RKI Instruments RI-215A User manual

Part Number: 71-0045RK
Revision 0

RI-215A

Operator’s Manual

Released: 10/3/05

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Warranty

RKI Instruments, Inc., warrants gas alarm equipment sold by us to be free from defects in
materials and workmanship, and performance for a period of one year from date of
shipment from RKI Instruments, Inc. Any parts found defective within that period will be
repaired or replaced, at our option, free of charge. This warranty does not apply to those
items which by their nature are subject to deterioration or consumption in normal service,
and which must be cleaned, repaired, or replaced on a routine basis. Examples of such
items are:

Absorbent cartridges Batteries
Pump diaphragms and valves Filter elements
Fuses

W arranty is voided by abuse including mechanical damage, alteration, r ough handling, or
repairs procedures not in accor dance with the instruction manual. This warranty indicates
the full extent of our liability, and we are not responsible for removal or replacement costs,
local repair costs, transportation costs, or contingent expenses incurred without our prior
approval.

THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES

AND REPRESENTATIONS
OR LIABILITIES ON THE PART OF
LIMITED TO THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE
FOR INDIRECT
CONNECTED WITH THE USE OF ITS PRODUCTS OR FAILURE OF ITS PRODUCTS TO
FUNCTION OR OPERATE PROPERLY

, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND

, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ALL OTHER OBLIGATIONS

RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC., INCLUDING BUT NOT

. IN NO EVENT SHALL RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC., BE LIABLE

.

This warranty covers instruments and parts sold to users only by authorized distributors,
dealers, and representatives as appointed by RKI Instruments, Inc.

We do not assume indemnification for any accident or damage caused by the operation of
this gas monitor and our warranty is limited to replacement of parts or our complete
goods.

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

About the RI-215A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Measuring Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Alarm Adjust Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

About this Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Chapter 2: Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

External Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Cable Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Internal Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Printed Circuit Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

IR Gas Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Fuse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Chapter 3: Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Mounting the RI-215A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Wiring the RI-215A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Notes on Wiring the RI-215A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Connecting the Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Connecting the RI-215A to a Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Connecting the RI-215A to a Controller. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Connecting the RI-215A to an External Alarm Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Start Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Introducing Power to the RI-215A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Warm Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Preparing to Set the Zero . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Setting the Zero Reading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Chapter 4: Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Measuring Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Alarm Indications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Responding to Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Analog Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Alarm Point and Ventilation Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Alarm Adjust Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

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Verifying the Alarm Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Adjusting the Alarm Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Chapter 5: Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Daily. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Quarterly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Replacing Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Replacing the Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Replacing the Fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Preparing for Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Setting the Zero Reading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Setting the Response Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Returning to Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Parts List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Appendix A: Changing the Detection Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

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Chapter 1: Introduction

Overview

This chapter briefly describes the RI-215A. This chapter also describes the RI-215A

Operator’s Manual (this document). Table 1 at the end of this chapter lists the specifications

for the RI-215A.

About the RI-215A

The RI-215A Air Quality Monitor detects the presence of CO2 (carbon dioxide) using an

infrared (IR) gas sensor. The RI-215A shows increasing levels of CO

display (LCD). It also displays a visual alarm should levels of CO

scale (e.g., 2,000 ppm). Alarm contacts on the RI-215A are also provided, which enable

you to connect an external alarm to the unit.

Three ranges of gas detection are available for the RI-215A: 0 - 2,000 ppm, 0 - 5,000 ppm,

and 0 - 9990 ppm. Detection ranges are set at the factory. When you ordered the RI-215A,

you should have specified one of these gas detection ranges for your unit. It becomes

necessary to change the detection range, See “Appendix A: Changing the Detection

Range” on page 24.

on its liquid crystal

2

exceed the unit’s full

2

The RI-215A operates in three modes: Measuring Mode, Maintenance Mode, and Alarm

Adjust Mode.

Measuring Mode

Measuring Mode is the mode in which the RI-215A detects, measures, and displays CO

(normal operation).

2

Maintenance Mode

Maintenance Mode allows you to perform maintenance tasks. These tasks include:

• adjusting the zero setting

• adjusting the span setting

• changing the detection range

CAUTION: The RI-215A is not in operate as a gas monitor when you are in Maintenance Mode.

Alarm Adjust Mode

Alarm Adjust Mode allows you to verify and change the alarm point.

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Specifications

Table 1 lists specifications for the RI-215A.

