Xantrex Technology Freedom SW User Manual

by

Conext™ ComBox
Communication and
Monitoring Device

For Freedom SW Series of Products

Owner’s Guide

www.xantrex.com

Copyright and Contact

Copyright © 2013 Schneider Electric. All Rights Reserved. All trademarks are owned by Schneider Electric Industries
SAS or its affiliated companies.

Exclusion for Documentation

U

NLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, SELLER

(A) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF ANY TECHNICAL OR OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED

IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION;

(

B) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSSES, DAMAGES, COSTS OR EXPENSES, WHETHER SPECIAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION. THE USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION
WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK; AND

(C) REMINDS YOU THAT IF THIS MANUAL IS IN ANY LANGUAGE OTHER THAN ENGLISH, ALTHOUGH STEPS HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO

MAINTAIN THE ACCURACY OF THE TRANSLATION, THE ACCURACY CANNOT BE GUARANTEED. APPROVED CONTENT IS CONTAINED WITH
THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE VERSION WHICH IS POSTED AT WWW.SCHNEIDER-ELECTRIC.COM.

Document Number: 975-0704-01-01 Revision: Revision A Date: January 2014

Product Part Number: 809-0918

Contact Information www.xantrex.com

Information About Your System

As soon as you open your product, record the following information and be sure to keep your proof of purchase.

Serial Number

Product Number

Purchased From

Purchase Date

_________________________________

_________________________________

_________________________________

_________________________________

About This Guide

Purpose

The purpose of this Owner’s Guide is to provide explanations and procedures for

installing, operating, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting the Conext
ComBox Communication and Monitoring Device for Freedom SW inverter/
chargers and accessories.

Scope

The Guide provides safety guidelines, planning, and setup information,
procedures for installing the Conext ComBox, as well as information about
configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting the unit. It does include information
on how to use other Xantrex products.

Firmware Revision

Some Conext ComBox features and functions described in this guide may be
incorporated with later firmware versions. This manual is valid for Conext
ComBox – Freedom SW version 01.00 and above. To view the firmware version
on your product, see the Conext ComBox Status Information in the web user
interface.

Audience

Organization

The Guide is intended for use by anyone who plans to construct, install, or
operate a system involving the Conext ComBox–Freedom SW. The information in
this manual is intended for qualified personnel. Qualified personnel have training,
knowledge, and experience in:

• Installing electrical equipment

• Applying all applicable installation codes

• Analyzing and reducing the hazards involved in performing electrical work

• Changing any TCP/IP-related settings

This Guide is organized into five chapters and an appendix.

Chapter 1, “Overview”, describes physical features of the Conext ComBox and
introduces the user interface.

Chapter 2, “Installation”, describes how to install, wire, and connect the Conext
ComBox to your network.

Chapter 3, “Configuration”, describes how to configure and change device
settings, manage data logs, import and export data, and upgrade firmware.

Chapter 4, “Monitoring”, describes how to monitor LED indicator lights (LEDs),
system and device levels, and create historical views.

Chapter 5, “Troubleshooting”, describes how to interpret events and alerts.

975-0704-01-01 Revision A iii

About This Guide

DANGER

WARNING

CAUTION

NOTICE

Conventions Used

Appendix A, “Specifications”, contains the electrical, mechanical and
environmental specifications for the Conext ComBox.

The following conventions are used in this guide.

DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
can result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
can result in moderate or minor injury.

NOTICE indicates important information that you need to read carefully.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

DHCP - Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

LED - Light Emitting Diode (used for indicator lights)

SELV - Safety Extra Low Voltage

SNTP - Simple Network Time Protocol

TCP/IP - Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol

iv 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

Related Information

About This Guide

Related Products

For more information about related products, refer to:

Freedom SW Inverter/Charger Owner’s Guide

Xanbus Automatic Generator Start Owner’s Guide

Xanbus System Control Panel Owner’s Guide

Freedom Sequence Owner’s Guide

You can find more information about Xantrex products and services at
www.xantrex.com.

