Pulsar ULTRA 5, ULTRA Twin, ULTRA Service Manual

ULTRA Series

SERVICE MANUAL

PULSAR ULTRA SERIES
SERVICE PARAMETERS (FIFTH EDITION REV 1)

June 2016

COPYRIGHT

© Pulsar Process Measurement Limited, 2000 – 16. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form without
the written permission of Pulsar Process Measurement Limited.

WARRANTY AND LIABILITY

Pulsar Process Measurement Limited guarantee for a period of 2 years from the date of delivery that it will either
exchange or repair any part of the product returned to Pulsar Process Measurement Limited if it is found to be
defective in material or workmanship, subject to the defect not being due to unfair wear and tear, misuse,
modification or alteration, accident misapplication or negligence.

DISCLAIMER

Pulsar Process Measurement Limited gives nor implies any process guarantee for the product, and shall have no
liability in respect of any loss, injury or damage whatsoever arising out of the application or use of any product or
circuit described herein.

Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this documentation, but Pulsar Process Measurement Limited
cannot be held liable for any errors.

TECHNICAL ENQUIRIES

Please contact Pulsar Process Measurement Limited for technical support.

COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS

If you have any comments or suggestions about this product, then please contact:

Pulsar Process Measurement Limited

Pulsar Process Measurement Inc.

Cardinal Building
Enigma Business Centre
Sandy’s Road
Malvern
Worcestershire
WR14 1JJ
United Kingdom

PO Box 5177
Niceville

FL 32578 - 5177

USA

Tel: + 44 (0) 870 6039112
Fax: + 44 (0) 870 6039114

Tel: + 1 850 279 4882
Fax: + 1 850 279 4886

Web Site: http://www.pulsar-pm.com

e-mail: [e-mail] (general
information)

e-mail: support@ pulsar-pm.com (product
support)

Web Site: http://www.pulsar-pm.com

e-mail: [e-mail] (general
information)

e-mail: support.usa@ pulsar-pm.com
(product support)

CONTENTS

About Service Parameters ...................................................................................................................................... 1

DATEM overview .................................................................................................................................................. 3

Transducer 1 Parameters ........................................................................................................................................ 7

P020 Set DATEM 1 ........................................................................................................................................ 7

P021 Set Dist 1 ................................................................................................................................................ 9

P024 Num Pings 1 ......................................................................................................................................... 10

Transducer 2 Parameters ...................................................................................................................................... 11

P030 Set DATEM 2 ...................................................................................................................................... 11

P031 Set Dist 2 .............................................................................................................................................. 11

P034 Num Pings 2 ......................................................................................................................................... 11

Echo Control ......................................................................................................................................................... 13

P040 Fast Response. ...................................................................................................................................... 13

P041 RingDown Loss ................................................................................................................................... 14

P042 Display Resolution ............................................................................................................................... 14

P043 Breakpoint ............................................................................................................................................ 14

P044 Slope ..................................................................................................................................................... 15

P045 Num Averages ..................................................................................................................................... 15

P047 Outside Count ...................................................................................................................................... 15

P048 Gate Lock ............................................................................................................................................. 16

P049 Scale First ............................................................................................................................................. 16

Draw / Inflow ........................................................................................................................................................ 17

P150 Pump Inflow ......................................................................................................................................... 17

P151 Pump 1 Initial Draw ............................................................................................................................. 17

DATEM Flags....................................................................................................................................................... 19

P064 Near Band............................................................................................................................................. 19

P065 Near Jump ............................................................................................................................................ 19

P067 Use First (Software Revisions prior to 3.6.0) ..................................................................................... 19

P067 Choose Peak (Software Revisions from 3.6.0) ................................................................................... 20

Best ......................................................................................................................................................... 20

Largest .................................................................................................................................................... 20

First ......................................................................................................................................................... 20

P071 Update DATEM .................................................................................................................................. 20

P078 Use Temp ............................................................................................................................................. 21

P079 Use Gate ............................................................................................................................................... 21

P080 Lost Lock.............................................................................................................................................. 21

Ultra Sound ........................................................................................................................................................... 23

P081 Near Loss.............................................................................................................................................. 23

P082 Far Loss ................................................................................................................................................ 23

P083 Loss Change ......................................................................................................................................... 23

P084 Jump CutOff (Software Revisions from 3.6.0 to 6.3.7) ..................................................................... 24

P084 Mid Loss (from software revisions 6.8.?) ........................................................................................... 24

Loss Limit Values .................................................................................................................................. 24

Debug Level .......................................................................................................................................................... 25

P086 Ping Delay (From Software Revision 6.4.1)...................................................................................... 25

P087 Fail Time 2 ........................................................................................................................................... 25

P088 Hard Default ......................................................................................................................................... 25

P099 System Type (From Software Revision 6.9.0) ................................................................................... 26

DATEM Custom .................................................................................................................................................. 27

P109 Start Point ............................................................................................................................................. 27

P110 Middle (mV) ........................................................................................................................................ 27

P111 End Point .............................................................................................................................................. 28

P112 Min DATEM ....................................................................................................................................... 28

Other Useful Parameters ...................................................................................................................................... 29

Tariff Guard Control ..................................................................................................................................... 29

P113 Rate Sampling (from Soft Revision 4.6.3.1 (5.7.8 released)) .................................................... 29

P114 Array Count .................................................................................................................................. 29

P115 Rate Validate ................................................................................................................................ 29

Comms / Logging Board .............................................................................................................................. 30

P141 Serial to Comms Board................................................................................................................ 30

P142 Reset Comms Board .................................................................................................................... 30

P358 Log Time ...................................................................................................................................... 30

Pump Control ................................................................................................................................................ 31

P194 – P199 Pumping Rate .................................................................................................................. 31

P359 Maximum Pumps (From Software Version 6.3 to 6.4.5 ............................................................ 31

