Accutech WI-BR-I-XP User manual

Base Radio
User Manual
Rev 1.56 June 2004
_______ _____ ______ ____________________ _____ ______ __________ _____ _____ ______ __________ _____ _____ _____ ___________ _____ _____ _____ _____ ___
A Di vi si on of Ada pti ve In str uments Corp.
577 Main Street ·Hudson, MA 01749 U.S.A.
TEL: [phone] ·978-568-0500
FAX: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.accutechinstruments.com

Rev 1.56 I
User Manual
Base Radio
Models WI-BR-I-XP, WI-BR-I-XP-
MOD and WI-BR-I-XP-AO
Versions 1.56 or later
© Adaptive Instruments Corp., 2005.
Printed in the USA
Important Information to the User !
• Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Adaptive Instruments, LLC
may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
• This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: 1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
• This device is for mobile and fixed use only (not portable or body-worn). A
separation distance of 20cm must be maintained at all times between the antenna
and the body of the user and bodies of nearby persons.
• If the Wireless Instrumentation Manager (RF Server) software is shutdown, the
RS-485 network MUST be physically disconnected from the PC as the serial
port is no longer being controlled by the software and may disrupt communica-
tions between the Base Radio(s) and Analog/Digital Output Module(s).
• This device has been designed to operate with an antenna having a maximum
gain of 9 dBd. Antenna having a higher gain is strictly prohibited per regulations
of Industry Canada. The required antenna impedance is 50 ohms.
• To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain
should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP) is not
more than that required for successful communication.
• The installer of this radio equipment must ensure that the antenna is located or
pointed such that it does not emit RF field in excess of Health Canada limits for
the general population; consult Safety Code 6, obtainable from Health Canada’s
website www.hc-sc.gc.ca/rpb.
!
FCC Certification
• This product is a frequency hopping RF transceiver module for the 900MHz ISM
band, designed to meet FCC 15.247, and is used in industrial control and moni-
toring applications.
• The antenna is factory installed and MUST NOT be removed or modified by
user.
!!
NOTE
• This document cannot be changed without prior FM approval.
Accutech
A Division of Adaptive Instruments Corp.
577 Main Street · Hudson, MA 01749 USA
TEL: [phone] · 978-568-0500
FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.accutechinstruments.com

Rev 1.56 III
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction ____________________________________ 1
1.1: Using This Manual 1
1.2: About the Device 2
1.3: Unpacking 2
1.4: Software Compatibility 2
Section 2: In a Hurry? ____________________________________ 3
Section 3: Installation _____________________________________ 4
3.1: Mechanical Installation 4
3.1.1: Base Radio Positioning 4
3.1.2: Base Radio Mounting 5
3.2: Electrical Installation 5
3.2.1: Electrical Specifications 5
3.2.2: Wiring Power to the Base Radio 6
3.2.3: Wiring RS-485 to the Base Radio 6
3.2.4: Wiring an RS-232 Converter to the Base Radio 6
3.2.5: Wiring the Analog Output Loop 7
3.2.6: Terminating the Base Radio 7
3.2.7: Grounding the Base Radio 7
Section 4: General Configuration ___________________________ 8
4.1: Base Radio Displayed Messages 8
4.1.1: The Read Only Sequence 8
4.2: Overall Configuration Menu Map 9
4.3: The Number of Wireless Instruments Setting (NUM WI) 9
4.4: Setting the User Password 9
Section 5: Configuring the RF Communications ______________ 10
5.1: RF Channel Selection 10
5.2: RF Baud Rate Selection 10
Section 6: Configuring the Modbus Communications__________ 11
6.1: Base Radio Setup 11
6.1.1: Modbus Baud Rate Setting 11
6.1.2: Modbus Device ID 12
6.1.3: Modbus Parity 13
6.1.4: Modbus Mapping Mode 13
6.2: Modbus Communication Protocol 14
6.3: Modbus Commands 15
6.3.1: Command 03-Read Holding Registers 15
6.3.2: Command 08-Diagnostic 18
6.3.3: Command 11-Get Com Event Counter 18
6.3.4: Command 12-Get Com Event Log 19
6.3.5: Command 17-Report Slave ID 19
6.3.6: Command 43-Read Device ID 19
Section 7: Configuring the Analog Output Loop ______________ 20
7.1: Trimming the Output Loop 20
7.2: Selecting the Failsafe Output 21
7.3: Selecting Which Field Unit is Output 21
Section 8: Technical Specifications _________________________ 22
Appendix A: Navigating the Menus_________________________ 23
Appendix B: Base Radio Menu Map ________________________ 24