975-0704-01-01 Revision A v

vi

Contents

Important Safety Instructions

1 Overview

Compatible Xanbus™ Components - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2
Physical Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3

Data Ports and Reset Button - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3
LED Indicator Lights (LEDs) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4
Communication and Power Ports - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–5

Types of Conext ComBox Networks - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–6

Conext ComBox on a Local Area Network (LAN) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–6

Conext ComBox with Remote Access - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–7
Power Sources for the Conext ComBox - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–7
User Interface - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–9

Home Screen - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–10

Menu Bar - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–11

Conext ComBox Setup Buttons - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–12

Other Buttons - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–13
System Scheduled Maintenance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–13

2 Installation

Choosing a Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Materials and Tools Required - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3

Materials List - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3

Additional Material and Tools - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3
Mounting the Conext ComBox - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–4

Wall Mount - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–4

DIN Rail Mount - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–5
Wiring the RS 485 Modbus Connector for Data Communication - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–6
Wiring the Dry Contact Connector - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–8
Wiring the Conext ComBox to an Ethernet Network - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–9
Turning On the Conext ComBox- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11

Connecting the AC/DC Power Adapter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12

Wiring the RS 485 Modbus Connector for Power to the Conext ComBox - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12

975-0704-01-01 Revision A vii

Contents

Connecting to the Web Interface Using the Discovery Tool - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15
Connecting to the Web Interface Using a USB Thumb Drive - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–16
Connecting to the Web Interface Using an Android Tablet- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–17

3 Configuration

Configuration Steps - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2
Logging In- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–3
Changing the Admin Password - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–5
Changing the Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–7
Changing E-Mail Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–9
Connecting the Conext ComBox to the Xanbus Network - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–11
Changing Basic Conext ComBox Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–13

Control Panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–14

Changing Advanced Conext ComBox Settings- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–15

General Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–16
Change User Password Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–17
Change Admin Password Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–18
TCP/IP Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–18
E-mail Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–19
E-mail Reporting - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–19
Web - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–21
FTP - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–22
FTP Logger - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–23
Dry Contact Relay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–24
Suppress Device Faults/Warnings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–24
Xanbus Communications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–25
Modbus Communications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–25

Modbus Byte Order - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–26
Modbus Address List - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–27
Modbus Address Enumeration - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–28
System Diagram - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–30

Resetting the Conext ComBox to Factory Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–30
Changing Device Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–31

Using Cascading Parameters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–34

viii 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

Upgrading Firmware - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–35

Clearing the Internal Firmware Memory - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–36
Installing Conext ComBox Upgrades from a Thumb Drive - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–37
Installing Conext ComBox Upgrades Remotely - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–39
Installing Xanbus Device Upgrades - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–41

4 Monitoring

Monitoring LEDs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2

Startup - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2

Operating Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–3
Monitoring Conext ComBox Status Information - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–3
Monitoring System Components - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–6

Devices - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–6

System Component Energy Graphs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–10

Interpreting a Battery Energy Graph - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–12
Interpreting a Load Energy Graph - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–13
Interpreting a Generator Energy Graph - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–14

Managing Data Logs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–15

Accessing and Downloading Log Files - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–17

Contents

5 Troubleshooting

Viewing Xanbus Device Faults and Warnings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–2
Viewing System Events - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–6
Viewing Faults and Warnings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–6
Browsing System Event and Fault Log Files - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–7
Browsing Energy Log Files - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–9
Common Solutions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–12

A Specifications

Electrical Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–2

Communication Interfaces - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–2

Data Interfaces - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–2

Power Supply (SELV or Class 2 Power Sources) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–2

Memory - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–3
General Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–3
Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–4
Regulatory Approvals - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–4
Schneider Electric Products that Work with the Conext ComBox - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–4
Physical Dimensions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–5

Front View - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–5

Side View - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–5

Bottom View - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–6

Back View - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–6

975-0704-01-01 Revision A ix

x

Important Safety Instructions

DANGER

DANGER

READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS - DO NOT DISCARD

This guide contains important safety instructions for the Conext ComBox
Communication and Monitoring Device for Freedom SW series of products (Part
Number 809-0918). These instructions must be followed during installation and
configuration procedures.