P361 – P362 Max Pumps on (groups 1 & 2) (From S/W ver. 6.7.3) .................................................. 31

Totalisers ........................................................................................................................................................ 32

P798 Max Flow Cut Off (From Soft Revision 6.4.2 (6.7.3 released)) ................................................ 32

Display ........................................................................................................................................................... 32

P817 Auxiliary Display Offset (From Soft Rev 6.5 (6.7.3 released)) ................................................. 32

Temperature Calibration ............................................................................................................................... 33

P855 – P856 External Temp Scale (From Soft Rev 6.6.9) .................................................................. 33

P857 – P858 Temp Cal (transducer 1 – transducer 2) ......................................................................... 33

P859 Temp Average .............................................................................................................................. 33

Sound Velocity Calibration ........................................................................................................................... 34

P861 – P862 Calibrate Distance (xdr1 – xdr2) (From S/W rev 6.8.0) ................................................ 34

Filters ...................................................................................................................................................... 34

P102 Material......................................................................................................................................... 34

P880 Gate Mode .................................................................................................................................... 34

P881 Fixed Distance .............................................................................................................................. 35

P882 Process Filter (From Software Revision 6.6 (6.7.3 released)) ................................................... 36

P884 Peak Percentage ........................................................................................................................... 37

Reform ........................................................................................................................................................... 38

P050 = Reform ...................................................................................................................................... 38

P051 = Attack Coefficient ..................................................................................................................... 38

P052 = Release Coefficient ................................................................................................................... 38

P905 & P915 Sensitivity (Xd1 & Xd2) ................................................................................................ 39

P906 & P916 Side Clearance (Xd1 & Xd2) ........................................................................................ 40

Remote Communicator ................................................................................................................................. 41

P063 Kiss Required (From Software Revision 6.9.2) ......................................................................... 41

P089 Kiss Enable (From Software Revision 6.4.1 to 6.9.1) ................................................................ 41

Applications ................................................................................................................................................... 42

Application 1 Enclosed Tank ................................................................................................................ 43

Application 2 Turbulent Liquid Surface ............................................................................................... 45

Application 3 Fast Moving Solids ........................................................................................................ 47

Application 4 Silo Level (Solids) .......................................................................................................... 49

Fault Finding .................................................................................................................................................. 53

Page 1

About Service Parameters

The following parameters can only be accessed via the following passcode
552621 and can be used to modify the DATEM Echo Processing Algorithms in
particularly arduous applications.

Further parameters allow changes to parameters specific to communications and
other hardware functions.

Care and caution should be exercised when changing any of these parameters
and any such changes should only be undertaken by, or under the guidance, of
an experienced Service Engineer.

Direct Access.

In order to access parameters directly use the following procedure.

Some parameters are not part of the menu system and can only be accessed

directly. To do this use the cancel key until there are no digits in the main
display then key in the parameter number and press enter.

Page 2

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Page 3

DATEM overview

Digital Adaptive Tracking of Echo Movement, or DATEM, is a powerful

algorithm unique to Pulsar’s ultra range of products. Care should always be taken
when adjusting and analysing echo profiles, if in doubt, please contact Pulsar
technical department.

Fig 1: A typical echo trace.

Fig 1 (above) is a typical echo profile showing all four traces from the unit, the
gate is wrapped around the echo with the blue marker indicating the distance. The
signal strength is good and there are no competing echoes in front of the true
echo.

Page 4

Fig 2: Raw echo plus near and far blanking.

The shaded left hand side of the screen shows the near blanking and the shaded
right hand part of the screen the ‘far blanking’ the ultra unit will measure 20%
further than its programmed empty distance as a factory setting, this is known as
‘far blanking’. The near blanking is the area just in front of the transducer where
measurement is not possible.

Near Blanking

Far Blanking

Page 5

Fig 3: Describing ringdown and echoes.

The red trace is the echo signal return, the horizontal scale is distance to target in
metres and the vertical scale is signal strength return in millivolts. The echo
above is approx 3.8m from the transducer and has signal strength of 480mv.

Ringdown

Echo

Secondary
Echo

Page 6

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Page 7

Transducer 1 Parameters

P020 Set DATEM 1

P020 can be accessed via the Operator Password (Default 1997).

Option

Description

0 = Quit

Leave P020 without any change to the present
DATEM trace.

1 = Capture

DATEM trace of entire visible range taken and
all echo returns referenced out.

2 = Default

DATEM trace will assume default value.

3 = Def Reset

Default DATEM to factory settings.

4 = Set Min DATEM

When set, DATEM levels at this point will be
accepted as a minimum.

This parameter allows DATEM to be reset to its default value or alternatively
allows the user to “Capture” a DATEM trace. It should be noted that when using
option 1 = Capture, all echoes seen will be eliminated by DATEM.

Option 1 = Capture

The Capture function is particularly useful when setting up applications where the
target goes out of range and the echo is lost. For example chemical or product
tanks where the bottoms are conical or parabolic and the transducer is not
centrally located on the top of the tank.

When the tank is empty a Capture can be done, by performing a Capture all
unwanted echoes from noise or obstructions will be referenced out and this will
leave the true echo visible, when it comes back into range.

Default = 0

Page 8

The echo profiles below show the effect of Capture, the ‘Gate’ has been removed

for clarity.
Fig. 1.
Empty tank, the unit will pick up on the first echo after initial switch on.

Fig. 2.
Empty tank after a Capture. Unit will show Loss of Echo.

Page 9

Fig. 3.
Echo profile after product has entered tank.

P021 Set Dist 1

Allows the user or service personnel to determine which echo is to be displayed.
On start up, if the unit displays an incorrect reading then simply enter the distance
from the transducer to the required level and, if an echo is present at this point,
the Gate will establish itself around the chosen echo, DATEM will update in front
of the Gate and reference out any other unwanted echoes.

