dBi-M
Instruction Manual
2
PULSAR MEASUREMENT
3
dBi-M (FIRST EDITION REV 1)
April 2022
Part Number M-dBiM-0-001-2P
COPYRIGHT
© Pulsar Measurement, 2022. 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 Measurement.
WARRANTY AND LIABILITY
Pulsar Measurement guarantee for a period of 2 years from the date of delivery that it will
either exchange or repair any part of this product returned to Pulsar Measurement 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 Measurement neither gives nor implies any process guarantee for this 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 Measurement
cannot be held liable for any errors.
Pulsar Measurement operates a policy of constant development and improvement and reserves
the right to amend technical details, as necessary.
The dBi-M shown on the cover of this manual is used for illustrative purposes only and may not
be representative of the actual dBi-M supplied.
CONTACT
For technical support, please contact:
Europe: supporteurope@pulsarmeasurement.com
Outside Europe: supportnorthamerica@pulsarmeasurement.com
If you have any comments or suggestions about this product, please contact:
Europe: europe@pulsarmeasurement.com
Outside Europe: northamerica@pulsarmeasurement.com
Pulsar Measurement website: www.pulsarmeasurement.com
United States
11451 Belcher Road South
Largo,
FL 33773
888-473-9546
Canada
16456 Sixsmith Drive
Long Sault, Ont.
K0C 1P0
855-300-9151
United Kingdom
Cardinal Building, Enigma
Commercial Centre
Sandy’s Road, Malvern
WR14 1JJ
00 44 (0)1684 891371
4
CONTENTS
Chapter 1 Start Here ................................................................................................................ 6
About this Manual ............................................................................................................... 6
About the dBi-M ................................................................................................................... 7
Product Specification .......................................................................................................... 8
EU & UK Certificate of Conformity ............................................................................. 10
Chapter 2 Installation ........................................................................................................... 11
Unpacking ............................................................................................................................ 11
Power Supply Requirements......................................................................................... 11
Location ................................................................................................................................ 11
Dimensions .......................................................................................................................... 12
Outdoor and Open Vessel Installation ..................................................................... 14
Closed Vessel Installation .............................................................................................. 15
Cable ...................................................................................................................................... 16
Hazardous area location................................................................................................. 17
Preparation for Operation ............................................................................................. 18
Maintenance ....................................................................................................................... 18
Parameter Defaults ........................................................................................................... 18
Chapter 3 Getting Results With dBi-M Transducers ................................................ 19
Setting up Your Application.......................................................................................... 19
Resetting Factory Defaults............................................................................................. 20
Chapter 4 dBi-M PC Software ........................................................................................... 21
dBi-M RS485 Connector ................................................................................................. 21
Opening dBi-M PC ............................................................................................................ 22
dBi-M PC Opening Screen ............................................................................................. 23
Menu Strip ........................................................................................................................... 23
Shortcut Icons ..................................................................................................................... 27
Toggle Parameter List ..................................................................................................... 29
Main Screen Selection Tabs .......................................................................................... 29
Main Screen ......................................................................................................................... 30
Common Parameters ....................................................................................................... 34
Progress Bar ........................................................................................................................ 37
Cursor Position ................................................................................................................... 38
Transducer ........................................................................................................................... 39
Chapter 5 Parameter Guide ............................................................................................... 40
Application ........................................................................................................................... 40
PULSAR MEASUREMENT
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Operation ............................................................................................................................. 40
Distance ................................................................................................................................ 41
Data Logs ............................................................................................................................. 43
Temperature ........................................................................................................................ 43
Transducer Power Information .................................................................................... 43
Compensation .................................................................................................................... 44
Stability .................................................................................................................................. 46
Damping ............................................................................................................................... 46
Filters ...................................................................................................................................... 46
System ................................................................................................................................... 47
System Information .......................................................................................................... 47
Defaults ................................................................................................................................. 47
Modbus Poll Address ...................................................................................................... 48
Alarm limits .......................................................................................................................... 48
Datem .................................................................................................................................... 49
Volume .................................................................................................................................. 51
Conversion ........................................................................................................................... 52
Breakpoints .......................................................................................................................... 57
Chapter 6 Modbus ................................................................................................................ 59
Modbus Protocol............................................................................................................... 59
Device Address ................................................................................................................... 59
Function Codes .................................................................................................................. 59
Register Address ................................................................................................................ 60
Registers ............................................................................................................................... 60
Addressing 32-bit Registers on dBi-M ..................................................................... 60
Runtime Registers (Input Registers) .......................................................................... 62
Configuration/Holding Registers (Parameters) ..................................................... 63
Echo Status (register 1) ................................................................................................... 68
Chapter 7 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................ 69
Chapter 8 Disposal ................................................................................................................ 70
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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CHAPTER 1 START HERE
Congratulations on your purchase of a Pulsar dBi-M. This quality system has
been developed over many years and represents the latest in high
technology level measurement and control.
It has been designed to give you years of trouble-free performance, and a
few minutes spent reading this operating manual will ensure that your
installation is as simple as possible.
About this Manual
It is important that this manual is referred to for correct installation and
operation. There are various parts of the manual that offer additional help
or information as shown.
Tips
TIP: Look f o r t h is icon thr o u gh out your P u l s a r Measurem e n t manu a l to
find helpfu l i n f o rmation a n d a n s wers to fr e q u e n t l y asked qu e s t i o n s .
Additional Information
Additional Information
At various parts of the manual, you will find sections
like this that explain specific things in more detail.
PULSAR MEASUREMENT
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About the dBi-M
Functional Description
The dBi-M transducer range has been specified and designed to meet the
demanding requirements of today’s process level measurement applications
for liquids and solids.
The transducers are compatible with RS-485 Modbus communications. They
can be easily set-up using a PC with an RS-485 adapter and Pulsar dBi-M PC
software.
Easy calibration and maintenance free “fit and forget” performance meaning
that you can install the dBi-M transducer level monitoring system rapidly
and with confidence, with calibration being achieved either by using a
Modbus RTU programmer/calibrator, or via Pulsar’s free dBi-M PC software.
The dBi-M units are based on a PZT ceramic transducer element. The
nominal beam angle is 10o (-3dB). When coupled with the DATEM® signal
processing they provide unmatched performance in industrial process level
measurement. All transducers have integral temperature compensation.
Optional submersion shields are available to prevent spurious signals if the
transducer becomes submerged. A range of flange mounting options are
available, with optional PTFE facing for improved chemical resistance.
The dBi-M series of transducers have an RS485 digital output which can be
programmed to give readings according to level, space, distance, or
volume.
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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Product Specification
PHYSICAL
Transducer housing material
PVDF or Valox 357 PBT
Weight
dBi-M3: 1kg (2.2lbs), dBi-M6: 1.2kg (2.7lbs),
dBi-M10: 1.3kg (2.9lbs), dBi-M15: 1.4kg (3.1lbs)
Dimensions & Mounting
dBi-M3: 77mm dia x 134mm high (3 x 5.31”) 1”
BSP/NPT
dBi-M6 & dBi-M10: 86mm dia x 121mm high (3.38 x
4.75”) 1” BSP/NPT rear thread
dBi-M15: 86mm dia x 134mm high (3.38 x 5.32”)
1“BSP/NPT rear thread.
Standard Cables lengths
5m (16.4ft), 10m (32.8ft), 20m (65.6ft) or 30m (98.4ft)
Transducer Cable Extensions
4-core screened.
Maximum Separation
500m (1,640 ft)
ENVIRONMENTAL
IP Rating
IP68 / NEMA 6P
Max. & min. temperature
(electronics)
-40°C to +80°C (-40°F to 176°F)
Flammable atmosphere approval
Compatible with approved transducers (see spec.
sheets)
CE Approval
See DoC in this manual for details
Explosive atmosphere approvals
IECEx, UKEx & ATEX
Zone 0 : II 1 G Ex ia IIC T4 Ga, Zone 20 : II 1 D Ex ia
IIIC T130°C Da, Tamb= -40°C to +80°C. Also suitable
for zones 1,2,21,22.