HAZARD OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

• Read all instructions, cautionary markings, and all other appropriate
sections of this manual before installing, operating, troubleshooting or
performing maintenance on the Conext ComBox – Freedom SW.

• Exercise extreme caution at all times to prevent accidents.

• These instructions are for use by qualified installers only.

Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.

HAZARD OF ELECTRIC SHOCK AND FIRE

• Connect only to Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) circuits and power
sources.

• All wiring must be done by qualified personnel to ensure compliance with
all applicable installation codes and regulations.

• Do not expose the Conext ComBox Freedom – SW to rain, snow, spray, or
bilge water.

• Do not disassemble. No user serviceable parts inside.

• Do not install and/or operate in compartments containing flammable
materials or in locations that require ignition-protected equipment.

Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.

975-0704-01-01 Revision A xi

Safety

NOTICE

NOTICE

EQUIPMENT DAMAGE

• All cables connected to the Conext ComBox – Freedom SW must run
indoors and not be susceptible to lightning strikes.

• Turn OFF all devices before connecting cables. The Conext ComBox does
not have an ON/OFF switch.

• Do not connect an Ethernet cable from the Conext ComBox to the WAN/
MODEM port on the network router.

• Do not connect an Ethernet cable plug into a Xanbus port on the Conext
ComBox.

• Do not connect a Xanbus RJ-45 cable plug into the 10/100 Ethernet port of
the Conext ComBox.

• Do not connect any port on the Conext ComBox to an outside line or to a
public telecommunication network.

• Ensure that the device connected on the Xanbus network is in standby
mode before changing settings. Do not change any settings unless you are
familiar with the device.

• Changes to any TCP/IP-related settings should only be performed by a
qualified IT professional.

Failure to follow these instructions can damage equipment or affect
network performance.

EQUIPMENT DAMAGE

• Do not disassemble the Conext ComBox – Freedom SW.

• See Warranty for instructions on obtaining service.

• The Conext ComBox contains no user-serviceable parts. Attempting to
service the Conext ComBox yourself will void your warranty.

Failure to follow these instructions can damage equipment.

Important: This device can be configured to connect to the Internet using port­forwarding in your network router’s settings. There is a security risk in port­forwarding unencrypted network traffic over a public network (Internet). Use of
a VPN or a secure tunnel to route Conext ComBox communication via the
Internet is recommended.

xii 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

1 Overview

Chapter 1 describes the features of the Conext
ComBox – Freedom SW and provides an
overview of the physical features and web user
interface.

It includes:

• Compatible Xanbus™ Components

• Physical Features

• Types of Conext ComBox Networks

• Power Sources for the Conext ComBox

• User Interface

• System Scheduled Maintenance

975-0704-01-01 Revision A 1–1

Overview

The Conext ComBox Communication and Monitoring Device (Part Number
809-0918) is an accessory compatible with the Freedom SW series of products. It
provides an overall view of system performance for mobile power monitoring
systems such as commercial, emergency and recreational vehicles, marine
vessels, construction and other heavy duty applications.

The Conext ComBox – Freedom SW lets you configure the system and devices,
monitor performance, and access data logs through a web-based application on
a PC, laptop or Android tablet.

Other features of the Conext ComBox include:

• Compatibility—connects directly to Xanbus-enabled devices

• Real-time clock—keeps time for the entire system

• Non-volatile memory—preserves the latest Conext ComBox settings if power
is interrupted or network communication is disrupted.

• Micro-SD slot—provides additional data storage.

• Firmware storage and upgrade capability—uses the Conext ComBox to
upgrade or downgrade firmware for Xanbus-enabled devices on the
network.

Important: This model of Conext ComBox is intended for connection to Freedom
SW products only, and is not compatible with other Schneider Electric inverter
products. Freedom SW products do not support grid tie or grid support functions.
Although Modbus features are available in this ComBox model, Xantrex does not
provide technical support for these features.

