Gill Instruments MetPak PRO, MetPak, MetPak RG User Manual
User Manual
Weather Stations
Parts 1723-XB X-11X (Firmware version 2436-4.01.01)
Parts 1723-XB X-11X (Firmware version 2436-4.02.04 Modbus units only)
Doc No: 1723-PS-0022 Issue 1
Gill Instruments Limited
Saltmarsh Park, 67 Gosport Street, Lymington,
Hampshire, SO41 9EG, UK
Tel: +44 1590 613500, Fax: +44 1590 613555
Email: 1 Website: www.gillinstruments.com
MetPak
MetPak Pro
MetPak RG
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 2 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
Contents
1. FOREWORD ............................................................................................ 4
2. INTRODUCTION...................................................................................... 4
2.1. MetPak Part Numbers and Parameters ............................................................ 5
2.1.1. MetPak Part Number Structure. ............................................................... 5
2.1.2. MetPak Derived Parameters and Sensors. ............................................... 5
2.1.3. Wind Speed and Direction Sensor ........................................................... 6
2.1.4. Radiation Shield ...................................................................................... 6
2.1.5. Temperature, Relative Humidity and Dewpoint ......................................... 7
2.1.6. Barometric Pressure ................................................................................ 7
2.1.7. Precipitation (Digital Input 1). ................................................................... 7
2.1.8 PRT Temperature (PRT Input) ................................................................. 8
2.1.9 Analogue Sensor 1 .................................................................................. 8
2.1.10 Analogue Sensor 2 .................................................................................. 8
2.1.11 Status of MetPak Sensors ....................................................................... 8
2.1.12 Supply Voltage ........................................................................................ 8
2.2. MetPak Sensors default ASCII Output Summary .............................................. 8
3. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION ................................................................ 9
4. PRE-INSTALLATION ............................................................................ 12
4.1. Equipment supplied ........................................................................................ 12
4.1.1. Optional Extras: ..................................................................................... 12
4.2. Connector and Cable Assembly. ..................................................................... 13
4.3. Communication Cabling .................................................................................. 13
4.3.1 Cable type ............................................................................................. 13
4.3.2 Cable length .......................................................................................... 14
4.4. Cable Connections General ............................................................................ 14
4.5. Earthing .......................................................................................................... 14
4.6. Power supplies ............................................................................................... 15
4.7. Power and Communication Connections ........................................................ 15
4.8. Connecting to a PC using Gill RS232 to USB Configuration Cable ................. 16
4.9. Connecting to a PC using RS232 (Default setting) .......................................... 19
4.10. Connecting to a PC using RS422 (Not a Default Setting) ................................ 19
4.11. Using RS485 (2 wire point to point only, not a default setting.......................... 20
4.12. Using SDI-12 (2 wire network) not a default setting......................................... 20
4.13. Analogue, Digital and PRT Input Connections ................................................ 21
4.14. MetPak Pro Junction Box (Part 1723-PK-021) ................................................ 25
4.15. Set up requirements ....................................................................................... 29
4.15.1. Host System: ........................................................................................ 29
4.15.2. Software: .............................................................................................. 29
4.15.3. Bench system test ................................................................................ 29
4.16. Packaging ....................................................................................................... 29
5. INSTALLATION ..................................................................................... 30
5.1. Example Installation Guidelines ...................................................................... 30
5.1.1. Non Heated Wind Sensor System .......................................................... 30
5.2. Interference .................................................................................................... 31
5.3. Wind Sensor Installation ................................................................................. 31
5.4. MetPak Range Mounting and Dimensions (in mm) ......................................... 32
5.5. MetPak Pro Junction Box Mounting (1723-PK-021) ........................................ 34
5.6. Solar Installation ............................................................................................. 35
Gill Instruments Ltd
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5.7. Rain Gauge Installation ................................................................................... 35
6. CONFIGURING WITH METSET ............................................................ 38
6.1. MetPak Default Configurations ....................................................................... 38
6.2. Configuring MetPaks with MetSet ................................................................... 42
6.3. Polled Mode .................................................................................................... 53
6.3.1 To Configure a MetPak Unit for Polled Mode:......................................... 53
6.4. Configuring MetPak for SDI-12 ....................................................................... 54
6.4.1. SDI-12 Units of Measure ........................................................................ 54
6.4.2. SDI-12 Commands ................................................................................ 55