Power Source 24 VAC or 24 VDC

Table 1: Specifications

Target Gas CO
Sampling Method Diffusion

Area Classification Indoor, nonhazardous locations
Signal Output 4 to 20 mA
Accuracy ± 5% of full scale

1

Fuse

1

A 0.5A, 250 V fuse is an acceptable replacement.

About this Manual

The RI-215A Operator’s Manual uses the following conventions for notes, cautions, and

warnings.

NOTE: Describes additional or critical information.

(carbon dioxide)

2

0. 5A, 125 V (5 mm x 20 mm)

CAUTION: Describes potential damage to equipment.

WARNING: Describes potential danger that can result in injury or death.

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Chapter 2: Description

Overview

This section describes the external and internal components of the RI-215A.

External Description

Case

The RI-215A’s steel case is radio frequency (RF)-resistant. It is suitable for installation in

indoor areas where general purpose equipment is in use.

The case has a front housing and a base plate, which snap together. The front housing has

a LCD window, which is shown in the front view of Figure 1.

LCD Display Window

Cable Connector
Entry Slot

Front View

Cal Gas Inlet Rubber Cover

Bottom View

Figure 1: Component Location of the RI-215A

RI-215A Operator’s Manual Overview • 7

Mode Switch

Up/Alarm Switch
Down Switch

Set/Calibration Switch

Back View

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On the bottom of the front housing is a series of slots and a calibration port. The slots

allow the target gas sample to enter the IR gas sensor in the RI-215A. The calibration port

1

is covered with a rubber cap. The calibration port accepts

flexible tubing. A series of switches are accessible to the right of the calibration port, as

shown in Figure 1 on page 7. These switches include:

• Mode (M)

/4-inch ID (inside diameter)

• Up/Alarm (

• Down (¢)

• Set/Calibration (S)

The base plate has a wire entry slot for the cable assembly. The cable assembly connects

directly to the printed circuit board inside the case through the cable entry slot. The cable

assembly is used to connect to an external power source. You also use it to make

connections to an external alarm and to a monitoring or recording device. The base plate

has two mounting holes for convenient mounting on vertical surfaces at the monitoring

site.

Cable Assembly

The cable assembly connects to a six-pin receptacle on the printed circuit board through a

slot on the rear of the case. It allows you to make external wiring connections to the RI-

215A.

Internal Description

Printed Circuit Board

On the printed circuit board is located the IR gas sensor, LCD, and fuse. Connected to the

printed circuit board is the cable assembly.

6)

The printed circuit board converts the output of the IR gas sensor to a 4-to-20 mA signal

(that is proportional to the detection range of the RI-215A). The printed circuit board also

displays a digital reading on the LCD.

The printed circuit board has four switches: Mode (M), Up/Alarm (

Set/Calibration (S). These switches are located at the bottom of the printed circuit board

beneath the gas sensor. Table 2 lists each switch and its function.

Table 2: Model RI-215A Program Switches

Switch Function

Mode (M) Enters Maintenance Mode

Up/Alarm (

Down (¢) • Decreases the setting on the LCD

Set/Calibration (S) • Prepares a setting to be changed

6)

• Increases the setting on the LCD

• Displays the alarm point

• Enters a new setting

6, Down (¢), and

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LCD

The LCD is mounted to the printed circuit board. The LCD shows the current gas reading

of the RI-215A’s target gas. The LCD also shows operational messages when the RI-215A

exceeds its full scale.

IR Gas Detector

The IR detector uses infrared light and an infrared sensor to detect CO2. A small infrared

light source is located in the detector. As CO

in a characteristic way as the concentration increases. The infrared sensor detects this

change in infrared light and the unit converts this to a gas concentration.

enters the detector, it absorbs infrared light

2

Fuse

One extractor-type fuse protects the AC line circuitry from short circuit or overload. The

fuse is rated at 0. 5A, 125 V. See “Parts List” on page 23.

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Chapter 3: Installation

Overview

This chapter describes how to install the RI-215A at the monitoring site. This section also

includes procedures to make power and other wiring connections to the RI-215A.

Mounting the RI-215A

CAUTION: The RI-215A is suitable for installation in indoor areas where general purpose

equipment is in use.

1. Select a mounting site that is representative of the monitoring environment. Consider
the following when you select the mounting site:

• Select a site near the sampling area in which the RI-215A is not likely to be

bumped or disturbed.