Accutech Wireless Base Radio User Manual
IV Rev 1.56
3.1: General Layout.................................................................................................. 4
3.2: Overall Wiring Schematic ................................................................................. 5
3.3: Terminal Block Labels ...................................................................................... 5
3.4: Wiring Power to the Base Radio ....................................................................... 6
3.5: Wiring RS-485 to the Base Radio ..................................................................... 6
3.6: Base Radio to RS-232 Converter Wiring Diagram........................................... 6
3.7: Wiring the 4-20mA Loop to the Base Radio..................................................... 7
3.8: Example of End Unit in Daisy-Chain Configuration ........................................ 7
3.9: Example of Correct Termination Resistor Setup .............................................. 7
4.1: Base Radio Power-UP and Operations Sequence ............................................. 8
4.2: The Read Only Sequence .................................................................................. 8
4.3: Overall Configuration Menu Map..................................................................... 9
4.4: Menu Map to Number of Wireless Instruments Setting.................................... 9
4.5: Menu Map to Password Setting......................................................................... 9
5.1: Menu Map to RF Channel Setting................................................................... 10
5.2: Menu Map to Baud Rate Setting ..................................................................... 10
6.1: Menu Map to Modbus Baud Rate Setting....................................................... 11
6.2: Menu Map to Modbus Device ID Setting ....................................................... 12
6.3: Menu Map to Modbus Parity Setting .............................................................. 13
6.4: Menu Map to Modbus Mapping Mode Setting.............................................. 13
7.1: Menu Map to Trim Function........................................................................... 20
7.2: Menu Map to Failsafe Output Setting ............................................................. 21
7.3: Menu Map to Field Unit Output Option.......................................................... 21
8.1: Overall Base Radio Dimensions...................................................................... 22
Table of Figures

Rev 1.56 1
Introduction
Section 1
1.1: USING THIS MANUAL This manual is designed to assist in installing, operating, and maintaining
Accutech Model WI-BR-I-XP, WI-BR-I-XP-MOD and WI-BR-I-XP-AO
Base Radios. The manual is broken into sections as follows:
Section 2: In a Hurry?
This section summarizes what must be done in order to get the device in-
stalled, configured and in operation quickly. However, it does not provide
detailed or how-to information to perform the tasks outlined.
Section 3: Installation
This section explains how to correctly wire power, communications, ana-
log output loops and mechanical installation considerations. Also covered
in this section is how to “daisy-chain” multiple devices together on the
same power and communications supplies (Modbus Base Radio Only).
Proper communications termination is also covered.
Section 4: General Configuration
In this section general configuration options such as password protecting,
and selecting a user password are discussed. Also covered, is the impor-
tance of the Number of Wireless Instruments (NUM WI) setting, as well
as how to configure this setting.
Section 5: Configuring the RF Communications
This section covers the setup of the Base Radio RF Communications
which allow the Base Radio to detect and achieve communication with
Field Units that have been placed in service.
Section 6: Configuring the MODBUS Communications
This section only applies if you have purchased the Modbus Base Radio
(WI-BR-I-XP-MOD).
This section covers the various Base Radio settings that must be config-
ured for Modbus communication such as baud rate, parity, device ID’s,
and register mapping modes. Also covered in this section is a brief discus-
sion of the Modbus communications protocol and Modbus commands that
are used with this device.
Modbus register locations are also discussed within this section.
Section 7: Configuring the Analog Output Loop
This section only applies if you have purchased the Analog Output Base
Radio (WI-BR-I-XP-AO).
Items such as trimming the output loop, selecting the failsafe output, and
selecting the field unit to be output are discussed in this section.
Section 8: Technical Specifications
This section explains the technical specifications that are associated with
this device, such as power characteristics, accuracy, and operating charac-
teristics.

Accutech Wireless Base Radio User Manual
2 Rev 1.56
1.2: ABOUT THE DEVICE The Accutech Base Radio is a reliable Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver
with a variety of available outputs, contained in an explosion proof hous-
ing useable in many hazardous and hard-to-reach areas. The time and ex-
pense of running wires often makes it difficult to measure parameters that
have an economic impact on your plant operation, but the Base Radio al-
lows you to quickly and accurately monitor those devices at fraction of the
cost, giving you bigger and faster returns on your instrumentation invest-
ments.
The Base Radio communicates in a secure, digital protocol over a band of
frequencies from 902MHz to 928MHz. These devices require no wires,
permits or licenses, and are easily setup and installed right out of the box.
The Accutech Base Radio may be used to communicate with many Field
Units in various applications. You can use this device for long-term moni-
toring in remote locations, for short-term data gathering on process condi-
tions, or to quickly test the economic viability of a new installation.
The purpose of this Guide is to help you install and maintain your Ac-
cutech Base Radio.
1.3: UNPACKING Remove the Packing List and check off the actual equipment received. If
you have any questions on your shipment, please call your Accutech Rep-
resentative. Upon receipt of shipment, inspect the container for any signs
of damage in transit. Especially take note of any evidence of rough han-
dling. Report any apparent damage immediately to the shipping agent.
Please note that sometimes units are assembled with accessories when
shipped. Inspect the shipment carefully if you think that something is
missing. This is rare, as we take considerable care to pack units for ship-
ment, but it does sometimes happen. Please give us a call and we may be
able to resolve this matter quickly over the phone.
NOTE
Please note that the carrier will not honor any claims for damage unless
all shipping materials are saved for their examination. If damage is found
during examining and removal of the contents, save the packing material
and the carton.
1.4: SOFTWARE
COMPATABILITY
Software for Accutech is revised periodically. Internal device software
may contain portions that are not compatible with previous versions of the
Wireless Instrumentation Manager software.
To ensure software compatibility, Wireless Instrumentation Manager soft-
ware version 1.56.126 or later must be used. If you believe you are experi-
encing software compatibility issues please call Accutech Customer Ser-
vice at [phone] or email [e-mail].

