Milltronics MiniRanger Plus Instruction Manual

MiniRangerPlus

mA

33454470
Rev 2.0

Instruction Manual
PL-447
October 1997

Technology based. Customer driven.

T

hank you for purchasing Milltronics products. We endeavour to design
equipment that is simple to use and reliable in its operation, with the aim of satisfying
our customers needs.

Mill tronics has been designing and manufacturing process equipment since 1954.
Our fields of expertise include ultrasonic level measurement, in-line weighing of dry
bulk solids and motion sensing.

Milltronics is established world wide through associate offices and representatives.
Our network is continua lly b eing re fined to provide our customers with first rate
sales information, engineering assistance and after sales support.

For more details on our products and service, please contact us and we will provide
you with a listing of the offices or representatives nearest you.

P.O. Box 4225
730 The Kingsway
Peterborough, ON
Canada K9J 7B1

Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]

709 Stadium Drive
Arlington, Texas
U.S.A. 76011

Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]

Oak House
Everoak Estate
Bromyard Road
Worcester, WR2-5HP
England

Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]

Château de la Saurine
Pont de Bayeux
B.P. 6
13590 Meyreuil
Aix en Provence
France

Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]

Table of Contents

General Information

About This Manual 5
About MiniRanger Plus 6

Specifications

MiniRanger Plus 7
Transducer 7

Installation

Dimensions 9
Interconnection Transducer 10

Synchronization 10
Current Output 11
Relay Output 11
Power 12
ComVerter 12

Start Up

General 15
Display & Keypad Run Mode 16

Setting Up 18
Display Messages 21

PL-447 3

Program Mode 17

Functional

Transceiver 23
Transducer 23
Temperature 23
Sound Velocity 24
Blanking 24
Loss of Echo 25
Relays General 25

Functions Alarm 25

Pump 26
Setpoints 26
Status 27

Programming 27

Run 28

Analog Output 29
Run/Program 30

Applications 33

Simple Level Application 34
Pump Control Application 36
High Level Switch 38
Applications with Standpipe 40

Parameter Description

Parameters 43

Troubleshooting 53
Appendices

Alphabetical Parameter Listing 57
Programming Chart 58

PL-447 4

■

GENERAL INFORMATION

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

It is essential that this manual be referred to for proper installation and operation
of your MiniRanger Plus. As MiniRanger Plus requires an STH or Echomax ultrasonic
transducer to make a working system, refer to the associated transducer manual
as well.

GENERAL INFO.

Installation

Start Up

instructs you how to operate the keypad, program and

Functional

Applications

Parameters

Troubleshooting

Appendices

gives you step by step direction for the installation and
interconnection of your MiniRanger Plus.

read the display.

describes the functionality of the MiniRanger Plus, detailing the

interoperation of the salient features, and highlights transceiver,
relay and mA operation.

looks at the MiniRanger Plus from a practical point of view, using

examples of the applications it is likely to encounter.
lists the parameters available to you, with a description of their

function and use. You are urged to read this section; to familiarize
yourself with the parameters available to you, and get your
MiniRanger Plus working to its fullest.

tabulates symptoms, causes and actions to common installation and
application problems that you might encounter. Hopefully you will
never have to read this section, but know it’s there to help you.

what manual would be complete without one! Ours is an
alphabetical cross reference of the parameters and their numbers,
and a record sheet for jotting down parameter values. Handy indeed!

PL-447 5

ABOUT MINIRANGER PLUS

GENERAL INFO.

MiniRanger Plus is a versatile material level monitoring instrument. Material level
measurement is achieved using advanced sonic echo ranging techniques. The unit is
complete with an integral multifunction liquid crystal display, a four button keypad and
an integral junction box.

Remotely coupled to an appropriate transducer, MiniRanger Plus is well suited for
short to medium range measurements of liquids or solids, in open or closed vessels.
MiniRanger Plus is at home in a wide variety of industries: food, pharmaceutical,
chemical, water, waste water - to name a few.

The MiniRanger Plus emits a series of ultrasonic pulses from the associated
transducer. Each pulse is reflected as an echo from the material and sensed by the
transducer. The echo is processed by the MiniRanger using Milltronics’ proven ‘Sonic
Intelligence’ techniques. Filtering is applied to help discriminate between the true echo
from the material, and false echoes from acoustical and electrical noise and agitator
blades in motion. The time for the pulse to travel to the material and back is
temperature compensated and then converted into distance for display, mA output
and relay actuation.

MiniRanger Plus is equipped with a two-way infrared link for compatibility with
Milltronics Dolphin communication system.

MiniRanger Plus features:

✓ multi-field LCD for: parameter, reading and bar graph display, and relay

and fail-safe status.