PERFORMANCE
Measurement Range
dBi-M3: 0.125m (0.41 ft) to 3m (9.84 ft)
dBi-M6: 0.3m (0.98 ft) to 6m (19.69 ft)
dBi-M10: 0.3m (0.98 ft) to 10m (32.81 ft)
dBi-M15: 0.5m (1.64 ft) to 15m (49.21 ft)
Accuracy
dBi-M3: 2mm (0.08”)
dBi-M6: 4mm (0.16”)
dBi-M10: 3mm (0.12”) up to 6m (19.69 ft), 6mm
(0.24”) over 6m range.
dBi-M15: 5mm (0.2”) up to 10m (32.81 ft), 10mm
(0.36”) over 10m range.
Frequency
dBi-M3: 125kHz
dBi-M6: 75kHz
dBi-M10: 50kHz
dBi-M15: 41kHz
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Beam Angle
dBi-M3, dBi M6 & dBi-M10: <10°
dBi-M15: <8° (all beam angles are inclusive)
Rate Response
Fully adjustable
Resolution
dBi-M3: 1mm (0.04”)
dBi-M6: 2mm (0.08”)
dBi-M10: 3mm (0.12”)
dBi-M15: 5mm (0.2”)
OUTPUTS
Digital Communications
Non-isolated RS485
Communication Protocol
Modbus RTU
PROGRAMING
PC Programming (via RS485
converter)
PC setup, installation, echo profiles, cloning and
troubleshooting)
Programming security
Via passcode
Program integrity
Via non-volatile memory
SUPPLY
Operating Voltage
5-15 VDC
Current Consumption
Average 14mA, 0.006 mAh per measurement.
Boot Time
1 second for warm bootup (within 12 hours), 2
seconds cold bootup (after 12 hours).
Pulsar Measurement operates a policy of constant development and
improvement and reserve the right to amend technical details, as necessary.
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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EU & UK Certificate of Conformity
PULSAR MEASUREMENT
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CHAPTER 2 INSTALLATION
Unpacking
Power Supply Requirements
The dBi-M series intelligent transducer operates from a supply voltage of 5
to 15V DC, and typical draw on average over 900ms is 14mA, peak is 100mA
at start up for 5ms.
The compact one-piece construction of the dBi-M series intelligent
transducer can be mounted easily using wither the 1” BSP/NPT rear
mounting thread or the integral 1.5” or 2” BSP/NPT front nose thread
(dependent on model).
Location
When choosing a location to mount the transducer, please bear in mind the
following:
• The ultrasonic signal path should be free of falling material and
obstructions such as pipes, beams etc.
• The dBi-M3 should be mounted at least 12.5cm (0.41 feet) above the
maximum level of the material and be perpendicular to the surface.
While the dBi-M6 and 10 should be mounted at least 30cm (0.98 feet)
above the maximum level of the material and be perpendicular to the
surface. And the dBi-M15 should be mounted at least 50cm (1.64 feet)
above the maximum level of the material and again should be
perpendicular to the surface.
Important Information
All shipping cartons should be opened carefully. When using a box cutter, do not
plunge the blade deeply into the box, as it could potentially cut or scratch
equipment components. Carefully remove equipment from each carton,
checking it against the packing list before discarding any packing material. If
there is any shortage or obvious shipping damage to the equipment, report it
immediately to your local Pulsar Measurement Partner.
Important Information
All electronic products are susceptible to electrostatic shock, so follow
proper grounding procedures during installation.
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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• The ambient temperature is between -40ºC and 80ºC (-40°F to 176°F).
• There should be no high voltage cables or electrical wiring near the
transducer cabling.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducerw are shown
below:
Rear Thread Mount
dBi - M6 &
dBi-M10
121mm (4.8”)
86mm ø (3.4”)
dBi-M6
dBi-M3
134mm (5.3”)
77mm ø (3”)
dBi-M3
dBi-M15
86mm ø (3.4”)
dBi-M15
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Front Thread Mount
dBi-M6 & dBi-M10
.6”)
77mm ø (3”)
2” Thread
(61mm (2.40”)
Clearance
hole)
dBi-M6
dBi-M3
.6”)
160mm (6.3”)
77mm ø (3”)
1.5” Thread
(49mm (1.93”)
Clearance hole)
dBi-M3
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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Outdoor and Open Vessel Installation
The dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducer can be simply mounted on a
bracket, suitable for the application and secured using either the 1" BSP/NPT
rear thread or via the 1½″ or 2″ front thread, dependant on model.
Care should be taken to ensure that the dBi Series Intelligent Transducer is
not installed in direct sunlight, to avoid errors in the measurement of
ambient temperature.
Attention should also be taken, when mounting the unit, to ensure that
strong windy conditions are avoided, wherever possible, to prevent
abnormal operation.
DBI MODEL
RANGE
L = BLANKING
dBi-M3
3 metres (9.84 feet)
125mm (0.41 feet)
dBi-M6
6 metres (19.69 feet)
300mm (0.98 feet)
dBi-M10
10 metres (32.18 feet)
300mm (0.98 feet
dBi-M15
15 metres (49.21 feet)
500mm (1.64 feet)
‘L’ (Blanking) should, as a minimum be at least that as detailed in the
table above but can be greater if required.
Mounted via Rear 1″BSP/NPT
Thread
Mounted via optional Front
Thread
dBi-M6
dBi-M6
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Closed Vessel Installation
“L” should as a minimum be at least that as detailed in the table above but
can be greater if required. The dBi Series Intelligent Transducer can be
simply screwed into a flange and secured using the rear 1" BSP/NPT rear
thread or via the 1½″ or 2″ front thread, dependant on model.
Where possible, use a flange made of a synthetic material such as PVC, in
cases where a metal flange is used it is advisable to fit a suitable gasket
between the flange of the dBi Series Intelligent Transducer and the
connection to the vessel.
Standpipe Installations
When mounting the dBi Series Intelligent Transducer to a standpipe care
should be taken to ensure that the standpipe is of sufficient diameter with
reference to its length, see the table below for details:
DIA. (D)
MAX LENGTH
mm
inches
mm
inches
80 3 220
8
100 4 300
12
150 6 420
16
200 8 560
22
dBi Flange mounted via Front
Thread
Optional Flange Mounted dBi
When using a standpipe, fixed to the top of a vessel, ensure that the open
end of the standpipe is clear of any obstructions such as weld seams,
gaskets etc. to avoid unwanted signal returns.
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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If using standpipes which extend into the vessel, beyond the blanking
distance, but not as far as the empty level, then the open end of the
standpipe should be cut to an angle of 45o.
When using the dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducer to measure ‘aggressive,
materials such as ‘alkaline’ and ‘acids’ it is recommended that either a PVDF
or an optional PTFE faced Flanged Transducer is used. Please consult Pulsar
Measurement for a full availability of options.
Cable
The dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducer comes with a fitted integral cable, if
this cable is extended then the total capacitance must not exceed the limits
for the voltage applied.
Wiring detail
COLOUR
DESCRIPTION
LIMITS
Red
Power
15V max.
Orange
RS485 +
5V Nom.
White
RS485 –
5V Nom.
Black
0V DC
N/A
Cable Screen
Correct
standpipe
installation
Pipe should be free
of obstructions
such as weld
seams.
The maximum level
(100% of Span) is
inside the Blanking
Distance.
dBi-M Cable
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Hazardous area location
Ex ia (Intrinsically Safe) dBi-M transducers are certified for use in hazardous
zones 0, 1, 2 (gas) & 20, 21, 22 (dust).
The installation must comply with local regulations and the power supply
cable to the transducers shall meet the relevant requirements of clause 9 of
IEC60079-14:2013 / EN60079-14: 2014. The dBi-M series intelligent
transducer has bare wires; ensure that suitably specified barriers are
employed.
Marking for the dBi-M transducer:
Zener Barriers
RS485 -
RS485 +
Power
0V/Gnd
Red
White
Orange
Black
Zener barriers
Power:
Uo max. = 15.1V, R.min = 44.6R
Signal: RS485 -, RS485 +
Uo max. = 10.3V, R.min = 49R
Safe Area
IS earth
IS earth
IS earth
Screen
NC
Entity parameters:
Power:
Ui = 15.1V
Li = 350mA
Pi = 0.65W
Signal:
Ui = 10.3V
Li = 350mA
Pi = 0.65W
Uo = 6.51V
Lo = 132mA
dBi-M
transducer
Hazardous area
Zones 0, 1, 2 (gas) & 20, 21, 22 (dust)
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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Preparation for Operation
Before switching on, check the following:
✓ The dBi Series Intelligent Transducer is mounted correctly.
