lighting
does not overheat and get damaged. The table below shows the operating
limits:

Output brightness

Maximum

pulse width

Maximum
duty cycle

0 to 100% 999ms 100%

101% to 200% 30ms 30%

201% to 300% 10ms 20%

301% to 500% 2ms 10%

501% to 1000% 1ms 5%

The duty cycle is limited by ignoring triggers which are too soon after the
previous trigger.

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For example, if the brightness is set to 250%, then the RTxxx does not
allow pulses greater than 10ms long. With 10ms pulses, if a trigger occurs
within 50ms of a previous trigger (so that the duty cycle would be greater
than 20%) the trigger is ignored.

7.3 Fault detection

The RTxxx controller detects the following errors. The error code is shown
on the webpage of an Ethernet controller (see Section 11, Webpage

configuration (RT220, RT420, RT820F)),or the communicationswindow of

an RS232 controller (see Section 12, Command configuration). When the
output current is less than 100mA, some fault detection is disabled.

You can issue a GR command to cancel the error (see Section 12,

Command configuration). The RTxxx controller re-senses the light.

Error Reason

34, 37 Internal power dissipation is too high. Output turned off.

35, 43

Output current to lighting is too low. The light is open cir-
cuit or there is not enough supplyvoltage for the reques-
ted output current.

36

If the output voltage is too low, the controller detects that
the output is short circuited.

37

The voltage required for the lighting has increased too
much. Check for ageing of the lighting or a failed LED.

38

The voltage required for the lighting has decreased too
much. Check for ageing of the lighting or a failed LED.

7.4 Light auto-sensing

When a channel does not have a light connected, the RTxxx continually
tries to supply a very small current.

When a light is connected, it flashes for a short time (the light is not
damaged by this) until the RTxxx detects that it is conected.

For voltage rated lights, the light is briefly driven at an increasing amount
until 100%output brightness is achieved in order to sense the current
rating of the light. This can generate the following errors:

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Display
error

Comms error
number

Reason

E1 Err 21

Current output is too low. This may be
because the light has become
disconnected.

E2 Err 22

The lighting required more than the
maximum available current for the
voltage rating.

E3 Err 23

Current output is not what was
expected. The controller might need
calibrating.

E6 Err 23

The power rating of the light exceeds
the maximum power rating.

7.5 Cold start

You can clear the RTxxx configuration to its default settings- this clears
the lighting ratings and sets all channels to 50% brightness continuous
operation. You can do this by sending the CL command using Ethernet or
serialconnection.

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8 Lighting setup

The rating of the light must be set by the user. This rating is the supply to
the lighting that should be used to get 100% continuous brightness from
the light. The RTxxx is compatible with both current and voltage rated
lighting.

You must enter the rating for the light before connecting it to the controller,
or if you replace it with a different type of light. If a light is replaced with the
same type of light then the previous rating still applies.

Consult the specification or labelling for the light. For commercially
available lighting modules, if a voltage and current rating is given, use the
current rating. If a voltage and wattage rating is given, use the voltage
rating. Otherwise use the current rating. For ‘homemade’ lights using
single LEDs or arrays of LEDs use the current rating from the
LED datasheet.

You can set the current rating from 0.01A to 3A in steps of 0.01A, and you
can set the voltage rating from 12V to 36V in steps of 1V.

When you connect a voltage rated light, the RTxxx automatically senses
the current rating of the light.

Voltage and current rated lights are both driven with a constant current.
This gives better brightness stability and allows the RTxxx to prevent the
light being driven with too much power.

To set the rating of a light on RS232 or Ethernet versions of the RTxxx
controller, use the VL command (see Section 12, Command

configuration), or use the internal webpages on Ethernet versions of the

RTxxx controller (see Section 11, Webpage configuration (RT220, RT420,

RT820F)).

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9 Front panel configuration (RT200)

Using the front panel keypad, you can set the configuration for each
channel, set a keylock code so unauthorised users cannot change any
settings, set the internal trigger time, view trigger status, and set the
voltage or current rating.

9.1 Startup

On power up, the RT200 displays b for five secondsfollowed by 8.8.8. to
show that the display is working, then

RT 2 and 0 0, followed by the

firmware version (for example

03 9). The controller is then ready for

operation.
When the RT200 is not being configured the display indicates the statusof

both channels as shown below:

The RT200 displays an error if a light is connected but no rating has been
specified. See Section 9.2, Setting the light rating.

