Quatrosense Environmental Ltd. QEL M-CONTROLLER Series Universal 40 Sensor Digital-Analog Controllers, QEL M-RELAY Series Remote Relay Modules Manual

M-CONTROLLER

& M-RELAY

MONITOR AND CONTROL SYSTEM

INSTALLATION

OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

MANUAL

QUATROSENSE ENVIRONMENTAL LTD.

5935 OTTAWA STREET, PO BOX 749 RICHMOND, ONTARIO CANADA K0A

PHONE: [phone] FAX: [phone]

Web: www.QELsafety.com Email: [e-mail]

2Z0

1 GLOSSARY............................................................................................................... 4

2 GENERAL SYSTEM OVERVIEW........................................................................ 5

3 M- CONTROLLER SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................... 6

4 M-CONTROLLER ANALOG OUTPUT OPTION CARD ................................. 8

4.1 S

4.2 C

4.3 I

PECIFICATIONS

OMMON RETURN LINE

SOLATING THE SIGNALS

................................................................................................... 8

....................................................................................... 8

...................................................................................... 8

5 M-RELAY-5 AMP SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................. 9

6 M-CONTROLLER FUNCTIONS ........................................................................ 10

6.1 S

YSTEM SETUP

................................................................................................... 10

6.1.1 Miscellaneous ........................................................................................... 10

6.1.2 Calibrations .............................................................................................. 10

6.2 R

ELAY CONFIGURATIONS

.................................................................................. 10

6.2.1 Common Functions ................................................................................... 10

6.2.2 Voting........................................................................................................ 11

6.2.3 Averaging.................................................................................................. 11

6.2.4 Sensor Configuration ................................................................................ 12

6.3 A

NALOG INPUT CONFIGURATION

....................................................................... 12

7 SENSORS AND ADDRESSING ........................................................................... 13

8 ANALOG INPUTS AND ADDRESSING ............................................................ 13

9 M-RELAY FUNCTIONS AND ADDRESSING .................................................. 14

10 KEYPAD OPERATION AND CONFIGURING THE DATABASES .......... 15

10.1 S

TATUS VIEW AND ACKNOWLEDGE COMMANDS

............................................... 16

11 DATABASE CONFIGURATION MENU TREE............................................ 20

11.1 E

11.2 C

11.3 A

11.4 C

11.5 T

11.6 H

11.7 M

11.8 M

11.9 M

11.10 M

11.11 M

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 2 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

XPLANATION OF DISPLAY

HANGE PASSWORD

CQUIRE COMPUTER

ALIBRATION DISABLE

ESTING (FORCE OUTPUTS

OW TO CREATE DATABASE

ODIFY SENSOR DATABASE

ODIFY ANALOG INPUT DATABASE

ODIFY RELAY DATABASE

ODIFY RELAY SENSOR ASSIGNMENTS

ODIFY RELAY STYLES

................................................................................ 21

.......................................................................................... 21

......................................................................................... 21

...................................................................................... 22

) ............................................................................... 22

............................................................................. 23

.............................................................................. 24

............................................................................... 25

................................................................................. 27

.................................................................. 25

........................................................ 26

11.12 M

11.13 M

11.14 M

11.15 S

ODIFY BUZZER DATABASE

ODIFY STROBE DATABASE

ODIFY ANALOG OUTPUT DATABASE

YSTEM SETTINGS

......................................................................................... 30

......................................................................... 28

.......................................................................... 28

.......................................................... 28

11.15.1 Operating Configuration ...................................................................... 30

11.15.2 Calibration............................................................................................ 30

12 COMPUTER INTERFACE: PROGRAMMING AND AUDITING ............. 32

12.1 M-V

12.2 I

PROGRAM WILL REMOVE IT FIRST, THEN RUN SETUP.EXE AGAIN TO INSTALL THE LATEST

VERSION

12.2 M-C

IEW

............................................................................................................. 32

F YOUR COMPUTER INSTALLED PREVIOUS VERSION

M-V

IEW

. M-C

ONTROLLER SETUP

ONTROLLER SETUP

..................................................................................... 34

................................................................... 33

M-V

IEW, THE SETUP

13 MODBUS PROTOCOL SUPPORTED BY M-CONTROLLER................... 35

13.1 S

13.2 F

ERIAL TRANSMISSION MODE

UNCTION CODE SUPPORTED BY

........................................................................... 35

M-C

ONTROLLER

............................................ 35

14 POWER SUPPLY AND WIRING .................................................................... 40

14.1 P

14.2 T

14.3 S

14.4 A

14.5 A

14.6 G

14.7 RS-485 I

14.8 RS-422 I

OWER REQUIREMENTS

RANSFORMERS

TROBE AND HORN

NALOG OUTPUT ISOLATION

NALOG INPUT NOT ISOLATED

ROUNDING

NSTALLATION

NSTALLATION

................................................................................................. 41

....................................................................................................... 43

..................................................................................... 40

............................................................................................ 41

...................................................................................... 43

...................................................................................... 44

............................................................................. 42

.......................................................................... 42

15 TROUBLESHOOTING HINTS........................................................................ 45

WARRANTY STATEMENT ........................................................................................ 46

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 3 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

1 Glossary

Actuate/De-Actuate: These terms are used instead of ‘make’ and ‘break’ to allow us to
distinguish between performing an action due to an environmental condition and whether
the contact may be closed (‘made’) or open (‘break’) because of our use of double throw
contacts, and the option of normally energized relays.

Averaging: When setting alarms, the alarm can be set to operate on the basis of the
average signal assigned to that relay. It must be the same gas range.

Baud rate: A measure of the speed at which data is transferred over a digital
communication link. Given as bit per second (bps). Generally the lower the speed, the
more reliable.

bps: See Baud rate

Characteristic Impedance: The effects of capacitance and inductance of a pair of wires

expressed as an equivalent resistance.

Configuration Database: System configuration requires entering a great deal of
information concerning relay operation, sensor type and so on.

Download: Send data files ‘down’ to a slave device as from a computer to the
M-Controller.

Dry Contacts: The relay contacts are supplied without power applied to any output
terminal.

Normally Energized: The relay coil is energized in the non-alarm state. This is
sometimes referred to as ‘fail-safe’ because in the case of controller failure or loss of
power, the relay contacts will open.

Normally Open Contacts: In the non-alarm state, but under power, the contacts are
open.

Latching: A relay once actuated remains actuated even though the condition has been
removed. Requires a manual operation to reset.

Protocol: The actual language of communication between devices, as distinguished from
the electrical standard.

RS-422(properly EIA-422): A wiring and electrical standard for digital communication
in a multi drop environment. It is a 4-wire system equivalent to two RS-485 links,
available in one cable. It allows communication transmission on one pair and receiving
on the other.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 4 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

RS-485 (properly EIA-485): A wiring and electrical standard for digital communication
in a multi drop environment. It is a 2-wire system, with a differential signal allowing
relative immunity to variations in grounds between devices. RS-485: maximum 32
transceivers per loop, 4000 ft (1300 meters) max. 120 ohm line termination required.
(Line termination resistors are available on all M-Series devices via selectable jumpers).

Stub: A short wiring link branching from the main line.

Upload: Sending data files ‘up’ to a master device, as to a computer.

Voting: When more than one sensor and setpoint is assigned to a relay, then voting

defines how many must reach the setpoint before the relay actuates.

Window: When we want the relay to actuate between two setpoints. e.g. with setpoints at
50 and 100, the fan will operate only between 50 and 100. Not a feature of M-Controller.

2 General System Overview

QEL’s M-Series gas monitoring system is a set of remote sensors and relay control
modules tied together and controlled by the M-Controller. M-Series sensor/transmitters
comprise a group of remote mountable sensors complete with electronics, most of which
have both analog and digital communications, and most of which have display and
onboard relay options.