✓ The power supply is correctly installed.
Maintenance
There are no user serviceable parts inside your dBi-M Series Intelligent
Transducer, if you experience any problems with the unit, then please
contact Pulsar Measurement for advice.
To clean the equipment, wipe with a damp cloth. Do not use any solvents on
the enclosure.
Parameter Defaults
Once you are satisfied with the installation, and the dBi-M Series Intelligent
Transducer is reading what you would expect in terms of distance from the
face of the transducer to the material. Then you can proceed with any
programming, required for the intended application. It is sensible to
program all required parameters at the same time as soon as programming
is complete the system will then be setup ready for use.
Factory Defaults
When first installing the dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducer, or
subsequently moving or using the unit on a new application, before
proceeding to program the unit for its intended application it is
recommended that you ensure that all parameters are at their default
values by completing a Factory Default P930, as described in the relevant
unit type parameter guide. This can be done by using the free dBi-M PC
software.
PULSAR MEASUREMENT
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CHAPTER 3 GETTING RESULTS WITH DBI-M TRANSDUCERS
This chapter explains how to undertake the various functions of your dBi-M
Series Intelligent Transducer. Where specific parameters are used, please
refer to Chapter 5 Parameter Guide.
Setting up Your Application
Empty Distance
Empty Level (P105) is the distance from the face of the transducer to the
material at the bottom of the vessel.
Span
Span (P106) is the distance from the empty level (0% full) to span (100%
full).
Near and Far Blanking
Near blanking (P107) is the distance from the face of the transducer that
the dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducer will not record a level nearer than. A
typical reason to increase this from the default value would be if you wish to
ignore close in obstructions.
Far blanking (P108) is the distance (as a percentage of empty level) beyond
the empty level that the dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducer will read, the
default is plus 20% of empty level. If you wish to monitor further than the
empty level, then increase this figure, so that the empty level plus the far
blanking figure (as % of empty level) is greater than the surface being
measured, within the capability of the transducer being used.
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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Resetting Factory Defaults
If you need to restore parameters to their original factory settings, then
access parameter P930, which is the factory defaults parameter, change the
value to 1 and ENTER. Or access the Transfer menu option and select ‘Set
Factory Default’ and all parameters, will be restored to the factory settings
(including the DATEM trace) and on completion.
Checking Information Specific to your dBi-M Intelligent Transducer
There are some parameters dedicated to each individual dBi-M Series
Intelligent Transducer, such as the firmware revision and the unit’s serial
number.
Checking the Firmware Revision and Serial Number
If you need to identify the serial number of the unit or the current level of
firmware in your dBi Series Intelligent Transducer, the following parameters
can be used. Select parameter P926 to view the identity of the current
firmware revision or P928 for the serial number of the unit.
PULSAR MEASUREMENT
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dBi-M
CHAPTER 4 DBI-M PC SOFTWARE
The free dBi-M PC Software is a powerful tool that can be used to aid you in getting the most from your dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducer.
It can be used to record all the Parameters for your applications, which can
be saved to a PC or USB and stored for future reference. All parameters can
be changed and downloaded to an instrument via your laptop. Remember it
is most important to note that Parameters downloaded to an instrument
must be extracted from the same firmware version as the system to which
they are downloading otherwise errors due to incompatibility may occur.
The PC software can also be used to record and view Echo Profiles from your
applications, these can be saved for your records or sent via e-mail back to
Pulsar Measurement for our engineers to analyse. dBi-M PC software can
also be used to re-program your unit to the latest version of firmware, with
any enhancements that it may contain. Please consult Pulsar Measurement
for further information on re-programming if it is required.
dBi-M RS485 Connector
To connect to the dBi-M intelligent transducer to the free dBi-M PC
Software, you will need to use Pulsar’s RS485 Connector and wire the
transducer to the connecting terminals as shown below:
Wiring Detail
The label on the RS485 connector depicts the order the dBi-M cables are
connected to the connector. The table below also assists to show which
cables are connected to which terminal.
COLOUR
DBI-M
RS485 CONNECTOR TERMINAL
Orange
RS485 +
A
White
RS485 –
B
Green
Cable Screen
SCN/GND
Black
0V DC
0V/GND
Red
Power
+5V
A B GND
GND
+5V
PC
RS485
USB
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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Opening dBi-M PC
Once the dBi-M PC software has been installed on to your local machine,
double click on the dBi-M PC shortcut and a window will appear prompting
you to enter a passcode (as shown below).
The password to enter the PC software is 1997, once typed in press enter
and the PC software will open and be ready for use.
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dBi-M PC Opening Screen
Menu Strip
None of the menu strip drop down menus can be accessed if you are
viewing echo profiles. To access these menu options, change regular echo
to ‘Off’.
Main Screen
Main screen
selection tabs
Menu Strip
Shortcut Icons
Common Controls
Toggle
parameter
list
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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File
The top left hand dropdown menu is File. Selecting this drop-down menu
will give you the option of opening a previously stored parameter file,
opening a previously stored echo file, saving parameters to file (provided
you have first uploaded them from your dBi-M).
You can also select to restart the dBi-M PC software.
Transfer
The Transfer menu enables you to get parameters from the unit, send
parameters to the unit, and program single parameters. These three options
are mimicked by the icons with the Computer and Ultra motif. For sending
and receiving parameters follow the on-screen commands. When you have
uploaded the parameters from your dBi-M, pressing the toggle parameters
icon will show all parameters, clear the screen, and show changed
parameters again.
For single parameter programming, press the icon with the Ultra motif with
a red and blue arrow. From the drop-down menu, select the required
parameter number and press the read button , to view the details and
current value of a parameter. Change the value to the required amount and
then press enter, the change is then verified by the PC software. You can
select to default the unit to its factory set parameters.
Note: Pressing the Factory Default (P930) will restore the sensor to its
factory settings. All changed parameters on your sensor and information
will be lost if not previously saved.
Parameters
The Parameters menu gives you three options (options 1 & 2 are easily
accessed with the Tools button):
1. View (all) parameters in the dBi-M. A list will appear on the right-hand
side in a table showing all parameters (highlighted in yellow are
parameters where their values have been changed from default).
2. View only the parameters that have had their values changed from
default.
3. Print parameters opens up a new window, giving you further options on
whether to print all parameters, changed parameters to a printer (or
print to PDF). In addition, you can save the parameters to a file, which
saves the information as a .doc file.
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The best way to obtain a hard copy of your parameter list is to print the
parameters to a file (save as a .doc file). The list can then be printed out at
your convenience.
Trace
The Trace menu gives you four options:
1. Save trace images to file captures the current echo trace displayed on
the graph and save it as a .jpg file.
2. Save trace to clipboard, saves the current viewed echo profile onto
your clipboard, from there it can be pasted into a document such as
word for recording, viewing, or reporting.
3. Print echo traces will open a preview of the current displayed profile
which you can alter to suit your requirements before printing.
4. Zoom full allows you to zoom out to the maximum range, enabling
you to view the echo trace being displayed on the main graph.
Tools
The Tools menu enables you to open up the Comport settings window,
enabling you to select the comport that the dBi-M is connected to. Or if a
dBi-M is already connected to the PC software, you can close the com port
ending your session with the dBi-M series intelligent transducer.
Re-program option will be greyed out as this requires service access, this will
allow you to re-program the dBi-M with up-to-date firmware. Please consult
Pulsar Measurement for assistance in carrying out this operation.
Modbus Poll allows you to view the Modbus register information in the dBiM Series Intelligent Transducer. Function allows you to select between
Function 03 - Holding Register (Runtime registers) which are read only, and
Function 04 - Input Register (Configuration parameters) which are
read/write.
The address is used to select the register address that you wish to view/edit.
Please refer to Chapter 6 Modbus for a full list of available registers for the
dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducer.