• Choose a location not subject to significant air movement, for example, near an air

conditioning or heating vent.

• Mount the RI-215A in an area not subject to large temperature and humidity

changes.

• Mount the RI-215A on the wall at least six feet from the floor to minimize the

possibility of someone breathing on the unit. The exhaled CO
alarm.

• Make sure there is sufficient room to make wiring connections through the back

of the unit, and to remove the unit from the base plate to perform maintenance,
such as replacing the fuse.

2. For wall-mounting, remove the base plate of the RI-215A.

• Using a small screw driver, press down on the small tab on top of the

Model RI-215A.

• While pushing down on the tab, gently move the base plate away from the front

housing of the RI-215A.

CAUTION: Be very careful not to pull on the cable assembly connected to the RI-215A ’s internal

printed circuit board when removing the base plate. Pulling on the cable assembly
may damage the printed circuit board.

may cause an

2

• Completely separate the base plate from the front housing.

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3. Use two screws to secur e the base plate to the wall. Figur e 2 below shows the location
of the screw holes in the base plate.

3.08

Front Vie w

1.23

3.08

Right Side View

2.37

.25

.17 Diameter

Mounting Hole Location

Back Side

Figure 2: RI-215A Outline and Mounting Dimensions

4. Reassemble the base plate and the front housing of the RI-215A in the reverse order as
described in step 2 above. Line up the bottom of the base plate with the front housing,
then carefully snap the base plate and front housing together.

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Wiring the RI-215A

This section describes procedures to connect power to the RI-215A. This section also
describes optional procedures to connect a controller or recorder and external alarm
device to the RI-215A.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock, always verify that power to the RI-

Notes on Wiring the RI-215A

• Use a stable 24 VAC or 24 VDC power source. Do not use a noisy power source. If the
power source is noisy, use a line filter to eliminate the noise.

• Use shielded cable for the output signal line in cases where noise is a potential
problem.

• The alarm relay contacts in the RI-215A are rated at 0.5A, 125 VAC. Do not use these
contacts to control an electrical load larger than this rating. For large load contr ol, use
the RI-215A alarm contacts to control a slave relay with an appropriate contact rating.

Figure 3 below shows the general wiring diagram of the RI-215A, and is not specific to
any device to which the unit could be connected. The red wires of the cable assembly, as
shown in Figure 3 below, connect to an external 24 VAC or 24 VDC power supply. The
white wires serve as a relay contact and can be used to control an external alarm. The
yellow and blue wires carry a 4 - 20 mA output signal. These wires can be connected to a
gas monitoring controller or a recording device.

215A has been turned off before making any wiring connections to the RI­215A. Make sure to operate the RI-215A from the specified power voltage of
24VAC/VDC, and follow the local electric code when making all electrical
connections.

RI-215A

1 (red)

2 (red)
3 (white)

4 (white)

5 (yellow)

4 - 20 mA Standard, 0 - 10V Optional

6 (blue)

24 VAC or 24 VDC
Power

Normally Open
Relay Contact

+

Recording Device

Figure 3: General Wiring Diagram of the RI-215A

12 • Wiring the RI-215A RI-215A Operator’s Manual

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Figure 4 below shows how to wire the RI-215A to a controller that accepts 3-wire, 4-20 mA
transmitters.

RI-215A

Controller Terminals

1 (red)

2 (red)

3 (white)

4 (white)
5 (yellow)

6 (blue)

Figure 4: Wiring Diagram of the RI-215A as a 3-Wire 4-20 mA Transmitter

+ 24 VDC

- (DC Ground)

4 - 20 mA In (S or FB)

Normally Open
Relay Contact

Not Used

Connecting Power

1. Verify that power to the RI-215A has been turned OFF.

2. Connect the two red AC line cables to the 24 VAC or 24 VDC power source. Refer to
the wiring diagram in Figure 3 on page 12.

3. If you do not plan to make any more wiring connections, then terminate the
remaining cables appropriately to avoid an electrical short.

Connecting the RI-215A to a Recorder

Perform the following procedure to connect the RI-215A to a recorder. The output of the
RI-215A is a 4-to-20 mA signal, which is proportional to the detection range.

NOTE: The standard output of the RI-215A is 4 - 20 mA. An optional output of 0 -10 V is

available and must be specified at the time of your order.