✓ two alarm / pump control relays
✓ quick connect wiring terminals
✓ high level switch operation
✓ lead / lag pump operation
✓ Dolphin compatibility
✓ isolated mA output
✓ sonic intelligence
✓ integral keypad

PL-447 6

■

SPECIFICATIONS

MINIRANGER PLUS

Power: » 100 / 115 / 200 / 230 V ±15%, switch selectable

» 50 / 60 Hz, 15 VA

Range: » solids applications: 5 m (transducer dependent)

» liquid applications: 10 m (transducer dependent)
Accuracy: » 0.25% of range or 6 mm (0.24"), whichever is greater
Resolution: » 2 mm
Memory: » program stored in non-volatile FLASH memory, for

software upgrades via optional Dolphin interface

» parameters stored in non-volatile EEPROM
Display: » 38 x 100 mm (1.5 x 4") multi-field liquid crystal display
Ambient Temperature: » – 20 to 50 °C (– 5 to 122 °F)
Outputs: » transducer drive: » 43.5 kHz, 400 V peak pulses of 1 msec

max duration at max repetition rate
of 300 msec

» mA: » optically isolated 0 / 4 - 20 mA

» max loading: 750 Ω
» resolution: 0.1% of 20 mA

» relays: » 2 alarm / pump control relays

» 1 form ‘C’ SPDT contact per relay,

rated 5 A at 230 V ac non-inductive

» communication: » Dolphin Compatible via optional

Milltronics ComVerter

Enclosure: » Type 4X / NEMA 4X / IP 65

» polypropylene alloy

SPECIFICATIONS

Weight: » 1 kg ( 2.2 lb )
Approvals: » CE

(EMC performance available on request.)

TRANSDUCER

Compatible models: » ST - 25 Ultrason ®, STH and Echomax models XPS-10,

PL-447 7

XPS-15, XCT-8 and XCT-12.

Refer to the associated transducer manual.

97\08\12

SPECIFICATIONS

⊗

PL-447 8

■

INSTALLATION

138 mm

(5.4")

5 mm
(0.2")

terminal
block
layout

This product is susceptible to electrostatic shock.

DIMENSIONS

Follow proper grounding procedures.

270 mm

(10.6")

254 mm

(10")

INSTALLATION

69 mm

(2.7")

integral junction box

sealed enclosure

(cover removed)
with terminal block and
voltage selection switch

Conduit entry location. Recommend drilling the enclosure with a hole saw
and the use of suitable cable glands to maintain ingress rating.

mounting hole

6.4 mm (1/4") Ø

PL-447 9

74 mm

(2.9")

97\08\12

INTERCONNECTION

TRANSDUCER

transducer

Refer to transducer instruction manual
for location and mounting details.

INSTALLATION

SYNCHRONIZATION

In applications where more than one MiniRanger Plus, to a maximum of 8, are going
to be used or where their transducers are sharing a common conduit, synchronization
is required. When synchronized, no device transmits within 180 ms of the prior one(s).

To synchronize, interconnect the SYNC terminals of all devices and ensure that there
is a common electrical ground interconnecting all units.

To synchronize MiniRanger Plus with other Milltronics products, consult Milltronics or
your distributor.

to next

MiniRanger Plus

#1

PL-447 10

MiniRanger Plus

#2

device

CURRENT OUTPUT

to customer

instrumentation

isolated mA output,

750 Ω max load

RELAY OUTPUT

INSTALLATION

All relays are certified for use in equipment where the short circuit
capacity of the circuits in which they are connected is limited by
fuses having ratings not exceeding the rating of the relays.

PL-447 11

n.c.
com

n.o.
n.c.

com
n.o.

relays shown in
de-energized state,
contacts rated 5 A at
230 V non-inductive

POWER

INSTALLATION

VOLTAGE

SELECT

customer
voltage
supply

COMVERTER

Optional Dolphin Interface

MiniRanger Plus

Refer to Dolphin instruction manual for interconnection details.

PL-447 12

ComVerter

⊗

INSTALLATION

PL-447 13

INSTALLATION

⊗

PL-447 14

START UP

GENERAL

The MiniRanger Plus has two modes of operation:
is powered, after installation procedures have been completed, it is programmed to
start up in the run mode, to detect the distance from the transducer face to the target
in meters.

The unit can be placed into the program mode at any time; to alter a number of
program parameters in order to better suit the application or user’s preferences.
Programming can be carried out via the local keypad or the optional Dolphin
infrared interface.

The first step when programming is to reset all parameters to their factory setting by
using the master reset P-999. This must be done via the local keypad.

For a Quick Start, P001 to P007 are the key parameters requiring entry.
They set: - mode of measurement

- process material

- transducer type

- measurement response

- units

- empty distance

run

and

typical display

program

. When the unit

START UP

- span

There are a number of other program parameters, especially relay and mA output,
that can be changed subsequently or during another programming session. Refer to
Parameter List for a description of the parameters available.

When programming has been completed, the MiniRanger Plus can be put into normal
operation by pressing .

PL-447 15

DISPLAY and KEYPAD

Run Mode

LCD

LCD

Keypad

➀ reading
➁ units
➂ high alarm indicators : = high, = high - high

START UP

➃ process material level rising or falling

▲

▲
▲

➄ bar graph representation of material level, 0 to 100% of span
➅ low alarm indicators : = low, = low - low

▼

▼
▼

➆ reading questionable, appears during fail-safe operation
➇ auxiliary reading
➈ relay status
➉ = normal operation = fail-safe operation

Keypad

access
program
mode

PL-447 16

display mA

(auxiliary)

display
temperature

(auxiliary)

toggle
% and
units

Program Mode

LCD

➀ parameter type ( transducer, relay, or mA output )
➁ reading
➂ units
➃ ‘change value’ accessed

Keypad

access
run
mode

PL-447 17

alternates program
mode between
‘select parameter’
and ‘change value’
functions

scroll
up

scroll
down

START UP

SETTING UP

To Access Program:

To Select a Parameter :

run display

program starts at
P001

START UP

PL-447 18

To Change a Parameter Value :

increase or
decrease to the
desired value.

if no response,
security not
disabled!

select parameter,
e.g. P001 = 3

initiate change function

Security Must Be Disabled!