To configure the RT200 from the front panel, press and hold SEL for 1
second.

CH 1 is displayed. You can then use the p and q keys to scroll

through the menu, pressing the SEL button to access the required set up
as shown in the table below:

Display Select to:

CH 1

Set up output channel 1

CH 2

Set up output channel 2

LO C

Set up a key lock

Fr E

Set up the internal trigger

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Display Select to:

tr g

View the trigger status

UA L

View the output current

rA t

Set the lighting rating

During the setup of a channel, the trigger can be set to active high or low
according to the P flag setting. Error checking can be enabled or disabled
using the E flag.

9.2 Setting the light rating

Press and hold SELfor one second , CH1 is displayed. Use the p and q
buttons to scroll to

rA t and follow the keystrokes below:

rAt

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button.

Use the p and q buttonstoselect the channel
you want toset the rating for, and press the

SEL

button.

Cur is displayed. Press the SELbutton if your
light is current rated. Or...

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If your light is voltage rated, use the p and q
buttonsto select

Uol

and press the

SEL

button.

For current rated lights, use the p and q but-
tons to set the rating in Amps, and press the

SEL

button.

Or...

For voltage rated lights use the p and q but-
tons to set the rating in volts, and press the
SELbutton.

The light's rating is set up and the RT200 is
ready to use.

9.3 Setting up continuous output

Press and hold SELfor one second , CH1 is displayed. Use the p and q
buttons to select the channel you want toset up, and follow the keystrokes

below:

The channel you want toset up is displayed.
Press the

SEL

button.

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Use thepandqbuttonsto select

SCo

and

press the

SEL

button.

bri

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to select

the light's intensity.

Use the p and q buttonstoset the intensity
from 1% to 99.9%. The default setting is 50%.

Press the SELbutton.

To set the error detection,press the

SEL

button

with

F E

displayed.

Or...

If you wish to disable the error detection, use
thepandqbuttonsto select

F-E

, and press

the

SEL

button.

Continuous output is set up on the RT200.

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9.4 Setting up switched output

Switched output is when the light remainson for as long as there is a signal
on the trigger input. Press and hold SELfor one second ,

CH 1 is

displayed. Use the p and q buttons to select the channel you want to set
up, and follow the keystrokesbelow:

The channel you want toset up is displayed.
Press the

SEL

button.

Use thepandqbuttonsto select

SOn

and

press the

SEL

button.

bri

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to select

the light's intensity.

Use the p and q buttonstoset the intensity
from 1% to 99.9%. The default setting is 50%.

Press the SELbutton.

trg

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button.

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Use the p and q buttonstoselect the trigger
(

IP1orIP2

) you want toset up, and press the

SEL

button.

To set the trigger polarity so that it is active high,
press the

SEL

button with

F P

displayed.

Or...

If you wish to set the trigger polarity so that it is
active low, use the p and q buttons to select

F-P

and press the

SEL

button.

To set the error detection,press the

SEL

button

with

F E

displayed.

Or...

If you wish to disable the error detection, use
thepandqbuttonsto select

F-E

, and press

the

SEL

button.

Switched output is set up on the RT200.

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9.5 Setting up selected output

Set up selected output if you want to switch between to lighting levels on a
trigger input. Press and hold SELfor one second ,

CH 1 is displayed. Use

the p and q buttonstoselect the channelyou want to set up, and follow
the keystrokes below:

The channel you want toset up is displayed.
Press the

SEL

button.

Use thepandqbuttonsto select

SSE

and

press the

SEL

button.

b1

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to set the

first intensity level.

Use the p and q buttonstoset the first intens-
ity level from 1% to 99.9%. The default settingis
50%.

Press the SELbutton.

b2

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to set the

second intensity level.

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Use the p and q buttonstoset the second
intensity level from 1% to 99.9%. The default
settingis 50%.

Press the SELbutton.

trg

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button.

Use the p and q buttonstoselect the trigger
(

IP1orIP2

) you want toset up, and press the

SEL

button.

To set the trigger polarity so that it is active high,
press the

SEL

button with

F P

displayed.

Or...

If you wish to set the trigger polarity so that it is
active low, use the p and q buttons to select

F-P

and press the

SEL

button.

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To set the error detection,press the

SEL

button

with

F E

displayed.

Or...

If you wish to disable the error detection, use
thepandqbuttonsto select

F-E

, and press

the

SEL

button.

Selected output is set up on the RT200.

