Page 1
LIMITED WARRANTY
The DS-824 is warranted against defects in workmanship and materials for two years from date of sale.
This warranty does not apply to damage resulting from accident, misuse, or alteration nor where connected
voltage is more than 10% above the configured operating voltage, nor to equipment improperly installed or
wired or maintained in violation of this Owner’s Manual. No other written or oral warranty applies. No
employee, agent, dealer or other person is authorized to give any warranties on behalf of ASE.
CAUTION: Read all instructions carefully before installation.
Save this Installation Manual for future reference.
DS-824
The customer shall be responsible for all costs incurred in the removal or reinstallation and shipping of the
product for repairs. Within the limitations of this warranty, inoperative units should be returned, freight
prepaid, to ASE, and we will repair or replace, at our option, at no charge to you with return freight paid by
ASE. It is agreed that such repair or replacement is the exclusive remedy available from ASE and that ASE
IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING INCIDENTAL AND
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages so the above exclusion may not apply to you. The warranty gives you spec ific legal
rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
AUTOMATED SYSTEMS ENGINEERING, INC.
2519 E SAINT VRAIN ST
COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO 80909
PHONE: 719-599-7477 FAX: 719-599-7482
Visit us on the Internet at: www.goase.com
RAIN/SNOW SENSOR CONTROLLER
INSTALLATION MANUAL
AUTOMATED
SYSTEMS
ENGINEERING
ENCLOSURE TYPE 3R
RAIN/SNOW SENSOR CONTROLLER
INPUT
22−28V AC/DC 500 m A 50/60 Hz
CONTROL
30 A 24V AC, 20 A 24V DC
DS−824
CONTROL SWITCH
CAUTION
NOT FOR HIGH VOL TAGE CONTROL
INDICATOR
OFF
TRIPON
MANUAL ON
AUTOMATIC
STANDBY/RESET
Manufactured By
AUTOMATED
SYSTEMS
ENGINEERING
2519 East Saint Vrain St Colorado Springs, Colorado 80909
Page 2
General Safety Instructions
1. THIS UNIT SHOULD BE INSTALLED, OPENED, AND REPAIRED BY QUALIFIED
PERSONNEL ONLY!
2. To avoid shock hazard do not open the front cover with power connected to the DS-824 or
any controlled equipment.
3. Limit input voltage to 22-28 VAC/VDC.
4. Replace fuse F1 with a 2 Amp 32 V or 250 V 3AG fast acting fuse ONLY.
Moisture Sensor Mounting & Termination
The remote DS-824 precipitation/moisture sensor may be
mounted in a number of ways depending on the application. The
DRIP EDGE
SENSOR
unit operates at a safe 24 VAC/VDC and can withstand
immersion in water. For roof and gutter deicing applications the
sensor head may be mounted in the gutter against the fascia
board with a 1” “C”-style conduit clamp. Allow part of the sensor
grid to be exposed to snowfall. This allows the sensor to initially
trigger when snow starts falling and remain triggered as long as
GUTTER
the roof/gutter heater continues to drip melted snow from the
roof edge when temperatures are below freezing. The sensor
may also be installed inside and near the top of the downspout
using a 1” conduit hanger and mounting plate. As water is
melted in the gutter
it will run to the
DOWNSPOUT
downspout, hitting
and retriggering the sensor. We do not recommend laying the
sensor in the gutter. Constant immersion will corrode the grid
and the sensor may miss a windblown snow trigger.
The sensor cable comes preinstalled but may be shortened as
needed. Strip the outer insulation and shield from the cable and
terminate each conductor following the color code printed on
SENSOR
MOUNTING
PLATE
1" CONDUIT
CLAMP
the circuit board. The bare drain wire should be installed into
the terminal marked “Shield”. Wrap a cable tie securely around
the cable in the enclosure to provide additional strain relief
between the flexible enclosure gland and the free end of the
cable. Please call for guidance if additional length is required.
Erratic operation may result if the proper cable is not used.
Selecting a Mounting Location for the DS-824 Enclosure
The rubber “boot” protruding from the bottom of the DS-824 enclosure is the temperature sensor. For proper
temperature detection the DS-824 must be mounted outdoors, away from furnace vents, dryer vents, and
other sources of heat. Note that, when powered, the DS-824 precipitation grid will always remain hot
normal. This allows the grid to continuously melt snow and evaporate both rain and snow from the grid.
2
. This is
Power & Activation Indicator
A yellow lamp is mounted on the base of the DS-824 to indicate operational status . If this lamp is OFF the
DS-824 is not receiving power. If this lamp is steady ON the DS-824 is powered but not triggered. If this
lamp is FLASHING the DS-824 is both powered on and has activated the deicing system. Note that, even
though snow may have stopped, the DS-824 indicator may be flashing indicating the system is on. The
indicator will continue to flash during the Delay-Off drying cycle.