The M-Controller is a flexible programmable controller with capability to work with up
to 32 M-Series digital sensor/transmitters and up to 8 analog (4-20 milliamps) linear
input signals for a total of 40 sensors. With three on-board relays, the controller can also
direct up to 12 remote relay modules (M_Relay), each of which may have up to 8 relays.
With the same RS-485 interface, the controller can also communicate with M-Series
Annunciator Panel (MAP) that is a device, located at some distance from the M­Controller and provides a user an audible and visual indication of the status of the M­Controller. The M-Controller can also work with M-NET so that the M-Controller can
communicate with serial devices over a LAN or WAN by using TCP/IP or UDP/IP
protocol, this allows traditional Windows PC software, such as M-View, access to M­Controller anywhere on the LAN/WAN network.
Additional features include 24 VDC transistor outputs for strobe light and horn, RS-422
connection for a MODBUS RTU master for data collection, and an RJ-11 phone jack for
uploading and downloading the configuration database through RS-232 or Ethernet with
M-Net. The configuration may be altered either through a computer or through the front
panel keypad.

Power supply is designed for 24VAC or 24 VDC for all devices in the system. QEL can
supply a transformer for external mounting sized to the application if requested. See
below.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 5 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

3 M- Controller Specifications

Power Supply:

Voltage: 24V ± 4V AC or DC
AC Power must be non-grounded (Floating)

Amps: Controller: 0.9 A
Strobe & Horn 0.6 A
Max Load per channel 2.0 A
Max Allowed through controller 10.0A

Total actual power is dependent on the system design. Power may be supplied to
sensors and relay modules through the M-Controller or each may have separate

power supplies. Each type of sensor varies in it’s power requirements

NOTE: C

VOLTAGE ONLY

VOLTAGE INPUT INTO A

SENSORS

ERTAIN

.

. T

QEL

HE

M-C

AND OTHER DEVICES OPERATE ON

ONTROLLER DOES

DC

VOLTAGE OUTPUT FOR THE REMOTE

NOT

24 VDC I
24 VAC I

NPUT

NPUT

= 24 VDC O
= 24 VAC O

UTPUT

UTPUT

E.G

. T

HE

QTS-1710

O

NLY

.

Enclosure: NEMA 1, steel, epoxy painted black

Keypad: 4 x 4 tactile & audible keypad

Display: 2 x 16 character display c/w backlight

Panel Indicators: 5 Status LED’s (Red)

LED1: Relay 1
LED2: Relay 2
LED3: Relay 3
LED4: Hush
LED5: Fault

On-Board Relays: 3 Relays DPDT, Dry contacts

5 amp resistive 240VAC, 30 VDC

3.7 amp inductive 240VAC, 30 VDC

AND

QTS-6000

OPERATE ON

.

DC

CONVERT AN

DC

VOLTAGE

AC

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 6 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Horn & Strobe: 24VDC terminals are supplied for connection to standard strobe

and horn set. 6 watts each.

On-Board Buzzer: 90 db at 30 cm, 2700 Hz

Buzzer 1: Continuous
Buzzer 2: Double-tap Intermittent
Buzzer 3: Intermittent 50% duty cycle

Remote Devices: 4 Ports

24VAC/DC
RS-485

Modbus Slave Port: RS-422

Responds as a Modbus Slave using RTU protocol. M-Controller
supplies read status information only.

Note: Check the U10 RS-422 drive chip (close to the RS-422
Terminal Block), if the chip is DS8921, the terminal TB11
labels correctly; if the chip is SN75179, the terminal TB11 TX+
and TX- should be inverse.

RS-232 Interface: RJ-11 Telephone jack.

Disables the RS-422 port. Can be used for MODBUS RTU.
Primarily used for uploading and downloading large configuration
databases.

Analog Output: Optional added circuit card to support 8 channels of 4-20

milliamps. The signals may be isolated as a group by using a
separate isolating transformer (supplied by others) as necessary.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 7 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

4 M-Controller Analog Output Option Card

The M-Controller has an optional card for eight channels of 4 – 20 milliamp analog
outputs. These will drive into a minimum of 700 ohms with a power supply of 24 VDC.
Each analog output may be defined in complex ways allowing averaging of input signals
or peak among input signals and assignment of different values to both 4 milliamps and
20 milliamps. You may even assign a gas concentration to 4 milliamps which is higher
than the concentration assigned to 20 milliamps. The M-Controller will draw a straight
line between.

4.1 Specifications

Power Supply:

Voltage: 24 VAC/VDC
AC Power must be non-grounded (Floating)
Amps: 0.25
Isolatable System

Outputs:

8 Channels
4 – 20 milliamps
Common Return

Working Mode:

• Averaging Mode: Output the current according the averaging value of input
signals

• Peak Mode: Output the current according the peak value among the input signals

4.2 Common Return Line

The eight channels have a common return line to circuit card negative.

4.3 Isolating the Signals

It is possible to isolate the Analog Output signals from the M-Controller by supplying the
circuit card from a second – external – power supply. i.e. If your monitor or other device
has a different ground than the M-Controller, then supplying another transformer
(floating) or DC supply grounded at the second ground allows the card to operate
independently.

Note: There are two field changeable shunts/jumpers on the circuit card which key
for either internal power (supplied from M-Controller) or external power. It is

essential that these be set appropriately.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 8 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Factory default is Internal Power.

5 M-Relay-5 Amp Specifications

Power Supply:

Voltage: 24VAC/VDC

Amps: 2 Relays 0.10 A
4 Relays 0.15 A
6 Relays 0.20 A
8 Relays 0.25 A

Relay Contacts:
Double Pole Double Throw
240 VAC/ 30 VDC 5 Amps Resistive

3.7 Amps Inductive

Communications:
RS-485

Protocol/Compatibility:
OptoMux/ M-Controller subset

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 9 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

6 M-Controller Functions

6.1 System Setup

6.1.1

Password: Default password is 4321.

Baud rate: Host Computer bps: default baud rate is 57K6 bps

Baud rate: Remote Sensor bps: default baud rate is 4800 bps

Screen Scroll Rate: in normal operation the sensor and relay status information scrolls

automatically. Set the number of seconds for each item to be displayed.

LCD Backlight Mode: The LCD backlight can be set to always Off, always On and
Power Saver. In Power Saving mode, the backlight will turn On for 10 seconds after any
key has been pressed. Default setting is power saving mode.

6.1.2

These values are established during factory calibration and should not require
recalibration in the field. Do not attempt to modify these settings in the field.

Miscellaneous

Calibrations

Analog Input 4 mA
Analog Input 20 mA

Analog Output 4 mA
Analog output 20 mA

6.2 Relay Configurations

Relay configurations may be styled in two basic ways: Voting and Averaging. Each
method allows certain advantages and limitations. Common functions apply to both
styles.

6.2.1

Delay on Actuation (‘Delay on Make’). For each relay a separate time delay may be set

up to 60 minutes before an alarm condition will cause the relay to actuate. Default is 00
minutes

Delay on De-Actuation (‘Delay on Break’). For each relay a separate time delay may be
set up to 60 minutes before a return to a non-alarming signal condition will cause the
relay to de-actuate. Default is 00 minutes.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 10 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Common Functions

Normally/Not-Normally Energized. Each relay may be individually set to be Normally
or Not Normally Energized.

Latching: Each relay may be set to latch in Actuate status until acknowledged by a front­panel action. Hold the “Clear” key for 3 seconds.

6.2.2

Voting

Voting Number: For a given list of sensors assigned to a relay actuation list, this number
indicates the minimum number of sensors which must pass or equal their alarm “On”
concentration before the relay will actuate.

Assign Sensor: Each relay may be assigned to any one or more of the enabled sensors or
analog inputs in the database.

If On Concentration is great than or equal to Off Concentration:

On Concentration: For each sensor or analog input assigned, set the concentration at or
above which the relay will actuate.

Off Concentration: For each sensor or analog input assigned, set the concentration at or
below which the relay will de-actuate.

If On Concentration is less than Off Concentration:

On Concentration: For each sensor or analog input assigned, set the concentration
below which the relay will actuate.

Off Concentration: For each sensor or analog input assigned, set the concentration
above which the relay will de-actuate.

Fault Actuation Flag: For each sensor set this flag for actuation if the sensor reports
Fault or drops off-line. In case of a dedicated Fail relay, then set the On and Off
concentrations to zero (0) to disable actuation on gas concentration for that sensor.

6.2.3

Averaging

Averaging is default. Voting is disabled and Voting Number is forbidden automatically.
Input values to “Average On”, “Average Off”. Note that the user must assign sensors
with the same gas type and same units only.

