AURORA 45 - AURORA 65 - AURORA 45 SL
SUPER BRIGHT REMOTE DISPLAYS
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
SOFTWARE RELEASE 2.0, 01/2006
Copyright © 2005, 2006 Western Scale Co. Limited. All rights reserved.
Published by: Western Weighing Technologies Inc.
Information in this Installation / Technical Manual is subject to change without
notice due to correction or enhancement. The information described in this
manual is the property of Western Scale Co. Ltd. No part of this manual may be
reproduced or retransmitted in any form, without the expressed written
permission of Western Weighing Technologies Inc.
Western Weighing Technologies
3888 Sound Way
Bellingham, WA.
USA
98227 - 9754
Tel: 1 (866) 929-3444
Fax: (604) 941-4020
www.westernweighing.com
info@westernweighing.com
FOR TECHNICAL SUPPORT REGARDING THIS PRODUCT, PLEASE CALL
YOUR AUTHORIZED WESTERN DEALER:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
DISCLAIMER.......................................................................................................................................................... 2
AURORA FEATURES ............................................................................................................................................ 3
DISPLAY................................................................................................................................................................. 4
INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................................................................... 4
PRE-INSTALLATION ............................................................................................................................................. 4
OPENING THE AURORA ENCLOSURE (UNMOUNTED).................................................................................... 5
REMOVING THE ELECTRONICS CARRIAGE ..................................................................................................... 5
MOUNTING INSTRUCTIONS ................................................................................................................................ 6
OPENING THE AURORA ENCLOSURE (MOUNTED) ......................................................................................... 8
LOWERING THE ELECTRONICS PLATE ............................................................................................................ 9
REMOVE THE ELECTRONICS CARRIAGE ......................................................................................................... 9
WIRING...................................................................................................................................................................... 10
POWER WIRING.................................................................................................................................................. 10
COMMUNICATIONS WIRING ............................................................................................................................. 11
Communication Input Jumper ......................................................................................................................... 11
RS 232 Wiring ................................................................................................................................................. 11
RS 232 Daisy Chain ........................................................................................................................................ 12
RS 422 Wiring ................................................................................................................................................. 12
RS 485 Multi-Drop Wiring................................................................................................................................ 12
20 mA Current Loop Wiring............................................................................................................................. 13
20 mA Current Loop Mode Switch .................................................................................................................. 13
START-UP................................................................................................................................................................. 14
POWER UP .......................................................................................................................................................... 14
RESET BUTTON.................................................................................................................................................. 14
AUTO-LEARN....................................................................................................................................................... 14
LEARN BUTTON.................................................................................................................................................. 14
DIAGNOSTIC INDICATOR LIGHTS .................................................................................................................... 15
CONFIGURATION & OPTIONS ............................................................................................................................... 16
CONFIG SWITCHES............................................................................................................................................ 16
Switches 1 & 2: Daytime Brightness .............................................................................................................. 16
Switches 3 & 4: Nighttime Brightness ............................................................................................................ 16
Switch 5: Mirror Display Mode........................................................................................................................ 17
Switch 6: Start-up Auto-Learn ........................................................................................................................ 17
Switch 7: Reserved for Future Use ................................................................................................................ 17
Switches 8 & 9: Multi-Drop ID ........................................................................................................................ 17
OPTIONS SWITCHES ......................................................................................................................................... 18
Switches 1, 2, 3, & 4: Utility Program Select.................................................................................................. 18
Switch 5: Power-Save Mode .......................................................................................................................... 18
Switch 6: Leading Zeros................................................................................................................................. 19
Switches 7, 8, & 9: Radio Channel Select...................................................................................................... 19
TRAFFIC LIGHT CONTROL..................................................................................................................................... 20
EXTERNAL TRAFFIC LIGHTS ............................................................................................................................ 20
BUILT-IN TRAFFIC LIGHT................................................................................................................................... 21
AURORA UTILITY PROGRAMS .............................................................................................................................. 22
WIRELESS SET-UP.................................................................................................................................................. 26
AURORA REMOTE DISPLAY ............................................................................................................................. 26
INDICATOR & BASESTATION ............................................................................................................................ 27
Wireless Connection Test ............................................................................................................................... 27
BASESTATION SET-UP ...................................................................................................................................... 28
Select the Radio Channel................................................................................................................................ 29
Set the Baud Rate ........................................................................................................................................... 30
TROUBLESHOOTING & ERROR MESSAGES....................................................................................................... 31
1
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
The Aurora Remote Display Series is the latest development from Western, the
company which first brought LED remote displays to the weighing industry in the
1980s.