1. Verify that power to the RI-215A has been turned OFF.

2. Connect the yellow (+) and blue (-) wires to the contr oller or recor ding device. Refer to
the wiring diagram in Figure 3.

3. If you do not plan to make any more wiring connections, then terminate the
remaining wires.

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Connecting the RI-215A to a Controller

Perform the following procedure to connect the RI-215A as a 3-wire 4 - 20 mA transmitter
to a controller.

1. Verify that power to the RI-215A has been turned OFF.

2. Connect one of the red wir es from the RI-215A to the +24V transmitter terminal at the
controller.

3. Connect the other red wire to the - (DC ground) transmitter terminal at the controller.

4. Connect the yellow wire to the S or FB transmitter terminal at the controller.

Connecting the RI-215A to an External Alarm Device

CAUTION: The maximum current rating of the normally-open, dry contacts is 0.5 amp. If the

alarm device exceeds this rating, use the alarm contacts to control a relay with an
appropriate current rating.

1. Verify that power to the RI-215A has been turned OFF.

2. Connect the white wires to the external alarm. Refer to the wiring diagram in
Figure 3 on page 12.

3. If you do not connect the white wires to an alarm device, terminate these unused
wires.

Start Up

This section describes procedures to start up the RI-215A and place the RI-215A into
normal operation.

Introducing Power to the RI-215A

• Complete all installation procedures described earlier in this chapter.

• Verify that the wiring supplying power to the RI-215A has been connected correctly.

• Turn on or plug in the incoming power at the power source.

• Verify that the RI-215A shows a readout on its LCD as described in the next
subsection.

Warm Up

After you have turned on the power to the RI-215A, the unit takes about one minute to
begin operating. During this initial warm-up period, “CO2” is shown on the unit’s LCD.

After the initial warm up is completed, the gas sensor inside the RI-215A detects the
presence of CO

the RI-215A also outputs a 4-to-20 mA signal (0 to 10 V optional) which corresponds to the
gas concentration.

CAUTION: Allow the RI-215A to warm up for an additional 30 minutes before continuing.

, and displays the concentrations of this gas on its LCD. Simultaneously,

2

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Preparing to Set the Zero

Connect the sample tubing from your calibration kit to the hose barb on the fixed flow
regulator. The fixed flow regulator should be a 0.5 LPM regulator.

NOTE: Do not connect the regulator to the calibration cylinder at this time.

Setting the Zero Reading

1. Locate the function switches on the bottom of the unit.

2. Press and hold the MODE switch (M) for three seconds to enter Maintenance Mode.
The display will show “1” to indicate Zero Adjustment Mode.

3. Press the SET switch (S) to enter Zero Adjustment Mode. The display will show a
reading with a flashing decimal point before the first and third digits, for example
“. 1.5“.

4. Remove the rubber cap covering the calibration gas inlet port at the bottom of the
unit.

5. Insert the calibration tubing into the gas inlet opening at the bottom of the RI-215A
and push the tubing over the calibration fitting.

6. Screw a 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder (a CO

7. Allow the gas to flow for one minute or until the gas reading stabilizes.

8. Press the SET switch (S) and the unit will adjust the reading to zero. Be careful not to
breath onto the RI-215A since the CO

9. Press the SET switch (S) and the display will again show a “1”.

10. Unscrew the regulator from the nitrogen cylinder.

11. To return to normal operation, press the MODE switch for three seconds to exit
Maintenance Mode.

in your breath may affect the reading.

2

-free source) into the regulator.

2

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Chapter 4: Operation

Overview

This chapter describes Measuring Mode and Alarm Adjust Mode. Under Measuring
Mode, alarm indications are discussed along with responding to alarms, analog output,
and alarm point and ventilation control. Under Alarm Adjust Mode, verifying the alarm
point and adjusting the alarm point are described.

Measuring Mode

When the RI-215A is in Measuring Mode (normal operation), it displays the current
concentration of CO2on its LCD and outputs a 4 - 20 mA signal that corresponds to the

CO

concentration. The typical background CO2level is 200 - 400 ppm.