Compatible Xanbus™ Components

The Conext ComBox works with several Xantrex and Schneider Electric products
including:

• Freedom SW inverter/chargers

• Xanbus System Control Panel (SCP)

• Xanbus Automatic Generator Start (AGS)

• Freedom Sequence power management system

Note: For details on specific models supported, see the “Specifications”

section. The Conext ComBox supports up to a maximum of 20 devices on a
Xanbus network depending on the device types.

1–2 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

Physical Features

The following illustration shows the Conext ComBox. The tables in the following
sections contain descriptions of the connectors, indicators, and data ports.

Data Ports and Reset Button

The data ports and reset are located at the top, front of the Conext ComBox.
Their functions are listed in the following table.

Physical Features

Item Description

Reset The Reset pinhole is used to restore factory settings or clear

internal firmware memory. See “Resetting the Conext ComBox to
Factory Settings” on page 3–30 and “Clearing the Internal Firmware
Memory” on page 3–36.

Micro-SD The Micro-SD data port is used with a micro-SD card to extend

Conext ComBox memory for data logging.

Host The Host USB data port is used for uploading firmware upgrades

into the device - a thumb drive or equivalent mass storage device
can be used. See “Clearing the Internal Firmware Memory” on
page 3–36.

Device The Device USB data port is used for transferring files from the

Conext ComBox to a PC.

975-0704-01-01 Revision A 1–3

Overview

LED Indicator Lights (LEDs)

The Power LED flashes slowly (2 flashes per second) during the Conext ComBox
application loading and flashes quickly during application initialization. The other
LEDs light up one by one as the startup progresses. Once the Conext ComBox is
ready, the power LED is on and other LEDs behave as described below. See
“Monitoring LEDs” for more information.

Item Description

Power Green LED. The Conext ComBox is powered and ready to

communicate when on.

Memory Green LED. Device is logging data to internal memory when

flashing.

Xanbus Green LED. Device is actively communicating or transferring data

with the Xanbus network when on.

Modbus Green LED. Each flash indicates that the Conext ComBox received

a message from the Modbus.

Status Amber LED. Devices on the Conext ComBox system have events or

alerts when on.

1–4 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

Communication and Power Ports

1 23 4 56

Item Description

1 Power port. Use an AC/DC power adapter connected to a wall

outlet to provide power to the Conext ComBox.

2 Xanbus ports. Plug in a CAT5 cable from Xanbus-enabled devices

for communications and/or power to the Conext ComBox.

3 DIN rail sliding catch. Slide up/down to lock/release the Conext

ComBox to a DIN rail.

Physical Features

4 RS 485 Modbus port. Use the RS 485 Modbus connector from a

Modbus device for communications and 24V power terminals to the
Conext ComBox.

5 10/100 Ethernet port for CAT5 cable only. Use to connect to a

DHCP-enabled network router.

6 Dry Contact port. Used for signalling with SELV (Safety Extra Low

Voltage) device.It does not provide power to the Conext ComBox.

See Chapter 2, “Installation” for more information on these ports.

975-0704-01-01 Revision A 1–5

Overview

F

R

E

E

D

O

M

S

W

2

0

0

0

1000
800
600
400

30

100

200

Max Off

LowBattery Battery Type Search BatteryBank
Cutoff Mode Capac ity (Ah)

AGM/

LOW HIGH GELFlooded

Fault kWI nver ting

ACharging

Batt

%

Xanbus Network

Conext ComBox

Local Area Network

Ethernet CablesXanbus Cables

Types of Conext ComBox Networks

The Conext ComBox can interface with different LAN devices using wired or
wireless connections, so you can configure your Xanbus devices and monitor
your power system performance. For this version of Conext ComBox – Freedom
SW, there are two communication network options:

• Conext ComBox on a Local Area Network (LAN)

• Conext ComBox with Remote Access

Conext ComBox on a Local Area Network (LAN)

When the Conext ComBox is part of a LAN, you can access the Conext ComBox
web user interface from a computer on the same LAN or through a wireless or
wired LAN connection. For configuring the Conext ComBox, an Ethernet
connection is required between the Conext ComBox and a router and computer.

