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Metering and data-logging hardware

Source capture: 2006. Details reflect the original publication period.
Hardware

UL8 Logger Technical Information

Introduction
The UL8 logger together with the DL4 and UL24 form SHM’s family of advanced data loggers for energy monitoring.
The UL8 is robust, reliable and easy to install. All input and power connections use 2-part plug-in terminal blocks.
The UL8 has eight universal inputs that can each be configured to monitor Digital (pulse), Status (on / off), Analog (0 to 10 V or 0 to 20 mA) or Temperature (thermistor) sensors.
Digital and Status inputs accept volt-free relay contacts, providing direct connection to all the common utility meters (Electricity, Oil, Gas, Water, Compressed Air, Steam). Analog inputs can be connected to any sensor whose output is one of the industry standard levels, 0 to 10 V or 0 to 20 mA. Temperature inputs are connected to a NTC precision thermistor sensor.
Each channel in the logger is independent, and can be configured to log data at intervals of between 1 and 60 minutes, or be triggered by an external input. When logging every 30 minutes, each channel logs data for approximately 60 days before wrap-round occu rs.
The logger is mains powered, but can be fitted with a UPS that allows it to continue logging for up to 5 days without mains power.
The logger has its own clock / calendar which is used to timestamp all readings.

The logger is interrogated and controlled via its serial port. The main serial port on the enclosure is normally used for local
interrogation by a portable PC. A second internal serial port can be used to connect to a modem or similar device, and is used for remote access.
The UL8 can be a stand-alone logger or be connected to other SHM loggers (of any type) via a simple local area network. Connection to the host PC can be via direct connection, telephone modem, RF modem (Paknet) or Ethernet TCP/IP. A variety of solutions are available to minimize installation and communications costs.
SHM supplies a simple PC utility to configure the many firmware options available on the logger. To collect the logged data another utility
is available to store it in standard CSV format for importing into spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel. If full -featured energy monitoring is required, then the leading energy information software package Stark RT is the preferred choice, and comes with the UL8 protocol built in. SHM is an Approved Application Partner for Stark Software International and will provide full details of RT on request.

Protocol
The UL8 uses a proprietary packet-based fullduplex protocol, designed to allow multiple loggers to be connected together in a variety of network configurations. It provides fast efficient data transfers and minimizes cost when using a communications medium with a perpacket tariff (eg. Packnet).
· Multi-Level Security
The UL8 logger has 4 levels of security each controlled by 32-bit numeric passwords. Each channel has independent passwords for reading data and configuration. Internal counts of log-in failures and password changes are provided to track attempts at unauthorized access.
For non-critical installations, the security system can be bypassed by programming null passwords (this is the factory default).

Time Control
To avoid sudden changes in the time (and consequent discontinuities in the log), a ‘phase lock’ technique is used to keep the time on track.
During regular reading, the ‘correct’ time, derived from an accurate clock in the host computer, is sent to the logger. The logger compares this to its own time and finely adjusts the rate of its clock so that any error is corrected. This is a privileged function and requires knowledge of the ‘time controller’ password.

Channel Inputs
The UL8 logger has 8 inputs and 8 memory channels, and these are normally configured to correspond (Memory Channel 1 is connected to Input 1 etc.). However it is possible to assign any input to any channel, or to assign one input to two or more channels.
One use of this feature is to configure an input to connect it to both a long-term log channel logging at 30 minute intervals, and a short-term log channel logging every minute.

Logging Interval
A channel’s logging interval can be changed at any time without losing the previous stored data.
A channel can also have its logging triggered by an external time reference connected to one of the logger inputs. This can be used to log 30-minute electricity readings in synchronism with the supply tariff meter.

Channel Size
The available memory can be distributed among the channels to tailor the channel size to the application.

Channel Type
Each channel can be configured to log pulse counts, status (on / off), analog values or temperature. A built-in linearizer converts the resistance of a 10k thermistor to degrees Celsius.

Data Authentication
All messages containing logged data have a 16-bit validator appended. This validator provides a checksum for all the data in the message and guards against data corruption or tampering.
The validator calculation uses a configurable 32-bit authentication key.

Immediate Data
All channels can be read as immediate (rather than stored) values, updated every second.

Channel Alarms
The logger can be programmed with simple high and low alarm thresholds for each channel. The alarm status of each channel is logged alongside its data. Th e logger can be programmed to make selected channel alarms notify the user, either by activating a relay, or by dialling in to a central point.