If Average On is great than or equal to Average Off:

Average On: The gas concentration at or above which the average of all the sensors
assigned to this relay will cause the relay to actuate.

Average Off: The gas concentration at or below which the average of all the sensors
assigned to this relay will cause the relay to de-actuate.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 11 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

If Average On is less than Average Off:

Average On: The gas concentration at or below which the average of all the sensors
assigned to this relay will cause the relay to actuate.

Average Off: The gas concentration at or above which the average of all the sensors
assigned to this relay will cause the relay to de-actuate.

6.2.4

Sensor Configuration

Sensor Enable: The M-Controller must be told that a sensor is attached to the
communication system.

Gas Type: The M-Controller is told what gas type to expect. It will compare this with
what the sensor reports and will flag a fault if they don’t agree. . It can also be customer
defined Gas Type with not more than 3 characters. This function is only supported with
M-View, you can not input customer defined gas type though keypads. When the Gas
Type is customer defined, the M-Controller will not check the mismatch of Gas Type.

Gas Units: The M-Controller must be told what units of measurement to display. It can
also be customer defined Gas Unit with not more than 3 characters. This function is only
supported with M-View, you can not input customer defined gas unit though keypads.

6.3 Analog Input Configuration

Channel Enable: The Controller must be told which channels are active.

Gas Type: Set the gas type for the display. It can also be customer defined Gas Type

with not more than 3 characters. This function is only supported with M-View, you can
not input customer defined gas type though keypads. When the Gas Type is customer
defined, the M-Controller will not check the mismatch of Gas Type.

Measure Units: Set the units of measurement for the display. It can also be customer
defined Gas Unit with not more than 3 characters. This function is only supported with
M-View, you can not input customer defined gas unit though keypads.

Measure Range:
Assign the two readings at 4.0 milliamps and 20.0 milliamps input signal. You may even
assign a gas concentration to 4 mA, which is higher than the concentration assigned to 20
milliamps. The M-Controller will draw a straight line between.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 12 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

7 Sensors and Addressing

The term “sensor” used throughout means a digitally communicating sensor unless
otherwise stated

The M-Controller can support up to 32 remote digital sensors.

Acceptable addresses are 0 … 31.

8 Analog Inputs and Addressing

The M-Controller can accept up to 8 analog inputs.

For operating display purposes the controller labels them as A01 to A08.

For relay configuration purposes, they are defined as Sensors 32 … 39.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 13 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

9 M-Relay Functions and Addressing

The M-Relay modules are designed to allow expandability for control to the
M-Controller. Controlled over an RS-485 communication link they allow flexibility in
installation and wiring. They operate from 24 VAC/VDC and may be powered via the
port power of the M-Controller or directly from a local power source.

Each relay module is addressed as a module number from 0 to 11. The module address is
defined on a four-position dipswitch on the circuit card. Each relay module may contain
up to 8 relays.

Relay numbering from the standpoint of the M-Controller is numbered consecutively
with numbers 1, 2 and 3 being the M-Controller internal relays and numbers 4 through 99
the relays in the remote modules.

The following table indicates the relationships.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 14 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

10 Keypad Operation and Configuring the Databases

All database programming and configuration can be done through the front panel keypad,
although this is practical only for short programs and program modifications. The
following discussion and flow charts demonstrate the operation and menu pathways. In
practice you will find that it is easier to use the keypad and menus than it is to read the
reference descriptions. The menus provide prompting at each stage, and only a few rules
need be memorized.

SENSOR

7

ANALOG

INPUT

4

STROBE

1

0

The menu is structured into two sections:

Status View and Acknowledge: A set of quick keypad commands which allow detailed
views of status, and acknowledge and ‘hush’ functions.

Configuration: Password controlled access to all the database setup and configuration
menus.

ANALOG

RELAY

8

OUTPUT

5

BUZZER

2

DELETE

HUSH

9

TEST

6

DETAIL

3

ADD

HOLD

EXIT

CLEAR

ENTER

ACCEPT

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 15 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Front Panel Details

& System Status

KeyPad

Change Password

Acquire Computer

System Settings

Password

Calibration Disable

Testing

Analog Calibration

Sensor Databases

Analog Input

Databases

Relay Databases

Analog Output

Databases

Buzzer, Strobe & Horn

10.1 Status View and Acknowledge Commands

In normal operation the display appears as
follows.

Snn xxxx uu yyyy
Rmm zzz

Where

Snn = the Sensor number/address
Rmm = the Relay number
xxxx = the Gas concentration
uu = units of measure
yyyy = either the gas type, or r1, r2 then indicating Relay 1 and Relay 2 sensor
relays or setpoints (if present) are actuated
zzz = relay status

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 16 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Example

S13 0127 ppm r1 r2
R23 On Delay

Sensor 13 reports 127 ppm. On-sensor
setpoints 1 and 2 have been actuated.

Relay 23 setpoint has been reached, but is
counting through delay before actuation.

S

CROLL AND HOLD

Press up or down to scroll through the display items. Note that the upper line of the
display and the lower are independent, but will scroll at the same time.

Press Hold. The display will stop at that point for 2-3 minutes, displaying the ongoing
status of both top and bottom lines.

View and Hold Status

There are six keyboard short cut commands to view the status of individual devices. Note
the keys labeled Sensor, Relay, Analog Input, or Analog Output. Press the key
followed by the address number (“NN”) then ‘Enter’. The display line will jump to that
device and hold for 2 – 3 minutes. Note that Inputs are assigned to the top line, and
outputs are assigned to the bottom line. It is therefore possible to view and hold an input
and an unrelated output at the same time.

View Sensor Status:

+"NN"

View Relay Status:

+"NN"

Sensor No.:
NN

Relay CH:
NN

SNN xxxx xx xxxx
Rxx xxx

Sxx xxxx xx xxxx
RNN xxx

Sensor Information
top Line Only

Relay Information
Bottom Line Only

View Analog Input Status:

+"N"

View Analog Outputput Status:

+"N"

A_In CH:
NN

A_Out CH:
NN

ANN xxxx xx xxxx
Rxx xxx

Sxx xxxx xx xxxx
ANN xxx

Analog Input
Information
top Line Only

Analog Output
Information
Bottom Line Only

In the case of the Strobe, there is no need to enter an address, as there is no other strobe.

Sxx xxxx xx xxxx
STR xxxxx

Strobe Information
Bottom Line Only

In the case of the Buzzer, as with the Strobe, there is no need to enter an address; pressing
Buzzer again will cycle through the three Buzzer modes.

Buzzer Information

View Buzzer 1-3 Status:

Sxx xxxx xx xxxx
BZ1 xxxxx

Sxx xxxx xx xxxx
BZ2 xxxxx

Bottom Line Only

Sxx xxxx xx xxxx
BZ3 xxxxx

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 17 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

V

IEW OUTPUT DETAILS

It is also possible to get a snap shot view of all the program details for a given output
such as relay, buzzer or strobe. First choose an address either by scrolling through the list
or by directly keying in the address as above. Then press “Details”.

Pressing Details cycles one through three display screens giving the following
information.

View Output Details:

Rxx xx x xx xx x
V.Rate=xx/xx

Rxx xx x xx xx x
D1=xxM D0=xxM

Alarm Sensors:xx
xx xx xx xx

Rxx yy v zz ww L
Where xx = relay number

yy = NE or ND

where NE = Normally Energized

ND = Normally De-Energized
V = V or A
where V = Voting number in Voting Mode
A = Averaging Mode
zz = D1 = On Delay has been set
= DX = Off Delay has not be set
ww = D0 = Off Delay has been set
= DX= Off Delay has not be set

L

= L or nL
where L = latching
nL = non-latching

The first display will show either of the two below depending on whether the relay is in
Voting mode or in Average mode

V. Rate = xx/yy Voting Mode only. e.g. 13/10 indicates that 13 sensors have

passed the alarm threshold of 10 required for voting.

A=xxxx yyyy/zzzz Average Mode only.
Where xxxx = the present measured average concentration
yyyy = the Relay Actuate Average On Concentration
zzzz = the Relay De-Actuate Average On Concentration

The Second display will show the current delay status.