6.4.3. SDI-12 Commands with CRC ................................................................ 57
6.5. Configuring MetPak for MODBUS ................................................................... 59
6.5.1 MetPak Supported Modbus Specification ............................................... 59
6.6. Configuring a MetPak for NMEA Output.......................................................... 63
6.7. Safe Mode ...................................................................................................... 65
6.7.1. Safe Mode Method 1 ............................................................................. 65
6.7.2. Safe Mode Method 2 ............................................................................. 69
7. VIEWING METPAK DATA .................................................................... 70
7.1. Use MetView to View the MetPak Data ........................................................... 70
7.1.1. Opening MetView .................................................................................. 70
7.1.2. Scanning for Devices ............................................................................. 71
7.1.3. The MetView Console ............................................................................ 72
7.1.4. MetPak Pro User External Sensor Display ............................................. 73
7.1.5. MetView Console Display Options ......................................................... 74
7.1.6. MetView Gauge Ranges and Graphs ..................................................... 75
7.1.7. Data logging .......................................................................................... 77
7.2. Use a Terminal Program to View the MetPak Data ......................................... 79
7.2.1. Setting up a logging file.......................................................................... 81
7.2.2. To stop logging ...................................................................................... 81
8. MAINTENANCE & FAULT-FINDING .................................................... 82
8.1. Cleaning and Handling.................................................................................... 82
8.2. Servicing ......................................................................................................... 82
8.2.1. Wind Sensor (WindSonic) ...................................................................... 82
8.2.2. UV Radiation Shield (MetSpec).............................................................. 82
8.2.3. Barometer ............................................................................................. 83
8.2.4. Temperature, Humidity and Dewpoint Probe (Rotronic HC2-S3-GI)........ 83
8.2.5. Tipping Bucket Precipitation Sensor. ...................................................... 84
8.2.6. Tipping Bucket Spare Parts ................................................................... 86
8.2.7. Solar Sensor.......................................................................................... 86
8.2.8. Calibration ............................................................................................. 87
8.2.9. Returning the MetPak ............................................................................ 87
8.3. Fault-finding .................................................................................................... 87
8.3.1. Fault Symptons/Solutions ...................................................................... 87
8.3.2. MetPak Range Sensor Status Codes ..................................................... 88
8.4. Safe Mode ...................................................................................................... 89
8.5. Bench Test ..................................................................................................... 89
8.6. Returning Units ............................................................................................... 89
8.7. Guarantee....................................................................................................... 89
9. APPENDICES ........................................................................................ 90
9.1. Glossary & Abbreviations ................................................................................ 90
9.2. Electrical Conformity ....................................................................................... 91
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 4 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
ARG100 Rain Gauge
supplied with MetPak RG
1. FOREWORD
Thank you for purchasing a MetPak unit manufactured by Gill Instruments Ltd.
To achieve optimum performance we recommend that you read the whole of this manual before
proceeding with use.
Gill products are in continuous development and therefore specifications may be subject to change
and design improvements without prior notice.
The information contained in this manual remains the property of Gill Instruments and should not
be copied or reproduced for commercial gain.
2. INTRODUCTION
All the MetPak range equipments are Professional multi-sensor instruments that measure the most
essential weather parameters. They also provide a data collection system that allows customers to
add their own selection of sensors to meet local requirements. Gill ultrasonic technology, as used
in the proven WindSonic instrument, measures wind speed and direction. Temperature and
Humidity are measured and Dewpoint calculated using an industry standard probe housed in a
naturally aspirated radiation shield. Barometric pressure is measured using an industry standard
sensor.
The MetPak RG allows in addition for the customer to use an aerodynamic tipping bucket for Rain
measurements.
The MetPak Pro in addition allows the customer to add up to four additional sensors. One PRT
(temperature sensor), one digital (contact closure rain gauge) and two analogue inputs (4-20mA or
0-5V) e.g. water level sensor, Pyranometer, pressure sensor, soil temperature etc. Other types of
sensors may be added limited by the number of inputs available.
MetPak range units combines all the instrument data into a single combined data string. This may
be configured for digital ASCII RS232/RS422/RS485 (2 wire point to point), digital MODBUS
RTU/ASCII and SDI-12 outputs.
The instrument uses a rugged mounting clamp that attaches to any vertical pipe up from 30mm to
58mm diameter.
An electrical Hub box is fitted to the mounting bracket for termination of sensors limited to cable
gland entry, data and power cables. A separate Junction box is optionally available for easier
termination of external sensors, power and communication cables.