Preseason Snow Detection Testing
It is always a good idea to test the operation of the DS-824 prior to the winter season. Procure some clean
water and, if the outdoor temperature is above the trigger point, a can of spray component cooler (Radio
Shack Part #64-4321 or equivalent.) Clean the precipitation grid following the procedure outlined above and
allow it to dry. Apply power to the DS-824 and drip some of the water onto the precipitation grid, and then
spray the temperature sensor protruding from the base of the enclosure with the component cooler. Once
the temperature sensor has reached the trigger point with water still present on the grid the DS-824 will
activate. The user should hear the internal control relay close. Proper operation has been confirmed. Allow
the grid to dry completely. To clear the Delay-Off timer place the override switch into “Standby/Reset” , and
then back to the “Automatic” position.
Need Indoor Monitoring & Control?
Take a Look at the ASE CDP-2
Compatible with the DS-824
Simple Installation & Operation at a Competitive Price
Visit www.goase.com for more information
7
Page 3
Fine Adjustment for Efficient Operation
The DS-824 is shipped with the TEMP and DEL adjustments in the center position, representing 39°F
(3.9°C) and 30 minutes of Delay-Off time respectively. The Sensitivity control is set for highest sensitivity.
Depending on local conditions the user may find that fine adjustment of the controls may provide more
satisfactory operation. If the sensor does not trigger during very wet snows the trigger temperature may
need to be adjusted higher. Conversely, if the user notices false triggers during cold rains that do not
freeze, the trigger temperature may need to be lowered. Locations susceptible to blowing ground snow or
snow falling from eaves or trees may benefit from a lower sensitivity adjustment. The Delay-Off time can
also be adjusted or the range expanded using the LD configuration switch to provide clean melt-off without
excessive running time. Fine adjustment can both save operating expense and provide more reliable
operation. However, to keep reliability high, always make adjustments in small increments.
ALWAYS USE CARE WHEN REPLACING THE ENCLOSURE FRONT COVER!
Be sure the front cover gasket is not pinched or rolled. Do not overtighten the front cover screws.
Manual Override Switch Operation
An override switch mounted on the side is provided for testing and special operational requirements.
Placing the switch in the “Automatic” position will allow the sensor to operate normally, activating the
controlled equipment as needed. Placing the switch in “Manual On” will close the load relay, activating the
controlled equipment. The “Standby/Reset” position prohibits triggering of the unit, clears any active delay
timer, and opens the load relay. In order to reduce excess ive runtime for the heater the “Manual On”
mode will remain in effect for a maximum of 40 hours, then return to “Automatic” mode even if the
switch is still in the “Manual On” position. You may put the DS-824 back into “Manual On” mode by
switching to “Automatic”, then back to “Manual On”. This will restart the 40 hour timer.
If the override switch is placed in “Manual On” for less than 2 seconds, then switched back to
“Automatic” the controller will execute one delay off cycle. This can be used to clear a frost or hail
buildup without the danger of leaving the system in a continuous “Manual On” condition. “Standby/Reset”
can still be used to clear this delay off cycle.
The DS-824 can be mounted by screwing the base conduit hub onto an appropriate size free-standing
conduit or by using the mounting holes in each corner of the enclosure.
DO NOT DRILL HOLES THROUGH THE ENCLOSURE FOR MOUNTING!
This can allow water into the enclosure causing a potential shoc k or fire hazard. It is recommended that a
weatherproof condulet or junction box be mounted below the DS-824 for termination of the power and load
pigtails to the building wiring.
ALWAYS USE CARE WHEN REPLACING THE ENCLOSURE FRONT COVER!
Be sure the front cover gasket is not pinched or rolled. Do not overtighten the front cover screws.
Input Power
Sensitivity Adjust
Probe Jack
Temp Adjust
Delay Adjust
Load
Grid Jack
Configuration Switch
LED Jack
Control/Monitor Jack
Switch Jack
External Control/Monitor Operation
Pin Color Function
1 Green Standby/Reset
2 Black Manual On
3 Orange Deice On Mon
4 Red Deice On Mon
5 White Return
the sensor.
An external control/monitor jack is provided on the DS-824. Order
the optional CS-1 control/monitor cable to access this feature.
Connecting Black to White will activate the “Manual On” function.
Connecting Green to White will activate the “Standby/Reset” function.
The Red/Orange leads are connected to an internal low power
monitor relay. This relay, rated at 24 VAC/VDC at 400 ma, will close
with the load relay and can be used to externally monitor activation of
Precipitation Grid Maintenance & Replacement
It is recommended that the DS-824 be powered down and the grid wiped clean with clear water at least once
every 4 months. Heavy deposits may be removed us ing a non-metallic scouring pad (Scotch-Brite
equivalent.) However, after a number of years, the corrosive elements left behind when water is evaporated
out of the precipitation grid will eventually damage the grid rings. The precipitation grid can be easily
replaced by ordering and installing a new MG-3 “Moisture Grid Assembly”. Reference the “Moisture
Sensor Mounting & Termination” section for information on replacing the precipitation grid.
6
TM
or
Setting the Configuration Switches and Adjustments
The following table outlines the operating modes for the DS-824 and explains the
functions of the adjustments. Trigger temp (TT) is adjustable from 34°F-44°F
using the “Temp Adjust” control. When ambient air temperature (AT) is below
this trigger point precipitation is assumed to be snow. When above this
temperature, precipitation is assumed to be rain. The SNOW switch will cause
the sensor to activate when snow is detected. The RAIN switch will cause the
sensor to activate when rain is detected.