New technologies, materials, and construction methods have allowed a
remarkable evolution in remote displays, making them more affordable, easier to
read, and a vital part of any scale system. Aurora Remote Displays incorporate
the most standard features of any weighing display, making it the best choice for
virtually any application.
Like all Western products, Aurora Remote Displays are designed with durability,
functionality, and versatility in mind. Users are assured that Aurora Remote
Displays meet the specified local Weights & Measures regulations for anywhere
in North America.
Western: Engineered for the diversity of the weighing industry.
DISCLAIMER
The following information is for the exclusive use of WESTERN Dealers and
Customers.
Since Aurora Remote Displays are a valuable component of your weighing
system, installation and configuration procedures (as described in this manual)
should only be carried out by qualified Scale Service Technicians as authorized
by Western.
Scale Service Technicians handling Aurora PCBs must observe
proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) handling procedures.
CAUTION! HIGH VOLTAGES are present inside the Aurora
enclosure.
ATTENTION! Unauthorized installation and service of this unit
may void the warranty.
2
AURORA FEATURES
HIGH VISIBILITY
•
A bigger, brighter display (4.5 or 6.5 inches high) makes the Aurora easy to
read over wide viewing angles, in foul weather, and in direct sunlight.
EASY TO INSTALL & USE
•
Auto-Learn Technology interprets the data format and output string of any
scale indicator, reducing set-up time.
•
The Drop-down electronics carriage makes installation and service quick and
easy.
WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS
•
Go wireless. Make installation easy and use remote displays where you never
thought possible.
•
The integrated radio option allows communications over several thousand feet.
•
No external housings or radio knowledge required.
SAVE ENERGY
•
Ultra-efficient LED technology is the smart choice for power conscious users.
•
The photo sensor automatically adjusts LED intensity for efficient day or night
viewing.
•
Power Save Mode reduces power consumption during long periods of
inactivity.
MORE…
•
A ready to use, built-in traffic light (Aurora 45 SL model only).
•
Selectable brightness levels.
•
Built-in relay remotely controls traffic lights.
•
Built-in utility programs for axle weighing, traffic light control, etc.
•
Mirrored Display Mode.
•
Multi-drop communications.
3
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
DISPLAY
WEIGHT DISPLAY
ANNUNCIATORS
Fig. 1: Aurora 45 Display
WEIGHT DISPLAY: 6 LED digits (7 segments). Up to 2 decimal places.
ANNUNCIATORS:
GR
NT
lb
kg
=
=
=
=
Gross Weighing Mode
Net Weighing Mode
Pounds
Kilograms
INSTALLATION
PRE-INSTALLATION (Receiving Inspection)
It is always good practice to verify that the Aurora Remote Display is complete and
undamaged upon receipt.
•
Check over packaging for any signs of damage.
•
Remove the Aurora Remote Display from its protective packaging and check for
damage.
•
Verify that the shipment includes:
o
o
•
Auroras ordered with the Wireless option should include:
o
o
o
o
4
Aurora Remote Display (complete and intact, with power cord).
Aurora Installation / Technical Manual.
Radio Module.
External Antenna.
Internal Antenna Cable.
BaseStation kit including software and 2 interface cables.
OPENING THE AURORA ENCLOSURE (UNMOUNTED)
1. When opening an Aurora prior to mounting, place the unit top-down on a
smooth, flat, surface.
2. Make sure the unit is disconnected from power.
3. Remove the captive screws from the bottom of the enclosure.
4. Angle the Electronics Carriage so the tabs are at opposite corners of the
Main Enclosure opening.
5. Guide the Electronics Carriage out of the Main Enclosure, being careful to
avoid bending any LED leads. Each LED is mounted very close to the
PCB to prevent bending.
6. Place the Electronics Carriage bottom-down on the flat surface as
illustrated (As seen in Fig. 2).
BOTTOM COVER/
ELECTRONICS CARRIAGE
Fig. 2: Open Aurora (side)
REMOVING THE ELECTRONICS CARRIAGE
1. Once the Electronics Carriage has been removed from the Main
Enclosure, disconnect the AC power and ground connections from the
Power Supply board.
2. Disconnect the green ground wire from the Electronics Carriage frame.
5
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
MOUNTING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Inspect the installation site for properly grounded power.
2. Ensure that mounting structures (walls, pole brackets, etc.) will bear the weight of
the display (Aurora 45: 20 lbs, Aurora 65 & 45SL: 32 lbs).