9.6 Setting up pulsed operation

Pulsed operation allows you to set up the characteristicsof the lighting
pulse irrespective of the trigger pulse duration. Press and hold SELfor one
second ,

CH 1 is displayed. Use the p and q buttons to select the channel

you want to set up, and follow the keystrokes below:

The channel you want toset up is displayed.
Press the

SEL

button.

Use thepandqbuttons to select

SPu

and

press the

SEL

button.

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bri

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to set the

lighting intensity.

Use the p and qbuttons to set the lighting
intensity from 1% to 999%. Press the

SEL

button.

dEL is displayed. Press the SEL buttonto set
up the delay time as described in Section9.7,

Setting time periods.

Press the SELbutton.

PUL is displayed.Press the SEL buttonto set
up the pulse width as described in Section 9.7,

Setting time periods.

Press the SEL button.

rEt is displayed. Press the SELbuttontoset up
the retrigger time as described in Section 9.7,

Setting time periods.

Press the SELbutton.

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trg

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button.

Use the p and q buttonstoselect the trigger
(

IP1orIP2

) you want toset up, and press the

SEL

button.

To set the trigger polarity so that it is active high,
press the

SEL

button with

F P

displayed.

Or...

If you wish to set the trigger polarity so that it is
active low, use the p and q buttons to select

F-P

and press the

SEL

button.

To set the error detection,press the

SEL

button

with

F E

displayed.

Or...

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If you wish to disable the error detection, use
thepandqbuttonsto select

F-E

, and press

the

SEL

button.

Pulsed operation is set up on the RT200.

9.7 Setting time periods

When the RT200 requires you to enter a numeric value, the right hand digit
flashes to indicate you can use the p and q buttons to change the value.

To set pulse delay,retrigger, and pulse width values a scheme is used
where the exponent (power of 10) of the value is set. The exponent values
are as follows:

Exponent
value

Multiplier

Number
format

Range of values

E-2 0.01 9.99

Valuesare displayed in
seconds from 10ms to 5s in
steps of 10ms.

E-3 0.001 999.

Valuesare displayed in
milliseconds from 1ms to
999ms in steps of 1ms.

E-4 0.0001 99.9

Valuesare displayed in
milliseconds from 0.1ms to

99.9ms in steps of 0.1ms.

E-5 0.00001 9.99

Valuesare displayed in
milliseconds from 0.01ms to

9.99ms in steps of 0.01ms.

E-6 0.000001 999.

Valuesare displayed in
microseconds from 1μs to
999μs in steps of 1μs.

Note: The permitted range of values for pulse delay, pulse width, and

retrigger time is given in Section 13, Reference information, or as limited
by the operating conditions of the light.

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Follow the keystrokes below to enter numerical data into the RT200 using
the above scheme:

E-2

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to enter time valuesfrom

10ms to 5s.

Use the p and q buttonstoselect
the required value in steps of 10ms.
Press the

SEL

button.

E-3

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to enter time valuesfrom 1ms
to 999ms.

Use the p and q buttonstoselect
the required value in steps of 1ms.
Press the

SEL

button.

E-4

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to enter time valuesfrom

0.1ms to 99.9ms.

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Use the p and q buttonstoselect
the required value in steps of 0.1ms.
Press the

SEL

button.

E-5

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to enter time valuesfrom

0.01ms to 9.99ms.

Use the p and q buttonstoselect
the required value in steps of 0.01ms.
Press the

SEL

button.

E-6

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to enter time valuesfrom 1μs
to 999μs.

Use the p and q buttonstoselect
the required value in steps of 1μs.
Press the

SEL

button.

9.8 Setting the internal trigger timer

You can set an internal trigger timer when the RT200 is in pulse mode.
When set, the RT200 triggers with the same delay and pulse width already
set up, as described in Section 9.6, Setting up pulsed operation. External
triggering remainsunchanged.

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Ensure the RT200 is set to pulsed operation. To set the period of the
internal trigger, press and hold SELfor one second and follow the
keystrokes below:

Use thepandqbuttonsto select

FrE

and

press the

SEL

button.

OFF

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button to end

the sequence.

Or...

Use thepandqbuttonsto selectOnand
press the

SEL

button.

The internal trigger is running with the
parameters set up in Section 9.6, Setting up

pulsed operation.

9.9 Using the key lock

You can lock the RT200 front panel keypad so that unauthorised users
cannot change the configuration. To do this you can set a numeric code
from 0 to 255, which providesmoderate protection.