D1 = xxM The number of minutes assigned to the On delay

D0 = xxM The number of minutes assigned to the Off delay

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 18 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

The third “Alarm Sensors” display is only shown if the relay is in Voting Mode

Alarm Sensors xx
yy yy yy yy

Where xx = the actual number of sensors currently in alarm
yy = the list of those sensors which are in alarm.

Press Up or Down keys to scroll through the details for other outputs.

L

ATCHED RELAY RESET

To acknowledge a latched condition, press the Exit/Clear button for 3 seconds. All
latched relays for which the alarm condition has been removed will reset. If the alarm
condition (e.g. high gas concentration) is still present the relay(s) will not reset.

Hold on...
3

Hold on 3 seconds

Reset

all latched relays

H

USH BUZZER AND HORN

Press the Hush button to silence the buzzer and horn.

Hush

Buzzer and Horn

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 19 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

11 Database Configuration Menu Tree

Changing database items is password controlled. Press Enter for 3 seconds. You will
then be prompted for a four-digit password. Once accepted you are into the main menu
tree. Press Up or Down to scroll through the main branch headings. Factory default
password is 4321.

Front Panel Details

& System Status

KeyPad

Password

Change Password

Acquire Computer

System Settings

Calibration Disable

Testing

Analog Calibration

Sensor Databases

Analog Input

Databases

Relay Databases

Analog Output

Databases

Buzzer, Strobe & Horn

Note that while in the Menu Tree, all normal monitoring operations stop. The alarm
status does not change.

Note that when queried (Y/N) in any of the menus Accept = Y and Exit = N

Enter Main Menu

Hold on...
3

Hold on 3 seconds

Enter Password:
XXXX

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 20 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

11.1 Explanation of Display

Change Password
<=CR EX=> 1/11

KEY "UP"

KEY "ENTER"

MENU LEVEL

KEY "DOWN"

KEY "EXIT"

When the LCD displays the four symbols, it means the four keys are available to
access.

11.2 Change Password

Change password allows any combination of up to four digits. WARNING be sure that
you record the new password in a safe and secure location!

Change Password
<=CR EX=> 1/11

Enter

New Password:

Exit

NNNN

Input Again:

Exit

NNNN

New Password
Accepted!

Enter

11.3 Acquire Computer

In order to upload and download databases from a computer (see QEL’s M-View
software package), M-Controller must be told to “acquire” the computer port. The
microprocessor functions for the communications to the computer utilize the same pins
on the microprocessor as for the RS-422 Modbus interface. You can have communication
to the computer based M-View program or you can have communications via RS-422 to
Modbus, but you cannot have both at the same time. In “acquiring the computer” you
disable the RS-422 MODBUS interface. The RS-232 connection through the RJ-11
telephone jack will now be enabled.

It is necessary to exit from the menu tree to enable the monitor to run in normal
operation and to communicate with the computer.

Acquire Computer
<=CR EX=> 2/11

Enter

Computer Port
Active<Y/N>?

Exit

Enter

Active.
Accepted!

Inactive
Accepted!

If the computer port is already inactive, then the screen will query Active (Y/N)? if the
port is already active then the screen will query InActive (Y/N)?

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 21 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

11.4 Calibration Disable

To disable the M-Controller functions for calibration, system testing etc. When operation
is disabled, the relay, strobe, etc., status will freeze in whatever state they are already
in.

CAL DISABLE
<=CR EX=> 4/11

Enter

CAL DISABLE

`

Active <Y/N>?

Exit

Enter

Active.
Accepted!

Inactive
Accepted!

11.5 Testing (Force Outputs)

For system installation testing, it is necessary to force relay, buzzer and strobe actions.
Enter this branch as shown in the flow diagram. Strobe and Horn tests are simple forces
as shown. Relay testing is more complicated

The Relay Testing feature allows the user to force actuation on one or many relays. This
function forces an actuate vs. de-actuate action, not an energized vs. non-energized
action. Therefore the user must be aware of those relays which have been defined as
normally energized or not normally energized. As seen from the flow diagram, one may
continue to add relays to the list as required. Press Enter without choosing an address
number to activate the entire list.

Strobe Test

Exit

4/4

Horn Test

Exit

3/4

Enter

UpDown

Enter

Strobe ON? <CR>

Exit

<EX> Quit.

Horn ON? <CR>

Exit

<EX> Quit.

Enter ON

OFF Enter

Enter ON

OFF Enter

Strobe Off? <CR>

Exit

<EX> Quit.

Horn Off? <CR>

Exit

<EX> Quit.

UpDown

Enter

UpDown

Enter

Add NN Relay
into Queue

Del NN Relay
from Queue

Testing
<=CR EX=> 5/11

Enter

Buzzer Test

Exit

2/4

Relay Test
1/4

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 22 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Buzzer ON? <CR>

Exit

<EX> Quit.

Input Relay No.

ExitExit

NN

Enter ON

OFF Enter

Enter ON

OFF Clear

nn Enter/Add

nn Del

Buzzer Off?<CR>

Exit

<EX> Quit.

Relay Active.
<Clear> to INACT

11.6 How to Create Database

rate, screen scroll rate and LCD Backlight mode.

The base concept is to tell the M-Controller it has sensors and what they are. Then tell the
M-Controller it has relays and how they will function. Finally tell the M-Controller how
the sensors and relays work together.

Following these steps will help you to create your database quickly and easily.

1. Requirements Analysis.

Before you create your database, you should write out a requirements analysis.
A. How many remote sensors are there in your system? For each sensor, list its

address, gas type and unit of measure.

B. How many channels of 4-20mA analog input? List their channel numbers, gas type,

unit of measure, and range of measure.

C. Do you need 4-20mA analog output? if yes, list the concentration of 4mA and the

concentration of 20mA, and what kind of input signal it is? How many input signal?

D. Do you need a remote relay board? 5 amp or 10 amp contacts? What kind of relay

style? (Normally Energized? Latching? voting mode or average mode? time delay?
How many minutes? List assigned sensors)

E. Setup for Buzzer, Horn and Strobe. (voting mode or average mode? Does it need

time delay? How many minutes? List assigned sensors)

F. Setup system settings, such as password, host computer baud rate, remote sensor

baud

2. Enter the database.

The database can be input using M-View which is a database setup software with a
friendly Man Machine Interface running on a PC computer, it supports downloading and
uploading the database to/from M-Controller. The database can also be input through the
keypad on M-Controller.

A. Input data for all remote sensors.
B. Input all analog inputs data.

Note: You must have enabled each required sensor or analog input before you
can assign it to a relay or analog output function.

C. Setup all relay styles.
D. Setup all analog outputs.
E. Setup buzzers and strobe, Setup triggers if a M-Net is equipped.
F. Setup system settings.

In M-View, the trigger database is for M-NET to send an email to alert you that the set
points has been reached. If your system did not install M-NET, you do not need to setup
the trigger database.
Below description is to show you the procedures of setup database through keypad.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 23 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

11.7 Modify Sensor Database

In order to assign a sensor or analog input to any of the output devices (relays, buzzers,
etc) the sensor must already have been enabled in the sensor database.

Enter the Sensor Database branch of the menu tree. You are prompted to enter a sensor
address number. You enter the address by keying in the digits. When accepted you are
then prompted to supply the Gas Type and Units by scrolling through the lists. The
display briefly displays ‘Accepted’ or ‘Deleted’ and returns to the initial prompt screen.

Automatic

Deleted.
Accepted!

Sensor Databases
<=CR EX=> 6/11

Enter NN or Up Down

to browse

Enter

Sxx xxxx xxxx < >

Exit

Sensor No.: NN

Automatic

Del

Enter/Add

Where xxxx xxxx = Gas Type and Units of Measure

Sensor Added.
Accepted!

Units: < >
%VL

Enter

Gas Type: < >

Exit

CO

Enter

Up

Down to

modify

Exit

Up

Down to

modify

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 24 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

11.8 Modify Analog Input Database

Similar to the sensor database, you must have enabled an analog input before it may be
used in the relay and other control databases. The pattern followed is the same except that
you are invited to enter a Reading corresponding the value at 4.0 milliamps and 20.0
milliamps.