1–6 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

Conext ComBox with Remote Access

F

R

E

E

D

O

M

S

W

2

0

0

0

1000
800
600

400

30

100

200

Max Off

LowBattery BatteryType Sea rch BatteryBank
Cutoff ModeCapa city(Ah)

AGM/

LOW HIGH GELFlooded

Fault kWInver ting

ACharging

Batt
%

Conext ComBox

Ethernet Cables

Internet

Laptop or Tablet

Xanbus cables

Router

You can access the web user interface for the Conext ComBox from a remote
computer using the Internet. The Conext ComBox must be connected to a router.
The router firewall settings must allow port forwarding, which allows the remote
computer to access the Conext ComBox using the router’s IP address and the
port number for the Conext ComBox.

Note

: There is a security risk in port forwarding unencrypted network traffic

over a public network (Internet). It is recommended you use a VPN or a secure
tunnel to route Conext ComBox communication via the Internet.

Power Sources for the Conext ComBox

Power Sources for the Conext ComBox

The Conext ComBox consumes an average of 2 W under most operating
conditions and up to 10 W maximum. The power sources connected to the
Conext ComBox must be capable of providing this power requirement.

There are three power sources for the Conext ComBox:

• AC/DC power adapter (supplied)

• Freedom SW inverter/charger via CAT5 or CAT5e cable (Xanbus cable)

• 24 V DC power input connections on the RS 485 Modbus connector

All three sources can be used alone or simultaneously. Typically, the supplied
AC/DC power adapter is used as a primary source with either a Xanbus or a
RS 485 Modbus connection as secondary sources.

Note: Modbus support is available only for the Conext ComBox (Part Number

865-1058), and Conext Modbus Converter (Part Number 865-1059), used with
Schneider Electric Conext series inverter products.

The RS 485 Modbus connector supplied with this Conext ComBox – Freedom
SW (Part Number 809- 0918), is not required for operation or supported by
Xantrex technical support.

975-0704-01-01 Revision A 1–7

Overview

DANGER

AC/DC power
adapter

Xanbus cable

24 V DC input on
RS 485 connector

HAZARD OF ELECTRIC SHOCK AND FIRE

Connect only to Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) circuits and power sources.

Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.

Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) is a designation that refers to a circuit in which
the voltages within the circuit and from the circuit to ground have values that are
not a shock hazard, under both normal and single fault conditions. In the Conext
ComBox, the SELV circuits and their intended connections are:

• Supplied AC/DC power adapter connected to the power port of the Conext
ComBox.

• Xanbus communications and power which come from SELV circuits on Xanbus­enabled Schneider products.

• 24 V DC power input connections which must be SELV and are connected to the
Conext ComBox via the RS 485 Modbus connector.

• SELV Ethernet circuits or Class 2 circuits (Class 2 is a 24V, 100VA limited circuit).

• An external SELV circuit connected via the Dry Contact connector (see “Wiring
the Dry Contact Connector” on page 2–8).

1–8 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

User Interface

User Interface

This section describes the elements of the web-based user interface for the
Conext ComBox. This interface is used to check the status of the Conext
ComBox, configure, monitor and log data for your network, and perform
upgrades. The menu bar contains icons for all functions plus home, close and
setup icons.

To access the web user interface, log in with a user name and password. For
more details see “Logging In” on page 3–3.

Web browsers Correct operation of the web interface has been verified with the following

browsers:

• Mozilla Firefox 12.x or later

• Microsoft Windows Internet Explorer 8.x or later*

• Google Chrome 18.x or later

• Safari 5.x or later

• Android 4.0 or later (Ice Cream Sandwich)

Other browsers have not been tested and may have varying degrees of
compatibility with the Conext ComBox.

*Internet Explorer 8.0 and 9.0 do not support firmware upgrade.

