Omega DR130, DR240, DR230 User Manual

User’s Guide

,

DR240 SERIES

Communication Interf a c e

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SM

SM

SM

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It is the policy of OMEGA to comply with all worldwide safety and EMC/EMI regulations that
apply. OMEGA is constantly pursuing certification of its products to the European New Approach
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The information contained in this document is believed to be correct, but OMEGA Engineering, Inc. accepts
no liability for any errors it contains, and reserves the right to alter specifications without notice.
WARNING: These products are not designed for use in, and should not be used for, patient-connected applications.

1

Introduction

This Communication Interface User’s Manual describes the functions and commands of the optional
GP-IB, RS-232-C and RS-422-A/RS-485 interfaces. Read this manual carefully before using these
interface functions, and be sure to keep this manual on hand for future reference should any problems
arise.
As manuals relative to the DR130, DR230, DR240, the following manuals are also provided. Read
them if necessary.

Name of manuals Manual No.

DR130/DR230/DR240 Hybrid Recorder M3225/1298

Note

• We reserve the right to change the content of this manual at any time without prior notice because
of improvements in performance or functions. Actual displays on the screen may also be a little
different from the screen displays described in this manual.

• All reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this manual. If, however, any
errors or ambiguities are found, please inform us.

• No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from us.

• The warranty card is attached to the packing box. This card cannot be reissued. Thoroughly read
the card and carefully store it.

Trademark

• MS-DOS and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation, USA.

• Other product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of the relevant companies.

All Rights Reserved, Copyright  1996

2

Configuration and Use of This Manual

Configuration

This user’s manual is composed of chapter 1 to chapter 6 and indices.

Chapter 1 Overview and Specifications of GP-IB Interface

Describes the functions and specifications of the GP-IB interface and the address setting
method.

Chapter 2 Overview and Specifications of RS-232-C Interface

Describes the functions and specifications of the RS-232-C interface and the parameter
setting method.

Chapter 3 Overview and Specifications of RS-422A/RS-485 Interface

Describes the functions and specifications of the RS-422-A/RS-485 interface and the
parameter setting method.

Chapter 4 Command Format

Describes how to specify command formats and channel numbers.

Chapter 5 Commands

Describes the commands for various setting items, commands for executing actions,
data request commands for measured data saved in memory, or commands requesting
output of internally set data.

Chapter 6 Output Format

Describes the output formats for set data, measured data, etc.

Chapter 7 Sample Program

Useful sample programs are presented.

Appendix Computation Equation

Describes the optional computation equation.

Index There are command and general indices.

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................................................... 1

CONFIGURATION AND USE OF THIS MANUAL.................................................................................................... 2

CHAPTER 1 OVERVIEW AND SPECIFICATIONS OF GP-IB INTERFACE

1.1 Description of Functions.................................................................................................................................1-1

1.2 Setting of Address of GP-IB Interface ............................................................................................................1-3

1.3 Specifications..................................................................................................................................................1-4

CHAPTER 2 OVERVIEW AND SPECIFICATIONS OF RS-232-C INTERFACE

2.1 Description of Functions.................................................................................................................................2-1

2.2 Specifications..................................................................................................................................................2-3

2.3 RS-232-C Interface Connection .....................................................................................................................2-4

2.4 Handshake Format Selection .......................................................................................................................... 2-6

2.5 Communication Data Format .........................................................................................................................2-8

2.6 RS-232-C Interface Parameter Setting Procedure .......................................................................................... 2-9

CHAPTER 3 OVERVIEW AND SPECIFICATIONS OF RS-422-A/RS-485 INTERFACE

3.1 Description of Functions.................................................................................................................................3-1

3.2 Specifications.................................................................................................................................................. 3-2

3.3 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Connection........................................................................................................3-3

3.4 Communication Data Format .........................................................................................................................3-8

3.5 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Parameter Setting Procedure.............................................................................3-9

CHAPTER 4 COMMAND FORMAT

4.1 Command Format ........................................................................................................................................... 4-1

4.2 Command Syntax ............................................................................................................................................4-3

4.3 Setting a Channel No., and Alarm Output Relay No......................................................................................4-4

4.4 Command List ................................................................................................................................................4-5

4.5 Input Range Parameter ...................................................................................................................................4-7

4.6 ASCII Code Table ........................................................................................................................................4-10

CHAPTER 5 COMMANDS

5.1 Setting the Input..............................................................................................................................................5-1

Range Setting (SR)
Unit Setting (SN)
Filter Setting (XQ)
Measurement Period Setting (XV)
A/D Integration Setting (XI)

5.2 Setting Alarms ................................................................................................................................................5-4

Alarm Setting (SA)
Performs Alarm-related Settings (XA)
Relay Reflash Setting (XY)
Relay AND/OR Setting (XN)
Relay Energizing/Deenergizing Setting (XD)
Relay Hold/Non-hold Setting (XH)

5.3 Setting the Display..........................................................................................................................................5-5