It should be noted that DATEM will reset to default values whilst performing this
function, and reform itself once it has selected an echo.

P021 can also be accessed via the Operator Password (Default 1997).
Options: Enter distance from the face of transducer to the target in units of

measurement P104
Values: Min. 0.000
Max. 99.00

Default = 0.000

Page 10

P024 Num Pings 1

Determines the number of times the transducer is “pinged” in each “shot”, during
every processing cycle. In applications where there is a high level of noise or

attenuation due to dust or angles of repose, increasing the number of “pings” may

result in a larger “Average” trace and thereby increase echo processing reliability.
It should be noted that when increasing the number of “pings” processing times

will increase slightly and when reducing the number of “pings” per “shot”

slightly faster processing times will be obtained.
Options: Enter the Number of “pings” required to be taken during each

processing cycle.
Values: Min. 1
Max. 32

Default = 4

Page 11

Transducer 2 Parameters

These parameters are identical to those for transducer 1 and are used to carry out
the same functions on units and applications utilising a second transducer.

P030 Set DATEM 2

See P020

P031 Set Dist 2

See P021

P034 Num Pings 2

See P024

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Page 13

Echo Control

P040 Fast Response.

From Soft Revision 4.6.3.5 (5.7.8 released)

Note* This parameter is ‘direct access only’ (see page 1).

This parameter sets some internal values to enable the unit to operate at a faster
speed.

Options
0 = No
1 = Yes
Notes:
By setting various other parameters to their appropriate value for a quick moving

application, you can further increase the response time of the instrument.
These could include:
P24 (number of pings) = 1
P43 (gain breakpoint) = 90
P45 (number of averages) = 1
P71 (update datem) = 0
P79 (gate) = 0
P870 (fill damping) = 99999
P871 (empty damping) = 99999
Care should be undertaken when changing the above parameters as they could

affect the stability of the reading if applied incorrectly. Only adjust when advised
by a Pulsar Engineer.

Default = 0

Page 14

P041 RingDown Loss

This parameter sets the threshold level in milli-volts within the the ringdown area
of the transducer. The echo must exceed this threshold above the DATEM trace,
before it is recognised as a valid echo. Typically this value will be applied to the
first 0.5m in front of the transducer.

Values Min = 0.00
Max = 99.99

P042 Display Resolution

This parameter determines the rate at which data is transferred from the unit to
the PC Ultra display when receiving echo traces (regular echo = yes). A lower
figure gives increased definition but is slower and visa-versa. Please seek advice
from Pulsar before carrying out any adjustment.

Values Min = 1
Max = 32

P043 Breakpoint

The gain starting point in meters, for signal amplitude decay compensation. This
is similar to time varied gain. Used in conjunction with P44 to establish gain
levels. See table below for details.

Default = 7.00 (70mv)

Default = 8

Default = Transducer Dependant

Transducer Type

db3

db6

db10

db15

db25

db40

Breakpoint (metres)

1 5 5 7 13

20

Gain (slope/angle)

5 3 5 5 5

5

Page 15

P044 Slope

Angle at which the rate of signal amplitude decay compensation (gain) is applied
over distance starting at P43 (see table above).

Values Min = 0
Max = 100

P045 Num Averages

Number of processing cycles or transducer ‘shots’ that are averaged prior to

processing of the echo trace.
Values Min = 1
Max = 50

P047 Outside Count

This parameter determines the number of processing cycles, or transducer ‘shots’,

that any valid echo must be seen outside of the gate before the gate will move and
allow the new echo to be processed. This will prevent any unwanted update, or
false readings being given due to the intermittent appearance of echoes from such
devices as stirrers.

Values Min = 1
Max = 5000

Default = Transducer Dependant

Default = 3

Default = 10

Page 16

P048 Gate Lock

This parameter should only be used under the direction of Pulsar. If ‘ON’ the gate
will remain ‘locked’ on the selected echo, regardless of the presence of any other

sized echo outside the gate, unless the selected echo falls below the value of the
loss limit.

Options 0 = No
1 = Yes

P049 Scale First

When P067 = 1 Best, this parameter determines the amount of weighting applied
to the first valid echo above the Loss Limits, before comparing it to other
competing echoes, the resulting largest echo will then be processed as the correct
echo.

Values Min = -100%
Max = 100%

Default = 0

Default = 40%

Page 17

Draw / Inflow

The Pump Inflow and Pump Draw parameters are only used when the unit is set
up to calculate Pump Efficiency (available in Ultra 5 and Zenith units only).

P150 Pump Inflow

This is a read only parameter that displays the calculated inflow rate in m/min.

P151 Pump 1 Initial Draw

This parameter is the calculated initial draw in m/min of a calibrated pump. If
required this value can be entered manually.

P152 Pump 2 Initial Draw
P153 Pump 3 Initial Draw
P154 Pump 4 Initial Draw
P155 Pump 5 Initial Draw
P156 Pump 6 Initial Draw
P157 Pump 7 Initial Draw
P158 Pump 8 Initial Draw
P159 Pump 9 Initial Draw
P160 Pump 10 Initial Draw

Default = 0.00

Default = 0.00

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Page 19

DATEM Flags

P064 Near Band

This parameter used in conjunction with P65, is designed to prevent the echo
‘jumping’ to a false echo that is further away when the echo enters into the near
blanking area. As the echo approaches to within 0.2m from the transducer
blanking area and is then ‘lost’ it will not jump to any echo that is further than

0.5m (near jump) away from the blanking. Thus preventing the unit from reading
a low value when it is submerged and possibly switching off pumps.

P065 Near Jump

See above.
Note. With reference to the above two parameters see P080 Lost Lock

P067 Use First (Software Revisions prior to 3.6.0)

This parameter is used to determine which echo is selected for processing. When
set to zero the echo with largest valid peak is chosen, when set to 1 the First valid
echo will be selected unless a larger echo is present beyond the Jump Cut Off
point (P84).