3. Allow proper clearance for lowering and removing the Electronics Carriage.
4. Use proper hardware, including wall anchors where necessary, when mounting
the enclosure. Secure the Main Enclosure to wall or pole mounted bracket with
5/16ths bolts.
5. Run power and communication cables into the enclosure via strain reliefs (as
required).
NOTE: The Electronics Carriage may be removed to reduce weight
when installing.
Wall Mounting
Hole patterns for the Aurora Remote Displays are given in the diagram below:
Aurora 45:
23 inches
6 inches
Hole: 3/8 inch
Aurora 65 & Aurora 45 SL:
31 inches
7 ¾ inches
Hole: 3/8 inch
Fig. 3: Hole patterns
6
Pole Mounting Bracket
1. Select appropriate height and fasten the small “C” bracket to the pole using the
mounting clamps provided.
2. Fasten the larger “C” bracket to the small “C” bracket using the hardware
provided.
3. Fasten the Aurora display to the Pole Mounting Bracket as outlined in the
Mounting Instructions (See Fig. 4).
NOTE: The Pole Mounting Bracket allows for poles or beams from up
to 8 inches in diameter.
Fig. 4: Pole Mounting Bracket
Visor Option
1. Loosen the mounting hardware on the Aurora Main Enclosure 1/8th inch.
2. Rest the Visor’s mounting brackets on the bolt between the bolt head and the
front of the Aurora’s side mounting plates.
3. Re-tighten the mounting hardware.
Fig. 5: Optional Visor
7
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
OPENING THE AURORA ENCLOSURE (MOUNTED)
1. Make sure the unit is disconnected from power.
2. Remove the captive screws from the bottom of the enclosure.
3. Slowly, guide the Electronics Carriage out of the Main Enclosure, being
careful to avoid bending any LED leads. Each LED is mounted very close
to the PCB to prevent bending.
4. The Electronics Carriage has tabs on either end that allow it to rest on the
Main Enclosure’s flange when mounted (As seen in Fig. 6 & 7).
MAIN
ENCLOSURE
BOTTOM COVER/
ELECTRONICS
CARRIAGE
DISPLAY BOARDS (2)
Fig. 6: Front View
POWER SUPPLY
BOARD
CONTROLLER
BOARD
Fig. 7: Back View
8
LOWERING THE ELECTRONICS PLATE
1. Remove the two (2) captive screws holding the Electronics Plate to the
Electronics Carriage.
2. Slowly, allow the Electronics Plate to swing down, making access easier
for wiring and service (As seen in Fig. 8).
CAPTIVE
SCREWS
Fig. 8: Side View
REMOVE THE ELECTRONICS CARRIAGE
1. Once the Electronics Carriage has been lowered from the Main Enclosure,
disconnect the AC power and ground connections from the Power Supply
board.
2. Disconnect the green ground wire from the Electronics Carriage frame.
3. Angle the Electronics Carriage so the tabs are at opposite corners of the
Main Enclosure opening.
4. Guide the Electronics Carriage free of the Main Enclosure.
9
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
WIRING
POWER WIRING
Aurora Remote Displays are wired for power at the factory. The factory supplied power
cable can be removed for direct AC wiring if necessary.
CAUTION! HIGH VOLTAGE! Only trained personnel should attempt
this procedure.
ATTENTION! AC wiring must be terminated at the AC Power Terminal
Block, not directly at the Power Supply board.
1. Ensure the unit is disconnected from power and open the enclosure. Detach the
Electronics Carriage to free up space.
2. Loosen the standoff nuts and remove the Terminal Block from the mounting
posts.
3. Disconnect the factory supplied power cord from the Terminal Block and
Grounding Post. Do not remove the Internal Ground Wire.
4. Loosen the strain relief and pull the power cord through. Run the new power
cable through the strain relief. Leave about 6 inches of wire to work with and
tighten the strain relief.
5. Connect the new GROUND wire to the Grounding Post and tighten nut. The
Internal Ground Wire runs from the Grounding Post to Pin 1 on the Terminal
Block.
6. Wire the new power cable to the Terminal Block. See table below:
AC POWER
HOT (+)
NEUTRAL (-)
GROUND (GND)
TO TERMINAL BLOCK
PIN 3
PIN 2
PIN 1
7. Replace the Terminal Block and fasten on mounting posts.
8. Ensure that the Internal Power Cable is connected to the Power Supply board.
Please see Figure 9: Power Wiring.
10
POWER WIRING (Continued)
Fig. 9: Power Wiring
COMMUNICATIONS WIRING
All communications wiring terminates at the Controller board. Communications should
be wired before applying power to the unit if possible.