MetPak/MetPak RG/MetPak Pro
Gill Instruments Ltd
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2.1. MetPak Part Numbers and Parameters
2.1.1. MetPak Part Number Structure.
2.1.2. MetPak Derived Parameters and Sensors.
MetPak Sensor Parameter MetPak MetPak RG MetPak Pro
Wind Speed, Relative
Yes Yes
Yes
Wind Direction, Relative
Yes Yes
Yes
Temperature, Air
Yes Yes
Yes
Humidity, Relative
Yes Yes
Yes
Dewpoint
Yes Yes
Yes
Barometric Pressure
Yes Yes
Yes
Rain/Precipitation No Yes Yes with user supply Rain Gauge
Temperature from a PRT
No
No Yes with user supply PRT
Analogue Sensor 1
No
No Yes with user supply Sensor
Analogue Sensor 2
No
No Yes with user supply Sensor
MetPak Derived Parameter
MetPak
MetPak RG
MetPak Pro
Status (Sensors)
Yes
Yes Yes
Volts (Supply) Yes Yes Yes
MetPak Outputs
MetPak
MetPak RG
MetPak Pro
Gill ASCII
Yes Yes Yes
Modbus
Yes Yes Yes
SDI-12
Yes Yes Yes
NMEA
Yes No No
Gill Instruments Ltd
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2.1.3. Wind Speed and Direction Sensor
The MetPak uses the Gill WindSonic wind speed and direction sensor. The WindSonic measures
the times taken for an ultrasonic pulse of sound to travel from the North (N) transducer to the
South (S) transducer, and compares it with the time for a pulse to travel from S to N transducer.
Likewise times are compared between West (W) and East (E), and E and W transducer.
If, for example, a North wind is blowing, then the time taken for the pulse to travel from N to S will
be faster than from S to N, whereas the W to E, and E to W times will be the same. The wind
speed and direction can then be calculated from the differences in the times of flight on each axis.
This calculation is independent of factors such as temperature.
Compass points
The compass point and polarity of U and V if the wind components along the U and V axis are
blowing in the direction of the respective arrows.
MetPak outputs Relative wind – wind speed and/or direction relative to the north marker, which
may not be facing north.
2.1.4. Radiation Shield
A MetSpec Multi-Plate Radiation Shield provides excellent
protection to the Rotronics temperature and relative humidity
sensor, shielding the probe from unwanted errors, especially
from secondary upward reflecting solar radiation and/or wind
blown precipitation/airborne contaminants. The special shield
plate geometry, with its double louvre design, provides excellent
response time performance of quick ambient temperature
changes while still working effectively as a baffle to stop larger
contaminants such as salt or dirt from reaching the Rotronics
probe. Due to the increased protection offered to the Rotronics
probe by the MetSpec shield, the maintenance cycle can be
extended. The shield benefits from very robust material choice
and extremely high UV protection requiring no maintenance. A
further benefit of the MetSpec shield design is that the measured
temperature is now even closer to reference temperature
measurements made using artificially aspirated motors without
the drawbacks of such systems (power and the maintenance of
moving parts).
Gill Instruments Ltd
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2.1.5. Temperature, Relative Humidity and Dewpoint
The MetPak MetSpec shield contains a Rotronic Hygroclip module. It is a complete instrument,
with integrated temperature compensation. Calibration data is maintained within the integrated
electronics. It provides digital output signals for Relative Humidity, Temperature and Dewpoint.
2.1.6. Barometric Pressure
Barometric pressure output is provided by a solid-state device fitted on to the circuit board in the
MetPak Unit Hub box. Vent to atmosphere is via a Gore-Tex type filter which also protects the
pressure sensor from the effects of wind and rain.
2.1.7. Precipitation (Digital Input 1).
MetPak RG and MetPak Pro:-
Rainfall is measured by the well-proven tipping bucket method. Rain is
collected by a funnel and is passed to one of the two buckets situated
at either end of a short balance arm. The balance arm tips when the
first bucket is full, emptying this bucket and positioning the second
bucket under the funnel. The tipping process repeats indefinitely as
long as the rain continues to fall, with each tip corresponding to a fixed
quantity of rainfall; at each tip the moving arm forces a magnet past a
reed switch, causing contact to be made for a few milliseconds.
An ARG100 Rain Gauge is supplied with a MetPak RG to connect to the Digital input (DIG1),
which detects when two dedicated terminals are short circuited (less than 1k ohm).