N.B. In software versions up to 2.7.2 Jump Cut Off is P83

Default = 0.2

Default = 0.5

Default = 0

Page 20

P067 Choose Peak (Software Revisions from 3.6.0)

This parameter is used to determine which echo is selected for processing.
DATEM software will detect all valid echoes i.e. all peaks that exceed DATEM
plus the Loss Limit Values (P81 & 82). The peak then chosen for processing will
be selected according to option chosen as detailed below.

Options: 1 = Best
2 = Largest
3 = First

Best

The first echo that appears above DATEM, plus the Loss Limit, will be weighted
according to the factor set in P049 Scale First (Default =40%) the peak then
chosen for processing will be the echo with the highest resulting peak after first
weighting has been applied.

Largest

The echo with the highest peak will be selected for processing, when this option
is chosen no weighting is applied to the first valid echo.

First

When selected, the First valid echo will be selected regardless of any other echoes
that are present.

P071 Update DATEM

This parameter determines whether DATEM is adaptive or not. When 0=No is
selected DATEM will be used but will not be adaptive and will remain at its last
known value. If 1 = Yes is selected DATEM will continually update to the
conditions seen in the vessel and eliminate any echo returns from unwanted
sources.

Options: 0 = No
1 = Yes

Default = 1

Default = 1

Page 21

P078 Use Temp

This parameter determines if Temperature compensation is used or not.
Options: 0 = No
1 = Yes

P079 Use Gate

This parameter determines if the Gate is used. If set to 0 = No, then there will be
no agitator control, P47 Outside Count and P48 Echo Lock will be disabled, the
unit will process valid echoes which appear above the Loss Limit and in
accordance with the setting of P67 (choose Peak).

Options: 0 = No
1 = Yes

P080 Lost Lock

This parameter switches on P64 & P65 near band and near jump. Which are not
yet enabled.

Options: 0 = No
1 = Yes

Default = 1

Default = 1

Default = 0

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Page 23

Ultra Sound

P081 Near Loss

This parameter sets the Near “threshold” above DATEM which an echo must

exceed, before it is recognised as a valid echo. The value of this parameter can be
increased to assist in the elimination of unwanted signals or decreased to improve
sensitivity in order that attenuated signals can be validated and processed. The
Near Loss distance starts from the end of the Ringdown Loss to a distance set via
P83, with a default value of 2m.

Values: Min. 0.00
Max. 99.99

P082 Far Loss

This parameter sets the value of the Far Loss in the same way as P81 Near Loss
but is applied to distances beyond the Loss Change (P83).

Values: Min. 0.00
Max. 99.99

P083 Loss Change

This parameter sets the distance that the Near Loss and Far Loss are applied to.
When set at 2m the Near Loss, as determined by P81, will be applied for a
distance of 2m from the face of the transducer and then will change to the value
determined by P82 Far Loss.

Values: Min. 0.300
Max. 99.999

Default = 15.00 (150mv)

Default = 5.00 (50mv)

Default = 2.0m

Page 24

P084 Jump CutOff (Software Revisions from 3.6.0 to 6.3.7)

This parameter determines the distance, from the face of the transducer, that the
unit will process the First valid echo, providing that a Larger echo is not seen
beyond this point.

Values: Min. 0.300
Max. 99.999

P084 Mid Loss (from software revisions 6.8.?)

This Parameter now determines the height in milli-volts of the point where the
near loss becomes the far loss i.e. the loss change point (P083)

Loss Limit Values

Default = 40.0m

Default = 15.00 (150mv)

P41 Ringdown Loss

P81 Near Loss

P83 Mid Loss
(Vertical Movement)

P82 Far Loss

Page 25

Debug Level

P086 Ping Delay (From Software Revision 6.4.1)

This parameter is used to delay the time between each ping in order to prevent the
risk of a second ping interfering with the initial return echo and causing
problematic readings. It delays the time between each ping.

P087 Fail Time 2

This parameter determines the time after an event, such as “Loss of Echo”, that a
warning message will appear in the Auxiliary line of the display.

Values: Min. 0.1 min
Max. 9999 min

P088 Hard Default

P88 allows both User and Service parameters to be reset to their Factory Default
values.

N.B. P930 Factory Defaults will allow the user to reset only those parameters
which are accessible via the User Passcode (Default 1997), but will not reset any
parameters which are accessed via the Service Code 552621. Thus ensuring any
adjustments carried out by Service personnel are protected.

Options:
0 = No
1 = Yes

Default = 1 min

Default = 0

Page 26

P099 System Type (From Software Revision 6.9.0)

P99 allows the system type of the unit to be changed. It is only available by direct
access (see ‘about service parameters’).

N.B. This will change the system type of the unit and will perform the equivalent
of a P88 default for the new system type.

Options:
1 = Vanguard 5 = Flow 3 9 = Zenith 6
2 = Vantage 6 = Flow 5 10 = Flow 2:1
3 = Advanced 5 7 = Levelstar 3 11 = Screen 2:2
4 = Advanced 6 8 = Levelstar 5 12 = Oracle CSO

Page 27

DATEM Custom

P109 Start Point

This parameter determines the Distance at which the DATEM trace will start, or
stand off, from the Ring Down.

P110 Middle (mV)

This parameter determines the height at which the angle of the DATEM trace will
start.

Default = 0.25m
Default = 700mv

P110 Middle

milli volts

P109 Start Point

P107

Blanking

Distance

Page 28

P111 End Point

This parameter determines the Distance at which the DATEM trace will fall to
the value of Sensitivity (P905 Xducer 1) and (P915 Xducer 2).

P112 Min DATEM

This parameter determines whether the Min DATEM is in use or not.
Options are:
0 = No (Min DATEM not in use) DATEM update will not be restricted and will

update right back to the ringdown.
1 = Yes (Min DATEM applied) DATEM update is restricted to the values entered

in P109, P110 and P111, which will ensure that DATEM is held off the
ringdown.