And the length of bytes is set to 4 as every register is in a 32-bit float format
(which is 4 bytes in length), and are formatted as Little Endian.
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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Parameters/Registers List when selected opens a new option on the main
screen selection tabs, which allows you to select one of four options:
1. View list of parameters with short description: This option displays a
table with all the parameters in the dBi-M and a brief description of
what the parameter is.
2. View list of parameters with full description: This option displays a
table that allows you to view all the parameters in the dBi-M with a
full description of the options available for them (where applicable).
3. View list of parameters read with values: This option displays a table
with all parameters that are programmed into the dBi-M, along with
the current value set and the default value.
4. View list of runtime registers with description: This option displays a
table with all of the runtime registers, their index number, units of
measurement and a description of each register.
Note: To view the updated information in the sensor please ensure a
connection is made, and an echo is obtained.
The clean all option removes any values that are currently displayed in the
parameter boxes on the PC software. This does not default the unit, just
clears the information in the parameter value boxes.
Help
This displays information about the dBi-M PC software.
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Shortcut Icons
NAME
ICON
DESCRIPTION
File
Allows you to search for any parameter file that you
wish to open, view, and examine. Parameter files are
saved in a .xml format.
Save to
Clipboard
Selecting this icon will paste the current viewed echo
profile onto your clipboard, from there it can be
pasted into a document such as word for recording,
viewing, or reporting.
Record &
Playback
When this option is selected, a window will appear
with a record button (green circle with a red dot in the
centre), a play button (green circle with a triangle in
the centre), and a stop button.
When recording an echo trace, you will first be
prompted to save the echo recording on to your PC.
When done, the record button and status bar will turn
red, indicating that recording is underway. When
finished, select the record button again to stop.
To replay a saved echo trace, select the play button
and choose the relevant echo file (.hir) to replay. The
play/pause button, stop button and status bar will
turn turquoise to indicate that an echo is being
replayed.
You can also pause and move the slider to a specific
position of the total trace recordings (ideal for long
recordings).
Record/Playback Controls
Recording Controls
Playback Controls
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NAME
ICON
DESCRIPTION
Upload
This enables you to download all parameters that
are currently in the dBi-M that is connected to the
PC software. You will be prompted to save the
parameters when the download is complete.
Send
Parameters to
Unit
This allows you to send all parameters at once in
the PC software to the dBi-M that is connected.
Single
Programming
This enables you to program one parameter at a
time. Press the single programming icon and,
when the Interactive Programming display
window appears, press the connector icon, this
will connect PC to dBi-M. Key in the parameter
number required, and press the read key. Change
the value to the required amount and press send,
the change is then verified.
Note: Pressing the Hard Default or Factory
Default icons will restore factory parameters to
your unit and information will be lost if not
previously saved.
Status Display
Selecting this icon enables a small list of
information about the performance of the unit.
This includes: Level, Distance, Volume,
Temperature, Noise, Strength, and Status.
System
Information
This enables you to view the current firmware
version, Hardware version and serial number of
the dBi-M connected to the PC software.
Exit
Selecting this will exit your current session from
the PC software. Please ensure any unsaved
parameters are uploaded to the dBi-M prior to
selecting this option.
Factory Defaults
If an icon is greyed out then that function is not accessible, for example, if
you are viewing echoes then you cannot access files, to access files you
must click ‘Off’ in the regular echo box then a file can be accessed.
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Toggle Parameter List
When you have uploaded the parameters from the connected dBi-M (or
from your laptop), a list of changed parameters will appear in the right-hand
side of your screen.
Pressing the toggle parameters icon will alternately show all
parameters, (with the changed parameters highlighted in yellow), show only
the changed parameters and then hide the table from view.
Main Screen Selection Tabs
Echo
This provides a graph and controls for viewing echo traces.
Parameters
dBi-M parameters can be viewed in a table format, and in relational groups.
A single parameter can be viewed or all parameters from that group can be
changed. You can also view the individual parameters options, change
them, and default them to their factory values.
For further information on the parameters available in each section and their
options, please refer to chapter 5 Parameter Guide.
Selecting this icon in the parameter group, will download the values of the
parameters for that section. The value boxes will then be highlighted in
green, signifying that the values have been downloaded correctly.
Selecting this icon next to a parameter, will download the values for the
parameter only. The value box is then highlighted in green, signifying that
the value has been downloaded correctly.
Selecting this icon next to a parameter, will enable you to view the options
available for that parameter. You can choose to select a different value for
the parameter or default it to its factory setting.
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Main Screen
The main screen is used to display real time echo trace diagnostic
information from the dBi-M transducer connected or replay recorded echo
traces previously saved.
Echo traces
To request an echo trace from the dBi-M, select the Regular Echo ‘Off’
button, this will turn on and an echo will be presented on the main screen.
The X axis represents the distance in measurement units (P104) defined by
the dBi-M transducer. The Y axis represents the signal strength in mV, on
the status display this is represented as a percentage (0mV = 0% and
1,000mV = 100%). Example of an echo trace is shown below:
Raw Echo
The Raw echo is shown in red. It shows signals (echoes) reflected from
objects as peaks in the trace.
The higher the peak of the echo, the stronger the echo is. The far-left
portion of the raw echo trace is known as the ringdown. It is a result of the
ceramic crystal still vibrating from the transmit pulse when the receiver is
switched on. The ringdown region is the reason for the near blanking dead
band. As a target moves further away from the transducer, the signal
strength of the returned echo will reduce.
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Gate and Measurement line
The distance line shows which echo is being selected for the measurement.
The vertical blue lines remain fixed at either side of the distance line, and act
as a stability mechanism to filter out any momentary echoes from passing
machinery/stirrers etc.
DATEM (Digital Adaptive Tracking of Echo Movement)
The (Blue) DATEM trace acts as a threshold which defines if echoes are
considered as candidates for measurement. Any echo whose peak is below
the DATEM line, will not be considered for measurement. In effect the
transducer will not “see” it.
Measurement marker
Gate
Level
Distance
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By default, the DATEM in dBi transducers is ACTIVE which means it will grow
to cover any fixed obstructions in front of the current measurement echo.
Looking at the trace below, the only echo which can be “seen” by the echo
selection algorithm is the current selected echo at 4.2 metres.
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Zooming
You can zoom into an echo trace by clicking and dragging a window from
Top Left to Bottom Right across the area you want to zoom into.
To zoom out, simply draw a box from the bottom right to top left or select
Trace > Zoom Full from the menu options.
Important Information
If you are connecting to multiple devices that are to be placed onto a
Modbus network, the Modbus ID/address of each sensor will need to be
changed from the default value of 126. Please use P133 to change the
address of each sensor.
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Common Parameters
This section of the screen is visible at all times and has controls for scanning
and connecting to dBi-M transducers, obtaining echoes, manipulating
DATEM, progress bar indication and cursor positioning on the echo screen.
Status
From the left of the status section, the transmit (TX) and receive data (RX)
from the dBi Series Intelligent Transducer, when it is communicating with the
PC software. They will flash red/green when communication is being made
(dBi-M PC tries to connect automatically when the software is first opened).
You can search/poll a dBi-M transducer after confirming the comport you
are connecting to is setup correctly. When a dBi-M transducer is connected,
the ‘Devices found box’ will display how many dBi-M Series Intelligent
Transducers have been found and the Modbus addresses of the dBi-M
transducer(s). You can select the value of the dBi-M you wish to
communicate with, within the Modbus ID value box.
When Search/Poll is selected, the Modbus ID is always unknown. With the
option Modbus ID 0 a broadcast is done once, if a reply is received and
there is no error, then only one device is connected. If there is an error then
you can select to search Modbus ID addresses in an incremental or
decremental format.
Trace
To request echo traces from the dBi Series Intelligent Transducer, change
regular echo from Off:
To On:
When the regular echo is turned on, the regular echo selection box will
highlight red indicating a trace is being obtained and displayed. When
obtaining a trace for the first time it will take approx. 7 seconds to retrieve
the information, after this the trace will continue to display live information
from the dBi-M every 2 seconds.
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DATEM
Note: This feature is only available when in service mode. Please consult a
Pulsar Measurement engineer for further assistance.