Rain levels are provided by reading the number of switch closures taking place over each output
rate time period (default one reading per second). Then multiplying this number by the Rain Gauge
count figure set using MetSet (e.g. 0.2mm per switch closure) and outputting the result in the data
string.
Hygroclip
Gore-Tex
type filter
Gill Instruments Ltd
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Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
2.1.8 PRT Temperature (PRT Input)
An external 2 or 4 wire PT100 device can be connected to a MetPak Pro to provide an additional
remote temperature measurement.
2.1.9 Analogue Sensor 1
An external remote analogue sensor, 0-5v/4-20mA output, can be connected to a MetPak
Pro AN1 input.
2.1.10 Analogue Sensor 2
An external remote analogue sensor, 0-5v/4-20mA output, can be connected to a MetPak
Pro AN2 input.
2.1.11 Status of MetPak Sensors
Outputs the MetPak Sensors Status Code (see para 8.3.2).
2.1.12 Supply Voltage
The DC Supply voltage measured at the MetPak unit is output in the MetPak Digital Data Output
string.
2.2. MetPak Sensors default ASCII Output Summary
MetPak Default Data String
Node, Relative Wind Direction, Relative Wind Speed, Pressure, Humidity, Temperature, Dewpoint,
Supply Voltage, Status, Checksum.
STX>Q,170,000.08,1019.5,035.0,+024.7,+008.3,+04.9,00,<ETX>55 & (CR,LF)
MetPak RG Default Data String
Node, Relative Wind Direction, Relative Wind Speed, Pressure, Humidity, Temperature, Dewpoint,
Digital Input 1, Supply Voltage, Status, Checksum.
<STX>Q,014,000.06,1011.2,042.1,+023.0,+009.4,0000.000,+04.9,00,<ETX>40 & (CR,LF)
MetPak Pro Default Data String
Node, Relative Wind Direction, Relative Wind Speed, Pressure, Humidity, Temperature, Dewpoint,
PRT, Analogue Input 1, Analogue Input 2, Digital Input 1, Supply Voltage, Status, Checksum.
<STX>Q,249,000.01,1017.3,049.2,+021.4,+010.3,+040.45,+000.06,+000.04,0000.000,+11.6,00,<
ETX>7C & (CR,LF)
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 9 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
3. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Wind Measurement
Parameters Polar Wind Speed & Direction or U and V Vectors
Units of Measurement m/s, knots, mph, kph, ft/min
Wind Speed
Range 0.01 to 60m/s
Accuracy
2% @12m/s
Resolution 0.01m/s
Threshold 0.01m/s
Wind Direction
Range 0-359 Degrees – No dead band
Accuracy
3 @12 m/s
Resolution
1
Air Temperature
(Hygroclip)
Type Pt 100 1/3 Class B
Range
-35C to +70C
Accuracy
0.1C
Resolution
0.1C
Units of Measure
C or F
Relative Humidity
(Hygroclip)
Range 0-100%
Accuracy
0.8% @ 23C
Resolution 1%
Units of Measure % RH
Dew Point
Resolution
0.1C
Accuracy
0.15C (23C ambient temperature @ 20C dew point)
Units of Measure
C or F
Barometric Pressure
Range 600 to 1100hPa
Accuracy
0.5hPa
Resolution 0.1hPa
Units of Measure hPa, mbar, mmHg, InHg
Compensated for Temperature dependency –20C to +70C
Rain
with
ARG100
Rain Gauge
connected to MetPak RG
Precipitation Intensity 0 to 1000mm per hour.
Resolution 0.2mm/tip
Accuracy
2% (ARG100)
Units of Measure millimetres, inches per tip
Gill Instruments Ltd
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Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
Inputs
MetPak Pro (MetPak RG Digital Input only).
Analogue 1 (AN1) 0 to 5V or 4 to 20mA MetPak Pro powered or Analogue Sensor
Powered
Analogue 2 (AN2) 0 to 5V or 4 to 20mA MetPak Pro powered or Analogue Sensor
Powered
Analogue Input A-D
Conversion
12 bit resolution with an accuracy of 0.1% of reading, +35uV
offset (voltage inputs) or 0.5uA (current inputs).
Analogue Input Impedance Input impedance for 0-5v input is 330 k ohm.
Input impedance for 4-20mA input is 47 ohms.