Rev 1.56 3
This section summarizes what must be done in order to get the device in-
stalled, configured and in operation quickly. However, it does not provide
detailed or how-to information to perform the tasks outlined.
In a Hurry?
Section 2
1. Wire 24VDC power to the Base Radio (See Diagram below)
2. Wire WIM RS-485 communications to the left-most terminal of Base
Radio (See side Diagram)
3. Wire Modbus RS-485 communications to the center terminal of the
Base Radio (WI-BR-I-XP-MOD only) (See Diagram below)
4. Place terminating resistor in terminal only if Base Radio will be used
as an End Unit (See side Diagram)
5. Wire the Analog Output Loop (WI-BR-I-XP-AO only) (See Diagram)
6. The Base Radio RF Settings should be configured as follows:
• RF Channel to any available RF CHAN that matches the one
used by Field Units you with which wish to communicate
(other than RF OFF)
• Baud Rate to 76.8K or the Baud Rate used by Field Units
with which you wish to communicate
• Number of WI’s = to the number of Field Units to communi-
cate with this Base Radio.
7. Configure the Modbus settings (WI-BR-I-XP-MOD only)
8. Configure the Analog Output Loop settings (WI-BR-I-XP-AO only)
9. Verify “COMM OK” message on Base Radio LCD screen
If you are not receiving a “COMM OK”
message on the Base Radio check the
following:
• Is the Base Radio set to the above
listed configurations?
• Are all the Field Units on?
• Are the Field Units set to the match-
ing configurations? (See Section 5
of Field Unit and Base Radio User
Manuals)
• Are the Base Radio and Field Units
unable to communicate due to ob-
structions or distance? (See Field
Unit Manual: Field Unit Placement
section)
• Did you perform the Simple RF
Placement Procedure? (See Field
Unit Guide: A Simple RF Placement
Caution
If the Base Radio is not energized for more than
30 minutes, the Field Units should also be turned
off to preserve battery life. Leaving the Field
Units on when the Base Radio is not energized or
out of range will cause the Field Units to transmit
very frequently and drastically reduces their bat-
tery life.
!!

Accutech Wireless Base Radio User Manual
4 Rev 1.56
Installation
Section 3
3.1: Mechanical Installation In this section mechanical installation instructions are discussed for the
various setup capabilities of the Analog/Digital Output Module. The sub-
sections are as follows:
3.1.1: Base Radio Positioning
3.1.2: Base Radio Mounting
Warning
During installation do not apply force to the in-
strument housing or antenna. Use a proper wrench
for all installations. Failure to use correct installa-
tion procedures can cause damage to the Base
Radio.
!!
The Accutech Base Radio is a rugged device, but it will give much better
service if installed with careful consideration as noted in this manual. It
may be utilized in any service so long as care is exercised to prevent ex-
posing the sensing elements to excess stress or temperature. Installation
practices have a lot to do with these service parameters and the life that
you can expect from your Accutech Base Radio. The main considerations
for installation are covered below.
Give careful consideration to the environment where you will be installing
your instrument. Avoid installations that expose the device to excess tem-
perature, high vibration, considerable shock, or exposure to dripping con-
densate or corrosive materials. Also avoid installing the device in an un-
serviceable location.
Most often these problems can be avoided with some thought at the time
of installation. The practices noted below are generally recommended, but
they can only act as a guideline and cannot cover all possible variations.
The final installation must be made at the discretion and approval of the
user. You must be the judge of the actual installation.
3.1.1: Base Radio Positioning Correct positioning of the Base Radio will ensure the best performance of
the device. Because the Base Radio is the central communication device of
all Field Units that are assigned to it. The Base Radio should be located in
an area that is somewhat central to all the Field Units.
Figure 3.1 is a picture of a general Base Radio layout. The maximum dis-
tance is determined by a number of factors, including the Baud Rate Set-
ting. When planning the positioning of the Base Radio try to place the
Base Radio in an elevated position to avoid human traffic interference.
Remember, the approximate line of sight range between a Field Unit and
Base Radio is determined by the Baud Rate as listed below:
• 76.8K -76.8 Kbaud, Range of 500 to 750ft
• 19.2K - 19.2 Kbaud, Range of 2,000 to 2500ft
• 4.8K - 4.8 Kbaud, Range of 3,000ft
Note: This range is reduced by the amount of RF Noise present, obstruc-
tions, and the material properties of those obstructions.
Only place the Base Radio in ambient operating temperatures of -40°F to
185°F (-40°C to 85°C).
Make sure you have power and communication to the Base Radio avail-
able. (See Electrical Installation section)
Because there are so many setup possibilities we cannot cover them all. A
correct setup would make sure that the above warnings are heeded, and
that the Field Unit and Base Radio are capable of communication. The RF
Placement Procedure section of the Field Unit Guide will help you to de-
termine if you have a selected the correct installation points and orienta-
tions for your application.
Figure 3.1: General Layout