Must Be Pressed to

Save Change!

PL-447 19

START UP

save and return to ‘select
parameter’ function,

e.g. P001 = 4

Express :

from the program mode
e.g. P001

exit and return to
run mode

Parameter

to jump back to P001

Value

To Return to Run Mode

or

to jump to the factory setting

e.g. P999

jump back to P001

START UP

PL-447 20

DISPLAY MESSAGES

‘Short’ in transducer circuit
or wiring reversed. Refer to
Troubleshooting.

‘OPEN’ in transducer circuit.
Refer to Troubleshooting.

PL-447 21

START UP

⊗

START UP

PL-447 22

■

FUNCTIONAL

TRANSCEIVER

The MiniRanger Plus transceiver operates under 1 of 5 sets of preset conditions
(P003), summarized as follows:

parameter
value

1 0.1 m/min slow on on 100 2
2 1 m/min . on on 10 2
3 10 m/min . on on 1 2
4 100 m/min . off on 0.1 1**
5 1000 m/min fast off off 0 1**

*each measurement consists of one short pulse plus the set number of long pulses.
**set number of long pulses, only if required.

When a measurement is initiated, the set number of short and long pulses is
transmitted. Short pulse measurements are restricted to the first 2 m range
extending from the transducer face. When a short pulse is combined with a long
pulse set, the short pulse range is restricted to 1 m and the long pulse covers the
full measurement range.

When the echo of the transmitted pulse train is received, the relevant echo extraction
technique (P820), is applied to determine the true material echo.

The measurement response limits the maximum rate at which the display, analog
output and relay contacts respond to changes in measurement. It is of concern
especially where liquid surfaces are in agitation or material falls into the sound path
during filling.

measurement
response

echo
verification

filter fail-safe

timer

long
pulses*

TRANSDUCER

The transducer, which is connected to the transceiver and mounted remotely at the
measurement site, converts the electrical energy of the transmit pulse into acoustical
energy and converts the acoustical energy of the echo back into electrical energy for
the transceiver receive period.

Some transducer models incorporate an integral temperature sensor. The echo and
temperature signals share the same cable wiring, then segregated at the transceiver.

PL-447 23

FUNCTIONAL

TEMPERATURE

range extension (P-801)

as % P-006

In order to compensate for uniform changes of the sound medium, temperature
sensing is achieved using a transducer with an integral sensor.

If the transducer does not have an integral sensor, temperature compensation is fixed
at a programmed value, P661. The difference between the fixed value and the actual
temperature surrounding the transducer will cause an error in measurement.

SOUND VELOCITY

The MiniRanger Plus can be calibrated to compensate for sound velocity error in fixed
temperature, homogenous atmospheres.

The basis is to physically measure the level (measuring tape or sight glass) and enter
the value via P651. The MiniRanger Plus then calculates the sound velocity by
comparing the entered physical measurement to its own ultrasonic measurement.

BLANKING

Near blanking (P800) is used to ignore the zone in front of the transducer where
ringdown

* or other false echoes (e.g. standing wave, ladder rung) appear as an echo

during the receive cycle. This is usually indicated by an incorrect high level reading
and can be overcome by increasing the near blanking from its factory set value.

* ringdown is the natural decay of transducer vibration after the transmit pulse ceases.

Far end blanking is a feature that ignores the zone below the zero or empty level
where false echoes can appear at levels that interfere with the processing of the
true echo.

ringdown or

false echo

end of

transmit

FUNCTIONAL

empty distance to transducer

PL-447 24

true echo

typical receiver signal

P-800

near blanking

P-006

range

typical processed signal

(level)

level

false echo

0

far end

blanking

In applications where the zero level is above the bottom of the vessel and it is desired

high

alarm

on, P112
off, P113

to monitor the zone below the normal zero, range extension (P801) can be used to
extend the range into the far end blanking. Range extension is entered as a percent of
P006. As range extension reduces the protection afforded by the far end blanking, it
should be used judiciously. Avoid excessive range extension as this can reduce the
measurement’s reliability and accuracy. Range extension is factory set for 20% of
P006. If it is found that false echoes are appearing ahead of the blanking zone, P006
should be reduced accordingly.

Blanking is automatically corrected for sound velocity change where temperature and
velocity compensation are used; keeping the blanking at the distance at which it is set.

LOSS OF ECHO

A loss of echo occurs when the MiniRanger Plus deems that the calculated
measurement is unreliable, i.e. the echo confidence (P805) is less than the threshold
(P804). This can be due to such circumstances as high level of electrical noise, poor
grounding or poor transducer aiming. Refer to Troubleshooting. If the condition
persists for a time beyond the limit as set by the fail-safe timer (P070), the confidence
icon changes from full to partial and the reading and mA output are forced to the
fail-save default (P071) at the response rate (P003).