PRT 4 wire PRT, Pt100 conforms to IEC 60751
Digital Input (DIG1)
Rain Gauge
Contact Closure input (tipping bucket rain gauge) capable of
capturing events up to 10Hz
Digital Input Capable of detecting an event with a duration of greater than
1.4mS.
Digital Input Capable of detecting a space between events (i.e. terminals
open-circuit) with a duration of greater than 11mS.
Digital Input Capable of reading a switch contact closure providing the total
Digital Switch contact resistance (contact and cabling) is less
than 1k ohm.
Outputs
Digital Outputs RS232, RS422, *RS485 (*2 wire point to point) or SDI-12.
(RS232 point to point and RS485 2 wire networkable –
MODBUS RTU/ASCII)
Baud Rates 1200 (SDI-12), 4800-57600 (ASCII RS232, RS422, *RS485)
9600-19200 (MODBUS RTU/ASCII)
Protocols ASCII, SDI-12 V1.3, NMEA 0183 (MetPak only) or MODBUS
RTU/ASCII
Data Output 1 reading per second (1 Hz), 1 reading per 2 seconds, 1
reading per 4 seconds or Polled Mode
MetPak Status Status codes provided within the data message string
*
RS485 2 wire point to point only.
Power Supply
Input voltage (RS232, RS422,
RS485)
4.5v to 30v dc
Current at 12v MetPak - 22mA
MetPak RG - 26mA
MetPak Pro - 26mA
Input Voltage SDI-12 9.6v to 16v dc (12v nominal)
Current MetPak - 30mA
MetPak RG - 35mA
MetPak Pro - 35mA
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 11 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
Environmental
MetPak Range
Protection Class IP65
EMC BS EN 61326
Operating Temperature
-35C to +70C
Storage Temperature
-40C to +80C
Humidity 0-100%
RoHS Compliant Yes
Environmental
ARG100 Rain Gauge
Protection Class Not applicable
EMC BS EN 61326
Operating Temperature
-35C to +70C
Storage Temperature
-40C to +80C
Humidity 0-100%
Mechanical
MetPak Range
External Construction UV Stabilised white thermoplastic (Wind Sensor and Hygroclip
Mountings) and anodized Aluminium bracket
Fittings
Overall Dimensions
MetPak
MetPak RG
MetPak Pro
364mmx287mmx142mm (excluding bracket clamp)
364mmx287mmx142mm (excluding bracket clamp)
364mmx287mmx142mm (excluding bracket clamp)
Weight
MetPak
MetPak RG
MetPak Pro
2.2kg (including bracket)
2.2kg (including bracket)
2.2kg (including bracket)
Mechanical ARG100
Rain Gaug
e
External Construction UV Resistant white thermoplastic
Fittings Rain Gauge Baseplate (RGB1) and 6 Metres of twisted pair
overall screened cable.
Overall Dimensions Funnel Diameter: 254mm (10.0 Inches)
Funnel Rim: 340mm (13.4 Inches)
Weight 1.0kg
Software
MetSet Configuration
MetView
Free PC Software providing the means of configuration of the
MetPak Unit.
Free PC Software providing the means of Viewing data and
providing a basic logging facility.
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 12 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
4. PRE-INSTALLATION
4.1. Equipment supplied
1723-xB-x-11x MetPak Variant unit
and 8 way connector inside the hub box for power and communication.
and Mounting bracket plate/nuts and bolts in a box.
and Tipping bucket rain gauge ARG100 with 6 Metre lead (MetPak RG only).
and MetPak Range User Manual and MetSetMetViewSoftware on a CD in the MetPak box
(this manual).
and Product Test Report.
4.1.1. Optional Extras:
Item Part Number
Barometric Pressure Hub Box Gore-Tex filter spares kit 1723-PK-024
Hygroclip Temperature and Humidity Filter Replacement Kit (two filters) 1723-PK-025
Hygroclip HC2-S3-GI
037-04263
Junction Box with internal terminating pcb (for MetPak Pro). 1723-PK-201
Rain Gauge. ARG100 Tipping bucket (no cable attached) 1723-PK-076
Terminating pcb (to mount in customer box) for MetPak Pro. 1723-PK-202
Pack of 4 brackets for Pole Mounting the Junction Box for MetPak Pro 1723-PK-203
Pack of 4 feet for Panel Mounting the Junction Box for MetPak Pro. 1723-PK-204
MetPak Range 1.8 Metre RS232 to USB converter including 5v dc power and
communication configuration cable (8 way MetPak connector fitted one end and
USB connector at the other end).