Default = 0.8m

Default = 1

P111 End

Point metres

Page 29

Other Useful Parameters

Tariff Guard Control

The following three parameters are only available when the Tariff Guard feature
is enabled (on Zenith as standard).

P113 Rate Sampling (from Soft Revision 4.6.3.1 (5.7.8 released))

This parameter sets the rate calculation interval for Tariff Guard in seconds.

P114 Array Count

The array count averages the rate readings before processing, an application with
a very slow rate of rise may benefit from an increase in the value as it will give a
smoother rate value reading.

P115 Rate Validate

The rate validate will adjust the calculated time to overflow. Increasing the value
will have the effect of bringing the pumps on later and visa-versa. This parameter
should only be adjusted by Pulsar personnel when commissioning a Tariff Guard
application.

Default = 1

Default = 4

Default = 1.0

Page 30

Comms / Logging Board

Only available if Comms is enabled (Profibus or modbus).

P141 Serial to Comms Board

To allow RS232 communication with the integrated comms processor. This must
be set remotely via Ultra PC or Windows Terminal. The parameter will
automatically revert back to 0 = No when the RJ11 cable has been removed and
“updating” has been displayed on the LCD.

Options: 0 = No
1 = Yes

P142 Reset Comms Board

Options: 0 = No
1 = Yes

P358 Log Time

The unit has 10 daily totals that start and end at midnight. This parameter can be
used to alter the start time at which logging begins for the 24 hour period.

Default = 0

Default = 0

Default = 0000 (00:00)

Page 31

Pump Control

P194 – P199 Pumping Rate

This parameter is a simulation parameter in units of metres/min that sets the rate
of pumping for any pump assigned the appropriate relay whilst in test mode.

P359 Maximum Pumps (From Software Version 6.3 to 6.4.5

This parameter will restrict the number of pumps that will run regardless of the
number of pumps set in the unit and the level shown on the display. This can be
used to ensure if a rising main can only take so much flow the limit is not
accidentally exceeded.

P361 – P362 Max Pumps on (groups 1 & 2) (From S/W ver. 6.7.3)

This parameter will restrict the number of pumps that will run regardless of the
number of pumps set in the unit and the level shown on the display. This can be
used to ensure that if a rising main can only take a certain amount of flow, the
limit is not accidentally exceeded.

Default = 1.0

Default = 0

Default = 0

Page 32

Totalisers

P798 Max Flow Cut Off (From Soft Revision 6.4.2 (6.7.3 released))

This parameter can be set to inhibit the flow totalisers to a maximum value of
4 times the maximum flow rate. So for example with a max flow of 20 l/s, set in
the P705, the totaliser will be stop totalling the flow when it reaches 80 l/s or
higher.

Options: Min = 1
Max = 9

Display

P817 Auxiliary Display Offset (From Soft Rev 6.5 (6.7.3 released))

This parameter will allow the Auxiliary display to be offset to an appropriate value
in system units. It can be used to ensure a more operator friendly reading is seen in
the auxiliary display.

Values: Min. 99999m
Max. 99999m

Default = 4

Default = 0m

Page 33

Temperature Calibration

P855 – P856 External Temp Scale (From Soft Rev 6.6.9)

These two parameters are used to set the low and high Analogue to Digital
conversion for the pulsar external temperature sensor when using the temperature
input option. When the correct external range has been selected in P852 (option 4
= external range A, option 5 = external range B) the external temperature sensor
can be calibrated at its lowest temperature, P855, and its highest, P856. The input
is effectively a 4-20mA input and with the sensor forced low (output 4mA), enter
P855 and press the ‘n’ hotkey to receive the raw signal. Press enter to accept this
value and repeat for P856 with the sensor forced high (output 20mA). The
temperature can then be observed using P586.

P857 – P858 Temp Cal (transducer 1 – transducer 2)

This parameter is used to calibrate the transducer temperature. If, due to
component tolerances, the temp is not the same as when measured by a more
accurate method, the known correct temperature can be entered via this
parameter. The unit will then use this entered value to calibrate its on board
sensor.

P859 Temp Average

The parameter decides the amount of temperature averages taken before the
temperature reading is displayed.

Options: Min = 1
Max = 8

Default = 194 and 954

Default = 4

Page 34

Sound Velocity Calibration

P861 – P862 Calibrate Distance (xdr1 – xdr2) (From S/W rev 6.8.0)

This parameter is used to calibrate the sound velocity using a known fixed distance.
Enter the correct distance from the face of the transducer to the target and the unit
will automatically calculate P860 (Sound Velocity) to suit.

First added in software version 6.5.3 (closest released version 6.7.3) but doesn’t

change the sound velocity, it adds an offset to the measurement.

Filters

P102 Material.

The default is liquids.

Other options are:
Solids = 2, this increases the window width to 300mm (see P881), and switches
of Update DATEM (see P71), and also makes Reform available(see P050).

Closed Tank = 3 when selected this will default certain parameters to values
more suitable for this type of application, please see Application 1, Enclosed
Tank for more details.

P880 Gate Mode

This parameter determines the operation of the gate that is established around the
processed echo and is used to track the echoes movement and update the display.
If set to Fixed (P880 = 0) then the width of the gate is determined by the value of
P881 Fixed Dist. When set to Calculated (P880=1) then the gate width is
automatically calculated and updated according to the values of P870 (fill
damping) P871 (empty damping), P874 (Rate Update), P875 (Rate Time), and
P876 (Rate Distance), see user manual for further details.

Default = 1

Default = 0

Page 35

P881 Fixed Distance

This parameter is used to set the width of the gate either side of the echo
measurement point (blue vertical line in Ultra PC) when P880 (Gate Mode) is set
to 0 = Fixed. The total gate width will be a maximum of twice this value.