To lock the keypad, press and hold SEL for one second.

CH 1 is displayed.

Follow the keystrokes below:

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Use thepandqbuttonsto select

LOC

, and

press the

SEL

button.

To set up the lock code, use the p and q
buttonsto selectLc. Press the

SEL

button.

0

is displayed.Use thepandqbuttonsto set

a lock code value from 0 to 255, and press the

SEL

button.

The RT200 keypad is locked.

To unlock the keypad, press and hold SELfor one second and follow the
keystrokes below:

LOC

is displayed. Keep pressing the

SEL

button.

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Un

is displayed.Press the

SEL

button.

Use the p and q buttonstoenter the lock
code and press the

SEL

button.

CH1 is displayed and the RT200 keypad is
unlocked.

If the code entered is incorrect, LOC is
displayed.

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9.10 Viewing the trigger status

You can view the trigger input statusand whether the light is pulsing when
the RT200 is set to pulse mode. To do this, press the SELbutton for one
second and

CH 1 is displayed. Use the p and q buttons to select t r g

and press SEL. The display shown below appears:

9.11 Viewing the output current

You can view an approximate measure of the output current from the
RT200 front panel. The current measurement is updated roughly once per
second, but this can be slower when the RT200 is set to pulsed operation.

To view the output current, press the SEL button for one second and

CH 1

is displayed.Follow the keystrokesbelow:

Use thepandqbuttonsto select

UAL

and

press the

SEL

button.

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CH1

is displayed.Use thepandqbuttonsto

select

CH2

if you wish to view the output

current from channel 2. Press the

SEL

button.

The measured output current is displayed.
Press the

SEL

button.

Continue touse the RT200 normally.

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10 Ethernet communication

(RT220, RT420, RT820F)

You may need to ask your network administrator for advice about setting
up the Ethernet connection.

Ethernet set up is not affected by cold booting the RTxxx.
See Application note APP923(available from www.gardasoft.com

) for

troubleshooting Ethernet problems.

10.1 Connection

The Ethernet link uses a 10Base-Tconnectionon an RJ45 connector.The
RTxxx is usually connected to a network switch, hub or router, but you can
connect it directly into the network port on a PC using a crossover cable.

10.2 IP Address

The RTxxx needs an IP address to communicate over Ethernet. There are
two ways to get an IP address; either programmed into the unit or using
DHCP.

For DHCP mode, the RTxxx acquiresits IP address, subnet mask and
gatewayaddress from a DHCP server. Otherwise the RTxxx has a fixed IP
address, subnet mask and gatewayaddress.

DHCP mode or the IP address can be set and read using the
GardasoftMaint program available at www.gardasoft.com

.

The GardasoftMaint window is shown below:

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GardasoftMaint allows you to view the controllers on your network, change
their IP addresses and upgradetheir firmware if it becomes necessary. In
the messaging sectionof GardasoftMaint, you can communicate with your
controller using the commands explained in Section 12, Command

configuration. You can also open the selected controller's web pagesat

the click of a button. For more information about the RTxxx's web pages,
see Section 11, Webpage configuration (RT220, RT420, RT820F).

10.2.1 DHCP

Most networksuse a DHCP server. If there is a PC on the network, you
may be able to find out whether a PC on the same network uses DCHP as
follows:

i. Go to the Control Panel.

ii.

Select Network Connections.

iii.

Right click on Local Area Connection. Select Properties.

iv.

From the list, select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), press Properties.

If ‘Obtain an IP addressautomatically’ is set, then DHCP is probably used.
However, there may be an alternative fixed IP address on the Alternative
Configuration tab.

You can find out what IP addressis being used by a PC at any time by
following the steps below:

i. Go to the Control Panel.

ii.

Select Network Connections.

iii.

Right click on Local Area Connection. Select Status.

iv.

Select the Support tab. The IP address is displayed.

10.2.2 Fixed IP address

When using a fixed IP address, you must ensure that you use an IP
address that is not being used by any other device on the network. It is
usual to keep the first three numbers of the IP address the same as other
devicesand to change only the last number. For example, if you have a
network consisting of a PC (IP address 192.168.1.35) and two RTxxs
could be allocated addresses 192.168.1.201 and 192.168.1.202.

10.3 Automatic sensing

All the features below are implemented in sample C++ source code
available for download from www.gardasoft.com.