Communications Sharing
There are a number of features for sharing communications with other users, thus minimizing cost.
The Modem Answer Window feature configures the logger to only answer the line outside normal office hours. This allows the line to be shared with an office telephone or fax.
The Dial-In feature configures the logger to dial in once per day to the Host PC, as opposed to the usual configuration, where the Host PC dials the logger. This minimizes the inconvenience to other users of a shared line.
The Modem Serial Switch option allows the logger to share a modem with another device (eg. tariff meter). The device automatically switches the data connection to the logger when interrogated.

Hardware Options
The following hardware options are available to order :
1. RS485 Interface. Used to connect loggers together in a LAN.
2. LCD Display module. Displays immediate channel readings.
3. Modem Serial Switch. Allows the logger to share an external modem.

For further information on this product or advice on loggers, meters, sensors or Energy Monitoring Systems, contact Stark North America, Inc.

UL8 Specifications
INPUTS
Configuration
8 universal
Pulse Counting
Volt -free contact closure input, 10k pull-up to +5V
Pulse width 20 ms (minimum)
Status
Pulse rate 20 Hz (maximum)
Binary status input, 10k pull-up to +5V
Current
Glitches of 20 ms (minimum) recorded Range 0 to 20 mA
Voltage
Input impedance 250 ohms
10-bit ADC, ± 2%
Range 0 to 10 V
Temperature
Input impedance 200 kohms
10-bit ADC, ± 2%
Thermistor sensor, 10k nominal at 25 °C Range –80 to +150 °C
Input impedance 10k pull-up to +5V
CHANNELS
Pulse Counting
Resolution 0.1 °C ± 0.5 °C at +25 °C
Status
Configurable pre-scaler 1 to 255 32-bit (9 digit) register, pre-settable
Capacity
Time and date of every state change logged
REAL-TIME CLOCK
Resolution 1 second
Accuracy
128 kbytes of RAM memory provides storage for up to 24,000 readings (63 days logging at 30 minutes)
External Sync
COMMUNICATIONS
±1 second per day
Character Set
Volt -free relay contact provides 1-sec time synchronization pulse every ½ hour
Character Format
Parity
Flow Control
7-bit printable ASCII plus CR
Local Access
Asynchronous 7 data bits, 1 stop bit
Remote Access
Configurable to Even, Odd, Mark (1) or Space (0) XON / XOFF in both directions
SECURITY
Level 1
RS232 9-way D-type
Level 2
Separate internal RS232 port for connection of external modem or Paknet radio modem
Level 3
Read data - each channel has its own unique password
Level 4
Configure channel - each channel has its own unique password
POWER SUPPLY
Time Control - a single password controls access to both regulate the time and read data
Voltage
Consumption
Logger Commissioning - a single password controls access for overall commissioning at installation
UPS Battery
Memory Battery
240V or 110V AC ±15% selectable
ENCLOSURE
3VA (maximum)
Construction
120 hours sustained logging in the absence of external power
Cable Entry
60 days retention of logged data and calendar clock
W x H x D Environmental
Three parts. Base-plate, sub-chassis and cover. Mild steel, powder coated.
Eight 20mm conduit knock-outs for bottom and rear entry of cables.
10.43 x 10.32 x 3.74 inches IP 41

MAXsys® Advanced Meter

The MAXsys® 2410 is the newest addition to the MAXsys family of high precision revenue meters. Designed specifically for the emerging electrical deregulation market, the MAXsys 2410 meets the industry’s need for a cost effective direct access meter.

Direct access metering requires dependability, accuracy and flexibility to meet the needs of the end user, the energy service provider, the power marketer and the local distribution company. The MAXsys 2410 delivers all of that and more.

This high accuracy, class 0.2 meter provides 4-quadrant polyphase metering using the latest DSP technology. The meter has 4 register sets for time-of-use rates and provides 36 days of 4-channel recorder data storage standard. The meter can be programmed for up to 16 recorder channels. The auto-ranging power supply, 40 to 330 VAC operating, makes installation quick and easy. M eter forms 9S(8S), 36S and 35S meet most industrial and commercial requirements.

In a deregulated environment, line and transformer losses become critical. Each party to the sale of electricity only wants to pay for the actual energy delivered. Losses must be identified and accounted for. The MAXsys 2410 provides for loss calculations for both transformer and series line losses.

Power quality has become one of the factors that can be used to differentiate one service provider from another. The M AXsys 2410 provides for recording of voltage sags and swells that exceed preset values established by the meter user.