Setting the display mode on the upper part of the display (UD)
Setting the display mode on the middle part of the display (MD)
Setting the display mode on the lower part of the display (LD)
Setting the switching time for the displayed channel (XW)

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

App

Index

4

5.4 Setting the Recording .....................................................................................................................................5-6

Chart speed setting (SC)
Second chart speed setting (SE)
Select the trend records/logging records (SS)
Recording zone setting (SZ)
Partially expanded recording setting (SP)
Message setting (SG)
Tag setting (ST)
Header setting (SH)
Title setting (SJ)
Format for list printing setting (SF)
Interpolation setting (SB)
Trend recording ON/OFF (PT)
Digital recording ON/OFF (PD)
Manual printing ON/OFF (PM)
Alarm printing ON/OFF (PA)
Scale printing ON/OFF (PC)
List printing ON/OFF (PL)
Performs settings related to records (XR)
Dot printing colors setting (XC)

5.5 Other Settings ...............................................................................................................................................5-10

Date and time setting (SD)
Moving average setting (SV)
Copy between channels (SY)
Group setting (SX)
Timer setting (SI)
Match time setting (SQ)
Event/action setting (SL)
Computation Expression Setting (SO : with optional computation function or floppy disk drive function)
Computation Constant Setting (SK : with optional computation function)
Communication Input Data Setting (CM : with optional computation function)
Setting the channel for setting data that are stored on a RAM disk (MH : floppy disk drive function)
Summer/winter time (SW)
Key lock setting (XK)
Function screen setting (XF)
Setting screen setting (XS)
Burnout setting (XB)
Reference junction compensation setting (XJ)
Setting of Computation Error Handling Method (XG : with optional computation function)
Setting of temperature unit (XT)
Setting of language (XL)
Setup setting data (XE)
Setting for execution, data modification, and data storage in A/D calibration (XZ)

5.6 Control and Execution Command ................................................................................................................5-14

Recording start/stop(PS)
Manual printing start/stop (MP)
List printing start/stop (LS)
Header printing start/stop (HD)
Setup list printing start/stop (SU)
Message printing start (MS)
Acknowledgment of alarm status (AK)
Alarm reset (AR)
Timer reset (IR)
Alarm buffer clear (AC)
Message buffer clear (MC)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

5

Computation start/stop (EX : with optional computation function or floppy disk drive function)
Storing measured data on a RAM disk (MW : floppy disk drive function)
Reading measured data on a RAM disk (MR : floppy disk drive function)
Storing set data on a RAM disk (MV : floppy disk drive function)
Reading setting data on a RAM disk (ML : floppy disk drive function)
Deleting files on a RAM disk (ME : floppy disk drive function)
Copying a file (MY : floppy disk drive function)
Storing set data on a floppy disk (FV : floppy disk drive function)
Reading setting data on a floppy disk (FL : floppy disk drive function)
Deleting a file on a floppy disk (FE : floppy disk drive function)
Storing set data in setup mode (YV : floppy disk drive function)
Reading set data, which have been stored, in setup mode (YL : floppy disk drive function)
Deleting a file in setup mode (YE : floppy disk drive function)
Executes the initial balancing of the strain input channel (BL)
System reconstruction (RS)
RAM clear (RC)
Setting mode selection (DS)

5.7 Data Output Request Command ................................................................................................................... 5-17

Selection of talker output data (TS)
Measured data output request (FM)
Format specification for measured data on the RAM disk (MF : floppy disk drive function)
Setting data output request (LF)
System configuration data output request (CF)
Byte output order specification (BO)
Interrupt mask specification (IM)
Auxiliary mask specification (SM)

CHAPTER 6 OUTPUT FORMAT

6.1 Functions as Talker......................................................................................................................................... 6-1

6.2 Measured/Computed Data Output Format (ASCII code) ...............................................................................6-2

6.3 Measured/Computed Data Output Format (Binary code) ..............................................................................6-3

6.4 Setting Data Output Format (Operation mode) ..............................................................................................6-4

6.5 Setting Data Output Format (Setup mode) ..................................................................................................... 6-6

6.6 Output Format for Unit and Decimal Point Position ......................................................................................6-7

6.7 System Configuration Output Format ............................................................................................................ 6-8

6.8 A/D Calibration Data Output Format .............................................................................................................6-9

6.9 RAM Disk Output Format (File Directory Output)......................................................................................6-10

6.10 RAM Disk Output Format (ASCII Code) ....................................................................................................6-11

6.11 RAM Disk Output Format (Binary Code) ....................................................................................................6-13

6.12 RAM Disk Output Format (Channel On/Off) .............................................................................................. 6-15

CHAPTER 7 SAMPLE PROGRAM

7.1 GP-IB Sample Programs.................................................................................................................................7-1

7.2 RS-232-C Sample Programs........................................................................................................................... 7-4

7.3 RS-422-A/RS-485 Sample Programs .............................................................................................................7-7

APPENDIX

App. 1 Computing Equation....................................................................................................................... App-1

INDEX

General index .................................................................................................................................................... Index-1

Command Index................................................................................................................................................ Index-4

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

App

Index

1.1 Description of Functions

Listener and Talker Functions

Listener Function

This allows almost all settings except power on/off and operation control.