Rev 1.56 5
3.2: Electrical Installation In this section wiring instructions are discussed for the various setup capa-
bilities of the Base Radio. The subsections are as follows:
3.2.1: Electrical Specifications
3.2.2: Wiring Power to the Base Radio
3.2.3: Wiring RS-485 to the Base Radio
3.2.4: Wiring an RS-232 Converter to the Base Radio
3.2.5: Wiring the Analog Output Loop
3.2.6: Terminating the Base Radio
3.2.7: Grounding the Base Radio Housing
Warning
Remember to turn off all power BEFORE hook-
ing up any wires!
!!
3.2.1: Electrical Specifications • 24VDC Power Supply with 0.5 Amp minimum output
Recommend 22AWG Power Supply wire
• 2 Wire RS-485 Serial Communications Cable
Recommend Belden 3105A shielded and protected 22AWG or
equivalent
• 120 W, ± 5%, ¼ W resistor for RS-485 termination
• RS-485 to RS 232 converter B&B model 485LDRC9 or equivalent
• 8 AWG bare or green covered grounding cable for housing ground
In Figure 3.2, an overall wiring schematic is shown. Note that the ground-
ing screw is located on the outside of the Base Radio housing.
Figure 3.2: Overall Wiring Schematic
Explosions may result in death or serious injury.
Do not remove the instrument cover in explosive
atmospheres when power and communications are
on.
Warning !!
To begin the electrical installation first remove the explosion proof hous-
ing cover from the Base Radio, if you have not already done so. Point the
Base Radio antenna away from you and look at the green PC Board found
directly underneath the NEXT and ENTER buttons. You should see two
terminal blocks and some labels as shown in Figure 3.3.
Once you have located these terminal blocks you can wire the Base Radio
accordingly. The best way to wire the Base Radio is to:
• Remove both terminal blocks from the jacks on the Base
Radio
• Insert the wire through the conduit hole on the bottom right
of the Base Radio
• Secure the wire into the proper terminal blocks
• Then plug the terminal blocks back into the proper jacks on
the Base Radio.
Figure 3.3: Terminal Block Labels
Caution
If the Base Radio is not energized for more than
30 minutes, the Field Units should also be turned
off to preserve battery life. Leaving the Field
Units on when the Base Radio is not energized or
out of range will cause the Field Units to transmit
very frequently and drastically reduces their bat-
tery life.
!!

Accutech Wireless Base Radio User Manual
6 Rev 1.56
Caution
Make sure only ONE power supply is routed to the Base Radio at any time!
(Does not apply to Loop Power Supplies)
!
!
The Accutech Base Radio is designed to use a 24 VDC power supply at a
minimum of 0.5 Amps. Accutech offers 110VAC/120VAC-15W DIN rail
mounted 24VDC converter for this purpose. For more information contact
your Accutech Representative.
The Ground or Negative wire should be placed in the left most slot labeled
“GND” on the PCBoard of the terminal block in Figure 3.4. The Positive
wire should be placed in the same terminal block in the slot labeled “24V”
on the PCBoard as shown in Figure 3.4.
3.2.2: Wiring Power to the Base
Radio
Figure 3.4: Wiring Power to the Base Radio
3.2.3: Wiring RS-485 to the Base
Radio
The Base Radio also requires a 2 wire RS-485 cable to be wired for com-
munications. Wiring communications to a PC in order to run the Wireless
Instrumentation Manager (WIM) software requires the use of an RS-485
to RS-232 converter as most PC’s cannot be wired directly to RS-485.
To wire the RS-485 cable to the Base Radio we recommend using a
22AWG twisted pair shielded wire. Place one of the twisted pair wires in
the “A” (Tx+/Rx+) slot of the same terminal block as the power supply
wires, and the other wire in the “B” (Tx-/RX-) slot of the terminal block
as shown below in Figure 3.5.
Figure 3.5: Wiring RS-485 to the Base Radio
NOTE
The RS-485 communication setup is half duplex.
If the Base Radio in the application is wired to an
RS-485 to RS-232 converter, the A (Tx+/Rx+)
and B (Tx-/Rx-) wires may need to be crossed for
correct operation. Please see the converter’s user
manual for further instructions.
Accutech offers an optically isolated, surge protected, DIN Rail mount-
able B&B Electronics converter (Model 485LDRC9). Because there are
many RS-485/232 Converters available, please see your converters in-
struction manual for details as this section will only discuss the wiring of
the 485LDRC9 converter.
The Base Radio communicated via a half-duplex differential signal with A
being Tx+/Rx+ and B being Tx-/Rx-. To properly wire the Base Radio to
the 485LDRC9, you should follow Figure 3.6.
To configure the 485LDRC9 to the appropriate baud rate (38.4Kbaud), as
set of dip switches must be configured. These switches can be found on
the side of the converter. The first four switches should be in the ON posi-
tion to indicate that the communications are half duplex. The fifth switch
should also be in the ON position as this activates the termination resistor
within the converter. Finally, switches six, seven, and eight should be set
to the OFF position to indicate the correct baud rate. (Note: An 8.2K resis-
tor (R11) has been installed at the factory to achieve these higher baud
rates. If you did not purchase the converter from the factory you will need
to install this resistor).
To wire power to the 485LDRC9, place a +10 to 30 VDC supply to termi-
nal F, and place the ground (V-) to terminal C.
The final step in installing the converter is to attach an RS-232 (serial)
cable from the converter to an available serial port on your computer.
Figure 3.6: Base Radio to RS-232 Converter
Wiring Diagram
3.2.4: Wiring an RS-232 Con-
verter to the Base Radio