1723-10-051
Gill Instruments Ltd
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Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
4.2. Connector and Cable Assembly.
The MetPak is supplied with a mating 8 way connector for power and communication connections.
4.3. Communication Cabling
MetPak, MetPak RG and MetPak Pro have five communication connection options:
USB (using the 1.8m MetPak RS232 to USB cable, Part No. 1957-10-065).
RS232.
RS422.
RS485 (two wire point to point) or networkable if using Modbus.
SDI-12.
MetPak RG and MetPak Pro have a contact closure input connection:
DIG1 (Digital Switch).
MetPak Pro has in addition various Sensor Input connection options:
AN1 and AN2, Analogue inputs (0-5v or 4-20mA).
PRT. Platinum Resistance Thermometer Input.
It is important that the cable is appropriate for the chosen communication network. The following
sections describe the recommended types and maximum lengths of cable in each case.
4.3.1 Cable type
Wire type: 24 AWG
Wire size: 7x32 AWG.
Cable outer diameter: 6- 8mm (to match the connector gland).
For RS422/485 operation the cable should have twisted pairs with drain wire, screened with
aluminised tape, with an overall PVC sheath. Typical wire size 7/0.2mm (24 AWG).
The following table shows an example manufacturers’ reference; other manufacturers’ equivalents
can be used.
Recommended Belden cable types
Application No. of Pairs 24 AWG Belden Ref.
SDI-12 2
9729
Digital RS232 or RS485 3 9503
Digital RS422 4 9504
Multiple External Sensors 6 9506
Gill Instruments Ltd
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4.3.2 Cable length
The maximum cable length is dependent on the chosen communication method.
The following table shows the maximum cable lengths for the supported communication protocols
at the given baud rates, using the recommended cable. If any problems of data corruption etc. are
experienced, then a slower baud rate should be used. Alternatively, a higher specification cable
can be tried.
Suggested maximum cable lengths for supported communication networks
Communication format Baud rate Max. cable length
RS232 19200
6.5M
RS422/485 19200 1000M
SDI-12 1200 90M
0-5v Analogue Input Not Applicable Refer to user Analogue Sensor data sheet
4-20mA Analogue Input Not Applicable Refer to user Analogue Sensor data sheet
Digital Switch Input
Not Applicable
Switch contact and cable resistance to be less
than 1k ohm
PRT Input Not Applicable Refer to user PRT data sheet
4.4. Cable Connections General
Any cable wires not used should be isolated and grounded at the terminating equipment/user end.
Digital OV should be used in conjunction with RS422 TX/RX lines in order to improve noise
immunity.
The Cable should be secured:-
With cable clamps or equivalent at regular intervals such that the hub box cable gland
does not support the cable weight.
Away from the mounting bolts to prevent chaffing of the cable.
NOTES:-
Install appropriate strain relief support to the cable. If possible, pass the cable through the
mounting pole.
The MetPak unit Hub Box cable glands contain spring loaded metal leaves that are designed to
make a ground contact with cables that have an overall braid screen. Care is therefore required
when inserting and removing cables through the glands to prevent damage to the metal leaves.
4.5. Earthing
To ensure correct operation and for maximum protection from lightning, a separate lightning rod
system is recommended to protect the system.
You can also earth the MetPak through its mountings or by connecting a grounding cable
(minimum of 6mm² copper wire) to a spare MetPak metalwork bolt hole. Clean off any paint that
might prevent a good connection.
When you connect the communications cable ensure that the screen has a connection to the hub
box case.
The Junction Box accessory has a plastic case, hence ensure continuity of cable screens into and
out of the Junction Box using the common Earthing terminals provided in the box.
Gill Instruments Ltd
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Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
WindSonic J4 Pin 1
4.6. Power supplies
Supply Voltage: 4.5v to 30v DC.
Average Current at 12v dc:-
MetPak 22mA.
MetPak RG 26mA.
MetPak Pro 26mA.
MetPak Units have reverse voltage polarity protection.
4.7. Power and Communication Connections
To connect Power and Communication to the MetPak Range:
Open MetPak hub box by unfastening the four screws.
Strip the power and communication cable wires to have 8mm of exposed soldered wire.
Pass the cable through one of the gland nuts (please refer to para 4.4. Notes).
Locate the green 8 way plug in connector J5 (see below).
Connect the cable to J5 for the required communication type e.g. RS232, RS422 etc.