• Settings except communication settings.

• Operation control except power on/off.

• Call-up of setting data

• Specifying of output data (specifying of channel numbers or output data types)

• Specifying of causes of interrupt generation (see IM command: page 5-18)

Talker Function

The following data can be output:

• Measured data

• Computed data

• System configuration

• Data for operation mode setting

• Data for setup mode setting
For measured data and computed data, either binary output or ASCII output can be selected. Other
data are output in the form of ASCII data.

1

Overview and Specifications of GP-IB Interface

1-1

1.1 Description of Functions

Status Byte Format

The format of status byte output in serial polling is as follows:

Upper-level byte

0

Bit 8: Not used. Always 0.
Bit 7: SRQ

Bit 6 This bit changes to 1 when a measurement release is generated while the computation is in

Bit 5 This bit changes to 1 when the chart reaches its end.
Bit 4 This bit changes to 1 after storing data on media, or reading data from media; otherwise, it

Bit 2: This bit changes to 1 when a syntax error occurs in a command and is normally 0.

Bit 1: This bit changes to 1 at the end of an A/D conversion; otherwise, it is 0.

Lower-level byte

Interrupt generated at the end of A/D conversion.
Interrupt generated at the time of syntax error.
Interrupt generated when the internal timer is being operated

or hourly, daily and monthly reports are created.

Interrupt generated after storing data on media, or reading
data from media (with a floppy disk drive).

Interrupt generated at the time of chart end.

Interrupt generated when measurement release is generated
while computation is in progress (with computation
functions).

SRQ

This bit changes to 1 when any cause of the bits 1 to 3 or bit 5 has been generated and

interrupts the controller. After responding to serial polling, this bit is set to 0.

progress; otherwise, it is 0. This bit is effective only with optional computation functions.
After responding to serial polling, this bit is set to 0.

is 0. After responding to serial polling, this bit is set to 0.

If there is an error in a command description, this changes to 1. After responding to serial

polling, this bit is set to 0.

When the A/D conversion of measured data is terminated, this changes to 1. After responding

to serial polling, this bit is set to 0.

Status byte and serial polling

• In IM commands, the bit status that is to be made effective must be specified. The status of
unspecified bits does not change to 1.

• If a new cause is generated before reading out a status byte for which a cause has already been
generated, the existing cause remains in the status byte as is and the new cause is added. For
example, if bit 1 is in 1 state and bit 2 is newly changed to 1 before reading out the status byte,
both bit 1 and bit 2 become 1.

The initial value

The initial value is ‘ IM2 ’.

1-2

1.2 Setting of Address of GP-IB Interface

The GP-IB address is set with the rotary switch located on the side of the GP-IB module connector.
Turn the arrow on the rotary switch with a flat-blade screwdriver or the like to align the arrow with
the address to be set.

0

1

2

F

3

0

1

2

F

3

E

4

D

5

C

6

B

7

A

8

9

D

C

E

B

A

4

5

6

7

8

9

1

Overview and Specifications of GP-IB Interface

Rotary switch with
which address is
to be set

Address is the numeral
to which the arrow is pointed

1-3

1.3 Specifications

Electrical and mechanical specifications: Conforming to IEEE St’d 488-1975
Code to be used: ISO (ASCII) code
Function specifications

Function Subset name Description

Source handshake SH1 All transmission handshake functions operative
Acceptor handshake AH1 All transmission handshake functions operative
Talker T6 Basic talker functions, serial poll, and talker release function

Listener L4 Basic listener function and listener release function by talker

Service request SR1 All service request functions operative
Remote/local RL1 All remote/local functions operative
Parallel poll PP0 No parallel poll function
Device clear DC1 All device clear functions operative
Device trigger DT1 All device trigger functions operative
Controller C0 No controller function

by listener are provided.

are provided.

1-4

2.1 Description of Functions

Listener and Talker Functions

Listener Function

This allows almost all settings except power on/off and operation control.

• Settings except communication settings.

• Operation control except power on/off.

• Call-up of setting data

• Specifying of output data (specifying of channel numbers or output data types)

Talker Function

The following data can be output:

• Measured data

• Computed data

• System configuration

• Data for operation mode setting

• Data for setup mode setting
For measured data and computed data, either binary output or ASCII output can be selected. Other
data are output in the form of ASCII data.

Data Output

When trigger(GET) becomes activated DR130/DR230/DR240 will store the new data in a buffer.
When an output request such as the FM command is received, these new data will be output.

2

Overview and Specifications of RS-232-C Interface

2-1

2.1 Description of Functions

Commands Applicable to RS-232-C Only

The following commands are only applicable to RS-232-C.

ESC T Trigger Execution

Setting ESC T<terminator>
Description Before executing this command, select the output data using the TS command. The

data selected with the TS command are prepared for output. The data are output
with the FM, LF, or CF command.