The RTxxx sends a message on three events:

i. On power up

ii. When an IP address is received or renewed by DHCP

iii. When an enquiry message is received.

On the first two events, the message is broadcast. On the third it is a reply
to a single IP address.

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An enquiry message is a UDP packet from source port 30310, destination
port 30311 with the message body ‘Gardasoft Search’ (8-bit ASCII,
13 characters).

The message output by the RTxxx is a UDP packet from source port
30311, destination port 30310. It is formatted as:

Gardasoft,RT220-20,000000,111111111111,22222222

(8-bit ASCII, 44 characters) where,

000000

The serial number of the unit

111111111111

The MAC address in 6 HEX bytes

22222222

The IP address in 4 HEX bytes

For example; for RT220-20, serial number 12345, IP address

192.168.1.103, MAC address 00.0B.75.01.80.99 the packet is formatted:
Gardasoft,RT220-20,012345,000B75018099,C0A8016

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11.2 Configuration page

There is one configuration page for each output channel, as shown below:

You can set up all the parameters for each output channel. Pressing the
Submit button updates the RTxxx configuration and saves the changes to
non-volatile memory. On this page you can:

Change the current rating for the light.
View some measured voltages and the actual output current.
Set the output mode: continuous, pulsed, or switched.
Set the pulse parameters.

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11.2 Configuration page

There is one configuration page for each output channel, as shown below:

You can set up all the parameters for each output channel. Pressing the
Submit button updates the RTxxx configuration and saves the changes to
non-volatile memory. On this page you can:

Change the current rating for the light.
View some measured voltages and the actual output current.
Set the output mode: continuous, pulsed, or switched.
Set the pulse parameters.

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11.3 General setup page

The General Setup page allows you to set up or clear the webpage's
password and set up the internal trigger. You can also enter any Ethernet
command from Section 12, Command configuration.

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12 Command configuration

The RTxxx can be configured through the Ethernet connection using UDP
or TCP/IP. You can download sample C++, C#, VB.NET code from

www.gardasoft.com

to allow configuration.

12.1 Ethernet configuration
(RT220, RT420, RT820F)

For TCP, commands from a host should be sent to destination port 30313
with replies sent to destination port 30312. For UDP, commands from a
host should be sent from source port 30312 to destination port 30313.
Replies are sent from source port 30313 to destination port 30312.

A carriage return (ASCII 13) character should be sent to terminate the
command line, in case multiple packets get joined together.

12.2 RS232 configuration
(RT260, RT460, RT860F)

When using RS232 the COM port should be set to 115200 baud, 8 data
bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, no handshaking.

A carriage return (ASCII 13) character should be sent to terminate the
command line.

12.3 Command structure

Communication consists of commands sent by the host (controlling PC).
All output generated by the command is returned in reply UDP or TCP/IP
packets. The last character sent is > (‘greater than’ symbol). Once this is
received, the host knows that the command has been completed.

We recommend that the host waits for the > symbol before sending the
next command. UDP communicationsare not guaranteed to arrive, so the
host software must be able to cope with lost messages.

Using the GT command, a host can request that a message is sent to it
whenever an error occurs.

Several commands can be put into one command line by separating them
by a semi-colon (; ).The RTxxx sends any replies to the commands
followed by a > character to show that the command line has completed.

All commands comprise a code of two letters followed by any optional
parameters. All spaces in the commands are ignored.

Numeric parameters are separated by a comma(, ). For a parameter
which is a time period,the default units are milliseconds. ‘s’, ‘ms’ or ‘us’
can be added to the end of the number toindicate seconds, milliseconds
or microseconds. For currents, ‘A’ or ‘ma’ can be added to indicate amps
or milliamps. The default unit is amps.

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Note: parameters are in ‘USA/UK’format so that a half is written ‘0.5’ not

‘0,5’. For example:

Parameter Meaning

0.1 0.1 millisecond
200μs 200 microseconds

0.1s 0.1seconds
100ma 100mA

2.45A 2.45A

2.3 2300mA or 2.3A

The command codes and their meaningare described in Section 12.3.1,

Generalcommands. The upper case commands are shown, followed by

lower case letters denoting the numeric argument.

12.3.1 General commands

Any changesyou make using Ethernet commands are not saved
permanently until you send the AW command.