Analog_In Added.
Accepted!

Enter

RANGE: < >
NNNN

Enter Exit

Units: < >
%VL

Enter Exit

Gas Type: < >
CO

KEY "Up"

Analog Input
<=CR EX=> 7/11

Enter

Up Down to browse

Axx xxx xxx xxxx

Exit

A_Input CH: NN

Automatic

Automatic

Del

Enter/Add

Deleted.
Accepted!

Exit

Where xxxx xxx xxxx = Gas Type, Units of Measure and Range

11.9 Modify Relay Database

The Relays and other output devices have two related databases: the Style which includes
time delays, voting and so on, and the Sensors which lists the sensors which are assigned
to that relay, together with the alarm settings associated with that sensor as applied to that
relay only.

Rxx xx x xx xx xx
Select Relay: NN

Choose S= Sensor

Relay Databases
<=CR EX=> 8/11

Enter

Relay Detabases

Exit

S=SENSOR R=STYLE

Rxx xx x xx xx xx
Relay No: NN

Choose R=Style

In both cases the next menu item invites you to select the relay number of the relay you
are working with

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 25 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

11.10 Modify Relay Sensor Assignments

In this section you choose a relay number. You are then invited to choose sensors for
assignment to the relay. For each sensor you must supply the Alarm On concentration,
the alarm Off concentration (key in the digits and accept) and whether the relay is to react
to a Fault condition. Note that if the relay is to react to a Fault condition only, then set

both Alarm concentrations to zero. Analog Input channel 1 to channel 8 will be
presented by Sensor 32 to Sensor 39.

Rxx xx x xx xx xx
Select Relay: NN

Up

Down to

browse

relays

Exit

Automatic

Automatic

Enter

Deleted.
Accepted!

Deleted.
Accepted!

Exit

Sxx: xxxx/xxxx x<>
Input Sensor: NN

DEL

Up

Down to

browse

sensors

Enter

Exit

Enter/ADD

Rxx: Sxx OFF:xxxx
Fault = NO ? < >

Enter

Exit

Rxx: Sxx ON: xxxx
Alarm OFF: NNNN

Enter

Exit

Rxx: Sxx xx
Alarm ON: NNNN

Up

Down to

modify

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 26 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

11.11 Modify Relay Styles

The following chart appears somewhat complex; however, on examination it becomes
clear that the two tracks Voting and Averaging are mutually exclusive, and so the task
becomes much simpler than it appears.

Finished!

Up

Down to

browse

relays

Rxx xx x xx xx xx
Relay No: NN

Deleted.
Accepted!

Del

Voting ?
<DEL>No <ADD>Yes

Exit

NON-LATCHING?
<DEL>No <ADD>Yes

Exit

Enter

NOT NORM ENERGIZ
<DEL>No <ADD>Yes

Exit

DEL Enter

OFF DELAY?
<DEL>No <ADD>Yes

DEL

Exit

ON DELAY?
<DEL>No <ADD>Yes

ADD

DEL

ADD/DEL

ADD/DEL

Exit

ADD

OFF DELAY?

Exit

Minutes: NN

ADD

Exit

ON DELAY?
Minutes: NN

Exit

Voting Number?
NN

WINDOWS ?
<DEL>No <ADD>Yes

Exit

Concentration of
Average_Off: NNNN

Exit

Exit

Concentration of
Average_On: NNNN

Enter

Enter

ADD/DEL

Enter

Enter

You are invited to choose a Relay address number, and then a series of features:

• Normally/Not Normally Energized

• Latching/Non Latching

• Voting/Non-Voting

Given Voting, then it enquires for the voting number.
Given Non-Voting, this means Averaging, and it then inquires for the On concentration
and the Off concentration.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 27 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

After which in both cases you are then led to determining whether there are any delays
to be assigned. The term “On” refers to “Actuation” and “Off” refers to “Deactuation”
not to whether the coil is energized or not.

11.12 Modify Buzzer Database

The buzzer setup is almost identical to that of the relays, except that there are three
buzzer (one buzzer with 3 options) settings.

Buzzer 1: Continuous
Buzzer 2: Intermittent 50% duty cycle
Buzzer 3: Double-tap Intermittent

Buzzer 1 has highest priority and Buzzer 3 has lowest priority.

The opening section of the branch is as follows, after, the menus are identical to those for
the Relay database. Chose Sensor or Style and proceed.

Buzzer Database
S=Sensor R=Style

Exit

Up Down
to browse

Buzzer Databases
<=CR EX=> 10/11

Enter

Enter

Select Buzzer< >

Exit

Buzzer 1

11.13 Modify Strobe Database

The strobe setup is almost identical to that of the relays, except that there is only one
choice.

The opening section of the branch is as follows, after, the menus are identical to those for
the Relay database. Chose Sensor or Style and proceed.

Strobe
<=CR EX=> 11/11

Enter

Strobe Database

Exit

S=SENSOR R=STYLE

11.14 Modify Analog Output Database

Analog outputs may work with remote sensors of the same type or with analog inputs,
but not both. In this case you are invited to choose a channel number and then to choose
whether you want to work with Analog Inputs or with Sensors. You are able to assign
more than one input per output channel. It is therefore extremely important to remember

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 28 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

to use only sensors or analog inputs measuring the same gas type, and for analog inputs,
the signals which have the same range.

When you assign more than one analog or digital input to an analog output channel, the
inputs Could be averaged or taken the peak among the inputs inputs as the value to
convert output current.

For remote sensors, you must assign a concentration for both the 4.0 milliamp signal, and
the 20 milliamp signal. You may assign a larger concentration for 4.0 milliamps than for
20 milliamps; the monitor will still stretch a straight line signal between the two points.

Analog Output
<=CR EX=> 9/11

Enter

Accepted!

Enter/ADD

Up Down
to modify

Deleted.
Accepted!

Sxx Added < >
Sensor No: NN

Exit

Enter

Concentration
20mA: NNNN

Exit

Enter

Concentration
4 mA: NNNN

Exit

Enter

Sensor Gas Type
CO

Sensor A-In

Add
<A-in> or <S> ?

Enter/ADD

Axx xx xxxx/xxxx

Exit

A_Output CH: NN

DEL

Up Down

to browse

DEL

Accepted!

Enter/ADD

Axx Added < >
A-IN: NN

Enter

20.0mA Out=? < >

20.1mA

Enter

4.0mA Out=? < >

4.1mA

Exit

Deleted.
Accepted!

DEL

Up Down

to browse

Exit

Up Down
to modify

Exit

Up Down
to modify

ExitExit

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 29 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Deleted.
Accepted!

11.15 System Settings

System Settings contains general settings for monitor operations, communications and
calibration.

11.15.1

Operating Configuration

Host Baud Rate The communication rate to the host PLC or computer
Sensor Baud Rate The communication rate to the remote sensor and other

modules. This sets all four ports the same.

Scroll Rate The rate at which the display scrolls through the sensor and

relay status lines.

LCD Backlight Allows choice of Always Off, Power saving, and Always

On.
Modbus Slave Address
The digital address of the M-Controller for Modbus

communications. Set between 1 and 255.

11.15.2

Calibration

4 mA Input Apply precision 4.00 milliamps signal through Channel 1,

press enter to store value.
20 mA Input Apply precision 20.00 milliamps signal through Channel 1,

press enter to store value
20 mA Output Choose this item to output 20.00 milliamps from all analog

outputs simultaneously. Adjust potentiometers on circuit

card (if present)

Warning: This procedure is part of factory setup. In most circumstances it will not
be necessary to perform this procedure in the field. These functions require the use
of precision reference instrumentation.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 30 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Protocol:

Exit

OptoMux < >

Enter

New Protocol is

Exit

B4000

Enter

Accepted!