Communication Input Jumper
A communications input type (RS 232, RS 422/485, or 20 mA Loop) must be selected by
placing the jumper on the appropriate pins.
RS 232
RS 422/485
20mA Current Loop
Fig. 10: Jumper Positions
RS 232 Wiring
1. Set the Communication Input Jumper (JP 1) to RS232.
2. Terminate the indicator’s communication wires at the RS 232 terminal (J3). See
table below:
INDICATOR
TRANSMIT (TX)
RECEIVE (RX)
SIGNAL GROUND (GND)
TO AURORA REMOTE DISPLAY
RECEIVE (RX)
NO CONNECTION
SIGNAL GROUND (SIG GND)
11
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
RS 232 Daisy Chain
INDICATOR
TO AURORA 1
TX
RX
GND
RX
TX
GND
TO AURORA 2
RX
GND
Etc…
RS 422 Wiring
1. Set the Communication Input Jumper (JP 1) to RS485.
2. Terminate the indicator’s communication wires at the RS 485 terminal (J4). See
table below:
INDICATOR
TRANSMIT A (TX A)
TRANSMIT B (TX B)
TO AURORA REMOTE DISPLAY
RECEIVE A (RX A)
RECEIVE B (RX B)
RS 485 Multi-Drop Wiring
1. Set the Communication Input Jumper (JP 1) to RS485.
2. Terminate the indicator’s communication wires at the RS 485 terminal (J4) using
one of the following methods:
Parallel Multi-drop wiring
SCALE
CONTROLLER
TX A
TX B
TO
AURORA 1
RX A
RX B
TO
AURORA 2
RX A
RX B
TO
AURORA 3
RX A
RX B
ETC.
RX A
RX B
Split Multi-Drop Wiring
SCALE CONTROLLER
TX A
TX B
TO AURORA 1
RX A
RX B
TO AURORA 2
RX A
RX B
NOTE: Multi-Drop IDs are set using the CONFIG Dip-switches.
For settings, see Switches 8 & 9: Multi-Drop ID, on page 17.
12
20 mA Current Loop Wiring
1. Set the Communication Input Jumper (JP 1) to LOOP.
2. Terminate the indicator’s communication wires at the 20 mA Current Loop
terminal (J5). See table below:
INDICATOR
TO AURORA REMOTE DISPLAY
RECEIVE POSITIVE (RX +)
RECEIVE NEGATIVE (RX -)
20 mA TX +
20 mA TX 20 mA Current Loop Mode Switch
•
After the current loop is wired, ACTIVE or PASSIVE mode must be selected (SW
10) on the Controller board.
•
Select Active mode if the Aurora is required to supply the current to the
communicating device.
•
Select Passive mode if the communicating device (indicator) supplies the current
to the Aurora.
•
If unsure of these requirements, check the device’s manual.
SW10
Passive
Active
Fig. 11: 20 mA Mode Switch
13
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
START-UP
POWER UP
•
The Aurora has no ON/OFF button or switch. Plugging the unit into AC
power will turn the unit ON.
•
Disconnecting AC power will turn the unit OFF.
RESET BUTTON
•
The RESET button on the Controller board allows the Technician to cycle
power on the unit without disconnecting/connecting AC power.
AUTO-LEARN
•
On power up, the Aurora automatically enters Auto-Learn Mode, analyzing
the serial communications and string type.
•
The indicator’s output string must contain number characters. An STX
character (ASCII 02) and/or CR character (ASCII 13) must also be
included.
•
Once Auto-Learn is successful (about 10 seconds after power up) the
Aurora will display the current weight.
NOTE: Automatic Start-up Auto-Learn may be disabled for custom
applications. See Switch 6: Start-up Auto-Learn, on page 17.
LEARN BUTTON
•
14
If Automatic Start-up Auto-Learn is disabled, the LEARN button on the
Controller board must be pressed to enter Auto-Learn Mode.
DIAGNOSTIC INDICATOR LIGHTS
The Aurora has 3 diagnostic indicator lights located on the Controller board.
Fig. 12: Indicator Lights
STATUS Light:
•
The Aurora’s “heartbeat”. BLINKS when power is applied to the unit.
•
Regular blinking (Once per second) indicates that the Aurora has
successfully learned a data string and is running properly.
•
Rapid blinking (3 times per second) indicates that the Aurora is in AutoLearn mode, attempting to interpret a data string.
COM Light:
•
FLASHES ON each time the Aurora receives a character through any of
its COM Ports (including the radio).