The DATEM line can be adjusted manually, by selecting the ‘view DATEM
points’ box.
When selected a purple line will appear on the echo trace graph with a
number of moveable points.
The points can be clicked on and dragged in order to manipulate the
DATEM line to cover any unwanted echoes you want to hide from the echo
selection algorithm. Once the line is in its final position, click the
button and the new values will be transferred to the
real time DATEM line.
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When finished and a regular echo is selected, the DATEM line will have
changed to wrap around the echoes hidden from the movement of the
points.
To undo the manipulation of the DATEM points, select the
, and the DATEM line will assume its default value:
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P21 DATEM Distance
Allows the user to determine which echo is to be displayed. On start-up, if
the dBi-M is showing 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.
Enter distance from the face of transducer to the target in Measurement
Units (P104).
Progress Bar
The progress bar displays information such as devices found, parameter
changes, and colour the changes to indicate different actions are being
performed.
Receiving and Sending Information
Obtaining an echo for the first time, uploading, or downloading parameters
from the dBi-M, the progress bar will increment in green to signify an action
is being performed:
When the initial trace has been received the PC software will indicate the
information received from the dBi-M in the information box below the
progress bar, such as ‘Get Echo trace’ and ‘Get Datem trace’.
Selecting this icon displays the value for the parameter. If a value has
been sent successfully this should return as 0.
Selecting this icon next to the parameter, enables you to view the options
available, you can choose to select a different value for the parameter or
default it to its factory setting.
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When uploading or downloading parameters from the dBi-M, the
information box will display the parameters and their values being sent or
received from the dBi-M.
Replaying Echo Trace
When replaying an echo trace, the progress bar will turn turquoise:
During the playback of the echo trace, you are unable to select the option to
view a regular echo.
When recording an echo trace, the progress bar will turn red:
During the recording, the ability to upload/download parameters is
unavailable.
Cursor Position
When hovering the mouse pointer on the echo trace graph, the pointer
position will be updated in the Measurement Units (P104) and mV in the
cursor position value boxes.
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Transducer
Echo Trace
This option displays the Raw echo when selected, if unselected the Raw echo
will be hidden from view on the echo trace graph.
Show Gate
This option displays the Gate when selected, if unselected the Gate will be
hidden from view on the echo trace graph.
DATEM Trace
This option displays the DATEM line when selected, if unselected then
DATEM will be hidden from view on the echo trace graph.
Show Distance
This option displays the Measurement Marker line when selected, if
unselected the Measurement Marker will be hidden from view on the echo
trace graph.
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CHAPTER 5 PARAMETER GUIDE
This chapter describes all the parameters contained in the dBi-M Series
Intelligent Transducer.
Application
Included in this tab is a diagram to help with setting up your application.
Operation
P100 Mode of Operation
This parameter sets the mode of operation, when in run mode, and can be
set to one of the following:
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
1 = Distance
Display shows the distance from the transducer face
to the surface of the material measured.
2 = Level (Default)
Shows how full a vessel is.
3 = Space
Shows how empty a vessel is.
4 = Volume
Display shows volume of the vessel.
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P102 Material
This parameter should be set to the type of material being monitored.
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
1 = Liquid (Default)
Used for liquids and flat solid materials.
2 = Solid
Used for sold material that is heaped or at an angle.
3 = Closed Tank
Use for applications within a closed tank or where a
secondary echo response may become focused to
create a larger echo than the first.
Distance
P104 Measurement Units
This parameter sets the units you want to use for programming and display.
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
1 = metres (Default)
All units of measurement are Metres
2 = cm
All units of measurement are Centimetres
3 = mm
All units of measurement are Millimetres
4 = feet
All units of measurement are Feet
5 = inches
All units of measurement are Inches
P105 Empty Level
This parameter is to be set to the maximum distance from the face of the
transducer to the empty point, in P104 Measurement Units. Note this value
affects span as well, so should be set before span. Default: dBi-M3 = 3.00m
(9.84 feet), dBi-M6 = 6.00m (19.69 feet), dBi-M10 = 10.00m (32.81 feet)
and dBi-M15 = 15.00m (49.21 feet).
P106 Span
This parameter should be set to the maximum distance from the Empty
Level (P105) to the maximum material level. It must be set at least to be
equal to the Empty Level (P105) less the Near Blanking distance (P107)
when you set the empty level. Default dBi-M3 = 2.80m (9.19 feet), dBi-
M6 = 5.70m (18.70 feet), dBi-M10 = 9.70m (31.82 feet) and dBi-M15 =
14.5m (47.57)
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P107 Near Blanking
This parameter is the distance from the face of the transducer that is not
measurable and is pre-set to the minimum value dependant on the version
of dBi-M Series Intelligent Transducer being used. It should not be set to
less than this figure but can be increased.
DBI VERSION
NEAR BLANKING DISTANCE
dBi-M3 metre
Default Blanking Distance = 0.125m (0.66 feet)
dBi-M6 metre
Default Blanking Distance = 0.3m (0.98 feet)
dBi-M10 metre
Default Blanking Distance = 0.3m (0.98 feet)
dBi-M15 metre
Default Blanking Distance = 0.5m (1.64 feet)
P108 Far Blanking
This is the distance (as a percentage of empty level) beyond the empty
point that the unit will be able to measure, and the default is pre-set to 20%
of the empty level.
If the surface being monitored can extend beyond the Empty Level (P105)
then the far blanking distance can be increased to a maximum of 100% of
empty level.
This parameter is always entered as a % of empty level.
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Data Logs
The data log parameters contain the following information:
Temperature
The following parameters give information on temperature conditions seen
by the Temperature source (P852) in ºC. These parameters are read only
and cannot be changed, though if P852 is changed they will be reset.
P580 Minimum Temperature
This parameter displays the minimum temperature recorded.
P583 Maximum Temperature
This parameter displays the maximum temperature recorded.
P586 Current Temperature
This parameter displays the current temperature.
Transducer Power Information
P940 Number of Starts
This parameter displays the number of times that the unit has been powered
since leaving the factory.
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Compensation
P851 Measurement Offset
The value of this parameter is added to the measured distance, in
Measurement Units (P104).
This Offset will be added to the level, as derived from the transducer, and
will affect everything including the reading on the display of the PC software
and Modbus registers.
P852 Temperature Source
This parameter determines the source of the temperature measurement. By
default, it is set to internal (transducer) (P852=1), which will automatically
detect the temperature from the transducer. If for any reason, no
temperature input is received, then the Fixed Temp value is used, as set by
P854.
The temperature source can be specifically set as follows:
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
1 = Automatic (Default)
Will automatically select transducer
temperature sensor, if available, or fixed
temperature (P854) if no temperature
sensor found.
2 = Transducer
Always uses temperature reading from
transducer.
3 = Fixed
Always uses fixed temperature (P854)
P854 Fixed Temperature
This parameter sets the temperature, in degrees centigrade to be used if
P852 (Temperature Source) =3. Default = 20oC
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P860 Sound Velocity
This option allows for the velocity of sound to be changed according to the
atmosphere the transducer is operating in. By default, the velocity is set for
342.72m/sec which is the speed of sound travelling in air at a temperature
of 20oC.
The table below gives details of the velocity of sound in various gaseous
atmospheres in all cases the velocity indicated is that in a 100% gaseous
atmosphere at 0oC. In atmospheres less than 100% it may be necessary to
check the level indicated at near empty and near full and compare with the
actual level, several times, then adjust the Sound Velocity accordingly to
obtain an accurately displayed reading.
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
Chlorine
206 m/sec.
Argon
308 m/sec.
Oxygen
316 m/sec.
Air
331.5 m/sec.
Ammonia
415 m/sec.
Methane
430 m/sec.
Helium
435 m/sec.
Neon
965 m/sec.
P645 Vapour Temperature Compensation
The sound velocity in air increases or decreases at a uniform rate of
60cm/sec. per oC, however in atmospheres other than air it will change at a
different rate.
This option allows the rate of change in cm/sec. per oC to be set according
to the atmosphere and temperature present. The level indicated, should be
compared with the actual level, several times, then Vapour Temperature
Compensation adjusted accordingly, to obtain an accurately displayed
reading. Default = 60 cm/sec. per oC
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Stability
Damping
Damping is used to damp the reading displayed, to enable it to keep up
with the process but ignore minor surface fluctuations.