Default = 0.2m

0.4m

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P882 Process Filter (From Software Revision 6.6 (6.7.3 released))

Determines the rate of process filtering. Setting to fast increases the response of the

unit but will also show more discrepancies or ‘spikes’ as the filtering is less

intensive. Changes the speed of unit response to level changes.
Options: 1 = Fast (P43 = 90 P45 = 1 P79 = 0 P71 = 0)

2 = Medium (P45 = 2 P47 = 5)
3 = Slow (P45 = 3)

Default = 3

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P884 Peak Percentage

This parameter is used if you choose a solids application, P102 (Material) = 2
(Solids), where there may be angles of repose on the material. It can be used to
choose the point at which the measurement is taken within the returned echo.

The light blue line in the middle of the gate is the measurement point for the
unit. For liquid applications this occurs on the most vertical part of the leading
edge as the surface is generally quite flat giving an accurate measurement. For
solids applications the blue line appears in the centre of the echo as this is the
average point for a sloping surface, accuracy can vary on a sloping surface
depending on the ‘angle of repose’ of the material being measured.

Default = 50

Blue line on leading edge of echo for liquid
applications, but will move to centre of echo
for solid applications.

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Reform

Note* This parameter is only available in versions 7.0.6 onwards and adjustments
should only be made when using PC Ultra to view echo traces.

You are advised to seek advice directly, from Pulsar, before making any changes.
When P102 (Material) = 2 (Solids)

P050 = Reform

Options = 0 = Filter off
1 = Yes (Reform Filter On)

If option 1 is used then P051 and P052 become available.

P051 = Attack Coefficient

This parameter determines the amount of Reform that is applied to the slope of
the leading edge of the echo, the lower the value of P051 the more ‘relaxed’ the
rising edge of the echo will be.
Range = 00.00 – 99.99 Default = 0.500.

P052 = Release Coefficient

This parameter determines the amount of Reform that is applied to the slope of
the lagging edge of the echo. The lower the value of P052 the more relaxed the
falling edge will be. Decreasing this value is more appropriate for noisy
applications or applications where there are closed multiple peaks.
Range = 00.00 – 99.99 Default = 0.020

Default = 0 (off)

Page 39

P905 & P915 Sensitivity (Xd1 & Xd2)

Vertical Scaling in milli-volts

If there is considerable acoustic noise present intermittently where the transducer
is located, then it is possible for the transducer to detect some of this, and it can
interfere with the DATEM signal. If this happens, then changing the value of this
parameter will cause the Ultra unit to remove the entire signal up to the point of the
sensitivity setting.

It is recommended that if you do not change this parameter without the aid of Ultra
PC to observe the effect your parameter changes are having on the echo profile. If
echoes go under the line they will not be seen by the unit.

Default = 5.0 (50 mv)

Sensitivity Line

Page 40

P906 & P916 Side Clearance (Xd1 & Xd2)

This parameter sets the distance by which the yellow DATEM trace will be
separated from the red trace as the DATEM trace passes around an echo returned
from an obstruction.

Default = 0.05m

Page 41

Remote Communicator

P063 Kiss Required (From Software Revision 6.9.2)

Note* This parameter is direct access only (see page 1).

This parameter determines whether or not an IR remote communicator needs to be
shown to the front of the unit before it can be used. Replaces P089 Kiss Enable.

Options:
0 = No
1 = Yes

P089 Kiss Enable (From Software Revision 6.4.1 to 6.9.1)

The kiss enabled parameter allows the unit to be accessed via a remote infra-red
communicator.

Options:
0 = No
1 = Yes

Default = 1

Default = 1

Page 42

Applications

This section of the manual deals with more difficult applications. And, service
parameters that may need changing under certain process conditions in order to
have the unit work to an acceptable level.

In order to apply these parameters correctly the user should have a good working
knowledge of Pulsar equipment.

Pulsar PC software should always be used to monitor the echo profile and record
the effect that the parameter changes are having.

1. Liquid applications in tanks/vessels where the surface is slow moving or

still and close to the transducer.

2. Liquid applications in wet wells where the empty distance is close to the

end of the range of the transducer and the surface may be turbulent and/or
foamy.

3. Solids applications where the process is fast moving and the control is

required to be nearly instantaneous, i.e. crusher control.

4. Solids applications where the process is much slower moving and the

product surface may have difficult angles of repose, i.e. bulk solids silos.

Page 43

Application 1 Enclosed Tank

Whilst this application may seem easy, you can get problems with the unit
observing multiple echoes. If the secondary or tertiary echoes are of a
sufficient signal strength then fluctuating readings could occur.

This could be the case in a liquid vessel with a domed top that can re-focus a
secondary echo magnifying it to a height that could cause problems. See
below.

At a certain ‘focal length’ the secondary echo can become problematic.

If this is the case you may find the unit reading a level that is twice the actual
distance.

Follow the procedure below to cure the problem.

Software Version 7.1.8 0nwards, simply enter the programme Mode and go to
P102 (Material) and select option 3 = Closed Tank, the following parameters will
then be set, automatically, to the values detailed below:

Software Versions prior to 7.1.8 will need to have the following parameters
changed manually.

To manually change, enter the service code (552621) and change the following
parameters.

Page 44

P44 = Slope. Change to 0. This is the gain level parameter, changing it to zero
ensure that there is no gain applied anywhere on the echo profile. Thus reducing
the chance of larger multiples.

P47 = Outside Count. Change to 25. This is the parameter that controls the
movement of the gate. Increasing the value make the movement of the gate to
another echo that is further away less likely.

P49 = Scale First. Change to 50%. This parameter increases the amount of

‘weighting’ the unit will apply to the first echo increasing it makes the echo less

likely to go to a multiple.

P108 = Far End Blanking. Change to 5%. Reducing this value shortens the
effective range of the instrument giving less room for a multiple to appear within
the measured distance (+ far end blanking).