Radio, telephone, satellite, CDPD, IP or cell phone, the MAXsys 2410 has the ability to connect to the communications media that fits your needs. It’s versatile enough to adapt to the changing world of communications. The table-driven protocol is supported by data collection systems such as Stark RT.
Standard Features
DSP measurement
Energy - Total 3-phase delivered and received for real energy and all four quadrants for reactive energy: KWH, KVARH, and KVAH
Power - Total minimum and maximum demand for fixed or sliding window demand interval: KW, KVAR, and KVA. KVA calculation is based on RM S, arithmetic, or vectorial method.
Power Factor
Transformer and Series Line Loss Compensation
Time-of-Use - 4 register sets over 4 Seasons
Recorder - 36 days of 4-channel 15-m inute 12-bit data
standard; up to 16 channels programmable.
Power Quality M onitoring (US Patent 5,627,759) - Per phase recorded voltage sag and swell events that exceed preset values. Time resolution to within 1 second. Recorded outage events to within ½ cycle resolution. Ability to store 508 power quality events (first 254 and last 254). Coincident current measurement with high or low voltage events. With coincident current measurement, the number of events stored will be one-half the normal value.
Diagnostic events – monitoring the operation and wiring of the installed meter.
History Events -100 events in a re-circulating buffer.
Format enable jumper
Calibration enable jumper
ANSI C12.13 optical port
Table-driven protocol for programming via X, Y, Z type 7 communications protocol
Display – Single-line 6 numeric character LCD display. Wide viewing angle. Character height 0.3 inch. Appropriate icons for engineering unit identification.
Battery - The long-term, backup system for both time and recorder data is a non-rechargeable lithium battery with a 10-year life as specified by the vendor. The short-term backup system for both time and recorder data is a super cap that provides 13 hours of backup at 25° C (77° F).
WH and VARH infrared LEDs for test bench.
Memory:
Register readings and configuration control tables are stored in battery-backed RAM.
The standard meter firmware is supplied in EPROM .
Calibration constants are stored in EEPROM.
Optional Features
Four physical solid-state output relays for pulse data or alarm trip points are optional.
High speed RS-232 port running at 9600 baud for online data with 1-second updates
Internal 2400 baud modem supporting off-hook detect. Daisy-chain operation not supported. Two stored phone numbers for dial-out support.

Specifications
Forms
9S(8S) - 4 Wire WYE and 4 Wire Delta
36S - 4 Wire WYE 2½ Element Applications. Replaces 6S
35S - 3 Wire DELTA and other 2 Element Applications. Replaces 5S.
Class: 20 amp transformer rated
Temperature Range
-40 to +85 degrees C (-40 to +185 degrees F) inside meter; LCD operational from -20 to +70 degrees C (-4 to +158 degrees F)
Relative Humidity Range
<95% relative humidity, non-condensing
Power Supply
40 to 330 VAC typical operating (single-phase autoranging)
85 VAC minimum startup

Burden 3 VA max for meter electronics; 5 VA max
with optional modem board installed.
Auxiliary power input and DC input not supported. Voltage Ranges
Form 9S(8S) model. Capable of following ranges:
120V L-N / 208V L-L; 4 Wire WYE
240V L-N / 416V L-L; 4 Wire WYE
277V L-N / 480V L-L; 4 Wire WYE
240V L-L; 4 Wire DELTA
Form 35S model. Capable of following ranges:
120V L-L; 3 Wire DELTA
240V L-L; 3 Wire DELTA
Form 36S model. Capable of following ranges:
120V L-N / 208V L-L; 4 Wire WYE
240V L-N / 416V L-L; 4 Wire WYE
277V L-N / 480V L-L; 4 Wire WYE Frequency
57 to 63 Hz
47 to 53 Hz (also available)

UL24 Logger Technical Information

Introduction
The UL24 logger together with the DL4 and UL8 form SHM’s family of advanced data loggers for energy monitoring.
The UL24 is robust, reliable and easy to install. All input and power connections use 2-part plug-in terminal blocks.
The UL24 has eight Universal inputs (1 to 8) that can each be configured to monitor Digital (pulse), Status (on / off), Analog (0 to 10 V or 0 to 20 mA) or Temperature (thermistor) sensors, and sixteen inputs (9 to 24) that are always Digital.
Digital and Status inputs accept volt -free relay contacts, providing direct connection to all the common utility meters (Electricity, Oil, Gas, Water, Compressed Air, Steam). Analog inputs can be connected to any sensor whose output is one of the industry standard levels, 0 to 10 V or 0 to 20 mA. Temperature inputs are connected to a NTC precision thermistor sensor.
Each channel in the logger is independent, and can be configured to log data at intervals of between 1 and 60 minutes, or be triggered by an external Universal input. When logging every 30 minutes, each channel logs data for approximately 80 days before wrapround occurs.
The logger is mains powered, but can be fitted with a UPS that allows it to continue logging for up to 5 days without mains power.
The logger has its own clock / calendar which is used to timestamp all readings.
The logger is interrogated and controlled via its serial port. The main serial port on the enclosure is normally used for local interrogation by a portable PC. A second internal serial port can be used to connect to a modem or similar device, and is used for remote access.
The UL24 can be a stand-alone logger or be connected to other SHM loggers (of any type) via a simple local area network. Connection to the host PC can be via direct connection, telephone modem, RF modem (Paknet) or Ethernet TCP/IP. A variety of solutions are available to minimize installation and communications costs.