ESC S Status Output Command

Setting ESC S<terminator>
Description The status for a sent command is output.

ESC R Switch from Local Status to Remote Status

Setting ESC R<terminator>
Description • Panel setting conditions in the local status are retained even if the status is switched

to the remote status.

• When the status is switched to the remote status, no key except DISP can be used.
Panel operation can be done by pressing the DISP key or switching the status to
local using the ESC L command described below.

ESC L Switch from Remote Status to Local Status

Setting ESC L<terminator>
Description The panel setting conditions in the remote status are retained even if the status is

switched to the local status.

Note

Status Byte Format

When the status byte output command (ESC S) is received, any of the ER00CRLF to ER03CRLF
status will be output.

• ESC corresponds to hexadecimal code (1B)H.

ER

• A/D conversion end (1)

When an A/D conversion for measured data ends, “1” is output.

• Syntax error (2)

If an error occurs in the description of a command, “2” is output.

• Storing data or reading data end (8)

When storing data on media, or reading data from media ends, “8” is output.

• Out-of-chart (16)

If out-of-chart is detected, “16” is output.

• Measurement release (32)

If a measurement release is generated while the computation is in progress, “32” is output.

CrLf

An ASCII character string of a numeral (numerals) shown
inparentheses at the end of any of the following items or
the sum of the numerals of the relevant items is output.
For example, if out-of-chart and timer operation occur,
ER20CrLf is output.
Items not specified with an IM command are invalid and
not included in this status output.

Items Applicable to RS-232-C Only

With RS-232-C, all commands can be acknowledged by ACK output. The ACK output is as follows,
except for the FM, LF and CF commands, whose ACK output will described later on.
E0 : Commands are processed succesfully
E1 : Commands are not processed succesfully
After having sent the output request, make sure to retrieve the data.

2-2

2.2 Specifications

Electrical & mechanical specs : Conform to the EIA RS-232-C Standard.
Connection format : Point-to point
Communication format : Half duplex
Synchronizing format : Start-stop asynchronous transmission

Baud rate (bps) : 150, 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200
START bit : 1 bit, fixed.
Data length : Either 7 or 8 bits (selectable).
Parity : Even, Odd, or None (selectable).
STOP bit : Either 1 or 2 bits (selectable).
Connector : DBSP-JB25S (JAE)
Hardware handshake : Transmission/reception control by DTR, RTS, CTS.
Software handshake : Transmission control by XON, XOFF.
Reception buffer length : 200 bytes
Escape sequence : Trigger;

2

Overview and Specifications of RS-232-C Interface

(synchronized by start/stop bit)

Status call.

2-3

2.3 RS-232-C Interface Connection

When connecting this instrument to a personal computer, first it is necessary to match settings such
as handshake format, data transmission speed, and data format at the computer’s side. For details
relating to these settings, refer to the description on this and following pages. Furthermore, make
sure to use an interface cable which matches this instrument’s specifications.

Connector and Signal Names

2
3

4
5

20

7

Numeric values in the above figure indicate Pin Nos.

2.TXD (Send Data) : Data transmitted to the host computer.

Signal direction : Output.

3.RXD (Received Data) : Data received from the host computer.

Signal direction : Input.

4.RTS (Request to Send) : Handshake signal used for reception of data from the host computer.

Signal direction : Output.

5.CTS (Clear to Send) : Handshake signal used for transmission of data to the host

computer.
Signal direction : Input.

7.GND (Signal Ground) : Signal ground connection.

20.DTR (Equipment Ready) : Handshake signal used for reception of data from the host

computer.
Signal direction : Output.

Pin Nos. 1, 6 and 8 to 19 are not used.

Signal direction

Host Computer

2-4

DTR [Transmission request reception OK]
RTS [Transmission request reception OK]
CTS [Transmission enable Ready]
TXD [Transmission data]

RXD [Reception data]

20
4

5

DR series

2
3

2.3 RS-232-C Interface Connection

RS-232-C Signal List and Corresponding JIS & CCITT Abbreviation

Signal Table

Pin No.

7
2
3

5
4

20

RS-232-C

AB(GND)
BA(TXD)
BB(RXD)
CB(CTS)
CA(RTS)
CD(DTR)

Abbreviation

CCITT

102 SG
103

104
106
105
108/2 ER

JIS

SD
RD
CS
RS

Name

Signal ground
Transmitted data
Received data
Transmission enable
Transmission request
Data terminal ready

2

Overview and Specifications of RS-232-C Interface

2-5

2.4 Handshake Format Selection

In order to ensure proper data transfers between the recorder and the host computer via the RS-232­C interface, a mutual procedure is required for processing the electrical signals. Such a procedure is
referred to as a ‘handshake’. Several handshake formats are available, with selection depending on
the host computer being used. The same handshake format must be designated for both the recorder
and the host computer.
The recorder parameter settings permit any one of the following 5 formats to be selected.