Rev 1.56 7
This section only applies if you have purchased the Analog Output option.
If you have purchased the Analog Output option for your Base Radio, then
the Base Radio is able to output a 4-20mA signal loop via the “Loop” Ter-
minal on the Base Radio.
To wire the analog output loop, an external loop power supply must be
supplied. An example is shown in Figure 3.7.
Section 3: Installation
Figure 3.7: Wiring the 4-20mA Loop to the
Base Radio
3.2.5: Wiring the Analog Output
Loop (WI-BR-XP-AO only)
NOTE
The Base Radio Analog Output is only capable of a 4-20mA loop. Do not wire the Base
Radio to a 0-10V or 0-5V loop as this may cause irreparable damage to the Base Radio.
3.2.6: Terminating the Base Radio RS-485 is capable of maintaining communications over a maximum dis-
tance of 4000 feet. In most (and we recommend all) situations the unit that
comprises an “end” of an RS-485 network should be terminated by a resis-
tor wired across the A and B wires.
In the case of a daisy-chained application the end unit should be termi-
nated. The end unit is the unit that is located at the end of series of units.
In a PC to Base Radio only application, the end unit is the Base Radio.
Note: a PC is also an end unit, but the termination for this end unit is done
within the converter. In a multiple unit daisy-chain application the end unit
is shown in Figure 3.8.
Termination of an end unit is done by placing a resistor across the A and B
wires of the RS-485 cable. The value of this resistor should match the
characteristic impedance (Zo) of the RS-485 cable. The characteristic im-
pedance (Zo) is published by the manufacturer of the RS-485 cable you
are using.
If you are using the Belden RS-485 wire recommended under the Wiring
RS-485 to the Base Radio section the value of the resistor should be a 120
ohm ¼ watt resistor.
To terminate a Base Radio place one end of the resistor in the open termi-
nal block’s B slot and place the other end of the resistor in the open termi-
nal block’s A slot. Doing so will place the resistor across the A and B
wires as needed. An example of this is shown below in Figure 3.9.
Figure 3.8: Example of End Unit in
Daisy-Chain Configuration
Figure 3.9: Example of Correct Termi-
nation Resistor Setup
3.2.7: Grounding the Base Radio In order to assure safety requirements on your Base Radio, the Base Radio
housing must be grounded. We have provided a grounding screw located
on the left side of the Base Radio housing. To ground the Base Radio sim-
ply place a wire from the grounding screw to a grounded object. Possible
grounded objects include:
• The building’s metal frame-work
• Any electrical conduit
• A suitable grounding or lightning rod

Accutech Wireless Base Radio User Manual
8 Rev 1.56
General Configuration
Section 4
This section discusses the generalities around configuring the Base Radio
via the next and enter buttons. The subsections are as follows:
4.1: Base Radio Displayed Messages
4.1.1: The Read-Only Sequence
4.2: The Overall Configuration Menu Map
4.3: The Number of Wireless Instruments Setting
4.4: Setting a User Password
Figure 4.1: Base Radio Power-Up and Operations LCD Sequences
The Base Radio should be on if power is being supplied (See Section 3.2:
Electrical Installation). Upon power-up, the Base Radio will display a
Power-Up Sequence, and then go into an Operations Sequence. These
Sequences are shown in Figure 4.1 below:
4.1: Base Radio Displayed
Messages
NOTE
During configuration and testing, keep Field Units
at least one foot apart and away from the Base
Radio to ensure good communications.
4.1.1: The Read Only Sequence Once the Base Radio is in the Operations Sequence, a user may access the
READ-ONLY Sequence without a password by simply pressing the EN-
TER button at any time. The Read-Only Sequence, as shown in Figure 4.2,
displays extra information about the current settings of the Base Radio that
are not seen during the Operations Sequence, but does not allow any
changes to be made to these settings.
4.2: The Read Only Sequence