2

Alarm Indications

If the CO2concentration rises above the alarm point, the relay contact will actuate. If the
gas concentration exceeds the full scale, the LCD shows:

Responding to Alarms

1. Follow your established procedure for handling high levels of CO2 gas.

2. When the display reading falls below the alarm point, the alarm circuit automatically
resets itself.

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Analog Output

The RI-215A’s analog output, available via the yellow and blue wires of the cable
assembly (refer to Figure 3 on page 12), is proportional to the concentration of CO2 for all

gas ranges (e.g., 0 - 2,000 ppm, 0 - 5,000 ppm, and 0 - 9990 ppm), as shown in Figure 4.

Maximum
Output

Should the concentration of CO
scale (i.e., it exceeds the upper gas range of your unit), the highest output will be 22 mA,

or 11 V, depending on the output, current, or voltage, selected at the factory. The LCD of
the RI-215A will show a series of brackets (upside down “Us”) between 20 mA
(10 V) and 22 mA (11V). The standard output setting for the RI-215A is 4- 20 mA.

22 mA (11V)

20 mA (10V)

Output

signal

4 mA (0V)

0 ppm Gas

Figure 5: Model RI-215A’s CO

present in the monitoring environment be above full

2

Concentration

Level to Output Signal

2

2000 ppm
5000 ppm

9990 ppm

Alarm Point and Ventilation Control

The RI-215A’s alarm relay has a built-in hysteresis of 50 ppm (refer to Figure 6 on
page 18). After the alarm point has been reached (e.g., 1000 ppm), the alarm relay will
activate. As the CO2concentration begins to fall, the alarm relay will deactivate 50 ppm

below the activation point (e.g., 950 ppm). The 50 ppm hysteresis keeps the alarm contacts
from “chattering” should the CO

RI-215A Operator’s Manual Measuring Mode • 17

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concentration hover around the alarm point.

2

So if the alarm relay contacts are wired to turn on a ventilation system when the
concentration of CO2reaches the alarm point (e.g., 1000 ppm), the ventilation system will

remain on until the concentration of CO

falls to 50 ppm below the alarm point (e.g., 950).

2

Alarm Adjust Mode

Use the Up (6) switch to enter Alarm Adjust Mode.

Verifying the Alarm Point

Three ranges of gas detection are available for the RI-215A: 0 - 2,000 ppm, 0 - 5,000 ppm,
and 0 - 9990 ppm. Detection ranges are set at the factory. When you ordered the RI-215A,
you should have specified one of these gas detection ranges for your unit.

1000 ppm

950 ppm

CO

2

Closed

Relay contact

Figure 6: Model RI-215A’s Built-in Hysteresis of 50 ppm

Open

Open

Hysteresis

50 ppm

The alarm point of the RI-215A is also set at the factory (e.g., 1000 ppm). To display the
current alarm point from the normal LCD, do the following:

1. Press and hold the Up (
(alarm verification screen). In this example, 10:00 indicates an alarm point of 1000
ppm. Note that the colon (:) will be flashing.

2. Release the Up (6)switch to return to the normal LCD. Do not hold the (6) switch for
more than three seconds or the unit will display the Alarm Adjust screen.

Further note that the RI-215A’s alarm relay has a built-in hysteresis (lag) of 50 ppm. After
the alarm point has been reached (e.g., 1000 ppm), the alarm relay will activate. As the

concentration begins to fall, the alarm relay will deactivate 50 ppm below the

CO

2

activation point (e.g., 950 ppm). The 50 ppm hysteresis keeps the alarm contacts from
“chattering” should the CO

18 • Alarm Adjust Mode RI-215A Operator’s Manual

6) switch. The alarm point appears (e.g., 10:00) on the LCD

concentration hover around the alarm point.

2

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Adjusting the Alarm Point

To adjust the alarm point, do the following:

1. Press and hold the Up (
screen. The LCD will flash the alarm point setting and the colon (:) alternately.

2. Use the Up (
want (e.g., 11:00 = 1100 ppm, 12:00 = 1200ppm, 12:30 = 1230ppm, 13:00 = 1300 ppm,
etc.)

3. Press the SET switch to save the new alarm point. The unit returns to normal
operation and the LCD displays the current gas reading.

6) and Down (¢) switches to adjust the alarm point to the setting you

6) switch for three seconds to display the Alarm Adjust

RI-215A Operator’s Manual Alarm Adjust Mode • 19

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Chapter 5: Maintenance

Overview

This chapter describes maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for the RI-215A. It
includes instructions for the replacement of the RI-215A’s gas sensor and fuse and
calibration procedures. A spare parts list is located at the end of this chapter.