Reception Data Control

(control format when receiving data

from the host computer)

Hardware

Handshake

When reception
of data becomes
impossible RTS
becomes
FALSE, when
data recept
becomes
possible RTS
becomes TRUE.

Handshake

Format

Selection

OFF-OFF
XON-RTS
XON-DTR

CTS-RTS
CTS-DTR

Transmission Data Control

(Control format when transmitting data

to the host computer)

Software

Handshake

Transmission is
stopped when
X-OFF is
received, and is
resumed when
X-ON is
received.

Hardware

Handshake

Transmission
is stopped
when CTS is
FALSE, and is
resumed when
CTS is TRUE.

Handshake

No

When reception
of data becomes
impossible DTR
becomes
FALSE, when
data recept
becomes
possible DTR
becomes TRUE.

OFF-OFF

• Transmission data control : There is no handshake status between the recorder and host
computer. the X-OFF signal from the host computer is processed
as data, and the CTS signal is ignored.

• Reception data control : There is no handshake status between the recorder and host
computer. When the recorder reception buffer becomes full, the
excess data is discarded.
DTR=True, RTS=True (both fixed).

No

Note

• It is necessary to create a host computer program which prevents the recorder and host computer reception buffers from
becoming full.

XON-RTS

• Transmission data control : A software handshake status is established between the recorder

• Reception data control : A hardware handshake status is established between the recorder

2-6

and the host computer. The recorder will stop a data transmission
when an X-OFF signal is received from the host computer. The
transmission will be resumed when the next X-ON signal is
received.
The CTS signal from the host computer is ignored.

and the host computer. When the recorder recept of data becomes
impossible, an ‘RTS=False’ status will be established. When data
recept becomes possible, an ‘RTS=True’ status will be established.
DTR=True (Fixed).

2.4 Handshake Format Selection

XON-DTR

• Transmission data control : A software handshake status is established between the recorder
and the host computer. The recorder will stop a data transmission
when an X-OFF signal is received from the host computer. The
data transmission will be resumed when the next X-ON signal is
received. The CTS signal from the host computer is ignored.

• Reception data control : A hardware handshake status is established between the recorder
and the host computer. When the recorder recept of data becomes
impossible, an ‘DTR=False’ status will be established. When data
recept become possible, an ‘DTR=True’ status will be established.
RTS=True (Fixed).

CTS-RTS

• Transmission data control : A hardware handshake status is established between the recorder
and the host computer. The recorder will stop a data transmission
if a ‘CTS=False’ status is established, and will resume the
transmission when a ‘CTS=True’ status is established. The X­OFF and X-ON signals from the host computer are processed as
data.

• Reception data control : A hardware handshake status is established between the recorder
and the host computer. An ‘RTS=False’ status will be established
when the recorder recept of data becomes impossible, and an
‘RTS=Ture’ status will be established when data recept becomes
possible. DTR=Ture (Fixed).

2

Overview and Specifications of RS-232-C Interface

CTS-DTR

• Transmission data control : A hardware handshake status is established between the recorder
and the host computer. The recorder will stop a data transmission
if a ‘CTS=False’ status is established, and will resume the
transmission when a ‘CTS=True’ status is established. The X­OFF and X-ON signals from the host computer are processed as
data.

• Reception data control : A hardware handshake status is established between the recorder
and the host computer. A ‘DTR=False’ status will be established
when the recorder recept of data becomes impossible and a
‘DTR=True’ status will be established when data recept becomes
possible. RTS=Ture (Fixed).

2-7

2.5 Communication Data Format

The RS-232-C interface uses a START-STOP communication format. With this format, a START
bit is placed at the beginning of each character transmitted, followed by the data bits, parity bit, and
stop bit, in that order. (See the figure below.)

‘Line idle’
condition

1 character

Data bits
(7-8 bits)

Return to ‘line idle’ condition
(dotted line), or proceed to
next data START bit.

STOP bit

START bit

Parity bit(Odd,
even, or none)

1

1 or 2

2

2-8

2.6 RS-232-C Interface Parameter Setting Procedure

Setting of the RS-232-C parameters must be carried out using the 3 dipswitches located next to the
module connector.

Parameter setting
switch 1

Parameter setting
switch 2

1234

1234

ON
OFF

Data length
Baud rate

ON
OFF

Not use
Stop bit

Parity

2

Overview and Specifications of RS-232-C Interface

Parameter setting
switch 3

1234

ON
OFF

Not use
Handshake system

Baud rate (Switch No.1 to 3 of parameter setting switch 1)

Baud rate No.1 No.2 No.3

150 OFF OFF OFF
300 OFF OFF ON
600 OFF ON OFF
1200 OFF ON ON
2400 ON OFF OFF
4800 ON OFF ON
9600 ON ON OFF ←Default
19200 ON ON ON

Data length (Switch No.4 of parameter setting switch 1)

Data length No.4

7 OFF
8ON←Default

Parity (Switch No.1 and 2 of parameter setting switch 2)

Parity No.1 No.2

NONE OFF OFF
ODD OFF ON
EVEN ON OFF ←Default

Stop bit (Switch No.3 of parameter setting switch 2)

Stop bit No.4

1 OFF ←Default
2 ON

Handshake system (Switch No.1 to 3 of parameter setting switch 3)

Handshake system No.1 No.2 No.3

No handshake OFF OFF OFF ←Default
XON-ER OFF OFF ON
XON-RS OFF ON OFF
CS-ER OFF ON ON
CS-RS ON OFF OFF

2-9

3.1 Description of Functions

Listener and Talker Functions

Listener Function

This allows almost all settings except power on/off and operation control.