Upon receiving a reliable echo, the loss of echo condition is aborted (icon returns
to full) and the reading, mA and relay output return to the present level at the
response rate.

Relay operation responds, as programmed, to the default level as though an actual
material reading.

RELAYS

GENERAL

Two onboard relays are provided in the MiniRanger Plus. Each relay can be assigned
one out of three functions.

FUNCTIONS

Alarm:

high alarm : occurs when the level rises to

low alarm : occurs when the level falls to

cancelled when the level

PL-447 25

the on setpoint. The alarm is
cancelled when the level
reaches the off setpoint.

the on setpoint. The alarm is
reaches the off setpoint.

low

alarm

off, P113
on, P112

FUNCTIONAL

Pump:

off, P113

pump down : occurs when the level rises to

the on setpoint. The pump is
stopped when the level
reaches the off setpoint.

on, P112

pump up : occurs when the level falls to

the on setpoint. The pump is
stopped when the level
reaches the off setpoint.

off, P113

pump
sequencing: pumps 1 and 2 operate in lead

lag fashion alternating roles on
successive pump cycles (first pump
on, to all pumps off) . Specifically,
pump 1 responds to relay 1 and pump 2 responds to
relay 2 during the first pump cycle. During the second cycle,
pump 2 responds to relay 1 and pump 1 responds to relay 2.

Relays programmed for pump control will not energize

within 10 seconds of a MiniRanger Plus power up,

or within 10 seconds of each other.

SETPOINTS

Relay setpoints are in the units as programmed (P005).

pump

down

pump

up

on, P112

Operation, P001 = 1, 2 or 3

The setpoints are measured from the bottom up, referenced
to zero or empty (P006).

Operation, P001 = 4

FUNCTIONAL

The setpoints are measured outward from the transducer face.

PL-447 26

STATUS

relay 2 function
e.g. 0 = off

relay 2 on setpoint

relay 1 off setpoint

relay 1 function
e.g. 0 = off

Programming

Upon entering the program mode, the alarm relays hold their prior status, pump relays
are held off.

Relay programming: - select relay & function (P111)

- enter setpoints (P112 & P113)

•

•

•

PL-447 27

relay 1 on setpoint

FUNCTIONAL

relay 2 off setpoint

Run

relay
status, relay 1
status, relay 2
relay operational, e.g. relay 2

alarm / pump on, e.g. relay 1

Fail-safe

When the fail-safe timer (P070) expires, the relays respond as follows * :

Fail-Safe Status
Mode (P071) high alarm low alarm pump down pump up
high on off on off
low off on off on
hold hold hold hold hold

* not applicable to high level switch operation, P001 = 4. In such cases, the timer

is bypassed and the mode is always ’low’.

FUNCTIONAL

PL-447 28

ANALOG OUTPUT

The MiniRanger Plus can be programmed to provide an analog output (P200) of 0 to
20 or 4 to 20 mA, and for proportional or inverse span.

Programming

Upon entering the Program mode, the analog output level holds its prior value.

Run

The analog output responds in the following manner :

Level

Space

Distance

or

H. L. S.

*reference value only. mA level limited by near blanking.
0 and 100% are percentage of full scale reading (m, cm, mm, ft, in)

PL-447 29

FUNCTIONAL

Fail-safe

When the fail-safe timer (P070) expires, the mA output responds as follows * :

Fail-safe Mode
(071)

high 20 0/4
low 0/4 20
hold hold hold

* not applicable to high level switch operation, P001 = 4. In such a case, the

measurement immediately defaults to a low value.

Status
0/4 – 20 20 – 0/4

RUN / PROGRAM

When the MiniRanger Plus changes from run to program, the transceiver stops
operating and the last measurement is stored; the associated reading, alarm status
and mA output are held (pump control relays are turned off). As a courtesy, the unit
reverts to the parameter last addressed during the previous program session. During
program, the unit does not respond to the process unless the calibration parameters
(P650 and P651) are accessed.

the reading becomes responsive.

Upon return to run, the transceiver resumes operation. The reading and associated
outputs default to the last measurement taken, either during the previous run session
or as a result of having accessed a calibration parameter. The reading and associated
outputs migrate to the current process level at a rate controlled by the measurement
response (P003).

If the calibration parameters are accessed, only

FUNCTIONAL

PL-447 30

⊗

PL-447 31

FUNCTIONAL

⊗

FUNCTIONAL

PL-447 32

■

APPLICATIONS

This section highlights the most common applications to which the MiniRanger Plus is
likely to be applied. Other applications not described here, such as position monitoring
of a piston on a wood pulverizer, are basically improvisational and imaginative ways of
applying the MiniRanger Plus. The trick is knowing the parameters available to you,
and their limitations. Refer to Parameter Description.

When programming, refer to the application which is most similar to yours. A practical
example has been given to further expand on the programming features. As the
example may not completely cover your application, again, it is important that you
familiarize yourself with the list of available parameters.