Preventive Maintenance

This section describes a preventive maintenance schedule.

Daily

Verify a display reading for CO2 in ppm. Investigate significant changes in the reading.
Typical background levels of CO

Quarterly

are 200 to 400 ppm, depending on location.

2

Calibrate the unit. See See “Calibration” on page 22.

Troubleshooting

The troubleshooting table describes error messages, symptoms, probable causes, and
recommended action for problems you may encounter with the RI-215A.

• The LCD does not show
a gas reading or is blank.

Table 3: Troubleshooting the RI-215A

Symptoms Probable Causes Recommended Action

• Power may have been
terminated to the unit.

• The unit may have
been incorrectly
connected to a power
source.

• The wrong power
source is being used to
run the unit.

• The fuse may have
blown.

• The unit may be in
Maintenance Mode.

1. Verify that the power source has been
turned on and is working.

2. If a circuit breaker has been used in the
installation of the RI-215A, make sure
that the circuit breaker has not been
activated.

3. Verify that the wiring to the power source
has been connected correctly.

4. Make sure you have used the correct
power source: 24 VAC or 24 VDC.

5. Open the unit and check the fuse.
Replace the fuse if required. The RI-215A
takes the following replacement fuse: 0.
5A, 125 VAC (5.2 mm x 20 mm).

6. The unit may be in Maintenance Mode.
Press the MODE switch for three
seconds, or until a gas reading appears.

7. If difficulties continue, contact RKI.

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Table 3: Troubleshooting the RI-215A

Symptoms Probable Causes Recommended Action

• The LCD shows
abnormally high or low
CO2 readings but other

gas detection instru­ments show a normal
level of CO

• Unable to zero or span
reading during
calibration.

2.

Replacing Components

The section includes procedures to replace the sensor and fuse.

Replacing the Detector

The CO2 gas detector inside the RI-215A is a factory replacement part. Should you
determine that the RI-215A’s gas detector is no longer working or is working improperly,

you will need to ship the RI-215A to RKI Instruments, Inc. to have the detector replaced.

Replacing the Fuse

1. Turn off the power to the RI-215A.

• The RI-215A may
need to be
recalibrated.

• The calibration
cylinder is low,
outdated, or defective.

1. Recalibrate the unit.

1. Verify that the calibration cylinder
contains an adequate supply of sample.

2. If difficulties continue, contact RKI.

2. Remove the base plate of the RI-215A.

• Using a small screw driver, press down on the small tab on top of the

• Model RI-215A.

• While pushing down on the tab, gently move the base plate away from the front
housing of the RI-215A.

CAUTION: Be very careful not to pull on the cable assembly connected to the RI-215A ’s internal

printed circuit board when removing the base plate. Pulling on the cable assembly
may damage the printed circuit board.

• Completely separate the base plate from the front housing.

3. Find the fuse on the left side of the printed circuit board. Carefully remove the fuse
from the bracketing holding it on the printed circuit board.

4. Insert a new fuse in the brackets. The replacement fuse must be 0. 5A, 125 V or 250 V
(5 mm x 20 mm).

5. Reassemble the base plate and the front housing of the RI-215A in the reverse order as
described in step 2 above. Line up the bottom of the base plate with the front housing,
then carefully snap the base plate and front housing together.

6. Turn the power back on to the RI-215A.

RI-215A Operator’s Manual Replacing Components • 21

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Calibration

This section describes how to calibrate the RI-215A. It includes procedures to prepare for
calibration, set the zero reading, set the response (span) reading, and return to normal
operation.

WARNING: The RI-215A is not an active gas monitoring device during the calibration

procedure.

Preparing for Calibration

Turn on the power to the RI-215A, and let the unit warm up for at least 30 minutes.
Connect the sample tubing from your calibration kit to the hose barb on the fixed flow
regulator. The fixed flow regulator should be a 0.5 LPM (liters per minute) regulator.

NOTE: Do not screw the regulator onto the calibration cylinder at this time.

Setting the Zero Reading

1. Locate the function switches on the bottom of the unit.

2. Press and hold the MODE switch (M) for three seconds to enter Maintenance Mode.
The display will show “1” to indicate Zero Adjustment Mode.

3. Press the SET switch (S) to enter Zero Adjustment Mode. The display will show a
reading with a flashing decimal point before the first and third digits, for example
“. 1.5“.