• Settings except communication settings.

• Operation control except power on/off.

• Call-up of setting data

• Specifying of output data (specifying of channel numbers or output data types)

Talker Function

The following data can be output:

• Measured data

• System configuration

• Data for operation mode setting

• Data for setup mode setting

For measured data, binary output or ASCII output can be selected. (for RS-422-A with using the
multi point.) Other data are output in the form of ASCII data.

Data Output

When trigger(GET) becomes activated DR will store the new data in a buffer. When an output
request such as the FM command is received, these new data will be output.

Commands Applicable to RS-422-A/RS-485 Only

The following commands are only applicable to RS-422-A/RS-485.

3

Overview and Specifications of RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface

ESC O Open Command (address a communication destination)

Setting ESC O xx<terminator>

xx : address, 01 to 31

Description Specifies the communicating device by its address. When this command is ex-

ecuted, all commands to the DR series (including ESC T) become effective.

• Only one device can be opened.

• Executing ESC O automatically closes all opened devices.

• When the DR series receives this command correctly, it sends “ESC O xx” in
response to the computer.

• CR+LF can only used for the terminator.

ESC C Close Command (close the addressed state of a device)

Setting ESC C xx<terminator>

xx : address, 01 to 31

Description Disconnects the device currently connected. When this command is executed, it

allows opening communication with other devices with the ESC O command.

• When the DR series receives this command correctly, it sends “ESC C xx” in
response to the computer.

• CR+LF can only used for the terminator.

The following commands are same as the RS-232-C interface. Refer to User’s Manual shown
below.

ESC T (Trigger Execution), ESC S (Status Output Command)

Note

• ESC corresponds to hexadecimal code (1B)H. On the N88-BASIC, “ESC x” is denoted as “CHR$(&H1B)+”x”.”

3-1

3.2 Specifications

Electrical & mechanical specs : Conform to the EIA RS-422-A and EIA RS-485 Standard
Connection format : Multi-drop 1:n (n=16 for RS-422-A, n=31 for RS-485)
Communication format : Half duplex
Synchronizing format : Start-stop asynchronous transmission (synchronized by start/stop

Baud rate (bps) : 150, 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 or 19200 (selectable)
START bit : 1 bit (fixed)
Data length : Either 7 or 8 bits (selectable)
Parity : Even, Odd, or None (selectable)
STOP bit : Either 1 or 2 bits (selectable)
Connector : 6 point screw type terminal (uses M4 screws)
Minimum response time : 0, 10, 20, 50 or 100 ms (selectable)
Reception buffer length : 250 bytes
Escape sequence : Trigger, Status call, Open and Close
Electrical characteristics : SDA, SDB, RDA, RDB, SG. Between the signal terminal and

Communication distance : 1.2 km maximum
Terminator : Internal resistor (120 ohm, 1W) switch with the slide switch

bit)

the main internal circuit is insulated functionally.

3-2

3.3 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Connection

The following explains how the RS-422-A/RS-485 module is connected to the computer.

Cable Used

There are two types of cables: two-wire cable and four-wire cable. Make sure each type meets the
following conditions.
Cable used : twisted pair shielded cable

2 pairs of 24 AWG minimum (two-wire), 3 pairs 24 AWG mini-

mum (four-wire)
Characteristic impedance : 100 ohm
Capacitance : 50 pF/m
Length of cable : 1.2 km maximum *
* Communication distance of the RS-422-A/RS-485 interface is not the linear distance, but the

total length of the cable (shielded twisted pair cable).

Terminal Arrangement of the RS-422-A/RS-485 Module

3

Overview and Specifications of RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface

RD A Receive data A ( - )
RD B Receive data B ( + )
FG Frame ground

Connecting the Cable

Attach crimp-on lugs (for 4 mm screws) with insulation sleeves on the leadwire ends as shown in the
diagram below. Make the exposed portion of the shielded cable to be less than 5 cm.

Short the terminals.

SD/RD A

SD/RD B

SG

FG

SD A Send data A ( - )
SD B Send data B ( + )
SG Signal ground

Screws used for the terminals:
ISO M4 screws, length 6 mm

FG

SG

SD A

SD B

RD B

RD A

Shield

potential

<07. W Title> WARNING

Note

• As shown on the next page, connect terminal RD to SD(TD) of the computer (converter) and terminal SD to RD of the

Shield potential

For two-wire system

To prevent an electric shock, ensure the main power supply is turned OFF.

computer.