Report the version of firmware running in the RTxxx

This command returns the firmware version. For example:

VR returns

RT420-20 (HW02) V031

Set Internal Trigger

Enable or disable the internal trigger. When enabled, all outputs are
triggered simultaneously using an internaltrigger signal. This setting
can be saved to non-volatile memory using the AW command.

TT0

Disable internal trigger

TT1

Enable internal trigger (uses previously
set period)

TT1,p

Enable internal trigger and set the
period

Where:

P = period of the triggers in milliseconds

For example:

TT1,200

Set the internaltrigger to 200ms (5Hz)

TT1,500US

Set the internaltrigger to 500μs (2KHz)

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Save the settings to memory

AW

Once the settings are saved to memorythey are retained when the
unit is switched off. If this is not done, changesto the settings are
volatile, and if the unit is switched off they revert to those in force
when the last AW command was issued.

Clear Configuration

CL

Clears the channel configuration and lighting ratings and sets all
channels to 50% continuous operation. The results of the VL, RS,

RW, RU, RT, RE, RP, TT, and AW commands are all cleared.

Show Configuration

ST

This command shows the operational parameters for all channels in
the controller. A typicaloutput for an RT220 controller is:

CH1,MD0,S50.0,0.0,DL1.000ms,PU1.000ms,RT0.0us,IP1,FL0,CS0.
000A,RA0.000A

CH2,MD0,S50.0,0.0,DL1.000ms,PU1.000ms,RT0.0us,IP2,FL0,CS0.
000A,RA0.000

Where:

CH

Channel number

MD

Mode: 0 = continuous, 1 = pulse, 2 = switched, 3 =
select

S

Brightness percentage settings:
1st setting used in all modes
2nd settingonly used for select mode

DL

Pulse delay

PU

Pulse width

RT

Retrigger delay

IP

Input trigger (set using the

RP

command)

FL

Flags (set using the

RE

command)

CS

Rating of the light (after SafeSense has successfully
completed sensing the light)

RA

Rating of the light (set using theVLcommand).

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When using Ethernet, use the following forms of the ST command:

ST0

Reports the general settings. A typical output is:

TM 1, TP 20.00ms

STc

Where:

c = the input channel(1 to 2, 4, or 8 dependingon model).

This reports the settings for a single channel.

Simulate an Input Trigger

TRc

Where:

c = the input channel(1 to 2,4 or 8, dependingon model).

This simulates a trigger pulse. If the channelis in pulse mode it
pulses the output once.

Enable Ethernet Messages

GTm

Where:

m = 0 to disable Ethernet messages, or
m = 1 to enable Ethernet messages.

When Ethernet messages are enabled, any error reports are sent to
the most recent UDP or TCP address from which a command has
been received. Messages are of the form:

Evtc,e

Where:

c = the channel number (1 to 2,4 or 8), or 0 for no channel

e = event value (see Section 13.5, Event codes).

Clear any Errors

GR

If Ethernet messages are not enabled, the last event or error number
can be read by this command. Any error displayed on the unit is
cleared, so if there was a lighting error, the RTxxx resumesauto-
sensing on that channel.

The reply is in the same form as the GT command above. If there are
no outstanding events or errors, then only the prompt > is returned.

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Set/Clear the Webpage Password

EY
EY asc1, asc2, asc3, asc4, asc5, asc6

This command sets the password required to access the
webpages. If EY is entered on its own then the password is cleared.
There are six optional parameters, which are decimal ASCII values
for a password from one to six letters. A value of 65 is ‘A’, 66 is ‘B’,
and so on, to 90 is ‘Z’.

You can set an unlock code. This can be used as a low-security way
of allowing trusted users to unlock the keypad. Ethernet commands
and the web pagesstill work. The settingof this command is
restored after a power cycle.

12.3.2 Lighting channel commands

Set the rating of a light

This command sets the current or voltage rating for a light. If a
current rating is being set, then the voltage rating value should be 0.

VLo,v,c

Where:

o = output channel (1 to 2, 4 or 8, depending on model)
v = voltage rating (0 or 12 to 36)
c = current rating (0 or 10mA to3A)

Set continuous mode

The output is set to continuous mode at a percentage of full
brightness.

RSc,s

Where:

c = output channel (1 to 2, 4 or 8, dependingon model)
s = settingin percent (s = 0 to 100)

Set switched mode

The output is set to switched mode at a percentage of full
brightness.

RWc,s

Where:

c = output channel (1 to 2, 4 or 8 dependingon model)
s = settingin percent (s = 0 to 100)

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Set selected mode

The output is set to selected mode with two brightness settings.