P870 Fill Damping
This parameter determines the maximum rate at which the unit will respond
to an increase in level. It should be set slightly higher than the maximum
vessel fill rate. Default = 10.000 metres/minute (32.81 feet/minute)
P871 Empty Damping
This parameter determines the maximum rate at which the unit will respond
to a decrease in level. It should be set slightly higher than the maximum
vessel empty rate. Default = 10.000 metres/minute (32.81 feet/minute)
Filters
P881 Fixed Distance
This parameter determines the width of gate to be used in tracking an echo
and under normal circumstances will not require changing, but it can be
increased in the cases where the surface is moving extremely fast (more than
10m/min) to ensure smooth processing of the changing level.
P884 Peak Percentage
When P102 = 2 (Solids), this parameter can be used to determine the point
at which the measurement is taken, within the established gate of the
selected echo, to compensate for any error that maybe caused by “angles of
repose” presented by the way the material settles. Please consult Pulsar
Measurement for further information and assistance on changing the value
of this parameter.
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System
System Information
P926 Firmware Revision
This parameter will display the current firmware revision.
P927 Hardware Revision
This parameter will display the current hardware revision.
P928 Serial Number
This parameter will display the serial number of the unit.
Defaults
P930 Factory Defaults
This parameter resets all parameter values to the original Factory Set values
that were installed when the unit was tested prior to its dispatch to you.
To reset parameters, Set P930 to 1, or go to Transfer → Set Factory Default
Values.
Important Notice
Parameters 926, 927 and 928 are read only parameters and do not affect
how the unit performs, but details contained in them may be required, by
Pulsar, when making technical enquiries.
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Modbus Poll Address
P133 Poll Address
This parameter sets the Modbus address for the dBi-M Intelligent
Transducer. Default = 126
Alarm limits
The dBi-M series intelligent transducer stores an echo trace internally when
the Alarm condition is triggered. When requesting an echo trace the Alarm
trace will be displayed on the graph.
The dBi-M can be set up to capture an echo trace under certain alarm
conditions; Alarm Trace (activates within the setpoints set in (P951 and
P952) or LOE Trace.
P951 Low Limit
This parameter sets the low value (in P104 measurement units) for the
alarm setpoint.
P952 High Limit
This parameter sets the high value (in P104 measurement units) for the
alarm setpoint.
P953 Alarm Save Trace Mode
This parameter sets the frequency at which a trace is saved to the dBi-M’s
internal memory in an alarm condition.
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
0 = Off (Default)
Trace mode is turned off.
1 = Once
When an alarm condition is activated, the dBi-M
will save the first trace in its internal memory.
2 = Repeatedly
When an alarm condition is activated, the dBi-M
will save the trace in its internal memory
overwriting the previous trace for the new one.
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P950 Save Trace on LOE
The dBi-M series intelligent transducer stores an echo trace internally when
the LOE (Loss of Echo) condition is triggered. When requesting an echo
trace the LOE trace will be displayed on the graph. This parameter sets the
frequency at which a trace is saved to the dBi-M’s internal memory in a LOE
condition.
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
0 = Off
Trace mode is turned off.
1 = Once
When the dBi-M goes into LOE, the dBi-M will
save the first trace in its internal memory.
2 = Repeatedly
When the dBi-M goes into LOE, the dBi-M will
save the trace in its internal memory overwriting
the previous trace for the new one.
Datem
P20 Reset Datem
This parameter allows the DATEM to be reset to its default value, just
DATEM points or alternatively allow the user to perform a ‘blank tank’. It
should be noted that when using the ‘blank tank’ option, all echoes will be
eliminated by DATEM.
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
0 = Off
Trace mode is turned off.
1 = Once
When an alarm condition is activated, the dBi-M
will save the first trace in its internal memory.
2 = Repeatedly
When an alarm condition is activated, the dBi-M
will save the trace in its internal memory
overwriting the previous trace for the new one.
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P21 Set Distance
Allows the user 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.
Enter the distance from the face of transducer to the target in Measurement
Units (P104).
P905 Peak Clearance
This parameter is used to set the height by which the DATEM trace will
“stand-off” from the peak of unwanted echoes such as obstructions. Please
consult Pulsar Measurement for further information and assistance on
changing the value of this parameter.
P906 Side Clearance
This parameter is used to set the distance by which the DATEM trace will
“stand-off” from around unwanted echoes such as obstructions. Please
consult Pulsar Measurement for further information and assistance on
changing the value of this parameter.
P70 DATEM Speed
This parameter is used to the speed in which the DATEM trace will react.
Please consult Pulsar Measurement for further information and assistance on
changing the value of this parameter.
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
0 = Slow (Default)
Datem updates to changes on an echo at a slow
rate.
1 = Medium
Datem updates to changes on an echo at a
medium rate.
2 = Fast
Datem updates to changes on an echo at a fast
rate.
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Volume
The dBi-M allows the user to select from a variety of volume calculation
features, with 11 programmable vessel shapes. See Vessel Shape (P600) for
more information. For each vessel, you will need to know the dimensions
(P601-603) in Measurement Units (P104) which are required to calculate
the volume (P604) which will be displayed in the selected Volume Units
(P605).
If your vessel shape does not correspond with any of the programmable
vessel shapes, then you can use the universal calculations. For this you will
need a level/volume graph or chart provided by the vessel manufacturer or
you can create one based on the dimensions of the vessel. You can enter up
to 32 pairs of breakpoints, and the more you enter, the greater accuracy of
the volume calculation will be.
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Conversion
P600 Vessel Shape
This parameter determines which vessel shape is used when utilising
“Volume Conversion”.
The choices are as shown in the table below, along with the dimensions that
are required to be entered (P601-P603).
VESSEL SHAPE
P600 VALUE DESCRIPTION
DIMENSIONS
P600 = 0 (Default)
Cylindrical Flat Base
Cylinder diameter
P600 = 1 Rectangular Flat
Base
Width and Breadth
P600 = 2 Cylindrical Cone
Base
Cylinder diameter
and height of
bottom
P600 = 3 Rectangular Flat
Base
Width and Breadth
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VESSEL SHAPE
P600 VALUE DESCRIPTION
DIMENSIONS
P600 = 4 Parabola Base
Cylinder diameter
and height of
bottom
P600 = 5 Cylindrical halfsphere Base
Cylinder diameter
P600 = 6 Cylindrical Sloped
Base
Cylinder diameter
and height of
bottom
P600 = 7 Rectangular flat
sloped base
Width and breadth
of rectangular
section and height
of bottom
P600 = 8 Horizontal
cylinder with flat ends
Cylinder diameter
and tank length
P600 = 9 Horizontal
cylinder with parabolic
ends
Cylinder diameter,
length of one end
and section, and
tank length
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VESSEL SHAPE
P600 VALUE DESCRIPTION
DIMENSIONS
P600 = 10 Sphere
Sphere diameter
P600 = 11 Universal linear
No dimensions
required as level,
and volume
breakpoints are
used
P600 =12 Universal curved
No dimensions
required as level,
and volume
breakpoints are
used
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P601-P603 Vessel Dimensions
These three parameters are used to enter the dimension required to
calculate the volume. The dimensions required are as shown below and are
entered Measurements Units (P104).
VESSEL SHAPE
P601
P602
P603
P600 = 0
Cylindrical flat base
Cylinder
Diameter
Not required
Not required
P600 = 1
Rectangular flat base
Not required
Width of
rectangle
Breadth of
rectangle
P600 = 2
Cylindrical cone base
Height of
base
Width of
rectangle
Not required
P600 =3
Rectangular pyramid base
Height of
base
Width of
rectangle
Breadth of
rectangle
P600 = 4
Cylindrical parabola base
Height of
base
Cylinder
diameter
Not required
P600 = 5
Cylindrical half sphere base
Cylinder
diameter
Not required
Not required
P600 = 6
Cylindrical flat sloped base
Height of
base
Cylinder
diameter
Not required
P600 = 7
Rectangular flat sloped base
Height of
base
Width of
rectangle
Breadth of
rectangle
P600 = 8
Horizontal cylinder flat ends
Length of
cylinder
Cylinder
diameter
Not required
P600 = 9
Horizontal cylinder parabolic
ends
Length of
cylinder
Cylinder
diameter
Length of
one end
P600 = 10
Sphere
Sphere
diameter
Not required
Not required
P604 Calculated Volume
This parameter displays the maximum volume that has been calculated by
the dBi-M firmware and is a Read Only parameter. The volume displayed will
be shown in cubic meters and is the total volume available between empty
level (P105) and 100% of span (P106).