P871 = Empty Damping . Set the value to just above the max rate of emptying.
If the unit does decide to go to a multiple it will do so at the damping rate thus
giving the unit time to recover the true echo before the unit shows a large reading
change.

Page 45

Application 2 Turbulent Liquid Surface

When the level in a wet well gets low the surface can become less reflective for
ultrasound, there are several reasons for this.
The surface is further away, and, can become agitated due to the pumping action,
the inflow to the wet well falls further and so becomes more spread out leading to
increased surface movement and foam on the surface, in extreme instances the
noise of the falling water can lead to the transducer picking up acoustic noise
from the well itself. The spread of the falling water can interfere with the beam
angle.

The solids matter and debris at the bottom of the well can be disturbed leading to
a more uneven surface, also, the benching can become exposed which is not a
good surface to reflect off.

So any combination of the above problems can lead to incorrect or fluctuating
readings at lower levels.

Page 46

Follow the procedure below to improve the situation.

Enter the service code (552621) and change the following parameters.

P43 = Breakpoint. Change to a value that will enable you to apply gain to the
real echo whilst avoiding applying gain to a false echo (e.g. pump heads).

P44 = Slope. Change to a value that will enable the true echo to be
distinguishable from any other echoes.

Note: Care should be taken when employing the above two parameters, too much
gain may cause the unit to go to a multiple if the level in the well goes high. Also,
the gain is only a software multiplier it does not increase the raw signal strength.
If the echo is disappearing the transducer needs to be moved to a better position
or upgraded.

P47 = Outside Count. Change to 25. This is the parameter that controls the
movement of the gate. Increasing the value makes the movement of the gate to
another echo that is closer to the transducer less likely.

P82 = Far Loss. Change to 1. This enables smaller echoes to be ‘seen’ at the end
of the units programmed empty distance.

P84 = Mid Loss. Change to 10. See above.

P870 = Fill Damping . Set the value to just above the max rate of filling. If the

unit does decide to go to a closer echo it will do so at the damping rate thus
giving the unit time to recover the true echo before the unit shows a large reading
change.

P871 = Empty Damping . Set the value to just above the max rate of emptying.
If the unit does decide to go to a multiple it will do so at the damping rate thus
giving the unit time to recover the true echo before the unit shows a large reading
change.

Page 47

Application 3 Fast Moving Solids

Crusher Control. (or similar)

For crusher control the unit needs to work at high speed to ensure that the bowl
does not overfill, the transducer needs to be positioned so that it avoids the inflow
to the bowl and is not liable to get damaged.

Page 48

Follow the procedure below to help avoid any problems.

Enter the service code (552621) and change the following parameters.

If you have not done so already choose Solids in P102.
This will also change the following parameters.

P71 = Update Datem = 0. Using the masking technology require valuable
processing time, and is not necessary for these types of applications.

P88 = Fixed Distance (Gate Width) = 0.3m

Go to Parameter P882 and chose Fast Response = 1
This will also change the following parameters.

P44 = Breakpoint = 90. Changing this parameter will ensure no gain is applied
to the echo saving processing time.

P45 = Averages = 1. Changing this parameter will decrease the number of
averages taken before the echo is processed thus saving processing time.

Now Change the following parameters these are not adjusted by choosing Solids
in P102 or Fast Response in P882.

P67 = Echo Algorithm = 2 = Largest. The unit will measure on the largest echo
seen above the loss limit Threshhold.

P79 = Use Gate = 0. Not using the gate means that the unit will measure on the
largest echo seen above the loss limit Threshhold that is within the entire length
of the range. Ensuring that the level can be followed it if moves very quickly, and
might normally move outside the measuring window.

P870 = Fill Damping = 99999. Setting the empty and fill damping parameters to
the maximum value will mean the unit effectively has no measurement damping.

P871 = Empty Damping = 99999. See above.

P20 enter 2 (Default Datem) This must be the last thing you do after entering

the above parameters.

Page 49

Application 4 Silo Level (Solids)

There are many potential problems associated with solids level monitoring in
Silos, depending on the type of material, the method of filling/emptying, the
varying process conditions and the customer expectations.

Changing the parameters as listed below is an endeavour to get a ‘best fit’ for
most applications but if in doubt contact your Pulsar representative for further
advice.

Follow the procedure below to help avoid any problems.

Page 50

Enter the service code (552621) and change the following parameters.

If you have not done so already choose Solids in P102.
This will also change the following parameters.

P71 = Update Datem = 0.

P88 = Fixed Distance (Gate Width) = 0.3m

Now Change the following parameters these are not adjusted by choosing Solids
in P102.

P43 = Breakpoint. Change to a value that will enable you to apply gain to the
real echo whilst avoiding applying gain to a false echo.

P44 = Slope. Change to a value that will enable the true echo to be
distinguishable from any other echoes.

Note: Care should be taken when employing the above two parameters, we are
attempting to increase signal size towards the bottom of the silo, (within the cone)
to make the measurement more reliable. The gain is only a software multiplier it
does not increase the raw signal strength.
If the echo is disappearing the transducer needs to be moved to a better position
or upgraded.

P47 = Outside Count. Change to 25. This is the parameter that controls the
movement of the gate. Increasing the value makes the movement of the gate to a
false echo less likely.

P67 = Echo Algorithm = 2 = Largest. The unit will measure on the largest echo
seen above the loss limit Threshold.

P870 = Fill Damping = ????. Set the value to just above the max rate of filling. If
the unit does decide to go to a closer echo it will do so at the damping rate thus
giving the unit time to recover the true echo before the unit shows a large reading
change.

P871 = Empty Damping = ????. Set the value to just above the max rate of
emptying. If the unit does decide to go to a multiple it will do so at the damping
rate thus giving the unit time to recover the true echo before the unit shows a
large reading change.