System Settings
<=CR EX=> 3/11

Enter

Slave Address
214 <

Exit

>

20mA In Cal
918 <

Exit

>

4 mA In Cal
245 <

Exit

>

LCD Backlight
Saving Mode <

Exit

>

Scroll Rate

Exit

3 Seconds < >

Sensor Baud Rate
4800 <

Exit

>

Host Baud Rate
9600 <
>

Enter

UpDown

Enter

UpDown

Enter

UpDown

Enter

UpDown

Enter

UpDown

Enter

UpDown

Enter

New Address is

Exit

XXXX

In 20mA at CH0:

Exit

899

In 4 mA at CH0:

Exit

231

Up Down to modify

Backlight Mode:

Exit

Always ON

Up Down to modify

New Scroll Rate:

Exit

4 Seconds

Up Down to modify

New Baud Rate:

Exit

2400

Up Down to modify

New Baud Rate:

ExitExit

4800

Enter

Enter

Enter

Enter

Enter

Enter

Enter

Accepted!

Accepted!

Accepted!

Accepted!

New Scroll Rate
Accepted!

New Baud Rate
Accepted!

New Baud Rate
Accepted!

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 31 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

12 Computer Interface: Programming and Auditing

The M-Controller can be fully configured and programmed from the keypad; however,
for even moderately complex networks this task becomes tedious. Therefore we have
supplied an interface and computer program (M-View) to allow all database
programming to be setup on a computer (laptop) and downloaded to the M-Controller.

QEL supplies interface adapters:

9-pin female (COM 1) to RJ-11 adapter

12.1 M-View

The M-View software has been designed as an easy to use configuration software
package, greatly reducing the lengthy task of entering individual keystrokes through the
keypad to quick configuration with the mouse. M-View allows for both programming and
audit control, as you may download, upload and save programs to disk. Professional
Version M-View also can Real Time Monitoring the current readings and statuses of M­Controller, Data logging these readings and statuses and Historical Data Review.

Standard Version M-View is limited to the three functions but have 5 minutes Real Time
Monitoring function. The Standard Version M-View is free for all M-Controller users.

Minimum system requirements:

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 32 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Operating System: Windows 98 or better
Ram: 16 Megabyte of RAM
Hard drive: 50 Megabytes free
Speed: Any
Mouse: Preferred (can navigate by [Tab])
Spare Serial Port: COM1 to COM6

Note: If your computer has no serial port, call QEL for USB to Serial Adapter.

To install M-View, insert the CD into the computer and run Setup.exe. Follow the
instructions on the screen.

12.2 If your computer installed previous version M-View, the
setup program will remove it first, then run Setup.exe again
to install the latest version M-View.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 33 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

M-Controller Setup

The M-Controller “Computer Port” must be configured to receive signals from the
computer. The RS-232 port (RJ-11 telephone jack) is logically shared with the RS-422
Modbus port. Changing the setup will stop the Modbus communications.

Enter the main menu and choose

Acquire Computer
<=CR EX=> 2/11

Enter

Computer Port
Active<Y/N>?

Exit
Enter

Active.
Accepted!

Inactive
Accepted!

Make sure that the communications baud rate is the same for computer and M-Controller.

System Settings
<=CR EX=> 3/11

Enter

Host Baud Rate
57600 < >

Enter

New Baud Rate:

ExitExit

57600

Enter

New Baud Rate
Accepted!

Then exit from the menu tree and return to normal operation. The M-Controller will
function normally except for this change. You are now ready to use M-View.

When you are finished using the computer you must ‘inactivate’ the computer port again
in order to use Modbus. If Modbus is not used in your system, it is not necessary to
configure it. You may leave the controller continuously in ‘Acquire Computer’ mode.

Acquire Computer
<=CR EX=> 2/11

Enter

Computer Port
Active<Y/N>?

Exit
Enter

Active.
Accepted!

Inactive
Accepted!

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 34 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

13 MODBUS Protocol Supported By M-Controller

13.1 Serial Transmission Mode

• Modbus RTU Slave Mode

• Baud rate: 19.2K, 28.8K, 38.4K, and 57.6K, selectable from Host Baud Rate Setting

in System Setting Menu.

• Byte parity: Even parity.

• Data format: One start bit, 8 data bit, even parity bit, one stop bit, LSB first.

• Frame Check: CRC check.

13.2 Function Code Supported by M-Controller

• #03 Read Holding Registers

Note: The command is only supported in the firmware V4.10 or later. If your M­Controller firmware version is lower than V4.10, please contact QEL to obtain an
up-to-date firmware contained in M-View.

Function in M-Controller: Read inputs and outputs statuses and readings, such as

• Relay Statuses

• Analog output current (mA x 10)

• Analog inputs readings

• Digital Sensor readings and statuses

• Buzzers, Strobe and Triggers statuses

Attribute: Read Only.
Broadcast is not supported.

Query:
Slave Address: xx (Default 214, check Slave address in M-Controller)
Function code: 03
Starting addr. Hi: 000
Starting addr. Lo: xxx (00 to 122)
No. of points Hi: 000
No. of points Lo: xxx (01 to 123)
CRC check: xxxxH

Example: to read all holding registers in M-Controller (Slave Address: 214)
Query: [214] [003] [000] [000] [000] [123] [023] [206] in unsigned decimal.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 35 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Holding Register Address Table

Modbus Name Description
40001 Relay1 and Relay 2

Statuses

Relay1 status in High 8 bits, Relay 2 status in Low 8 bits

Status Byte Definition:
0: Normal
1: Sensor Alarm
2: Communication Error
3: Offline
4: Sensor Gas type Error
5: Relay/Buzzer/Strobe/Trigger in On Delay process
6: Relay/Buzzer/Strobe in Off Delay process
7: Relay in Latched Status
8: Relay/Buzzer/Strobe/Trigger On
9: Relay/Buzzer/Strobe/Trigger Off
10: Relay/Buzzer/Strobe/Trigger in On Delay process (same as 5)
11: Relay/Buzzer/Strobe in Off Delay process (same as 6)
12: No Sensor is assigned to Relay/Buzzer/Strobe/Trigger
13: Buzzer is hushed
128: Disabled

40002 Relay3 and Relay4

Statuses
40003
to

Relay5 to Relay98

Statuses
40049

Relay3 status in High 8 bits, Relay 4 status in Low 8 bits
Status Byte Definition see 40001
Relay5, 7, 9 … status in High 8 bits, Relay6, 8, 10 … status in
Low 8 bits
Status Byte Definition see 40001

40050 Relay99 Status Relay99 status in High 8 bits, Low 8 bits is no use

Status Byte Definition see 40001

40051 Analog Output CH1

and CH2 Statuses

& mA reading

A-Out CH1 in High 8 bits, A-Out CH2 in Low 8 bits

Byte Definition:
0: Disabled Channel
1 – 255: Analog Output Current Value (mA) X 10
Example:
If (Byte) = 200, the Analog Output value is 20.0 mA.
If (Byte) = 41, the Analog Output value is 4.1 mA.

If (Byte) = 0, the Analog Output is disabled.
40052
to
40054
40055 Buzzer1 and

40056 Buzzer3 and Strobe

Analog Output CH3
to CH8 Statuses &
mA reading

Buzzer2 Statuses

Statuses

A-Out CH3, 5, 7 in High 8 bits, A-Out CH4, 6, 8 in Low 8 bits

Byte Definition see 40051

Buzzer1 status in High 8 bits, Buzzer2 status in Low 8 bits

Status Byte Definition see 40001

Buzzer3 status in High 8 bits, Strobe status in Low 8 bits

Status Byte Definition see 40001

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 36 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

40057 Trigger1 and

Trigger2 Statuses

Trigger1 status in High 8 bits, Trigger2 status in Low 8 bits

Status Byte Definition see 40001
40058 Trigger3 Status Trigger3 status in High 8 bits, Low 8 bits is no use

Status Byte Definition see 40001
40059 Digital Sensor 0-7

Relay Statuses

Usually, Each Digital Sensor has two Relays onboard:

• Relay High (H) and Relay Low (L)
bit(1): ON, bit(0): OFF
b15…b8= Sensor 3H,3L,2H,2L,1H,1L,0H,0L
b7…b0= Sensor 7H,7L,6H,6L,5H,5L,4H,4L