RUc,s,t

Where:

c = output channel (1 to 2, 4 or 8, dependingon model)
s = brightness 1 settingin percent (s = 0 to 100)
t = brightness 2 setting in percent (t = 0 to s)

Set pulse mode

The output can be set up to pulse on a trigger input. The delay from
trigger to the start of the pulse, the length of the pulse and the
brightness are configurable.

An error is generated if the brightness settingrequires a current
greater than 20A or if the combination of pulse width and settingis
not allowed.

RTc,p,d,s
RTc,p,d,s,r

Where:

c = output channel (1 to 2, 4 or 8, dependingon model)
p = pulse width in milliseconds (0.02 to 999)
d = delay from trigger to pulse in milliseconds (0.02 to 999)
s = settingin percent (s = 0 to 999)
r = retrigger delay. This parameter is optional.

Set the Option Flags

REc,m

Where:

c = output channel (1 to 2, 4 or 8, dependingon model)
m = flags:

bit 1 =

01E flag set (error detection enabled)

E flag cleared (error detection disabled)

bit 2 =

01P flag set (positive triggers)

P flag cleared (negative triggers)

Set the Trigger Input

This command sets which input is used for pulse and switch output
modes.

RPc,p

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Where:

c = output channel (1 to 2, 4 or 8, dependingon model)
p = trigger input (1 or 2)

This command can be used to override the state of an input. The
override is cancelled as soon as an edge is detected on the input.

12.3.3 Command summary

Command Example Effect

AW

AW Save changes.

CL

CL Clear configuration.

GT

GT1 Enable Ethernet messages.

GR

GR Clear any error conditions

EY

EY65,66 Set webpage password to 'AB'.

VR

VR Read the firmware version.

VL

VL1,0,0.5 Set the rating of channel 1 to 0.5A.

RS

RS2,65 Set channel 2 to 65% brightness

continuous.

RW

RW1,50 Set channel1 to 50% switch mode.

RU

RU1,75,25 Set channel 1 to selected mode at

75% and 25%.

RT

RT2,3,4,50 Set channel2 to 3ms pulses, delayed

by 4ms at 50% brightness.

RP

RP1,2 Output channel 1 is triggered using

output 2

RE

RE1,3 Set channel 1 to ignore lighting errors

and not prompt for the current rating of
a light when it is connected.

TT

TT1,1ms Set internal triggers every 1ms.

TR

TR2 Trigger channel 2.

ST

ST2 Show configuration for channel 2.

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13 Reference information

This sectioncontains the specification for the RTxxx and any restrictions
on its use. Error and event codes are also listed.

13.1 Specification

The RTxxx range of controllers has a 2 amp option with a '-2' suffix, and a
fast pulsing option with an 'F' suffix. The specification for these is shown
below alongside standard versions.

RTxxx-20 RTxxx-2

Each output channel

3Amaximum continuous /
20A pulsed, 46V output and
30W average output power*

2Amaximum continuous /

2A pulsed, 46V output and

30W average output power*

Lighting rating

12V to 36V in steps of 1V

100mA to 3A in steps of 5mA

12V to 36V in steps of 1V

100mA to 2A in steps of 1mA

Operating modes Continuous, strobe, switch, and selected

Trigger input

Opto-isolated, standard or inverted operation

3V to 24V

Pulse width:

(RT2xx, RT4xx )

20 microsecondsto1 second. Repeatable to

0.1 microseconds.

Pulse width:

(RT2xxF, RT4xxF RT8xxF)

1 microsecond to 1 second. Repeatable to

0.1 microseconds.

Trigger delay:

(RT2xx, RT4xx )

20 microsecondsto1 second. Repeatable to

2 microseconds.

Trigger delay:

(RT2xxF, RT4xxF RT8xxF)

2 microsecondsto 1 second. Repeatable to

2 microseconds.

Internal trigger timer 0.2Hz to 1kHz

Supplyvoltage 24VDC to 48VDC regulated

Heat dissipation 10W maximum

*Refer to Section 13.2, Restrictions

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13.2 Restrictions

The maximum output power for an RT2xx is 30W per channel or 40W
total. For an RT4xx, it's 30W per channel or 50W total. The maximum
output power for an RT8xxF is 30W per channel or 100W total.

The following timings and restrictions are applied whenever settingsare
saved (using the AW command).

B.1 Continuous Mode

The maximum output current is 3A (2A for an RTxxx-2).