Rev 1.56 9
A complete Base Radio Menu Map is shown in Appendix B. Below is an
overall view of the configuration menu to aid the user in setting up the
Base Radio for proper operation.
Figure 4.3: Overall Configuration Menu Map
4.2: Overall Configuration
Menu Map
Section 4: General Configuration
NOTE
The RS-485 is only available if you have ordered
to Modbus communication option (WI-BR-I-XP-
MOD).
TRIM, FAILSAF, & OUTPUT are only available
within the menus if you have ordered the WI-BR-
I-XP-AO model Base Radio, which has the Ana-
log Output loop enabled.
NOTE
The user must enter a four digit password to enter
the CONFIG and DIAGNSE. The FACTORY
menu is for factory use only. The default user
password is 0000. For more information on the
password see Section 4.4.
4.3: The Number of Wireless
Instruments Setting
The Number of Wireless Instruments setup allows you to track Field Unit
communication. By indicating the number of Field Units allotted to that
particular Base Radio, the Base Radio can judge whether or not it is miss-
ing communication with a Field Unit and then warn the user.
For example, if you had 10 Field Units to be set to this Base Radio, you
would set the number of wireless instruments to 10. When you returned to
the operations sequence you would then read “BASE OK” and “10 WI” if
all the Field Units were in communication with the Base Radio. If one
Field Unit was not in communication with the Base Radio, you would read
“MIS 1” and “9 WI” for the 1 missing Field Unit.
Follow the Base Radio menu map shown to the left in Figure 4.4 to con-
figure the number of wireless instruments (Field Units). The factory de-
fault is 001. There is a limit of 50 Field Units per Base Radio.
Figure 4.4: Menu Map to Number of
Wireless Instruments Setting
4.3: The Number of Wireless
Instruments Setting
4.4: Setting the User Password Each Base Radio has a password that will lock out undesired users from
making changes to the Base Radio. Any user may still view some of the
Base Radio settings by pressing the ENTER key during the Operations
Sequence and viewing the Read Only Sequence.
The password is a four-digit password. The factory default is 0000. If you
wish to select a different password, follow the Base Radio Menu Map
shown in Figure 4.5 to change it.
If you forget your password you must call your Accutech Sales Represen-
tative to have it reset.
Figure 4.5: Menu Map to Password
Setting

Accutech Wireless Base Radio User Manual
10 Rev 1.56
Configuring the RF Communications
Section 5
In order for the Base Radio and the Field Unit to communicate they must
be on the same RF Channel, and must be transmitting at the same Baud
Rate. While all Field Units and Base Radios are set to default configura-
tions at the factory, if any configuration differences are present the Base
Radio will not be able to communicate to the Field Units. The subsections
are as follows:
5.1: RF Channel Selection
5.2: RF Baud Rate Selection
5.1: RF Channel Selection All Base Radios and Field Units can be set to one of 16 different commu-
nication channels. The only Field Units recognized by a particular Base
Radio are the units that share the same RF Channel as that Base Radio.
This allows the user to decide which Field Units communicate with each
Base Radio.
Each Base Radio comes from the factory set to the RF OFF channel. This
means the Base Radio will not communicate with any Field Units. To set
the Base Radio for communication first determine the channel that you
wish to use, then follow the Base Radio menu map shown below in Figure
5.1 to configure the RF Channel.
Figure 5.1: Menu Map to RF Channel Setting
5.2: Baud Rate Selection The RF Baud Rate refers to the speed at which the Base Radio and Field
Units communicate. There are three selectable settings with approximate
update times and ranges listed below:
• 4.8K- Baud rate of 4.8 Kbaud (Update every 20 seconds)
- Range of 3000ft (Line of Sight)
• 19.2K- Baud rate of 19.2 Kbaud (Update every 5 seconds)
- Range of 2000ft to 2500ft (Line of Sight)
• 76.8K- Baud rate of 76.8 Kbaud (Update every 1 second)
- Range of 500ft to 750ft (Line of Sight)
A faster RF Baud Rate will allow you to transmit more information in a
certain period of time, but it will also limit your range. If you need more
distance out of your Field Units or are encountering difficulties by fre-
quently losing communications, then select a slower baud rate.
Follow the Base Radio menu map shown in Figure 5.2 to configure the RF
Baud Rate. The factory default is the 19.2K Baud Rate.
Once you are in the RF Channel menu, you can increment it by pressing
the NEXT button. When selecting this value, do not choose an RF Chan-
nel that is currently being used by other Accutech Wireless Systems as this
can cause communication problems.
Figure 5.2: Menu Map to Baud Rate Setting
NOTE
If you change the baud rate of the Base Radio, you
must also change the baud rate of all other Field
Units that are communicating with that Base Ra-
dio to match.
Caution
If the Base Radio is not energized for more than
30 minutes, the Field Units should also be turned
off to preserve battery life. Leaving the Field
Units on when the Base Radio is not energized or
out of range will cause the Field Units to transmit
very frequently and drastically reduces their bat-
tery life.
!!