For four-wire system

3-3

3.3 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Connection

Connecting to the Host Computer

Can be connected to a host computer with RS-232-C, RS-422-A, RS-485 ports.

• In the case of RS-232-C, a converter is used as shown in the diagram below.

• For information on recommended converters, refer to “Converters” in the latter.

• Dip switch needs to be changed depending on whether it is a two-wire system or four-wire sys­tem. Refer to “3.5 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Parameter Setting Procedure.”

In the case of four-wire system

In general, the recorder is wired to the host computer using a four-wire system. When four-wire
system is used, the send and receive wires need to be crossed.

Host

Computer

Terminator (externally applied) 120 ohm, more than 1/2 W

RS-422-A/RS-485

module

of the DR

Terminator (Internal ON)

SDA( - )

SDB( + )

RDA( - )

RDB( + )

SG

Host

Computer

RS-232-C

(SDA)

(SDB)

(RD A)

(RD B)

(SG)

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

SG
FG

(SDA)

(SDB)

(RD A)

(RD B)

(SG)

#1

No terminators are inserted between #1 through #n-1 (internal OFF)

(Diagram below shows the case when the port of the host computer is RS-232-C)

Terminator (externally applied) 120 ohm, more than 1/2 W

RS-422-A/RS-485

module

of the DR

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

SG
FG

(SDA)

(SDB)

(RD A)

(RD B)

(SG)

#2 #n

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

(#n≤31)

Terminator (Internal ON)

SG
FG

TD( - )

TD( + )

RD( - )

RD( + )

SHIELD

Converter
Z - 101HE

(SHARP)

(SDA)

(SDB)

(RD A)

(RD B)

(SG)

3-4

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

SG
FG

#1

(SDA)

(SDB)

(RD A)

(RD B)

(SG)

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

SG
FG

(SDA)

(SDB)

(RD A)

(RD B)

(SG)

#2 #n

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

SG
FG

(#n≤31)

No terminators are inserted between #1 through #n-1 (internal OFF)

Host

Computer

In the case of two-wire system

Connect send and receive terminals with the same signal polarity on the terminal arrangement of the
RS-422-A/RS-485 module. Only two wires are used in connecting to other units.

Terminator (externally applied) 120 ohm, more than 1/2 W

RS-422-A/RS-485

module

of the DR

3.3 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Connection

Terminator (Internal ON)

SDA( - )

SDB( + )

RDA( - )

RDB( + )

SG

Host

Computer

RS-232-C

TD( - )

TD( + )

RD( - )

RD( + )

SHIELD

(A)

(B)

(SG)

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

SG
FG

(A)

(B)

(SG)

#1

No terminators are inserted between #1 through #n-1 (internal OFF)

(Diagram below shows the case when the port of the host computer is RS-232-C)

Terminator (externally applied) 120 ohm, more than 1/2 W

RS-422-A/RS-485

module

of the DR

(A)

(B)

(SG)

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

SG
FG

(A)

(B)

(SG)

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

SG
FG

(A)

(B)

(SG)

#2 #n

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

(#n≤31)

Terminator (Internal ON)

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

SG
FG

(A)

(B)

(SG)

SD A
SD B
RD A
RD B

3

Overview and Specifications of RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface

SG

FG

SG
FG

Converter
Z - 101HE

(SHARP)

Note

• The method in eliminating noise depends on the condition in which it is used. In the example, shielded cable is grounded

#1

#2 #n

(#n≤31)

No terminators are inserted between #1 through #n-1 (internal OFF)

only at the DR (one-sided grounding). This method is effective in eliminating noise in long distance communication in
which there is potential difference between the ground of the PC and the ground of the DR. When there is no potential
difference between the ground of the PC and the ground of the DR, grounding both sides (two-sided grounding) is sometimes
effective. In addition, there are cases when grounding both sides with one side having a capacitor connected in series is
effective.
Consider all the above cases in eliminating the noise.

3-5

3.3 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Connection

Converter

Recommended converter : Sharp Z-101HE

Some converters other than the recommended, do not have the FG and SG terminals
insulated. In such cases, do not connect as in the diagram on the previous page (do
not connect anything to the FG and SG terminals of the converter). Especially
when it is long distance, the potential difference may damage the devices or the
communication may become unreliable.
Also, converters without the SG terminal can be used without grounding. For
details, refer to the converter’s manual.

Some converters other than the recommended have their signal polarity reversed (indication of A/B
or +/-). In this case, reverse the connection. If the “RD” LED on the front panel of the RS-422-A/
RS-485 module blinks when it receives data, the connection is correct. If it lights, the connection
may be reversed.

In the case of the two-wire system, the host computer must control the ON/OFF of the transmission
driver of the converter in order to prevent the collision of the send and receive data. When using the
recommended converter, ON/OFF is controlled using RTS.