4. Remove the rubber cap covering the calibration gas inlet port at the bottom of the
unit.

5. Insert the calibration tubing into the gas inlet opening at the bottom of the RI-215A
and push the tubing over the calibration fitting.

6. Screw a 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder (a CO

7. Allow the gas to flow for one minute or until the gas reading stabilizes.

8. Press the SET switch (S) and the unit will adjust the reading to zero. Be careful not to
breath onto the RI-215A since the CO

9. Press the SET switch (S) and the display will again show a “1”.

10. Unscrew the regulator from the nitrogen cylinder.

11. To proceed with setting the span, press the Up (
indicates Span Adjustment Mode and continue with the next section, Setting the
Response Reading.

12. To return to normal operation, skip to Returning to Normal Operation below.

in your breath may affect the reading.

2

-free source) into the regulator.

2

6) switch to display “2” which

Setting the Response Reading

1. With “2” showing in the display, press the SET switch (S) to enter Span Adjustment
Mode. The display will show the current gas reading with a flashing decimal point
before the second and third digits, for example “.6.50“.

2. Press the SET switch (S) again and the reading will start to flash.

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3. If not already in, insert the calibration tubing into the gas inlet opening at the bottom
of the RI-215A and push the tubing over the calibration fitting.

4. Screw the calibration cylinder into the regulator.

5. Allow the calibration gas to flow for one minute or until the gas reading stabilizes.

Parts List

6. If the gas reading does not match the gas concentration, use the Up (
Down (¢) switches to adjust the reading to the gas concentration.

7. Press the SET switch (S) to set the reading and exit Span Adjustment Mode. The
display will show a “2”.

8. Unscrew the regulator from the calibration cylinder.

9. Remove the calibration tubing from the calibration fitting on the RI-215A.

10. Allow time for the gas reading on the RI-215A display to return to a normal level.

6) and

Returning to Normal Operation

1. Press the MODE switch for thr ee seconds to exit the Maintenance Mode and return to
normal operation.

NOTE: If you do not allow the gas reading to return to normal, then unwanted alarms

may occur.

2. Store the components of the calibration kit in a safe and convenient place.

Table 4 lists replacement parts and accessories for the RI-215A carbon dioxide transmitter.

Table 4: Parts List

Part Number Description

06-1252RK Sample tubing (1/4 x 1/8 in.; specify length when ordering)
43-4139RK Replacement fuse, 0. 5A, 250 V, 5 mm x 20 mm
81-0070RK-01 Calibration cylinder (2,000 ppm carbon dioxide; 34 liter)
81-0071RK-01 Calibration cylinder (5,000 ppm carbon dioxide; 34 liter)
81-0078RK-01 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder (34 liter)
81-1003RK Regulator, 0.5 liter/minute; continuous flow

(for 17 and 34 liter calibration cylinders)

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Appendix A: Changing the Detection Range

The RI-215A can be setup for one of thr ee detection ranges: 0 - 2,000 ppm; 0 - 5,000 ppm; 0

- 9990- ppm. When the RI-215A is ordered, the detection range must be specified. If it is

necessary to change the detection range in the field, this can be done in Maintenance
Mode.

WARNING: The RI-215A is not an active gas monitoring device during the full scale

adjustment procedure.

Perform the following to change the detection range.

1. With the RI-215A on and in Measuring Mode, locate the function switches on the
bottom of the unit.

2. Press and hold the MODE switch (M) for 3 seconds to enter Maintenance Mode. The
display will show “1” to indicate Zero Adjustment Mode.

3. Press the Up (
Mode.

4. Press the SET switch (S) to enter Full Scale Adjustment Mode. The display will show a
full scale value with a flashing decimal point after the first digit, for example
“2.000“.

5. Use the Up (
until the desired full scale value is displayed.

6. Press the SET switch (S) to accept the displayed full scale value. The display will again
show a “3”.

7. Press the MODE switch for 3 seconds to exit Maintenance Mode and return to
Measuring Mode.

8. Calibrate the RI-215A as described in "Calibration" on page 22.

WARNING: The RI-215 must be calibrated after the detection range is changed. The

6) switch until the display shows “3” to indicate Full Scale Adjustment

6) and Down (¢) switches to scroll through the full scale value choices

RI-215A readings will not be accurate unless a calibration is performed.

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