40060 Digital Sensor 8-15

Relay Statuses

40061 Digital Sensor 16-

23 Relay Statuses

40062 Digital Sensor 24-

31 Relay Statuses

40063 Digital Sensor 0

and Sensor 1
Statuses

B15…b8= Sensor 11H,11L,10H,10L,9H,9L,8H,8L
b7…b0= Sensor 15H,15L,14H,14L,13H,13L,12H,12L
B15…b8= Sensor 19H,19L,18H,18L,17H,17L,16H,16L)
b7…b0= Sensor 23H,23L,22H,22L,21H,21L,20H,20L
B15…b8= Sensor 27H,27L,26H,26L,25H,25L,24H,24L
b7…b0= Sensor 31H,31L,30H,30L,29H,29L,28H,28L
Sensor 0 in High 8 bits, Sensor 1 in Low 8 bits
Byte Status Definition:
b7, b3 … b0 is Sensor Status, Status Definition see 40001,
b6, b5, b4 is Decimal Position for its Reading in 40083

example:
b6, b5, b4 = 000, The actual reading is Reading in 40083
b6, b5, b4 = 001, The actual reading is Reading / 10
b6, b5, b4 = 010, The actual reading is Reading / 100
b6, b5, b4 = 011, The actual reading is Reading / 1000

40064
to

Digital Sensor 2 –
31 Statuses

Sensor 2, 4, 6 … in High 8 bits, Sensor 3, 5, 7 … in Low 8 bits
Byte Status Definition see 40063

40078
40079 Analog Input CH1

and CH2 Statues
40080
to

Analog Input CH3 -

8 Statuses

A-In CH1 in High 8 bits, A-In CH2 in Low 8 bits
Byte Status Definition see 40063
A-In CH3, 5, 7 in High 8 bits, A-In CH4, 6, 8 in Low 8 bits

Byte Status Definition see 40063
40082
40083 Digital Sensor 0

Gas Reading

without Decimal
40084
to
40114

Digital Sensor1-31

Gas Reading

without Decimal
40115 Analog Input CH1

Reading without

Decimal
40116
to
40122

Analog Input CH2-

8 Reading without

Decimal

The Gas Reading is 16 bits signed integer.
The Actual Reading of the sensor should be divided by its
Decimal Position, see 40063
Same as Definition in 40083

The Reading is 16 bits signed integer.
The Actual Reading of the Analog Input should be divided by its
Decimal Position in 40079
Same as Definition in 40115

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 37 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

40123 M-Controller Self

Diagnostics Report

Fault Flag Reg.

b0 = 1, no analog output daughter board plug in
b0 = 0, normal

b1 = 1, polling remote relay fault
b1 = 0, normal

b2 = 1, polling remote sensors fault
b2 = 0, normal

b3 = 1, remote sensor has fault
b3 = 0, normal

b4 = 1, no sensor assigned to an analog output
b4 = 0, normal

b5 = 1, no sensor assigned to a buzzer or a trigger
b5 = 0, normal

b6 = 1, no sensor assigned to the strobe
b6 = 0, normal

b7 = 1, no sensor assigned to relays
b7 = 0, normal

b8 … b15 reserved

• #17(11H) Report Slave ID
Function in M-Controller:

Return a description of the type of controller present at the slave address with its
specification.

Broadcast is not supported.

Query:
Slave Addr.: xxH
Function code: 11H
CRC check: xxxxH

Response:
Slave addr.: xxH
Function code: 11H

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 38 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

Byte count: 86H
Slave ID: 80H
Run Indicator status: FFH (always ON)

Software Version: (2 Bytes) major version first
Controller Serial Number (2 Bytes) high byte first
Special Gas Type [8][3] (24 Bytes) 8 Special Gas Type
Special Unit [8][3] (24 Bytes) 8 Special Unit
Gas Type (40 Bytes) Sensor 0 first, plus 8CH A_In
Unit of Measure (40 bytes) Sensor 0 first, plus 8CH A_In

CRC check: xxxxH

Note:

1). Slave ID = 80H for M-Controller in QEL

2). Each Special Gas Type or Special Unit is composed of 3 characters.

3). Gas type and Units Definition:
Value Gas Type Units
00H O2 %Vol
01H CO PPM
02H CO2 %LEL
03H H2S UNITS
04H SO2 Special Unit 1
05H NO Special Unit 2
06H NO2 Special Unit 3
07H Hydrogen Special Unit 4
08H HCN Special Unit 5
09H HCL Special Unit 6
0AH NH3 Special Unit 7
0BH MMH Special Unit 8
0CH O3
0DH C2H4O
0EH Cl2
0FH ClO2
10H CH4
11H C3H8
12H H2
13H Others
14H Special Gas Type 1
15H Special Gas Type 2
16H Special Gas Type 3
17H Special Gas Type 4
18H Special Gas Type 5
19H Special Gas Type 6
20H Special Gas Type 7
21H Special Gas Type 8

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 39 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

14 Power Supply and Wiring

14.1 Power Requirements

The M-Controller power supply Voltage requirements are nominally 24 VDC or 24VAC.
This increases flexibility in the field and reduces costs, especially in those areas where 24
VAC power is available as standard. In those situations where 24 VAC/DC is not already
available it is necessary to purchase a power supply or transformer.

It is necessary to bear in mind the actual installation when sizing the transformer. The
installation requirements can run theoretically from only 15 VA to over 200 VA. These
systems ranging from a single controller, a few electrochemical sensors with no external
relays to a full 32 QTS-8000 Combustible sensors with several remote relay modules.

The accompanying table allows the user to calculate power requirements for the system
as an aid in sizing the transformer or power supply. Note the addition of a line at the
bottom for 25% oversizing. It is always best to allow some safety margin in designing
power supplies, and 25% to 50% allowance for startup surges and future requirements is
recommended.

Device Power Requirements

M-Controller-

Standard

Optional 4-20 Output

M-Relay- 5 Amps

c/w 2 Relays
c/w 4 Relays
c/w 6 Relays
c/w 8 Relays

M-Relay- 10 Amps

c/w 2 Relays
c/w 4 Relays
c/w 6 Relays
c/w 8 Relays

External Strobe

0.3A Max

External Horn

0.3A Max

Amps at 24VDC

0.65

0.25

0.10

0.15

0.20

0.25

0.12

0.20

0.28

0.36

Quantity Total Power

Requirements

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Remote Transmitters

M-18
M-17

M-5
M-6

M-20
QTS-1810
QTS-1710
QTS-6000
QTS-8000

Combustibles

QTS-8000

Electrochemical

Total
Safety Margin @
25%

Grand Total

0.080

0.100

0.080

0.26

0.100

0.125

0.125

0.25

0.200

0.150

14.2 Transformers

QEL supplies one standard transformer

M-Transformer 120 to 24 VAC 200 VA

14.3 Strobe and Horn

QEL Supplies a standard audio and strobe alarm package.

M-Strobe Lamp (Flashing) 24 VDC 6 W
Audio 24 VDC
85 dB @ 10’
95 dB @ 1m

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 41 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

14.4 Analog Output Isolation

The M-Controller option circuit card for
Analog Output has eight channels of 4-20
milliamp signals. These may be used as
either isolated or non-isolated signals subject
to certain constraints:

• The circuit board may be isolated or
not isolated, but not individual
channels.

• All channels have a common Return
terminal.

• The isolation is achieved by
supplying the circuit board with an
external 24VAC power from a small
transformer (5 VA) with both secondary connections floating.

• Make sure the jumpers are set according to the following diagrams.

• Separate 24VDC may be used for a clear separation of signal ground/return from

M-Controller internal or local ground.

• See 84350-005-000-Rx (M-Controller Guidelines for System Design)

14.5 Analog Input Not Isolated.

The analog input accepts eight (8) channels of 4-20 milliamp signals. These inputs are not
isolated and share a common ground. The 4-20 mA return line is connected to M­Controller Circuit Card Common.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 42 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

14.6 Grounding

• M-Controller Common/Power Supply Negative is not connected to Chassis
Safety Ground.

• Analog input Common is connected to M-Controller Negative. Therefore the
power supplies for remote devices should be powered carefully to prevent ground
loops.

• Remote digital transmitters may have different power supplies and may have
different grounds or may have floating power supplies. The RS-485 electrical
standard allows differences between grounds of + 5 Volts.

• Remote Relay Module Negative is not connected to Chassis Safety Ground.

• All metal chassis are supplied with a safety ground to the case.