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P605 Volume Units
This parameter determines the units that you wish to display, for volume
conversion. It is used in conjunction with P607 (maximum volume), and the
units are shown on the display (subject to P810). The choices are:
OPTION
DESCRIPTION
0 = No units
Volume will be totalised with no units
1 = Tons
Volume will be totalised in Tons
2 = Tonnes
Volume will be totalised in Tonnes
3 = Cubic metres (Default)
Volume will be totalised in Cubic metres
4 = Litres
Volume will be totalised in Litres
5 = UK Gallons
Volume will be totalised in UK Gallons
6 = US Gallons
Volume will be totalised in US Gallons
7 = Cubic Feet
Volume will be totalised in Cubic Feet
8 = Barrels
Volume will be totalised in Barrels
P606 Correction Factor
This parameter is used to enter a correction factor, when required, such as
the specific gravity of the material so that the volume calculated is relative to
the actual amount of material that can be contained between empty level
(P105) and 100% of span (P106). Default = 1
P607 Max Volume
This parameter displays the actual maximum volume that has been
calculated by the dBi-M PC software, i.e., P604 Calculated Volume x P606
Correction Factor, and is a Read Only parameter. The volume will be shown
in P605 Volume Units and is the total volume available between empty
level (P105) and 100% of span (P106).
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Breakpoints
P610-P641 Level/Volume Breakpoints
These parameters are used to create a profile of the vessel when P600=11
(universal linear) or P600=12 (universal curved). You should enter
breakpoints in pairs, a reading for level and its corresponding volume. The
more pairs you enter, the more accurate the profile will be. In the case of
universal linear, then enter the level/volume at each of the points where the
vessel changes shape. In the case of the universal curved, enter values
around each arc tangent, as well as at the top and bottom.
You must enter at least two pairs, and you can enter up to 16 pairs.
Universal Linear (P600=11)
This volume calculation creates a linear approximation of the level/volume
relationship and works best if the vessel has sharp angles between each
section.
You should enter a level/volume breakpoint for each place where the vessel
changes direction, and numerous where the section is slightly curved (mostly
linear but has got a small arc). You can enter any number of pairs between 2
and 16.
Volume
Level
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58
Universal Curved (P600=12)
This volume calculation creates a curved approximation of the level/volume
relationship, and works best if the vessel is non-linear, and there are no
sharp angles.
You should enter 2 level/volume breakpoints at the minimum and maximum
levels, and several for each place where the vessel has got an arc. You can
enter any number of pairs between 2 and 16.
P696 Reset Breakpoints
This parameter allows the resetting, to the default value, of all previously set
breakpoints (P610-641), without having to access them individually. When it
is necessary to reset or amend breakpoints this can be achieved by directly
accessing the desired parameter (P610-641) and changing as required.
P697 Number of Breakpoints Set
This parameter allows you to review the number of breakpoints that have
been set, without the need to access each individual one in turn, this is a
“Read Only” parameter and no values can be entered.
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CHAPTER 6 MODBUS
Modbus Protocol
The exchange of information between Master and Slave devices is done
using the Modbus RTU communication protocol (19200-8E1). This protocol
allows read and write operations over Registers allocated in the dBi-M unit.
The protocol includes (among others) an 8-bit field defined as Device
Address, a 8-bit field defined as Function Code, a 16-bit field defined as
Register Address, and 32-bit field(s) defined as Register(s).
Device Address
Each Modbus slave has a unique Modbus address. The Modbus protocol
defines the address range limits as 1 to 247. However, the dBi-M Series will
support an address range of 1 to 126. The device address used by the dBiM is set using the parameter shown below:
PAR.
NO.
OPTIONS
DESCRIPTION
2X 16BIT REGISTER
ADDRESS
P133
1 to 126
Device Address – Enter
the Modbus device
number for the dBi-M
transducer.
2116-2117
Function Codes
Pulsar dBi-M Modbus Protocol supports functions 3, 4, 6 and 16. These
registers are listed below:
FUNCTION CODE
FUNCTION DESCRIPTIONS
PLC ADDRESS
03
Read holding registers
40XXX
04
Read Input registers
30XXX
06
Write to a single register
40XXX
16
Write to multiple registers
40XXX
Important Notice
Out of the box the dBi-M is set to the following Modbus Protocol:
Modbus ID = 126
Serial setup: 19200 – 8 – E - 1
Note: Only Slave operation with Modbus RTU is available.
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
60
Register Address
The register address is a unique identification of a register in the unit. The
addresses of different types of registers are listed in the following sections. It
is worth to mention that some Modbus Master modules could implement an
offset of 1 in the addressing system (Base 0 or Base 1). If this is the case and
you want to read/write a register with address X, you must set in your
system the address X+1.
Registers
Every Register in the dBi-M is a 32-bit float (4 bytes length) formatted as
little endian (little endian registers, little endian bytes in the register). Even
the integer registers must be read in the same format (4 bytes float little
endian). In other words, for the registers with an integer value, you must
expect an integer value in float format.
There are two types of Registers in the unit, defined as Runtime Registers
and Configuration registers (or Parameters). Each of these types or registers
are stored in different memory maps inside the dBi-M unit, and they are
accessed (write/read operations) with different Modbus Function Codes.
Addressing 32-bit Registers on dBi-M
The floating registers can be alternatively accessed using the mirrored
addresses above 2000.
The following information and examples depict how to read/write to the 32Bit dBi-M registers using 16-Bit registers.
Reading/Writing 32-Bit dBi-M registers using 16-Bit registers
Non-consecutive addresses
Holding Registers
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Consecutive addresses
Configuration Registers:
• P0 to P999 (P= Parameter)
• Read using the FC 3 (Function Code) – Read Holding Registers.
• Write using:
o FC 6 – Cannot be used to write 32-bit registers.
o FC 16 – Write single or multiple 32-bit registers.
Runtime Registers:
• R0 to R255 (R = Register)
• Read using the FC 4 – Read Input Register
• Read Only
Holding Registers
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
62
Runtime Registers (Input Registers)
The first table below presents the unit symbols and their corresponding
descriptions for the Runtime Registers. The second table shows the
addresses, descriptions, and units of the Runtime Registers. These registers
are ‘Read Only’ and can be accessed using the Function Code 4.
Example:
You wish to know the current value for Distance.
Search for register address 4 using the Function code 4 and the information
will then be displayed.
UNIT
DEFINITION
U_NO
None
U_MU
Measurement Unit
U_PC
Percentage
U_VU
Volumetric Unit
V_TP
Degree C
U_MN
Minutes
32BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
2X 16BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
UNIT
000
2000-2001
Level
U_MU
001
2002-2003
Echo Status
U_NO
002
2004-2005
Echo strength
U_PC
003
2006-2007
Temperature
U_TP
004
2008-2009
Distance
U_MU
005
2010-2011
Volume
U_MN
006
2012-2013
Space
U_MU
007
2014-2015
Level/Distance/Space or Volume
(dependent on what P100 is set to)
U_MU
or U_VU
016
2032-2033
Minimum Temperature
U_TP
017
2034-2035
Maximum Temperature
U_TP
200
*2200
Transducer Type (P101)
U_NO
*This 16bit integer register is formatted as big endian (big endian bytes in
the register).
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Configuration/Holding Registers (Parameters)
The first table presents the unit symbols and their corresponding
descriptions for the Configuration Registers (Parameters). The second table
shows the addresses, descriptions, and units of the Configuration Registers.
These registers are read/write (see Chapter 5 for details of each parameter),
and can be accessed using the Function Codes 3, 6 and 16.
Example:
You wish to know the current value for Empty Level. Search for register
address 105 with Function 3 and the information will then be displayed.