RADIO Light:
•
FLASHES ON when the Aurora’s Radio Module receives data.
•
This light will only illuminate if the Radio Module is installed.
15
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
CONFIGURATION & OPTIONS
The Aurora uses two banks of Dip Switches on the Controller board (SW 3 &
SW 4) to set-up the configuration and options.
NOTE: Dip Switch settings take effect only after the Aurora has
been reset (Cycle power directly or press the “RESET” button).
CONFIG SWITCHES
The “CONFIG” bank of dip switches (SW 3) is for the following features:
Switches 1 & 2: Daytime Brightness
There are 4 selectable brightness levels. The built-in photo sensor automatically
detects daylight conditions and sets the display brightness to this level.
BRIGHTNESS LEVEL
High (Default)
Medium-High
Medium-Low
Low
SWITCH 1
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
SWITCH 2
ON
ON
OFF
OFF
Switches 3 & 4: Nighttime Brightness
There are 4 selectable brightness levels. The built-in photo sensor automatically
detects nighttime conditions and sets the display brightness to this level.
BRIGHTNESS LEVEL
High
Medium-High
Medium-Low
Low (Default)
SWITCH 3
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
SWITCH 4
ON
ON
OFF
OFF
NOTE: Lowering the brightness level at night helps reduce
nighttime glare and energy costs. Passing headlights,
spotlights, etc. will NOT activate the daytime brightness level.
16
Switch 5: Mirror Display Mode
The Aurora’s digits may be mirrored for applications where the display is viewed
from a vehicle’s rear-view or side-view mirrors.
MIRROR DISPLAY MODE
OFF (Default – Digits normal)
ON (Digits mirrored)
SWITCH 5
OFF
ON
Switch 6: Start-up Auto-Learn
On power up, the Aurora automatically enters Auto-Learn Mode, analyzing the
serial communications and string type. In certain situations, it may be necessary
to disable this feature. Once disabled, the LEARN button on the Controller board
must be pressed before the Aurora will go into Auto-Learn Mode.
START-UP AUTO-LEARN
ENABLED (Default)
DISABLED
SWITCH 6
OFF
ON
Switch 7: Reserved for Future Use
Switches 8 & 9: Multi-Drop ID
Up to four (4) Aurora displays can share a serial or radio connection. Messages
are sent to individual displays using control codes and these Multi-Drop IDs. For
Multi-Drop instructions, see page 25.
MULTI-DROP I.D.
0 (Default)
1
2
3
SWITCH 8
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
SWITCH 9
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
NOTE: If Multi-Drop is not being used, it is very important that
Switches 8 & 9 be set in the OFF position.
17
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
OPTIONS SWITCHES
The “OPTIONS” bank of dip switches (SW 4) is for the following features:
Switches 1, 2, 3, & 4: Utility Program Select
The Aurora has built-in utility programs that run in conjunction with the normal
display functions.
PROGRAM
1 – NORMAL Mode (No program)
2 – Axle Weighing with Totals
3 – Axle Weighing (Driving On)
4 – COMMAND mode.
SW 1
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
SW 2
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
SW 3
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
SW 4
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
NOTE: Please see the Aurora Utility Program section for
program overviews (Page 22).
Switch 5: Power-Save Mode
If there is no activity on the scale for 10 minutes, the display brightness will dim
one level below the selected brightness level (day or night, as applicable). The
Aurora will return to the selected brightness level when motion is detected on the
scale.
POWER SAVE MODE
ENABLED (Default)
DISABLED
18
SWITCH 5
OFF
ON
Switch 6: Leading Zeros
In some cases, the scale indicator may transmit leading zeros in the output
string. If leading zeros are NOT required, they may be suppressed. The Aurora
will automatically remove the leading zeros and replace them with blank spaces
on the display.
LEADING ZEROS
ENABLED (Default)
DISABLED (Remove Leading Zeros)
SWITCH 6
OFF
ON
NOTE: Leading Zeros may also be disabled using the scale
indicator (if possible).
Switches 7, 8, & 9: Radio Channel Select
The 900 MHz Radio Module (optional) has 6 frequency channels. If there are
multiple scale/remote display installations at a given site, each installation must
have its own radio channel selected.
CHANNEL
0 (Default)
1
2
3
4
5
SWITCH 7
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
SWITCH 8
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
OFF
OFF
SWITCH 9
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
NOTE: If the wireless connection experiences interference
problems from another radio site, switching radio channels will
most likely correct the problem.
NOTE: The BaseStation Radio connected to the scale indicator
must be configured with the same radio channel the Aurora.