14.7 RS-485 Installation

The RS-485 (EIA-485) standard specifies the electrical characteristics for a digital
communication link allowing communication between multiple devices on a single link.
The RS-485 uses two wires, A and B, and works on the voltage difference between them.
If the voltage difference is positive, then that is a “1” if negative then that is a “0”.
Ground Independence. This scheme allows differences between grounds among the
devices on the line of as much as + 7 Volts; however, it is not wise to design that close to
the tolerance, and we recommend keeping the differences within + 5 volts.

Wire Standard: The cable standard is specified in the EIA-485 standard as twisted,
balanced, shielded pair; with characteristic impedance of 120 ohms. Several
manufacturers produce cable specifically for RS-485 installations. (e.g. Belden 9841).

Some people do use Instrument Wire for RS-485; however, a number of problems arise:

• The characteristic impedance is unknown and variable, and so the signals may not
be robust, it becomes difficult or impossible to define an end-of-line matching
resistance.

• Maximum installation distances are less, and somewhat unpredictable. Typically
about one half that of proper cable.

• There is typically no significant cost saving, often the reverse.

• QEL warrantees and support only covers installation with proper cable. If in

doubt please contact QEL support personnel.

Connections. Wire terminals A to A to A etc., and B to B to B etc.

End-Of-Line Termination Resistance. A long wire behaves as an infinite series of

inductors and capacitors, and so if nothing is done about it, the high speed digital signals
cause a variety of peculiar effects such as positive or negative echoes and ringing. If we
add a resistor across the terminals of the device at each end of the line which matches the
characteristic impedance then the echoes and ringing are removed. For RS-485 cable this
is 120 ohms. We need one at each end because the signal is bi-directional. All QEL

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 43 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

equipment supplies the end-of-line resistor on the circuit card. It is enabled or
disabled with a shunt jumper. (See relevant Installation Drawings for information)

Distances. The RS-485 standard allows up to 1300 meters (4000 feet) of line length. It is
best to avoid lines of this length if at all possible.

Stubs. Short lengths of cable from the main cable over to a device are called Stubs. When
the Baud rate (communication bit rate) is low – e.g. 2400 baud, then it is often possible to
use short lengths of a few inches without seriously impairing the signal integrity,
especially when overall distances are relatively short; however, this is taking a chance on
garbling your signals and is not recommended.

Cable Shields: Cable shields are aluminum and so only ‘proof’ against electrical fields,
not against magnetic fields. The twist in the pair is to reduce the effects of magnetic
fields. Take care not to run cable close to magnetic sources. Iron conduit is a good shield
for both electrical and magnetic fields.

Shield Grounding. There are certain things to keep in mind for the shield.

• The shield must be grounded otherwise it can make the situation worse.

• Ground the shield at only one end to prevent ground loops.

• If you cut the cable then either ground each section of the shield at that point or

connect the shields together to ground back at an origin point.

Devices and Ports. The RS-485 standard allows up to 32 devices on each
communication line. The M-Controller does not need to be at the end of the line.

The M-Controller has four RS-485 ports; however, the M-Controller can only support a
certain number of remote devices (32 sensors plus 8 relay modules) total. This is a
limitation of the microprocessor capabilities, not of the wiring. The ports are logically
parallel so that it does not matter which port a sensor is connected to. This allows
flexibility of wiring to suit wiring for zones, and reduction of length of lines. Minimizing
the installation total wiring distances increases the reliability of the system.

14.8 RS-422 Installation

The M-Controller has an RS-422 port for the Modbus connection. RS-422 is very like
RS-485 electrically, except that there is a separate pair for transmit and a separate pair for
receive. Therefore one port’s transmit is another port’s receive. One can use either two
RS-485 cables or buy RS-422 cable (e.g. Belden 9842).

The same concerns and capabilities apply as for RS-485. RS422 devices cannot be used
to construct a truly multi-point network. A true multi-point network consists of multiple
drivers and receivers connected on a single bus, where any node can transmit or receive
data. RS485 meets the requirements for a truly multi-point communications network,

Note: Check the U10 RS-422 drive chip on the main board (close to the RS-422
Terminal Block), if the chip is DS8921, the terminal TB11 labels correctly; if the
chip is SN75179, the terminal TB11 TX+ and TX- should be inverse.

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 44 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

15 Troubleshooting Hints

M-Controller has advanced features and functions. Before assuming that unexpected behavior is caused by
a system defect or breakdown, the operator should use this manual to become thoroughly familiar with
M-Controller operation. This troubleshooting guide is intended as an aid in identifying the cause of
unexpected behaviour and determining whether the behaviour is due to normal operation or an internal or
external problem.

Identify the symptom or unexpected behaviour you are observing from the

PROBABLE CAUSE

sections that provide information that may be of assistance.

is provided and a suggested

SOLUTION

is proposed including references to manual

SYMPTOMS PROBABLE CAUSE SUGGESTED SOLUTION

LCD Display does not come on

M-View reports “M-Controller is
offline”

M-Controller reports “Vote no
Sensor!” or “AV no Sensor!”

M-Controller reports “Sensor
Offline” or “Relay Offline”

• No power supply

• LCD has problem

• Program has crashed

• M-Controller is not

turned on

• M-Controller is working
in Menu Mode.

• Acquire computer is not
active.

• Comm setting is wrong

• No sensor was assigned

to the output (relay or
analog output)

• Comm setting is wrong

• Connection is wrong

• Remote Device is in

Fault

• End-of-line matching
resistors are not
properly set.

SYMPTOMS

• Check power / ground connections

• Change LCD

• Reprogram

• Turn on M-Controller

• Exit Menu mode to Monitoring

mode

• Active acquire computer in Menu
mode and Exit to monitoring mode

• Check M-Controller is connected
properly. Be sure that the port on
the computer is active. Confirm
that the port baud rate setting is
same as the host baud rate in M­Controller System Settings in this
manual.

• Assign sensor to the output

• Check the remote baud rate in M-

Controller System Setting is same
as the baud rate in Digital Sensor
or M-Relay.

• Check connection between M­Controller and Digital Sensor and
M-Relay. Make sure all have
power on and no shorts or opens in
wiring. Be certain that polarity for
RS-485 connections is correct. A­A and B-B

• Examine remote devices

• Review end-of-line resistor

settings

listed in the table. A

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 45 ­84350-001-000 Rev J

WARRANTY STATEMENT

The information contained in this manual is based upon data considered accurate; however, no
warranty is expressed or implied regarding the accuracy of this data. All QEL equipment is
warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of two years from date of
shipment with the following exceptions:

Electrochemical Sensors (Toxic) Six Months
Catalytic Sensors (Combustible) One Year

During the warranty period we will repair or replace, at our discretion, any components or
complete units that prove, in our opinion, to be defective. We are not liable for consequential or
incidental damage to auxiliary interfaced equipment.

A returned material authorization number should be obtained from the factory prior to returning
any goods. All return shipments must be shipped freight prepaid and a copy of the maintenance
records should accompany the unit concerned.

Warranty should be considered F.O.B. the factory. Labour and travel time are chargeable for
any field site visits required for warranty work.

LIMITED LIABILITY

All QEL systems shall be installed by a qualified technician/electrician and maintained in strict
accordance with data provided for individual systems in the form of installation/maintenance
manuals. QEL assumes no responsibility for improper installation, maintenance, etc., and
stresses the importance of reading all manuals. QEL shall not be responsible for any liability
arising from auxiliary interfaced equipment nor any damage resulting from the installation or
operation of this equipment.

QEL’s total liability is contained as above with no other liability expressed or implied as the
purchaser is entirely responsible for installation and maintenance of systems.

This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and no representative or
person is authorized to represent or assume for QEL any liability in connection with the sales of
our products other than that set forth herein.

NOTE: Due to on-going product development, QEL reserves the right to change

specifications without notice and will assume no responsibility for any costs as a
result of modifications.

For further information or assistance, contact:

QUATROSENSE ENVIRONMENTAL LTD.

5935 Ottawa Street, PO Box 749
Richmond, Ontario
K0A 2Z0
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.QELsafety.com

M-Controller System Operation Manual - 46 ­84350-001-000 Rev J