B.2 Switched Mode

The maximum delay from a trigger input changing to the output current
being turned on or off is 10us. The maximum output current is 20A (2A for
an RTxxx-2).

B.3 Selected Mode

The maximum delay from a trigger input changing to the output current
being turned on or off is 5ms. The maximum output current is 0.5A.

B.4 Pulse Mode

The maximum output current is 20A (2A for an RTxxx-2). For high current
pulses the following limits apply:

Pulse current Pulse length limit

20A 100μs
12A 400μs
10A 1ms
5A 3ms

Pulses of 2A or more for pulse widths longer than 2ms may cause an error
or have a lower current towards the end of the pulse.

For fast pulse controllers (RTxxxF) the minimum pulse delay is about 2μs.
When overdriving or using the retrigger delay, the minimum delay is
around 5μs.

For pulse widths less than approximately 150us, the output voltage and
current cannot be measured. Because of this, fault detectionis disabled
and the following restrictions apply:

For pulse currents greater than 0.5A, the duty cycle is restricted to 1%.
For pulse currents less than or equal to 0.5A, the duty cycle restricted to

10%.

Special note for RT8xxF controllers: If you need to generate a variety of

output currents, the highest current loads should be connected to the low-
numbered output channels. For example CH1, CH2... This minimises the
spread of high currents on the internal PCB and helps to maintain a low
temperature rise in the unit.

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13.3 Error codes

Error number Reason

Err 1 A parameter value is invalid.

Err 2 Command not recognised.

Err 3 Numeric value is the wrong format.

Err 4 Wrong number of parameters.

Err 5

This is a warning, not an error. One of the para-
meters is out of range. The value of the parameter
has been adjusted. For example, sending an RT
command with a delay of 0 gets a reply of ‘Err 5’.
The command is accepted but the delay is set to
the minimum allowed value.

Err 19

A light has been connected to a channel but no rat-
ing has been set.

Err 8, 12

EEPROM corrupt. The configuration has been
cleared.

Err 9, 20 Could not save settings to EEPROM.

Err 21, 22, 23 Sensing error. See Section 6.2, Light auto-sensing.

Err 27

Can’t read Ethernet settings from EEPROM, so
these may be incorrect.

Err 34, 47

Internal power dissipation is too high. Output turned
off.

Err 35 Output current to lighting is too low.

Err 43

The requested output current requirestoo high a
voltage.

Err 36 The output is short circuit.

Err 42 The output current is too high.

Err 37

The voltage required for the lighting has increased
too much. Check for ageing of the lighting or a failed
LED.

Err 38

The voltage required for the lighting has decreased
too much. Check for ageing of the lighting or a failed
LED.

Err 39

Internal protection has prevented SafePower
voltage going too high.

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13.4 Fatal error codes

Error number Reason

Err 44

The RTxxx is too hot. The RTxxx has a thermal
cutout which operates around 65°C to 70°C,
dependingon conditions.

Err 40, Err 41
Err 45

One channelis outputting more current than
expected.

Err 46 One channelis dissipating more than 30W.

Err 47

Internal protection has prevented too much heat in
the output driver.

13.5 Event codes

Event messages are sent when a light is connected or an error occurs. The
format of these is:

Evt<channel>,<event code>;

These event messagesare only sent after the GT1 command has been
sent.

Event number Reason

1 to 127

An error has occurred. The error code is given by
the event number.

128 A light has been connected and is working.

129

A light has been connected but doesn’t have a
current or voltage rating.

130 An over temperature error occurred.

131 An over current error occurred.

132

An error has occurred while autosensing the rating
of a light.

138 SafePower trainup has completed.

139 SafePower trainup has failed or been cancelled.

140

In switch output mode, the light has been turned
off because the duty cycle is too high.

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Issue v013 - July 2019

© Copyright 2019 Gardasoft Vision Ltd

Gardasoft Vision Ltd

Trinity Court

Buckingway Business Park

Cambridge CB24 4UQ UK

tel: [phone]

fax: [phone]

Gardasoft LLC
Oak Ridge Road
Weare
New Hampshire
03281 USA
tel: [phone]

www.gardasoft.com

ILL-GARD19-10/2019 ∙ Subject to technical change without notice. No liability is accepted for errors which may be contained in this document.

ILL-GARD31-10/2019 ∙ Subject to technical change without notice. No liability is accepted for errors which may be contained in this document.

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