19
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
TRAFFIC LIGHT CONTROL
EXTERNAL TRAFFIC LIGHTS (Aurora 45 & 65)
External traffic lights can be switched by the Aurora’s built-in relay.
1. Wire the traffic light to the Stop Light terminal (J7) on the Controller board:
TRAFFIC LIGHT
HOT (+)
RED NEUTRAL (-)
GREEN NEUTRAL (-)
TO AURORA REMOTE DISPLAY
COMMON
RED
GREEN
NOTE: For more information on wiring, see the manufacturer’s
manual for the proper model of traffic light used.
ATTENTION! The Aurora does not supply power to the external
traffic light. DO NOT supply more than 3 A at 110 VAC to the
Stop Light terminal (J7) and built-in relay.
2. The relay’s default condition is OPEN. An open contact is meant to
correspond to a GREEN light.
3. The Aurora controls the traffic light using the pre-installed utility programs
or serial commands (in Command Mode only).
Pre-installed Utility Programs
The following utility programs control the built-in relay for switching an
external traffic light. For program overviews, see page 22.
PROGRAM
2 – Axle Weighing with Totals
3 – Axle Weighing (Driving On)
4 – COMMAND mode.
SW 1
OFF
OFF
OFF
SW 2
OFF
OFF
OFF
SW 3
ON
OFF
ON
SW 4
OFF
ON
ON
Serial Commands
When the Aurora is set in Command Mode, it will accept serial commands
to switch the built-in relay for traffic light control.
For a list of serial control commands, see page 24.
20
BUILT-IN TRAFFIC LIGHT (Aurora 45 SL Only)
The built-in traffic light may be controlled by remote switch, the pre-installed utility
programs, or serial commands (in Command Mode only).
Remote Switch
1. Wire remote switches to the Stop Light Remote Switch terminal (J2) on
the back of the Stop Light Display board. The Aurora display supplies
power to the switch.
2. The default condition (switch contact open) is GREEN. When the switch
contact is closed, the light turns RED.
NOTE: Remote switches will be disabled if the Aurora has a
program selected.
Pre-installed Utility Programs
The following utility programs control the built-in traffic light. For program
overviews, see page 22.
PROGRAM
2 – Axle Weighing with Totals
3 – Axle Weighing (Driving On)
4 – COMMAND mode.
SW 1
OFF
OFF
OFF
SW 2
OFF
OFF
OFF
SW 3
ON
OFF
ON
SW 4
OFF
ON
ON
Serial Commands
When the Aurora is set in Command Mode, it will accept serial commands
to switch the built-in traffic light.
For a list of serial control commands, see page 24.
21
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
AURORA UTILITY PROGRAMS
The Aurora signboard has several auxiliary functions that may be activated via the
OPTIONS dipswitches on the controller board.
PROGRAM
1 – NORMAL Mode (No program)
2 – Axle Weighing with Totals
3 – Axle Weighing (Driving On)
4 – COMMAND mode.
SW 1
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
SW 2
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
SW 3
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
SW 4
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
Program 1: Normal Mode - No specific program is selected.
Program 2: Axle Weighing with Totals - For use with axle scales only!
•
Scale at zero – GREEN light.
•
Truck drives its first axle on the scale, after motion stops – RED light. The
Aurora displays the axle weight and axle number (A1).
•
GREEN light – Ready for the next axle. The next axle is driven onto the scale.
After motion stops – RED light. The Aurora displays the axle weight and axle
number (A2). Repeat for each remaining axle.
•
After the last axle (weight at or near ZERO) – RED light. The truck’s total axle
weight is displayed for 10 seconds (flashing).
•
Scale at or near ZERO – GREEN light. Ready for the next truck.
Program 3: Axle Weighing - Driving on - For axle weighing on regular vehicle scales.
22
•
Scale at zero – GREEN light.
•
Truck drives its first axle on the scale, after motion stops – RED light. The
Aurora displays and axle number (A1), then the axle weight – GREEN light.
•
The next axle is driven onto the scale. After motion stops – RED light. The
Aurora displays the axle number (A2), then the axle weight – GREEN light.
•
This is repeated until all axles are on the scale. After motion stops – RED light.
The Aurora displays the axle number (An), then the final axle weight – GREEN
light.
•
If there is no motion or significant weight change for 12 seconds, the truck’s total
scale weight is displayed and the truck can drive off the scale.
Program 4: COMMAND MODE
All Aurora displays can be setup to receive commands directly from the scale system or
PC. Supported commands include transmitting weights, basic alphanumeric messaging,
stoplight relay control, and additional display functions.