APPLICATIONS

The minimum distance from the transducer face to the target is limited

by the minimum range of the transducer connected.

PL-447 33

SIMPLE LEVEL APPLICATION

P112-1

4.0 m

relay 1

One of the most common applications of a Milltronics process material level monitor is

APPLICATIONS

simple level measurement, whereby the material level or space between the
transducer and reflecting surface is measured and displayed. This may or may not
include alarms and mA output.

Example
The application is to obtain a level measurement and corresponding 4-20 mA output

proportional to material level in a gravel bin. The transducer face is 5 m from the bin
bottom. The empty level is 0 m (bottom) and the full level (span) is 4.5 m from the
bottom. A high alarm is required at 4 m from the bottom and a low alarm is required at
1 m from the bottom. The maximum rate of filling or emptying is about 1 m/min. In the
event of a loss of echo, the MiniRanger Plus is to go into fail-safe low after 2 min.

Empty
(P006)

on
off

Span

(P007)

reset:

P999 master reset

program:

P001 enter ’1’ mode of measurement = level
P002 enter ’2’ material = solids

PL-447 34

P112-2

1.0 m

P113-1

3.9 m

relay 2

off
on

P113-2

1.1 m

P003 enter ‘2’ measurement response = 1 m/min.
P004 enter ‘102’ the transducer model purchased with this system is an XPS-10
P005 enter ‘1’ units = metres
P006 enter ‘5’ empty distance = 5 m
P007 enter ‘4.5’ span = 4.5 m
P070 enter ‘2’ fail-safe timer = 2 min
P071 enter ‘2’ fail-safe = low
P111-1 enter ‘1’ level alarm, relay 1
P111-2 enter ‘1’ level alarm, relay 2
P112-1 enter ‘4’ relay 1, on setpoint = 4 m
P112-2 enter ‘1’ relay 2, on setpoint = 1 m
P113-1 enter ‘3.9’ relay 1, off setpoint = 3.9 m (nominal value, 0.1 m deadband)
P113-2 enter ‘1.1’ relay 2, off setpoint = 1.1 m (nominal value, 0.1 m deadband)
P200 enter ‘2’ mA output = 4 - 20

APPLICATIONS

run:

press run to start normal operation

PL-447 35

PUMP CONTROL APPLICATION

P113-1 & 2, 0.25 m

relay 1 & 2

pumps off

The basic difference between a simple level application and a pump control

APPLICATIONS

application is that the relays assigned to pump function (P111) are normally
de-energized (off) and energized when required to run the pump. In the program
mode, pump relays are held de-energized.

Pumps can be programmed to work independently or in lead/lag fashion. Refer to
Functional \ Relays \ Functions.

In applications where flooding is possible, a submersible transducer should be used.
The submersible transducer’s air cavity insures that a high level reading is maintained
rather than establishing a loss of echo condition, when the liquid level reaches the
transducer. When using a submersible transducer, set P802 = 1.

Example
The application is to control the level in a wet well. It is required that the level be

displayed in centimetres. The transducer is mounted at 3.6 m from the bottom and is
equipped with a submergence coupling as there is possibility of flooding in the well.
Two pumps are to be controlled by the MiniRanger Plus in lead / lag fashion. The first
pump to start at 1 m and the second pump to start at 2 m. Both pumps are to stop at

0.25 m. The maximum estimated filling rate is 1 m/min. In the event of a loss of echo,
a fail-safe low after 6 sec is required to protect the pumps from running dry.

P006

3.6 m

P007

3.0 m

reset:

P999 master reset

program:

P001 enter ‘1’ mode of measurement = level
P002 enter ‘1’ material = liquids

PL-447 36

relay 1,

pump on

P112-1, 2 m

relay 2,

pump on

P112-2, 1 m

P003 enter ‘2’ measurement response = 1 m / min

note: the associated preset fail-safe timer is 10

minutes. Override this value by setting P070.
P004 enter ‘102’ the transducer model purchased with this system is an XPS-10
P005 enter ‘1’ units = metres
P006 enter ‘3.6’ empty distance = 3.6 m
P007 enter ‘3’ span = 3 m
P070 enter ‘.1’ fail-safe timer = 6 sec (0.1 min)
P111-1 enter ‘3’ relay 1 function = 3, pump sequencing
P111-2 enter ‘3’ relay 2 function = 3, pump sequencing
P112-1 enter ‘2’ relay 1, on setpoint = 2 m
P112-2 enter ‘1’ relay 2, on setpoint = 1 m
P113-1 enter ‘.25’ relay 1, off setpoint = 0.25 m (nominal value, 0.1 m deadband)
P113-2 enter ‘.25’ relay 2, off setpoint = 0.25 m (nominal value, 0.1 m deadband)
P802 enter ‘1’ submergence = on

APPLICATIONS

run:

press run to start normal operation

PL-447 37

HIGH LEVEL SWITCH

The MiniRanger Plus can be programmed as a high level switch. Significant

APPLICATIONS

differences between this and other modes of operation are :

- the fail-safe function (P070 and P071) is effectively disabled

- on loss of echo, the measurement immediately defaults
to a low value (P006)

- relay setpoints are measured from the face of the transducer

- the reading is distance from the face of the transducer to the material

A high level switch application is primarily used to detect a high level condition. As
such, aim the transducer so that it is perpendicular to the material angle of repose at
the alarm level when filling.