UNIT
DEFINITION
U_NO
None
U_MU
Measurement Unit
U_PC
Percentage
U_VU
Volumetric Unit
U_TP
Degree C
U_MN
Minutes
U_VEL
m/sec
U_MV
Millivolt
Application
32BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
2X 16BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
UNIT
100
2052-2053
Mode
U_NO
101
2054-2055
Transducer
U_NO
102
2056-2057
Material
U_NO
104
2058-2059
Measurement Unit
U_NO
105
2060-2061
Empty level
U_MU
106
2062-2063
Span
U_MU
107
2064-2065
Near blanking
U_MU
108
2066-2067
Far blanking
U_PC
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
64
Data Logs
32BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
2X 16BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
UNIT
580
2118-2119
Minimum Temperature
U_TP
583
2124-2125
Maximum Temperature
U_TP
586
2130-2131
Current Temperature
U_TP
940
2266-2267
Number of Starts
U_NO
Compensation
32BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
2X 16BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
UNIT
851
2228-2229
Measurement Offset
U_MU
852
2230-2231
Temperature Source
U_NO
854
2232-2233
Fixed Temperature
U_TP
860
2234-2235
Velocity
U_VEL
645
2212-2213
Vapour Compensation
U_NO
Stability
32BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
2X 16BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
UNIT
870
2236-2237
Fill Damping
U_MU
871
2238-2239
Empty Damping
U_MU
881
2240-2241
Fixed Distance
U_MU
884
2242-2243
Peak Percentage
U_NO
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System
32BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
2X 16BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
UNIT
808
2218-2219
Failsafe Mode
U_NO
809
2220-2221
Failsafe Timer
U_MN
930
2258-2259
Default Parameters
U_NO
951
2278-2279
Alarm Low Limit
U_MU
952
2280-2281
Alarm High Limit
U_MU
953
2282-2283
Alarm Save Trace
U_NO
133
2116-2117
Poll Address
U_NO
950
2276-2277
LOE Save Trace
U_NO
DATEM
32BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
2X 16BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
UNIT
020
2012-2013
Reset Datem
U_NO
021
2014-2015
Set Distance
U_MU
905
2244-2245
Peak Clearance
U_NO
906
2246-2247
Side Clearance
U_MU
070
2034-2035
Datem Speed
U_NO
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
66
Volume
32BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
2X 16BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
UNIT
600
2132-2133
Vessel Shape
U_NO
601
2134-2135
Vessel Dimension A
U_MU
602
2136-2137
Vessel Dimension B
U_MU
603
2138-2139
Vessel Dimension C
U_MU
604
2140-2141
Cal Vol m3 (Read Only)
U_VU
605
2142-2143
Volume Units
U_NO
606
2144-2145
Correction Factor
U_NO
607
2146-2147
Max Volume (Read Only)
U_VU
610
2148-2149
Level Breakpoint 1
U_MU
611
2150-2151
Volume Breakpoint 1
U_VU
612
2152-2153
Level Breakpoint 2
U_MU
613
2154-2155
Volume Breakpoint 2
U_VU
614
2156-2157
Level Breakpoint 3
U_MU
615
2158-2159
Volume Breakpoint 3
U_VU
616
2160-2161
Level Breakpoint 4
U_MU
617
2162-2163
Volume Breakpoint 4
U_VU
618
2164-2165
Level Breakpoint 5
U_MU
619
2166-2167
Volume Breakpoint 5
U_VU
620
2168-2169
Level Breakpoint 6
U_MU
621
2170-2171
Volume Breakpoint 6
U_VU
622
2172-2173
Level Breakpoint 7
U_MU
623
2174-2175
Volume Breakpoint 7
U_VU
624
2176-2177
Level Breakpoint 8
U_MU
625
2178-2179
Volume Breakpoint 8
U_VU
626
2180-2181
Level Breakpoint 9
U_MU
627
2182-2183
Volume Breakpoint 9
U_VU
628
2184-2185
Level Breakpoint 10
U_MU
629
2186-2187
Volume Breakpoint 10
U_VU
630
2188-2189
Level Breakpoint 11
U_MU
631
2190-2191
Volume Breakpoint 11
U_VU
632
2192-2193
Level Breakpoint 12
U_MU
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32BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
2X 16BIT
REGISTER
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
UNIT
633
2194-2195
Volume Breakpoint 12
U_VU
634
2196-2197
Level Breakpoint 13
U_MU
635
2198-2199
Volume Breakpoint 13
U_VU
636
2200-2201
Level Breakpoint 14
U_MU
637
2202-2203
Volume Breakpoint 14
U_VU
638
2204-2205
Level Breakpoint 15
U_MU
639
2206-2207
Volume Breakpoint 15
U_VU
640
2208-2209
Level Breakpoint 16
U_MU
641
2210-2211
Volume Breakpoint 16
U_VU
697
2216-2217
Reset Breakpoints
U_NO
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
68
Echo Status (register 1)
BIT
NAME
VALUE 0 DESCRIPTION
VALUE 1 DESCRIPTION
1
Voltage
Voltage is greater than or
equal to 4V DC
Voltage is less than 4V
DC
2
Temperature Error
When P852 = 3 (Fixed)
Or
P852 = 1 (Automatic)
or 2 (Transducer)
When P852 = 3 (Fixed)
Or
P852 = 1 (Automatic) or 2
(Transducer) and is inside
limits (-45°C< to <85°C)
When it is outside its
limits
3
Fail Safe
Signal is valid
Failed safe condition
4
LOE
Signal is valid
LOE Fail (after P809 has
expired)
5
LOE High
Signal is valid
LOE fail (after P809 has
expired) and P808 = 2
(Fail high)
6
LOE Low
Signal is valid
LOE fail (after P809 has
expired) and P808 = 3
(Fail low)
7
Alarm
When P953 is set to 0
(On alarm save trace to
flash is OFF)
Or
P953 is not 0 (Once) or 2
(Repeatedly) when R7 is
inside limits (P951 <=R7
<= P952)
When R7 is outside its
limits
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CHAPTER 7 TROUBLESHOOTING
This section describes many common symptoms, with suggestions as to
what to do. If the issue persists, please contact your local Pulsar
Measurement Partner.
SYMPTOM
WHAT TO DO
Transducer not firing.
Check power supply to the transducer, and
any cable extensions.
Unable to connect to dBi-M PC
Ensure the dBi-M connections are correct,
the comport is set correctly. And
search/poll has been pressed. If issue
persists, try another comport for
connecting the interface cable.
Unable to view echo trace
Ensure that the transducer is connected
and has been polled. Press the Regular
Echo Off button.
dBi-M does not appear on Modbus
list
Ensure that the poll address is different to
the master and any other slave addresses
connected. By default, the dBi-M address
is set to 126. This can be changed in P133.
Incorrect reading being displayed
for current level.
Make a connection to dBi-M PC, measure
actual distance from transducer head to
surface of material. Use the function P21 in
common settings to set the distance that is
required to be measured.
Material level is consistently
incorrect by the same amount.
Check empty level, (P105), Span (P106) and
measurement offset (P851).
If you experience any other issues that are not mentioned in the above
troubleshooting guide, please contact your local Pulsar Measurement
Partner for further assistance.
dBi-M INSTRUCTION MANUAL
70
CHAPTER 8 DISPOSAL
Incorrect disposal can cause adverse effects to the environment.
Dispose of the device components and packaging material in accordance
with regional environmental regulations including regulations for electrical \
electronic products.
Transducers
Remove power, disconnect the Transducer, cut off the electrical cable and
dispose of cable and Transducer in accordance with regional environmental
regulations for electrical \ electronic products.
Controllers
Remove power, disconnect the Controller, and remove battery (if fitted).
Dispose of Controller in accordance with regional environmental regulations
for electrical \ electronic products.
Dispose of batteries in accordance with regional environmental regulations
for batteries.
EU WEEE Directive Logo
This symbol indicates the requirements of Directive 2012/19/EU regarding
the treatment and disposal of waste from electric and electronic equipment.
PULSAR MEASUREMENT
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Registered Address: 1 Chamberlain Square CS, Birmingham B3 3AX
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