Command mode disables Auto-Learn and fixes communications at 9600-N-8-1. The
Aurora looks only for specific commands sent by the indicator or scale controller.
Activating Command Mode
1. To enable command mode, OPTIONS dipswitches 1 to 4 on the Controller board
must be set as follows:
PROGRAM
4 – COMMAND Mode
SW 1
OFF
SW 2
OFF
SW 3
ON
SW 4
ON
REMEMBER: Switch settings do not take affect until the Aurora
is reset or powered up again.
Transmit a Weight String
Use numeric ASCII characters followed by a <CR> character.
Example:
•
To display “1000”, transmit: 1000<CR>
Transmit Status Characters
Status characters may be imbedded anywhere in the weight string to control the
annunciator lights. Status characters may be upper or lowercase, and in any order,
before or after the weight.
STATUS COMMAND
GROSS weight
NET weight
POUNDS
KILOGRAMS
CHARACTER
G or g
N or n
L or l
K or k
ASCII
Example:
•
To display 1000 lb gross, transmit: 1000LG<CR> -or- GL1000<CR>
23
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
Control Commands
Control commands are single ASCII characters (followed by <CR>) that are transmitted
to the Aurora to control additional features such as the built-in traffic light (Aurora 45 SL)
and the traffic light relay.
CONTROL COMMAND
RED light – Relay switch RED
GREEN light – Relay switch GREEN
Turn ON flashing weight display
Turn OFF flashing weight display
FLASH weight display 3 times
CHARACTER
&
*
(
)
!
ASCII
38
42
40
41
33
Alphanumeric messaging to the scoreboard
All Aurora models can display alphanumeric messages within the limits of a 7 segment
digit. When a letter other than L, K, G, or N is detected, it assumes that the message is
alphanumeric. All characters in the data string are then treated as an alphanumeric
message, and not a weight value.
Alphanumeric messages are displayed from left to right.
Sample Command Mode Data Strings
DATA STRING
0 <CR>
1000 <CR>
LN 1234 <CR>
1234 GK <CR>
1234 L g <CR>
hello<CR>
*<CR>
stop &<CR>
DISPLAY
“0” gross
“1000” gross
“1234” lb net
“1234” kg gross
“1234” lb gross
“hELLo”
GREEN light
“StoP ”, RED light
NOTE: Do not transmit Control Commands within a WEIGHT
data string. Control Commands should only be sent alone
(followed by a <CR>), or within an Alphanumeric data string.
24
Multi-Drop addressing
Aurora displays using Multi-drop must be in Command Mode. The Multi-drop address (0
to 3) is set using SW8 and SW9 on the CONFIG dipswitch bank (See page 17).
When using Multi-drop, the Aurora will only respond after it has been selected.
To select the display, transmit a “#” character (ASCII 35), followed by the correct ID
number and a CR (ASCII 13) character. The Aurora will remain selected until it receives
a command containing a different address.
Examples:
1. Select multi-drop address 1:
Transmitting “#1<CR>” selects the display with ID #1.
2. Select multi-drop address 3, then send a weight of 1000lb gross:
“#3<CR>”
“1000LG<CR>
The ID number may be embedded with the weight string:
“#3 1000LG<CR>
3. Send 3 different weights to 3 different scoreboards:
“#0 2000LG<CR>#1 3000LG<CR>#2 5000LG<CR>“
4. Send the text “hello” to scoreboard address 3.
“#3 HELLO<CR>
25
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
WIRELESS SET-UP
AURORA REMOTE DISPLAY
1. With factory installed Radio Modules, the external antenna must be
connected to the SMA terminal on the bottom of the Electronics Carriage.
The Aurora is ready to receive radio signals.
2. If problems are experienced, ensure that the Radio Module hasn’t been
disconnected in shipping. The Radio Module should be secure in the
terminals (J10 & J11) as seen below.
Fig. 13: Radio Module on Controller board
NOTE: When the Radio Module is properly installed, the
Communication Input Jumper is over-ridden.
26
INDICATOR & BASESTATION
1. Connect the BaseStation to scale indicator (or other appropriate device)
using the serial interface cable provided. Interface cables are Beldon
Type 8723. See table for pin outs:
INDICATOR
TRANSMIT (TX)
RECEIVE (RX)
SIGNAL GROUND (GND)
9 PIN (MALE) CONNECTOR
PIN 3
PIN 2
PIN 5 (GND)
2. The indicator should be set to output CONTINUOUSLY in the following
format (RS 232):
Baud Rate
Parity
Data Bits
Stop Bits
9600
None
8
1
NOTE: If the indicator cannot be set as above, the BaseStation
settings must be adjusted. See BaseStation Set-up.