Example
A high level switch is required in a corn silo when the material comes within 1 m of the

transducer face. The maximum filling rate is 0.2 m / min.

P112, 1m

reset:

P999 master reset

program:

P001 enter ‘4’ mode of measurement = high level switch
P002 enter ‘2’ material = solids

PL-447 38

P113, 2 m

P003 enter ‘2’ measurement response = 1 m/min

note: this is the next fastest response rate that would

satisfy the given maximum filling rate
P004 enter ‘104’ the transducer model purchased with this system is an XPS-15
P005 enter ‘1’ units = metres
P006 enter ‘4’ empty distance = 4 m (nominal value)
P007 enter ‘4’ span = 4 m (nominal value)
P111-1 enter ‘1’ level alarm, relay 1
P112-1 enter ‘1’ relay 1, on setpoint = 1 m
P113-1 enter ‘2’ relay 1, off setpoint = 2 m (nominal value, 0.1 m deadband)

APPLICATIONS

run:

press run to start normal operation

PL-447 39

APPLICATIONS WITH STANDPIPE

transducer

In many liquid applications, access to the vessel must be made via a standpipe.

APPLICATIONS

In such cases, Milltronics can provide optional flanged transducers, or split flanges
that mate to a flanged standpipe. Another option is to hang the transducer from a
blind flange.

The standpipe length should be as short and the diameter as large as possible. As a
rule of thumb, the –3 dB cone of the sound beam should not intersect the standpipe
wall in applications opening into a vessel. Otherwise, additional near blanking (P800)
is required to compensate for the interference zone created by the opening.

transducer radiating face

no

intersection

vessel

no additional

blanking required

vessel

sound beam

intersects

pipewall

reflection at interference

zone created by opening

no vessel

no additional

blanking
required

PL-447 40

near blanking extension of 150

mm (6") past end of standpipe

may be required

⊗

APPLICATIONS

PL-447 41

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APPLICATIONS

⊗

PL-447 42

PARAMETER DESCRIPTION

P000 lock

Locks out the programming ’change value’ function such that t he val ues
of P001 through P999 cannot be changed. This however does not
prevent the ‘select’ function from use for viewing val ues . Programmi ng is
locked out if the value of P000 is other than 1954.

entry : 1954 = unlocked

1954 = locked

P001 operation

Determines the mode of measurement.

entry : 1 = level; material level referenced to empty distance (P006)

2 = space; space to material level referenced from zero span
3 = distance; distance to target referenced f rom t he

transducer face

4 = high level switch (h.I.s.)

PARAMETER DESC.

Level (P001 = 1)

Space (P001 = 2)

P002 materi al

Optimizes measurement reliability for target ty pe.

entry : 1 = liquids, fluids or flat surfac es

2 = irregular surfaces and solids

PL-447 43

Distance (P001 = 3)

or

H.L.S. (P001 = 4)

P003 measurement res ponse

Collectively sets a number of operating parameters that det ermine the
maximum rate of change in target range that the reading, alarm and mA
output functions can keep up to.

If MiniRanger Plus cannot keep up with the rate of level change, select a
faster rate. If the reading bounces around an average value, select a slower
rate. In general, reliability is traded for speed. Noisy appl icat i ons or t hose
with agitators tend to be more reliable at a slower res pons e rate, as they
make use of filtering, echo verificat ion and longer fail-safe delay.

PARAMETER DESC.

Select P003 for a measurement response just faster than

echo verification: discriminates between agitator blades in mot ion or

filter: discriminates between false echoes from constant

fail-safe timer: establishes the period from the time a loss of ec ho st art s

long pulses: sets the number of long pulses to be fired during the course

the greater of the maximum filling or emptying rate.

spurious noise, and the target surface (true ec ho).

acoustical or electrical noise, and the target surface.

until the fail-safe default (P071) is effect ed. The P003
preset timer value can be overridden by P070.

of a measurement. Reliability (2) is traded for speed (1).

entry:
measurement

response
1 = 0.1 m/min (slow) on on 100 2

2 = 1 m/min
3 = 10 m/min
4 = 102 m/min / 1.7 m/sec

5 = 1020 m/min / 17 m/sec (fast) off off 0 1

* fail-safe function is disabled for high level swi t ch operat ion, P001 = 4.

P004 transducer

Identifies transducer model connected.

entry : 1 = ST-25 102 = XPS-10

100 = ST-H 103 = XCT-12
101 = XCT-8 104 = XPS-15

PL-447 44

verification filter

.
.
.

echo

on on 10 2
on on 1 2
off on 0.1 1

f-s timer*

(P070)

long

pulses

P005 units

Determines the units for programming and measurement.

P006 empty

Distance from transducer
face to empty level or
maximum target range.

P007 span

Distance from empty (P006) to
full / 100% level or minimum
target range.

entry : 1 = metres

2 = centimetres
3 = millimetres
4 = feet
5 = inches

PARAMETER DESC.