Attach the cable’s screen wires to the Hex terminal post (see below).
After connection, securely tighten the gland nut to prevent moisture ingress.
NOTE: The MetPak Range Hub Box cable glands contain spring loaded metal leaves that are
designed to make a ground contact with cables that have an overall braid screen. Care is therefore
required when inserting and removing cables through the glands to prevent damage to the metal
leaves.
Re-fit the Hub box lid.
J5 Pin 8
J5 Pin 1
Hex
Terminal
Post
Hygroclip J1 Pin 6
J5, RS232 to USB and Power
Configuration Cable Wires
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 16 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
4.8. Connecting to a PC using Gill RS232 to USB Configuration Cable
Connect MetPak to a PC USB port using the Gill Configuration Cable 1723-10-051.
J5 Pin 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Colour None None Yellow Orange None None Black Red
Connection of Gill USB Cable (Part No. 1723-10-051), the J5, 8way Phoenix connector part
number is 1881383.
NOTES:- If upon connecting the USB lead to a PC the driver is not found by the PC, then the
appropriate driver to match the PC Windows version may be downloaded from:-
http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 17 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
Hub Box Factory Connections
Hygroclip connections (6-way connector J1)
WindSonic anemometer connections (8-way connector J4)
Hub Box User Connections
Power and Communications (8-way connector, J5) all units
Connector J1
Wire Colour
Signal Name
1 - No Connection
2 Blue RXD from Hygroclip UART
3 Red TXD to Hygroclip UART
4 Yellow Analogue 0V (Not Used)
5 Grey Supply/Signal 0V
6 Green Supply +ve (+3.3V DC)
Connector J4
Wire Colour
Signal Name
1 - No Connection
2 - No Connection
3
Blue
RS232 TX+ Anemometer Output to
Hub
4
White
RS232 RX+ Hub Output to
Anemometer
5 Green Signal 0v
6 Yellow Supply 0v
7 - No Connection
8 Red Supply +ve (4.5v to 30V dc)
Connector J5
Signal Name
1 SDI-12 TX/RX
2 Signal 0V
3
RS232 TX
-
, (or RS422/RS485 TX
-
) HUB to user
4
RS232 RX
-
, (or RS422 RX
-
) User to HUB
5
RS422 RX+, User to HUB
6 RS422/RS485 TX+, HUB to User
7
Supply 0v
8 Supply
+ve (4.5v to 30v dc)
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 18 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
MetPak Pro PRT Sensor (4-way connector, J7)
MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Digital Switch Input, DIG1 (2-way connector, J8)
MetPak Pro Analogue Sensors Input, AN1 and AN2 (8-way connector, J9)
Connector J7
Signal Name
1 PWR (PRT Power Supply +ve)
2 PRT +
3 PRT 4 GND (PRT Power Supply Ground)
Connector J8
Signal Name
2 DIG1 (Digital Switch Contact Input)
1 GND (Ground)
Connector J9
Signal Name
1 VI 1 (Voltage Input 1)
2 GND (Voltage Input 1 Ground)
3 VI 2 (Voltage Input 2)
4 GND (Voltage Input 2 Ground)
5
II PWR (Current Supply for Analogue Input 1)
6 II 1 (Analogue Input 1)
7 II PWR (current Supply for Analogue Input 2)
8 II 2 (Analogue Input 2)
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 19 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
4.9. Connecting to a PC using RS232 (Default setting)
1. MetPak Range default factory comms setting is RS232.
2. The recommended cable length for reliable operation is limited to 6.5m (20ft).
3. For longer cable runs, we recommend use of RS422 output.
4.10. Connecting to a PC using RS422 (Not a Default Setting)
1. MetPak Range default factory comms setting is RS232.
2. To use the MetPak Range with RS422 comms use MetSet to change the COMMS
Interface setting to RS422.
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 20 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
4.11. Using RS485 (2 wire point to point only, not a default setting.
1. MetPak Range default factory comms setting is RS232.
2. To use the MetPak Range with RS485 2 wire point to point communication use MetSet to
change the COMMS Interface setting to RS485P 2W.
3. Use MetSet to change the Message setting from CONT (Continuous) to POLL, the node
address letter may be changed if required.
4. Note that it is not possible to network other devices on this 2-wire RS485 link unless the
unit has been set for Modbus operation and application.