SHM supplies a simple PC utility to configure the many firmware options available on the logger. To collect the logged data another utility is available to store it in standard CSV format for importing into spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel. If full -featured energy monitoring is required, then the leading energy information software package Stark RT is the preferred choice, and comes with the UL24 protocol built in. SHM is an Approved Application Partner for Stark Software International and will provide full details of RT on request.

Protocol
The UL24 uses a proprietary packet-based full-duplex protocol, designed to allow multiple loggers to be connected together in a variety of network configurations. It provides fast efficient data transfers and minimizes cost when using a
communications medium with a per-packet tariff (eg. Packnet).

Multi-Level Security
The UL24 logger has 4 levels of security each controlled by 32-bit numeric passwords. Each channel has independent passwords for reading data and configuration. Internal counts of log-in failures and password changes are provided to track attempts at unauthorized access.
For non-critical installations, the security system can be bypassed by programming null passwords (this is the factory default).

Time Control
To avoid sudden changes in the time (and consequent discontinuities in the log), a ‘phase lock’ technique is used to keep the time on track.
During regular reading, the ‘correct’ time, derived from an accurate clock in the host computer, is sent to the logger. The logger compares this to its ow n time and finely adjusts the rate of its clock so that any error is corrected. This is a privileged function and requires knowledge of the ‘time controller’ password.

Channel Inputs
The UL24 logger has 8 Universal inputs (1 to 8) and 8 Universal memory channels (1 to 8), and these are normally configured to correspond (Memory Channel 1 is connected to Input 1 etc.). However it is possible to assign any Universal input to any Universal channel, or to assign one input to two or more channels. NB. The digital-only inputs (9 to 24) are always assigned to channels 9 to 24 respectively.
One use of this feature is to configure an input to connect it to both a long-term log channel logging at 30 minute intervals, and a short-term log channel logging every minute.

Logging Interval
A channel’s logging interval can be changed at any time without losing the previous stored data.
A channel can also have its logging triggered by an external time reference connected to one of the logger Universal inputs (1 to 8). This can be used to log 30-minute electricity readings in synchronism with the supply tariff meter.

Channel Size
The available memory can be distributed among the channels to tailor the channel size to the application.

Channel Type
Each Universal channel (1 to 8) can be configured to log pulse counts, status (on / off), analog values or temperature. A built-in linearizer converts the resistance of a 10k thermistor to degrees Celsius.

Data Authentication
All messages containing logged data have a 16-bit validator appended. This validator provides a checksum for all the data in the message and guards against data corruption or tampering. The validator calculation uses a configurable 32-bit authentication key.

Immediate Data
All channels can be read as immediate (rather than stored) values, updated every second.

Channel Alarms
The logger can be programmed with simple high and low alarm thresholds for each Universal channel (1 to 8). The alarm status of each channel is logged alongside its data. The logger can be programmed to make selected channel alarms notify the user, either by activating a relay, or by dialling in to a central point.

Communications Sharing
There are a number of features for sharing communications with other users, thus minimizing cost.
The Modem Answer Window feature configures the logger to only answer the line outside normal office hours. This allows the line to be shared with an office telephone or fax.
The Dial-In feature configures the logger to dial in once per day to the Host PC, as opposed to the usual configuration, where the Host PC dials the logger. This minimizes the inconvenience to other users of a shared line.
The Modem Serial Switch option allows the logger to share a modem with another device (eg. tariff meter). The device automatically switches the data connection to the logger when interrogated.

Hardware Options
The following hardware options are available to order :
1. RS485 Interface. Used to c onnect loggers together in a LAN.
2. Modem Serial Switch. Allows the logger to share an external modem.

For further information on this product or advice on loggers, meters, sensors or Energy Monitoring Systems, contact Stark North America, Inc.