3. Apply power to BaseStation using the 12 V power supply provided.
The unit should now be transmitting the indicator’s output string.
Wireless Connection Test
1. Add weight to the scale.
2. Verify that the Aurora is correctly displaying Weight, Measurement Units
(kg, lb), and Weighing Mode (GR, NT) as shown on the scale indicator.
3. If the Aurora’s readings are incorrect, erratic, or very slow, a different radio
channel may need to be selected.
27
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
BASESTATION SET-UP
NOTE: In most cases, the default settings will work well. No
BaseStation set-up will be required.
To configure the BaseStation settings, a PC with the MaxStream X-CTU software
(included) is required.
1. Install MaxStream X-CTU software on PC.
2. Connect the BaseStation radio modem to PC Com Port using serial
interface cable (included).
3. Open MaxStream X-CTU software and select appropriate Com Port (i.e.
COM 1).
4. Click “Test/Query” button to verify communications. A window appears
stating “Communication with modem…OK”.
28
BASESTATION SET-UP (Continued)
5. Click on the MODEM CONFIGURATION tab.
6. Select the appropriate radio (X09-009) from the MODEM pull-down menu.
7. Click the READ PARAMETERS button. The BaseStation will send its
current set-up information to the PC.
Select the Radio Channel
1. Scroll down to the “Networking folder”.
2. Click on the “Hopping Channel” parameter.
3. Enter the desired channel number (0 - 6). This channel must match the
channel selected using the Aurora’s dip switches.
4. Click the “Write Parameters” button. The PC will send the new set-up
information to the BaseStation.
29
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
Set the Baud Rate
1. Scroll down to the “Serial Interfacing Options”.
2. Click on the “Baud Rate” parameter.
3. Select the desired Baud Rate from the pull-down menu. This Baud Rate
must match the indicator’s Baud Rate.
4. Click the “Write Parameters” button. The PC will send the new set-up
information to the BaseStation.
30
TROUBLESHOOTING & ERROR MESSAGES
Unit won’t power up:
Unit has power, but
there is no display.
Dashes across the
display.
Display reads “Error 1”.
•
Verify AC power source (Outlets, breakers,
etc.)
•
Check Terminal Block connections inside the
Main Enclosure.
•
Verify power wiring from Terminal Block to the
Power Supply board.
•
Check fuse on Power Supply board.
•
Verify Power wiring from Power Supply board
to Controller board.
•
Verify Ribbon Cable connections from
Controller board to the 2 Display boards.
•
If the unit is in COMMAND mode, the display
will remain blank until data is received.
•
Verify the correct terminal (RS 232, 422/485,
20 mA) is being used and check wiring.
•
Verify that the Communications “Input Select”
jumper is properly set.
•
Baud Rate Auto-Learn has failed.
•
Verify the correct terminal (RS 232, 422/485,
20 mA) is being used and check wiring.
•
Verify that the Communications “Input Select”
jumper is properly set.
•
Verify that data is being sent to the Aurora from
the indicator and that the data string contains
numeric characters.
31
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL MANUAL
•
Data String Auto-Learn has failed.
•
Verify the correct terminal (RS 232, 422/485,
20 mA) is being used and check wiring.
•
Verify that the Communications “Input Select”
jumper is properly set.
•
Verify that a data string is being sent to the
Aurora from the indicator and that the data
string contains either an STX character (ASCII
02) or a CR character (ASCII 13).
STATUS light NOT
blinking (OFF)
•
Verify that unit has power. When powered, if
the Status light remains OFF, the processor is
not running.
STATUS light blinking
fast (3/second) for
longer than 30 seconds:
•
The Aurora is not able to Auto-Learn the data
string or baud rate. See Auto-Learn section.
RADIO light not flashing:
•
Check that the Radio Module is properly
installed. Ensure that the internal antenna
cable is connected to the Radio Module and
the external antenna.
•
No data is being sent from the BaseStation
Radio connected to the scale indicator.
•
Verify the correct terminal (RS 232, 422/485,
20 mA) is being used and check
communications wiring at the indicator.
•
Verify that the Communications “Input Select”
jumper is set to the proper communication
mode (RS 232, 422/485, 20 mA).
•
If the Radio Module is being used, also see
Probable Solutions for “Radio light not
flashing”.
Display reads “Error 2”.
COM light not flashing:
32