Rev 1.56 11
Configuring the Modbus Communications
Section 6
This section applies only if you have ordered the Modbus communications
option for the Base Radio. The Base Radio identification number should
read WI-BR-I-XP-MOD. If you have not ordered this option please skip
this section. The subsections are as follows:
6.1: Base Radio Setup
6.1.1: Modbus Baud Rate Setting
6.1.2: Modbus Device ID Setting
6.1.3: Modbus Parity Setting
6.1.2: Modbus Mapping Mode Setting
6.2: Modbus Communication Protocol
6.3: Modbus Commands
6.3.1: Command 03-Read Holding Registers
6.3.1.1: Base Radio Holding Registers
6.3.1.1.1: Base Radio Device Type Holding Registers
6.3.1.1.2: Base Radio Device Status Holding Registers
6.3.1.1.3: Base Radio On/Offline Field Unit Registers
6.3.1.2: Field Unit Holding Registers
6.3.1.2.1: Field Unit Device Type Holding Registers
6.3.1.2.2: Field Unit Device Status Holding Registers
6.3.2: Command 08-Diagnostic
6.3.3: Command 11-Get Com Event Counter
6.3.4: Command 12-Get Com Event Log
6.3.5: Command 17-Report Slave ID
6.3.6: Command 43-Read Device ID
6.1: Base Radio Setup The purpose of this section is to guide the user through the configuration
of the Base Radio in order to enable communications with the user’s par-
ticular Modbus Protocol.
6.1: Modbus Baud Rate Setting In order for the Base Radio to communicate with other devices, such as
the server computer, or an existing PLC/DCS system, they must share the
same Modbus Baud Rate.
To set the Modbus Baud Rate, first determine which rate your system re-
quires. If your system will allow any baud rate, we suggest you use the
fastest setting; however, some systems cannot handle these faster baud
rates due to external noise and transmission distance, so if you encounter
communication problems between the Base Radio and server computer or
existing system try a slower baud rate setting.
Once you have determined the Modbus Baud Rate you wish to use; follow
the Base Radio menu map shown in Figure 6.1 to configure the Baud Rate.
Figure 6.1: Menu Map to Modbus Baud Rate Setting
NOTE
This device supports Modbus RTU (Binary)
communications. Note that the ASC-II transmis-
sion mode is not supported.

Accutech Wireless Base Radio User Manual
12 Rev 1.56
The Modbus Device ID allows a PLC or DCS to find the proper Base Ra-
dio on a RS-485 Network.
Because Modus needs a device ID for each Field Unit, they have been
virtually mapped according to the Base Radio with which they are com-
municating. The device ID range is dependent on the MODMAP setting in
the Base Radio. (See Modbus Mapping Mode section 6.1.4 for more infor-
mation.)
In the Register Mapping Mode you may select any device ID from 1 to
247. This number will be the device ID at which all the readable registers
for the Base Radio and every Field Unit will be located. More detail about
each register, and its meaning can be found in the Modbus Communica-
tions Protocol section.
In the Device ID Mapping Mode you may select any address from 1 to
247 minus the number of Field Units communicating with this Base Ra-
dio. The change in the device ID ceiling is due to the fact that each Field
Unit’s device ID is located at its RF ID + the Base Radio device ID. Thus
you need the space beyond the Base Radio address to contain all the Field
Units’ address.
For example: If there are two Base Radios on the RS-485 network, and
each of the two Base Radios are communicating with three Field Units,
the device ID scheme would result as follows:
• Base Radio with Modbus device ID 001
⇒ Field Unit with RF ID 1 is found at Modbus device ID 002
⇒ Field Unit with RF ID 2 is found at Modbus device ID 003
⇒ Field Unit with RF ID 3 is found at Modbus device ID 004
• Base Radio with Modbus device ID 101
⇒ Field Unit with RF ID 1 is found at Modbus device ID 102
⇒ Field Unit with RF ID 2 is found at Modbus device ID 103
⇒ Field Unit with RF ID 3 is found at Modbus device ID 104
More detail about the registers at each address, and their meaning, can be
found in the Modbus Communications Protocol section.
Once you have determined the Modbus Device ID you wish to use, follow
the Base Radio menu map shown in Figure 6.2 to configure the device ID.
The factory default is 001:
6.1.2: Modbus Device ID Setting
Figure 6.2: Menu Map to Modbus Device ID Setting
NOTE
The Base Radio provides different De-
vice ID modes in order to support a
wide range of Modbus equipment.
In the Register Mapping Mode the
data for the Base Radio and all Field
Units are located under a single device
ID. This ID may be any allowable Mod-
bus address between 1 and 247 that
doesn’t conflict with an address of exist-
ing device or Modbus network.
In the Device ID Mapping Mode each
Field Unit is given its own unique ID
and registers. The Field Unit ID is equal
to the value of the Base Radio ID added
to the Field Units RF ID.
NOTE
Make sure that the NUM WI setting has
been configured properly or the Modbus
addressing scheme could be affected.
To properly set the NUM WI setting
see section 4.5.