UL24 Specifications

DL4 Logger Technical Information

Introduction
The DL4 logger together with the UL8 and UL24 form SHM’s family of advanced data loggers for energy monitoring.
The DL4 is robust, reliable and easy to install. All input and power connections use 2-part plug-in terminal blocks.
The DL4 has four digital inputs that can each be configured to monitor Digital (pulse) or Status (on / off) sensors.
Digital and Status inputs accept volt -free relay contacts, providing direct connection to all the common utility meters (Electricity, Oil, Gas, Water, Compressed Air, Steam).
Each channel in the logger is independent, and can be configured to log data at intervals of between 1 and 60 minutes, or be triggered by an external input. When logging every 30 minutes, each c hannel logs data for approximately 120 days before wrap-round occurs.
The logger is mains powered, but can be fitted with a UPS that allows it to continue logging for up to 5 days without mains power.
The logger has its own clock / calendar which is used to timestamp all readings.
The logger is interrogated and controlled via its serial port. The main serial port on the enclosure is normally used for local interrogation by a portable PC. A second internal serial port can be used to connect to a modem or similar device, and is used for remote access.
The DL4 can be a stand-alone logger or be connected to other SHM loggers (of any type) via a simple local area network. Connection to the host PC can be via direct connection, telephone modem, RF modem (Paknet) or Ethernet TCP/IP. A variety of solutions are available to minimize installation and communications costs.
SHM supplies a simple PC utility to configure the many firmware options available on the logger. To collect the logged data another utility is available to store it in standard CSV format for importing into spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel. If full -featured energy monitoring is required, then the leading energy information software package Stark RT is the preferred choice, and comes with the DL4 protocol built in. SHM is an Approved Application Partner for Stark Software International and will provide full details of RT on request.

Protocol
The DL4 uses a proprietary packet-based full-duplex protocol, designed to allow multiple loggers to be connected together in a variety of network configurations. It provides fast efficient data transfers and minimizes cost when using a communications medium with a per-packet tariff (eg. Packnet).

Multi-Level Security
The DL4 logger has 4 levels of security each controlled by 32-bit numeric passwords. Each channel has independent passwords for reading data and configuration. Internal counts of log-in failures and password changes are
provided to track attempts at unauthorized access.
For non-critical installations, the security system can be bypassed by programming null passwords (this is the factory default).

Time Control
To avoid sudden changes in the time (and consequent discontinuities in the log), a ‘phase lock’ technique is used to keep the time on track.
During regular reading, the ‘correct’ time, derived from an accurate clock in the host computer, is sent to the logger. The logger compares this to its own time and finely adjusts the rate of its clock so that any error is corrected. This is a privileged function and requires knowledge of the ‘time controller’ password.

Channel Inputs
The DL4 logger has 4 inputs and 4 memory channels, and these are normally configured to correspond (Memory Channel 1 is connected to Input 1 etc.). However it is possible to assign any input to any channel, or to assign one input to two or more channels.
One use of this feature is to configure an input to connect it to both a long-term log channel logging at 30 minute intervals, and a short-term log channel logging every minute.

Logging Interval
A channel’s logging interval can be changed at any time without losing the previous stored data.
A channel can also have its logging triggered by an external time reference connected to one of the logger inputs. This can be used to log 30-minute electricity readings in synchronism with the supply tariff meter.

Channel Size
The available memory can be distributed among the channels to tailor the channel size to the application.
· Channel Type
Each channel can be configured to log pulse counts or status (on / off).
· Data Authentication
All messages containing logged data have a 16-bit validator appended. This validator provides a checksum for all the data in the message and guards against data
corruption or tampering. The validator calculation uses a configurable 32-bit authentication key.

Immediate Data
All channels can be read as immediate (rather than stored) values, updated every second.

Channel Alarms
The logger can be programmed with simple high and low alarm thresholds for each channel. The alarm status of each channel is logged alongside its data. The logger can be programmed to make selected channel alarms notify the user, either by activating a relay, or by dialling in to a central point.

Communications
Sharing

There are a number of features for sharing communications with other users, thus minimizing cost.
The Modem Answer Window feature configures the logger to only answer the line outside normal office hours. This allows the line to be shared with an office telephone or fax.

The Dial-In feature configures the logger to dial in once per day to the Host PC, as opposed to the usual configuration, where the Host PC dials the logger. This minimizes the inconvenience to other users of a shared line.
The Modem Serial Switch option allows the logger to share a modem with another device (eg. tariff meter). The device automatically switches the data connection to the logger when interrogated.
Hardware Options
The following hardware options are available to order :
1. RS485 Interface. Used to connect loggers together in a LAN.
2. Modem Serial Switch. Allows the logger to share an external modem.

For further information on this product or advice on loggers, meters, sensors or Energy Monitoring Systems, contact Stark North America, Inc.

DL4 Specifications

Original source: 2006 website capture. Publication history.