Caution

Using the Module with Devices Using the RS-422-A

Maximum of 31 devices with respect to 1 host computer can be connected with this module, but in
a system in which devices using the RS-422-A are used together, this may not be possible.

• In a system in which former recorders are used together
Some of the former recorders (such as HR2400 and µR) use the RS-422-A driver. In this case,
the maximum number of devices that can be connected is 16.

Note

• According to the RS-422-A standard, the maximum number of devices that can be connected with respect to one port is 10
devices (in the case of a four-wire system).

Terminator

When devices are connected in multi-drop configuration (includes point-to-point connections), turn
the terminators of the modules on the extreme ends ON. All modules in between should have them
turned off. Terminators are turned ON/OFF using the TERMIN switch on the front panel.
Also, turn ON the terminator on the host computer (refer to the computer’s manual). When convert­ers are used, turn their terminators ON also. The recommended converter needs an external termi­nator to be installed, but some converters are internal types.

3-6

Minimum Response Time

Because send and receive are done on the same line in the two-wire system, minimum response time
needs to be set. The minimum response time is the amount of time the RS-422-A/RS-485 module
waits in order for the host computer to be able to receive the data after it sends data. The time can be
set in the range from 0 to 100 ms. Set the time using the dip switch on the front panel of the RS-422­A/RS-485 module to match the computer or the converter’s specification. (Refer to “3.5 RS-422-A/
RS-485 Interface Parameter Setting Procedure.”) Note that the minimum response time is, as the
name indicates, the minimum time for responding. Not all responses will take place in this time.
In the four-wire system, the minimum response time does not need to be set (set to 0 ms).

Computer side

Transmission driver

3.3 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Connection

Response from the computer is too early

Active

3

Overview and Specifications of RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface

DR side

Transmission driver

Driver simultaneously becomes
output mode, and the data collides.

Computer side

Transmission driver

Data

DR side

Transmission driver

DR -> PCData

Active

DR -> PC PC -> DR

Active

Terminator

Delay after sending the terminator

Insert appropriate time for waiting

Terminator

PC -> DR

Active

No time interval in which there is
data collision.

Delay after sending the terminator

3-7

3.4 Communication Data Format

Same as the RS-232-C interface. For a description, refer to “2.5 Communication Data Format.”

3-8

3.5 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Parameter Setting Pro­cedure

Setting of the RS-422-A/RS-485 parameters must be carried out using the 4 dip switches located
next to the module connector.

3

Overview and Specifications of RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface

Baud rate (No.1 to 3 of SW1)

Baud rate No.1 No.2 No.3

150 OFF OFF OFF
300 OFF OFF ON
600 OFF ON OFF
1200 OFF ON ON
2400 ON OFF OFF
4800 ON OFF ON
9600 ON ON OFF <- Default Setting
19200 ON ON ON

Data length (No.4 of SW1)

Data length No.4

7 OFF
8 ON <- Default Setting

Parity (No.1 to 2 of SW2)

Parity No.1 No.2

None OFF OFF
ODD OFF ON
EVEN ON OFF <- Default Setting

Stop bit (No.3 of SW2)

Stop bit No.3

1 OFF <- Default Setting
2 ON

Switch between four-wire/two-wire systems (No.4 of SW2)

four-wire/two-wire No.4

four-wire OFF <-Default Setting
two-wire ON

3-9

3.5 RS-422-A/RS-485 Interface Parameter Setting Procedure

Minimum response time (No.1 to 3 of SW3)

Minimum response time No.1 No.2 No.3

0ms OFF OFF OFF <- Default Setting
10ms OFF OFF ON
20ms OFF ON OFF
50ms OFF ON ON
100ms ON OFF OFF

Address (No.4 of SW3 and No.1 to 4 of SW4)

Address No.4(SW3) No.1(SW4) No.2(SW4) No.3(SW4) No.4(SW4)

1 OFF OFF OFF OFF ON <- Default Setting
2 OFF OFF OFF ON OFF
3 OFF OFF OFF ON ON
4 OFF OFF ON OFF OFF
5 OFF OFF ON OFF ON
6 OFF OFF ON ON OFF
7 OFF OFF ON ON ON
8 OFF ON OFF OFF OFF
9 OFF ON OFF OFF ON
10 OFF ON OFF ON OFF
11 OFF ON OFF ON ON
12 OFF ON ON OFF OFF
13 OFF ON ON OFF ON
14 OFF ON ON ON OFF
15 OFF ON ON ON ON
16 ON OFF OFF OFF OFF
17 ON OFF OFF OFF ON
18 ON OFF OFF ON OFF
19 ON OFF OFF ON ON
20 ON OFF ON OFF OFF
21 ON OFF ON OFF ON
22 ON OFF ON ON OFF
23 ON OFF ON ON ON
24 ON ON OFF OFF OFF
25 ON ON OFF OFF ON
26 ON ON OFF ON OFF
27 ON ON OFF ON ON
28 ON ON ON OFF OFF
29 ONONONOFFON
30 ON ON ON ON OFF
31 ON ON ON ON ON

3-10