P070 fail -s af e t i mer

The amount of time delay, in minutes, bef ore going into fail-safe mode.

Disabled for h.I.s. operation (P001 = 4)

P071 fail-safe material level

Selects the default measurement in the event that the fail-safe timer expires.

entry : 1 = high; maximum span value

2 = low; minimum span value
3 = hold; hold current value

Disabled for h.I.s. operation (P001 = 4)

PL-447 45

P111 relay f unction

Assigns an alarm function to the selected rel ay . Ref er to Functional \ Relays.

PARAMETER DESC.

P112 relay A set point

The on setpoint in linear units (P005). Refer to Functional \ Rel ay s.

P113 relay B set point

The off setpoint in linear units (P005). Refer to Functional \ Relays.

P200 mA range

Enables the mA output function by sel ec t ing the range and relationship to span.
Refer to Functional \ mA output.

entry : 0 = off

1 = level alarm
2 = pump control
3 = pump sequencing

entry : 1 = 0 to 20 mA

2 = 4 to 20 mA
3 = 20 to 0 mA
4 = 20 to 4 mA

P300 temperature, transducer max

The maximum temperature encountered by the integral
(transducer) temperature sensor.

P341 run time

View the accumulated number of days the MiniRanger Plus
has been operating.

PL-447 46

P650 offset calibration

Typically used to calibrate the ultras onic measurement, and its associated
outputs, to a known value.

- fill the tank as muc h as permissible, without going into
the near blanking.

- monitor P650 until a stable readi ng is obt ai ned.

- (to access change function).

- scroll the value to the actual level, space or distance respective
to the mode of measurement (P001).

- (to validate entry). The MiniRanger Plus calculates
the measurement offset to be applied to the readi ng.

P651 sound velocit y calibration

Provides sound velocity compensation on an empty tank. This is typically
required on an application where the atmosphere in the tank is a

homogenous gas or vapour

- empty the tank as muc h as permissible. Leave filled with normal
vapour and normal operating temperature.

PARAMETER DESC.

other than air.

- monitor P651 until a st abl e readi ng is obt ained.

- (to acces s change f unction).

- scroll value to the actual level, space or distance respective
to the mode of measurement (P001).

- (to validate entry). The MiniRanger Plus calculates
the new sound velocity for measurement correction.

P740 peripherial communication Not supported by the associated product.

P661 temp fixed

For use with ST-25 Ultrason

®

transducers. As these transducers do not have
an integal temperature sensor a nominal value representing the ambient
temperature of the transducer must be entered. If t he t emperat ure bet ween
the transducer and the target varies, enter the av erage t emperat ure.

PL-447 47

P800 near blanking

Sets the amount of blanking as measured from the t ransducer face and
extending into the measurement range. Refer to Func t i onal \ B lank ing.

enter value referenced from the face of the transducer in uni t s of P005.

P801 range extension

PARAMETER DESC.

P802 submergence transducer

P804 confidenc e threshold

Sets the amount of range extension as measured from t he empty distance
(P006) and extending into the far end blanking. Ref er t o Func t i onal \Blanking.

enter as a % of P006, the distance below empty not bl anked.

When using a submergence transducer, set entry to ‘1’ t o enabl e
submergence feature. Refer to Applications \ Pump Control Application.

entry : 0 = normal

The minimum echo confidence in dB that either t he short or long ec ho must
meet in order to prevent a loss of echo condition and t he ex pi ration of the
fail-safe timer (P070).

short minimum echo confidenc e f or short pulse echoes; those

long minimum echo confidence for long pulse echoes.
entry : ## : ## = short : long

1 = submersible

within the short pulse echo range.

P805 echo conf idence

A measure of echo reliability.

display : ## : ## = short : long

where : ## = 0 to 99 ; confidence value

run mode :

PL-447 48

P806 echo strengt h

The absolute strength of the selected echo, in dB above 1 uV rms.

run mode :

P807 noise

The peak and average ambient noise, in dB above 1 uV rms.

Ambient noise includes acoustical and electrical noise being picked up by the
transducer / receiver circuit while in the program mode (t ransmit disabled).

display : ## : ## = average : peak

run mode:

P820 algori t hm

Selects the algorithm to be applied to the echo profile in order t o
extract the true echo.

entry : 1 = best of first and largest

P830 TVT type

PARAMETER DESC.

2 = first echo
3 = largest echo

Selects the TVT profile applied to the echo profile.

entry : 1 = standard

2 = flat (typically; may yield higher confidences on

some solids applications)

P900 software rev ision

Displays the EPROM software revision level.

PL-447 49

96\07\22

P901 memory

infrared
communication link

mirror

Tests the memory. Test is initiated by scrolling to the parameter
or repeated by .

P907 programmer interfac e

PARAMETER DESC.

Tests the infrared communication link. Test is init iat ed by scrolling to the
parameter or repeated by .

display : PASS = normal

FAIL = consult Milltronics

display : PASS = normal

FAIL = consult Milltronics

MiniRanger Plus

P910 rela y

Tests the alarm relays.

entry : 0 = de-energizes selected relay

1 = energizes selected relay

P911 mA out put value

Displays the value from the previous measurement. A t est val ue can be
entered and the displayed value is transmitted to the out put . Upon ret urni ng
to the run mode, the parameter assumes the actual mA output level.