Note

: JavaScript and cookies must be enabled in your Web browser for the

interface to function.

975-0704-01-01 Revision A 1–9

Overview

Name assigned to the
ComBox. See
page 3–16.

Current date and time.
See page page 3–7

Indicates the
direction of energy
flow

The Freedom SW has
one AC input. Your
ComBox will be
configured to display
GRID or GENERATOR
power flow (but not
both at the same
time).

Home Screen

1–10 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

Note: Although the Conext ComBox interface is displayed in a web browser, it

does not use the Back button to display previous screens. All navigation
through the interface is done within the Home screen.

Item Description

Displays basic settings for configuring the Conext ComBox for
use with the Freedom SW inverter/charger and Xanbus AGS.

Displays all power system devices connected to the ComBox. A
yellow flashing device icon indicates a warning. A red flashing
icon indicates a fault. Click a device icon to view a system
status summary.

Shows battery status such as voltage, current, power,
temperature, charge cycle information and historical
information.

Shows the load status for the system and devices including
power, apparent power, voltage, current, and frequency.

Menu Bar

User Interface

Shows the status of generator input energy

This feature is reserved for future use. A Xanbus-enabled solar
charge controller certified for use on a vehicle or boat is not
currently available.

Shows the status of AC shore power from the main utility grid.

Item Description

Returns you to the Home menu.

Displays the Conext ComBox Status Information screen. Click the
Setup button in the left side menu to open the Conext ComBox
Setup screen.

In the Conext ComBox Setup screen, you can configure ComBox
settings such as Time Zone and Network Settings. For more
information, see “Conext ComBox Setup Buttons”.

Links to xantrex.com.

975-0704-01-01 Revision A 1–11

Overview

Closes the Conext ComBox web user interface and logs out.

Shows Xanbus Devices of all types in the network.

Shows the battery status for the network.

Shows system AC output power, voltage and current (loads).

Shows the status of AC shore power from the public utility grid.

This feature is reserved for future use. A Xanbus enabled solar
charge controller certified for use on a vehicle or boat is not
currently available.

Displays the status of generator input energy.

Conext ComBox Setup Buttons

These buttons are found in the Conext ComBox Setup screen.

Item Description

Saves a parameter’s new value to the Conext ComBox.

Recalls (or refreshes) a parameter’s previous value that is still not
saved (or that may have been changed by another device).

Found in E-mail-related settings, the Conext ComBox sends
information out via the e-mail system.

Found only in the Network Time (SNTP) setting, this button performs
a manual network time synchronization.

Found only in General Settings, this button reboots the Conext
ComBox.

Found only in General Settings, this button shuts down the Conext
ComBox.

Captures the most up-to-date value from a parameter.

Sets the time and date in the Conext ComBox.

1–12 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

Other Buttons

These buttons are found in other Conext ComBox web user interface screens, such as
Upload screens and dialog screens.

System Scheduled Maintenance

Sets the time zone in the Conext ComBox.

Found only in FTP Logger Settings, this button sends a sample log
file to an FTP site.

Causes a physical indicator on the Xanbus device to flash, light up,
or beep, depending on the device.

Found only in Modbus Address List Settings, this button resets the
Modbus addresses of Xanbus devices.

Item Description

Found in Firmware Uploads And Device Upgrades, this button
uploads an upgrade file from a storage device to the Conext
ComBox.

Found in Firmware Uploads And Device Upgrades, this button
initiates the device upgrade process for a Xanbus device.

When visible this provides the option to cancel a prompted action.

Enacts an action prompted by a dialog screen.

Closes a user interface screen or a pop-up application.

System Scheduled Maintenance

The Conext ComBox is unavailable for approximately three minutes at 3:05 AM daily.
During this time, the Conext ComBox performs routine maintenance and does not
respond to queries via any of its external interfaces, such as Modbus TCP, RS 485, Web
Services, and Web Pages. Data logging is also suspended during this period.