The DEL configuration switch activates the “Delay Off” drying
cycle timer on the DS-824. The timer allows the DS-824 to dry the
heated surface through evaporation once precipitation has
stopped. The drying cycle reduces the chance of moisture left
behind refreezing into ice. The Long Delay (LD) configuration
switch determines the time span of the drying cycle. LD off sets a 30-90 minute span. LD on sets a 2-6 hour
span. This timer is restarted by each precipitation detection. Therefore, the DS-824 will c ontinue to operate
as long as precipitation is detected, then for the Delay Off period once precipitation has stopped. All
"sensor" modes (DEL off) provide a 2 minute closure to reduce cycling of an external controller. When
3
Page 4
in "controller" mode (DEL on) the Delay Off time can be adjusted from 30-90 minutes (LD Off) or 2-6 hours
(LD On) using the “Delay Adjust” control. Note the “Forced Manual On” function at the low end of the Delay
Adjust control. The relay will close when this area is entered and open when exited. Only use the “Forced
Manual On” function for testing. Never leave the Delay Adjust control near the “Forced Manual On” area
during normal operation.
The Low Temperature Cutoff (LTC) option is typically used on snow melting
systems with limited output capacity. If selected, the sensor will not trigger if
precipitation is initially detected below 15°F. However, if the deicing system
has been activated, precipitation continues, and the ambient temperature
drops below 15°F, LTC will be ignored. This assures that water on the
surface from melting snow will not immediately refreeze into ice as a result of
deactivating the deicing system.
The DS-824 precipitation sensor can detect even a single snow flake or rain
drop. However, if the DS-824 is mounted in an area susceptible to high winds,
dripping condensation, or blowing ground snow, nuisance triggering of the
sensor may occur. While proper placement is the best remedy, the Sens itivity
control can also be used to reduce nuisance triggering. An internal timer
checks the precipitation sensor for moisture once per second and keeps a
running count of the number of continuous seconds the grid is triggered. The highest sensitivity setting
(toward More) requires 3 seconds of continuous precipitation detection before the unit triggers. The lowest
sensitivity setting (toward Less) requires a full 4 minutes of detec tion before the unit triggers. If a trace
amount of snow blows onto the grid from a drift or overhang it will likely be melted and evaporated within 1-2
minutes. Similarly, a very light snowfall may also clear quick ly from the grid. If these conditions should be
ignored by the sensor the Sensitivity control can be adjusted as required. However, to prevent nontriggering during a true event, it is recommended that the user start at highest sensitivity (More), then
adjust while monitoring operation over time.
POWER MUST BE CYCLED FOR CONFIGURATION SWITCH CHANGES TO TAKE EFFECT
Recommended Switch Settings by Function
Function Trigger LD Off LD On LTC DEL RAIN SNOW
Snow sensor w\o LTC TT>AT 2 Min 2 Min OFF OFF OFF ON
Snow sensor w\LTC
TT>AT>15°F
Snow controller w\o LTC TT>AT 30-90 Min 2-6 Hr OFF ON OFF ON
Snow controller w\LTC
TT>AT>15°F
Precipitation sensor Not Used 2 Min 2 Min X OFF ON ON
Precipitation controller Not Used 30-90 Min 2-6 Hr X ON ON ON
Rain sensor AT>TT 2 Min 2 Min X OFF ON OFF
Rain controller AT>TT 30-90 Min 2-6 Hr X ON ON OFF
2 Min 2 Min ON OFF OFF ON
30-90 Min 2-6 Hr ON ON OFF ON
Typical Wiring
The sensor supply voltage can be in the range of 22-28 VAC/VDC. The supply input leads (IN A and
IN B) are not polarity sensitive and can be connected to either polarity of a DC supply. A standard
24VAC 20VA HVAC-type transformer will supply enough power for the DS-824 and an optional CDP-2
indoor control/display panel.
The two load leads of the DS-824 do not supply power directly to your load.
The relay inside the DS824, like a switch or thermostat, is used to s witch a voltage of your choice. While not as convenient as
directly supplying power for the load this allows you to operate the DS-824 from one voltage while controlling
a load of a different voltage without adding an external relay or contactor. For example, the DS-824 can be
powered from 24VAC but can directly control a 12VDC signal for a contactor coil or can operate from
24VAC and provide a dry contact thermostat-style closure for a boiler. The following diagrams show some
possible wiring schemes for connecting the DS-824 to your load. For clarity the GROUND lead is not
shown.
DS−824
SWITCHED 24V
RETURN
YELLOW
YELLOW
LOAD
IN A
IN B
24 VAC/VDC SUPPLY
24VAC/VDC Sensor Supply, Supply Voltage Out
DS−824
IN A
IN B
24 VAC/VDC SUPPLY
24VAC/VDC Sensor Supply, Dry Contact Thermostat-Style Control
YELLOW
YELLOW
LOAD
4
5
Loading...