4.12. Using SDI-12 (2 wire network) not a default setting.
1. MetPak Range default factory comms setting is RS232.
2. Use MetSet to change the COMMS Interface setting to SDI 12.
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 21 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
J9 Terminal 1
(AN1 and AN2)
4.13. Analogue, Digital and PRT Input Connections
NOTE:
MetPak - This section is Not Applicable.
MetPak RG - Digital input connection applicable only.
MetPak Pro - Analogue, Digital and PRT Input connections all applicable.
Analogue 0-5 volt Input Connections AN1 and AN2
This is not a default setting; ensure the MetPak Pro has been configured for this input requirement
before wiring sensors to the MetPak Pro.
(See picture above for Power and Communication Connections).
J8 Terminal 1
(DIG 1)
J7 Terminal 1
(PRT)
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 22 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
Analogue 4-20mA Input Connections (Sensor Powered) AN1 and AN2
This is not a default setting; ensure the MetPak Pro has been configured for this input requirement
before wiring sensors to the MetPak Pro.
See picture above for Power and Communication Connections.
Analogue 4-20mA Input Connections (MetPak Pro Powered) AN1 and AN2
This is not a default setting; ensure the MetPak Pro has been configured for this input requirement
before wiring sensors to the MetPak Pro.
See picture above for Power and Communication Connections.
NOTE: If the input current drops below 4mA, an X will be shown in the data string instead of
a valid reading. If the current rises above 20mA, an E will be shown in the data string
instead of a valid reading.
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 23 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
Digital Switch Connection (Rain Gauge) DIG1
Ensure the MetPak RG/MetPak Pro has been configured for this input requirement before wiring
sensors to the Unit.
Digital Rain Gauge Connections
To connect the MetPak RG ARG100 Rain Gauge 6 Metre lead to the Hub Box or another rain
gauge wiring.
1. Open the MetPak hub box by unfastening the four screws.
2. Locate connector J8.
3. Pass the cable through one of the gland nuts (see Note below).
4. Connect the cable to connections as detailed above.
5. Attach the cable’s screen wire to a terminal post.
6. After connection, securely tighten the gland nut to prevent moisture ingress.
7. Re-fit the hub box lid.
NOTE: The MetPak Range Hub Box cable glands contain spring loaded metal leaves that are
designed to make a ground contact with cables that have an overall braid screen. Care is therefore
required when inserting and removing cables through the glands to prevent damage to the metal
leaves.
J8 Terminal 2
J8 Terminal 1
Rain Gauge
Cable Entry
Gland.
Rain Gauge
Connections
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 24 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
Platinum Resistance Thermometer (PRT) Input
This is not a default setting; ensure the MetPak Pro has been configured for this input requirement
before wiring sensors to the MetPak Pro.
See the previous picture for Power and Communication Connections.
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 25 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
4.14. MetPak Pro Junction Box (Part 1723-PK-021)
As part of a MetPak Pro system, Gill Instruments can provide a Junction Box containing a pcb with
removable terminal connectors and optional mounting hardware to provide a means of connecting
external sensor and MetPak Pro wiring at a convenient common point.
Alternatively the pcb with removable terminal connectors can be supplied as a standalone item for
mounting in a customer supplied box.
Junction Box parts if required are:
1723-PK-201 Junction Box with internal terminating pcb.
1723-PK-202 Terminating pcb (to mount in customer box).
1723-PK-204 Pack of 4 feet for Panel Mounting the Junction Box.
1723-PK-203 Pack of 4 brackets for Pole Mounting the Junction Box.
Junction Box 1723-PK-201 (containing Terminating pcb 1723-PK-202)
Junction Box terminating pcb circuit track layout
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 26 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
Junction Box Terminal Block Connections
Note that the Junction box glands will accept cables with an outer diameter between 3-10mm. If a
smaller diameter cable is to be used bulk out with heat shrink or suitable sleeve to ensure the
gland can secure the cable and provide an environmental seal.
Communication System Connections
Only connect cables that meet the required data interface requirement (e.g. RS232 etc.).
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 27 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
4-20mA Current Sensor System Connections (Sensor Powered)
4-20mA Current Sensor System Connections (MetPak Pro Powered)
0-5 Volt Voltage Sensor System Connections
Gill Instruments Ltd
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MetPak/MetPak RG and MetPak Pro Page | 28 Issue 1
Doc. No. 1723-PS-0022 October 2018
Digital Switch Sensor System Connections
PRT System Connections
External Power Supply Connections
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