975-0704-01-01 Revision A 1–13

Overview

1–14 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

2 Installation

Chapter 2 describes how to install, wire, and
connect the Conext ComBox – Freedom SW to
your network.

It includes:

• Choosing a Location

• Materials and Tools Required

• Mounting the Conext ComBox

• Wiring the RS 485 Modbus Connector for
Data Communication

• Wiring the Dry Contact Connector

• Wiring the Conext ComBox to an Ethernet
Network

• Turning On the Conext ComBox

• Connecting to the Web Interface Using the
Discovery Tool

• Connecting to the Web Interface Using a
USB Thumb Drive

• Connecting to the Web Interface Using an
Android Tablet

975-0704-01-01 Revision A 2–1

Installation

DANGER

Choosing a Location

Choose a clean, dry, easily accessible location indoors.

If you mount the Conext ComBox on a wall, the recommended height is at eye­level so that you can clearly see the LEDs and have easy access to the data
ports.

All the communication ports on the Conext ComBox are accessible from the
bottom of the device when mounted on a wall or DIN rail. Clearance of at least 2
inches (50 mm) below the device is needed to allow for the bending radius of
cables that connect to the Conext ComBox.

You should not run cables through conduits that can be exposed to lightning
strikes.

The following are recommended maximum cable lengths in a Conext ComBox
system:

• 131 feet (40 m) Total Xanbus network

• 328 feet (100 m) Router to Conext ComBox

• 164 feet (50 m) Modbus Master (RS 485) to Conext ComBox

HAZARD OF ELECTRIC SHOCK AND FIRE

• Connect only to Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) circuits and power
sources.

• All wiring must be done by qualified personnel to ensure compliance with
all applicable installation codes and regulations.

• Do not expose the Conext ComBox – Freedom SW to rain, snow, spray, or
bilge water.

• Do not disassemble. No user serviceable parts inside.

• Do not install and/or operate in compartments containing flammable
materials or in locations that require ignition-protected equipment.

Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.

2–2 975-0704-01-01 Revision A

Materials and Tools Required

Materials List

The following materials are supplied in the Conext ComBox package:

p Conext ComBox unit

p Conext ComBox Quick Start Guide

p AC/DC power adapter (PN: 0J-921-0023-Z) with replaceable multi-plug for

North America, Europe, Asia, UK

• 5.5 mm diameter (outer, negative), 2.1 mm diameter (inner, positive)
connector

• 12 VDC (output), 1.5 ADC

p Dry contact connector

p RS 485 Modbus connector

p Ethernet cable (2 m)

p USB cable (1.8 m)

p Xanbus network terminator

p Mounting hardware

Materials and Tools Required

Additional Material and Tools

The following materials and tools are not supplied but are required to complete
the installation:

• CAT5 or CAT5e network cable(s) for Xanbus connections - 6.5 feet (2 m) or
longer

• Modbus network cable(s)

• Wire stripper

•Ferrules

For wall mount:

• Two #6 (or equivalent) mounting screws for non-drywall mounting

• Screwdriver set

For DIN rail mount:

• 35-mm “top hat” DIN rail (EN50022)

• Pliers

• Diagonal cutter or heavy duty scissors

975-0704-01-01 Revision A 2–3

Installation

¼ inch
(6 mm)

Mounting the Conext ComBox

Wall Mount

To mount the Conext ComBox on a wall:

1. Choose the location for mounting the device. Mounting hardware for plywood
wall material is supplied.

2. Using the template in the Conext ComBox Quick Start Guide, mark the
mounting holes on the wall with a pencil. The holes must be at the same
height and 4 7/16 inches (112 mm) apart.

3. Insert the mounting screws supplied in the marked locations on the wall,
leaving a space of about ¼ inch (6 mm) between the wall and screw head.

.

4. Place the Conext ComBox on the mounting screws, and confirm a snug fit
before going to the next step.

5. Connect the wiring and cables. Go to “Wiring the Conext ComBox to an
Ethernet Network” on page 2–9.

2–4 975-0704-01-01 Revision A