P109, P110, P111 & P107. (See DATEM Custom).

Page 51

In most solids application there is no requirement to measure very close to the
transducer blanking area, if this is the case then we can shape DATEM away
from the ringdown area which can decrease the possibility of the unit reading
high when the level is low. These parameters are application dependant and
should be used with the commission engineers discretion.

Example.

The DATEM trace has been shaped around some close in noise and extended
outwards from the ringdown area, the unit is measuring the larger of two echoes
seen at the bottom of the application.

P81,P82,P83 & P84 (See Loss Limit Values).

You can see from the above example that the loss limit values have been reset,
this is to enable the unit to pick up smaller echoes when the silo is filling and
picking up the echo is difficult, these parameters are application dependant and
should be used with the commission engineers discretion.

P809 = Failsafe Timer = ????. This value should be increased to suit the
application, for example, if the silo is filled from a tanker and this takes 45mins
then the failsafe timer should reflect the time taken to fill the silo and for the
reading to be re-established before going into a failed safe mode.

P87 = Failsafe Time 2 = As above.

P906 = Side Clearance = ????. This parameter should be used as detailed in this

manual when the silos has obstructions between the transducer and the product,
prior to switching DATEM off as detailed below.

Page 52

P71 = Update Datem = 0. We are generally looking for the largest echo above
the loss limit thresholds so datem is not needed in most applications, if the silo
has obstructions then it should be emptied and Datem should be allowed to shape
around the false echoes before being switched off.

Page 53

Fault Finding

This section deals with some simple fault finding procedures.
Initial Checks.
Check that the unit has been wired correctly, care must be taken to ensure that the

mains voltage and the transducer cables are connected in the right place.
Before initial switch on, the unit should be checked that it is set for the correct

voltage. If the unit is set for 110vac and is supplied 240vac then switching the unit
on may well damage the unit to an extent where it will need to be send back for
repair. If the unit is set for 240vac (which is how they leave Pulsar) and supplied
110vac then the unit may appear to work and display the correct distance (if the
product is close enough) but the relays will not operate and the unit will go LOE
when the level moves further away from the transducer.

Check that the transducer has been installed in the correct position and has a clear
as possible shot at the target, make sure any protective transit covering has been
removed.

Ensure the target is within range of the transducer.
If you are programming the unit for the first time or re-commissioning the unit it

would be good practice to default the unit back to factory settings so the instrument
would be as it was when it left here, (once you do this all your programmed
parameters will be lost).

To do this perform P88, see page 17.
If you are happy with the distance reading the unit is showing you can now program

your unit.

Page 54

If after switch on the unit displays one of the following massages.
No Xducer, Xducer Fault, L.O.E. or Failed Safe. Then we need to check the

transducer voltages and wiring.

The voltages shown above should be present at the unit and the junction box if
one is used.
The voltages come from the control unit to the transducer, the return signal is
current based and difficult to check in the field.
First remove the cable from the unit and check the voltages are there at the
terminals, use the manual for the particular type of unit you have to establish the
correct terminals.
If the voltages are ok without the cables attached but change when the wires are
connected then you have a wiring problem, connecting the wires incorrectly or
shorting them out should not damage the transducer. Often the transducer
extension cables are not the same colour as so the voltages need to be check at the
local junction box to ensure they are there and connected correctly.

Extension

Cable

Transducer

Unit

Junction

Box

Transducer

Cable

Shield

Twisted

Shielded Pair

5-7VDC

18-24VDC

0VDC

Page 55

The 18-24 vdc (power) supply should be connected to the red cable coming from
the transducer.
The 5-7 vdc (signal) should be connected to the white cable coming from the
transducer.
The 0 vdc supply should be connected to the Black & Green cables coming from
the transducer.

The transducer will not operate correctly below 18vdc so on long cable runs the
extension cable should be of a sufficient size/quality to ensure this is the case.

Establishing the correct echo.

If we are certain the unit is operational and working correctly, but not reading the
right level or distance then we need to follow the P21 procedure as listed below in
order to obtain the correct reading.

The unit has unique DATEM (Digital Adaptive Tracking of Echo Movement)
software that can cover false echoes whilst maintaining a fix on the true echo.
The software will then adapt to any changes to the echo profile in front of the
moving target enabling Pulsar to keep the correct reading under constantly
changing process conditions.

In order to initially cover all the false echoes we need to get the level in the
application to its lowest measuring point and then tell the control unit where the
true echo is, it will then mask out all the false echoes in between the transducer
and the target giving us a correct reading

P21 - Follow the Steps Below.

Before starting this procedure you will need to establish the distance between the
face of the transducer and the measured surface to within approx 10cm.

 Key in the passcode 1997 (four dashes will appear in the display) and press

enter.

 Display will show ‘wait’ then after a few seconds ‘Quick Set-up’.
 Key in 21 and press enter.
 Display shows 0.000 & Set Dist 1. Or ( Sel Peak) on some older units.
 Key in the distance from the transducer face to the product (within 20cm)

and press enter.

 Display shows ‘Capturing’ then after a few seconds ‘Enter If Sure’ press

enter.

Page 56

 Display shows ‘ Setting’ then ‘Set’ then after a few seconds ‘System’.
 Press ‘Cancel’ display will show ‘Run Mode’.
 Press enter.
 Display shows ‘Wait’ then after a few seconds the correct reading.

If the space between the transducer and the product is particularly cluttered and
the above procedure does not work initially you may try again until the unit is
reading correctly.
The above process and the Pulsar software is excellent at reading the correct echo
under difficult conditions, however it is still good practice to install the transducer
in the optimum position within the application.

If the unit is still not reading go to the self test parameter P990 and enter 1, the
unit should respond with – Clock ok, Eeprom ok.

If the self test responds with a failure, or, is ok but the unit is still not operational
then you should contact Pulsar for further assistance.