PL-447 50

P923 distance measurement

The reading corresponding to the distance between the mat eri al level
and the transducer face.

run mode

P999 master reset

Resets parameters to their factory setting.

PARAMETER DESC.

PL-447 51

PARAMETER DESC.

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PL-447 52

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TROUBLESHOOTING

The following is a list of operating symptoms, their probable causes and the actions
needed to resolve them.

SYMPTOM CAUSE ACTION

Loss of echo
display reads ‘Short’,

no pulsing is felt on the
transducer face

display reads ‘OPEN’, no
pulsing is felt on the
transducer face

display reads
pulsing is felt on
transducer face

short circuit or
reverse wiring

defective transducer

open circuit

defective transducer or
circuit board

level or target is out of
range

application too dusty or
steamy, under these
conditions range can be
adversely affected

check transducer wiring*

check maximum
temperature P300 against
transducer rating*

try substitute
check transducer wiring*

check maximum
temperature P300 against
transducer rating*

try substitute
check transducer

specifications*
check calibration

parameters
re-aim transducer*
use foam faced transducer

for dusty applications*.
try using a longer range

transducer
increase fail-safe timer,

P070

TROUBLESHOOTING

material build-up on
transducer face

* refer to associated transducer manual

PL-447 53

clean
move transducer to better

location*
mount in standpipe*

SYMPTOM CAUSE ACTION

. . . continued transducer location or

Reading does not change,
but the level does

TROUBLESHOOTING

Measurement is
consistently off by a
constant amount

Reading error
progressively worsens
with distance

Screen blank loss of power check voltage selector

re-locate or re-aim

aiming :

- poor installation

- moved by material or
vibration

- flanging not level
transducer malfunction :

- temperature too high

- physical damage

- excessive foam on
liquid face

MiniRanger Plus
processing wrong echo,
i.e. vessel wall, structural
member, stationary
agitator, material hang-up
or rat-hole

transducer ringdown,
reading high level

measurement offset refer to P650

atmosphere other than air
or stratified

transducer for maximum
echo confidence, P805

check P300, P805, P807
inspect
use foam deflector or

stilling well or relocate
re-aim transducer*

check standpipe for
internal burrs or welds

mounting need only be
hand tight*

increase blanking, P800
raise short measurement

confidence threshold, P804

refer to P651

switch

* refer to associated transducer manual

PL-447 54

check power wiring

SYMPTOM CAUSE ACTION

Reading erratic echo confidence weak,

liquid surface agitated,

material filling
electrical noise

agitator blades

Reading ‘EEEE’ reading too large re-calibrate

Reading response slow P003 setting increase response if

Reads correctly but
occasionally reads high
when vessel is not full

detecting close range echo
or ringdown

refer to P805,P807
decrease measurement

response P003
enable filter, echo

verification
relocate transducer*

check P-807 under
quiescent conditions, noise
should be under 15 dB

transducer cable must be
in grounded metal conduit
and cable grounded only
at TB-1*

enable echo verification,
P003

possible
increase blanking

increase short
measurement threshold,
P804

TROUBLESHOOTING

High level reading lower
than material level

material is within near
blanking zone

echo multiple being
processed

* refer to associated transducer manual

PL-447 55

transducer mounting*
decrease blanking P800

(limit to transducer min
range*) or raise transducer

TROUBLESHOOTING

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PL-447 56

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APPENDICES

Alphabetical Parameter List

algorithm P820 submergence transducer P802
confidence threshold P804 temperature fixed P661
distance measurement P923 temperature, transducer max P300
echo confidence P805 transducer P004
echo strength P806 TVT type P830
empty P006 units P005
fail-safe material level P071
fail-safe timer P070
lock P000
mA output value P911
mA range P200
master reset P999
material P002
measurement response P003
memory P901
near blanking P800
noise P807
offset calibration P650
operation P001

peripheral comm. P740 *

programmer interface P907
range extension P801
relay P910
relay A setpoint P112
relay B setpoint P113
relay function P111
run time P341
software revision P900
sound velocity calibration P651
span P007

APPENDICES

* communication not supported by the associated product.

PL-447 57

PARAMETER

# NAME VALUE

P001 Operation
P002 Material
P003 Measurement Response
P004 Transducer
P005 Units
P006 Empty
P007 Span
P070 Fail-safe Timer
P071 Fail-safe Material Level
P111-1 Relay Function
P111-2 Relay Function
P112-1 Relay A Setpoint
P112-2 Relay A Setpoint
P113-1 Relay B Setpoint
P113-2 Relay B Setpoint
P200 mA Range
P300 Temp. Tranducer Max
P341 Run Time

APPENDICES

P650 Offset Calibration
P651 Sound Velocity Calibration
P661 Temperature, Fixed

P740 Peripheral communication*

P800 Near Blanking
P801 Range Extension
P802 Submergence Transducer
P804 Confidence Threshold
P820 Algorithm
P830 TVT Type
P923 Distance Measurement

* communication not supported by the associated product

PROGRAMMING CHART

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PL-447 58

96/03/22