Rev 1.56 13
6.1.3: Modbus Parity Setting The Modbus Parity distinguishes which type of parity is used to validate
each packet of information on the RS-485 Network. The type of parity
required is usually indicated by the user’s PLC.
Selecting EVEN or ODD parity will automatically include one STOP bit
per frame. Selecting NONE parity will automatically include two STOP
bits as per the Modbus communications specification.
Follow the Base Radio menu map, shown in Figure 6.3, to configure the
parity. The factory default is EVEN parity.
Section 6: Configuring the Modbus Communications
Figure 6.3: Menu Map to Modbus Parity Setting
6.1.4: Modbus Mapping Mode
Setting
The Modbus Mapping mode distinguishes which type of mapping mode is
used to map the Modbus registers according to the device IDs.
There are two possible mapping modes that can be used. The first is the
Device ID mapping mode. Using this mode gives the Base Radio a device
ID equal to its device ID setting. There are then 10 Modbus registers lo-
cated at this device ID for this Base Radio. Each Field Unit communicat-
ing with this Base Radio is then located at device ID X, where X is the RF
ID of the Field Unit + the Device ID of the Base Radio. There are 10
Modbus registers for each Field Unit located at that Unit’s device ID. For
more information on the registers, see the Modbus Communications Proto-
col section.
The other possible mapping mode that can be used is the Register mapping
mode. Using this mode gives the Base Radio a device ID equal to its de-
vice ID setting. Then, the 10 Base Radio Modbus registers are registers 1 –
10, and the Field Unit with RF ID 1 is located at the SAME device ID as
the Base Radio but its registers are registers 11-20. Each subsequent Field
Unit is mapped similarly. For more information on the registers, see the
Modbus Communications Protocol section.
Follow the Base Radio menu map, shown in Figure 6.4, to configure the
mapping mode. The factory default is the Device ID mode.
Figure 6.4: Menu Map to Modbus Mapping Mode Setting
NOTE
Make sure that the NUM WI setting has
been configured properly or the Modbus
addressing scheme could be affected.
To properly set the NUM WI setting
see section 4.5.

Accutech Wireless Base Radio User Manual
14 Rev 1.56
The Base Radio connects to the Host (Master) system using Modbus over
a serial RS-485 line. The Base Radio supports Modbus RTU transmission
mode at baud rates of 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, or 115200 baud with
even, odd, or no parity and 8 data bits. One stop bit is used if even or odd
parity is selected and two stop bits are used if the no parity option is se-
lected to fill out the character frame to a full 11-bit character. Unless
modified by the user, default values of 19200 baud, 8 data bits, even par-
ity, and one stop bit are used.
The Base Radio is always located at the device ID selected by the DEV
ID menu item. Field units can be configured to either be assigned to an
individual Modbus device ID or to holding registers within the Base Radio
device ID through the appropriate selection in the MODMAP menu item.
There are two MODMAP modes available: DEVMODE and REG-
MODE.
If the device ID mapping mode (DEVMODE) is selected, a Field Unit’s
equivalent Modbus device ID is the Base Radio’s device ID plus the Field
Unit’s RF ID. For example, if the Base Radio’s device ID was 10 and a
Field Unit’s RF ID was 5, the Field Unit would be accessed under Modbus
device ID 15. Using the device ID mapping mode adjusts the upper limit
of the Base Radio’s device ID to 247 minus the number of Field Units on
the RF network. For instance, if 5 Field Units were on the Base Radio’s
network, the maximum Modbus device ID would be 242.
If the register-mapping mode (REGMODE) is selected, a Field Unit’s
data may be accessed with the Modbus Read Holding Register command
(03) using the Base Radio’s device ID. The Base Radio uses register ad-
dresses 1 through 10 with each subsequent group of 10 registers used by a
Field Unit.
The RF online/offline status of a Field Unit can be determined through a
number of different sources. In the Base Radio holding registers, a count
of the current number of online Field Units can be found at address 00004.
Also the individual online/offline status of each Field Unit is stored in the
Base Radio holding registers at addresses 00005, 00006, 00007, and
00008. These registers are bit field variables with each bit of the 16-bit
number representing the status of a Field Unit. If the bit is set, the corre-
sponding Field Unit is online. If the bit is cleared, the corresponding Field
Unit is offline.
In the Field Unit holding registers, bit 1 in the Field Unit & Sensor Status
holding register holds the online/offline status of the particular device.
Any Field Unit that is currently offline will return NaN (Not a Number)
when queried for its primary or secondary measurement value. Note that
if a Field Unit is online and is a single measurement device type, NaN will
also be returned for the Secondary Sensor Value as the measurement does
not exist in these devices.
6.2: Modbus Communication
Protocol
NOTE
This device supports Modbus RTU (Binary)
communications. Note that the ASC-II transmis-
sion mode is not supported.