Accutrol T-ABVA Instruction manual

i
Installation, Operation & Maintenance Manual
Apex Basic Velocity Alarm, Model T-ABVA
Manual #: 0133MAN00018
Accutrol LLC
21 Commerce Dr
Danbury, CT 06810
Tel: [phone]
www.accutrolllc.com

Warranty
The Apex Basic Velocity Alarm has no serviceable parts inside, removal of the rear enclosure or any other
type of tampering shall void all warranties stated and contained herein.
Accutrol LLC, Inc. warrants that this product, under normal use and service as described in this Operation
and Service manual, is free from defects in workmanship and material for a period of thirty-six months from
the date of shipment to the customer. This limited warranty is subject to the following conditions:
With respect to any repair services rendered, Accutrol LLC warrants that the parts repaired or replaced will
be in good working condition, under normal use, for the period of the original warranty, or for 90 days from
date of repair if the original warranty period has expired.
Unless specifically authorized by Accutrol LLC in writing, no warranty is made with respect to, and no
liability is assumed in connection with, any goods, which are incorporated into other products or equipment
by the Buyer.
The foregoing is in lieu of all other warranties and is subject to the conditions and limitations stated herein.
No other expressed or implied warranty of fitness for particular purpose or merchantability is made.
The exclusive remedy of the user or purchaser, and the limit of the liability of Accutrol LLC or any other
seller for any and all losses, injuries, or damage resulting from the use of this product shall be the return of
the product and the refund of the purchase price or, at the option of Accutrol LLC or any authorized seller,
the repair or replacement of the product. In no event shall Accutrol LLC or any other seller be liable for any
incidental or consequential damages.

iii
Table of Contents
WARRANTY...................................................................................................................................... II
TABLE OF CONTENTS ...........................................................................................................III
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 1
GENERAL DESCRIPTION........................................................................................................ 2
SPECIFICATIONS....................................................................................................................... 3
MODEL CODE DESCRIPTION................................................................................................ 4
GETTING STARTED / UNPACKING...................................................................................... 4
INSTALLATION.......................................................................................................................... 5
PRE-CALIBRATION................................................................................................................... 7
CALIBRATION............................................................................................................................ 8
MAINTENANCE.......................................................................................................................... 9

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page iv
This Page Intentionally Blank

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.B, February 2016 Page 1
Introduction
The Apex Basic Velocity Alarm (ABVA) provides a cost-effective means for ensuring your laboratory fume
hoods and bio safety cabinets are operating within the appropriate velocity range for their intended
application. Lab occupants are alerted of potentially unsafe operating conditions by both audible and
visual alarms located on the front panel of the ABVA. The ABVA can also communicate alarms to remote
locations, such as the building automation system, and be commanded to operate in “unoccupied mode”
from remote locations.
Features
•Precise Measurement of Velocity using Mass Flow Sensor and 24-bit A/D Converter
•Two Alarm Calibration Modes
•Ultra Bright L.E.D.s to Indicate Status at a Glance
•Loud Audible Alarm Provided by 90dB Horn
•Remote Communication of Alarm Status
•Unoccupied Mode Using Remote Mute Function
•No External Reference Probe Required
•Flush Mount or Surface Mount Installation
•Simple Wiring Using Screw-less Terminals
•Operates from Standard 120 VAC Using Wall Plug Power Module Provided
•Side-Mount Bracket Kit Available for Installing to “Box” Type Apparatus
•Dual Hood Probe Kit Available for Large Fume Hoods
Prior to Proceeding
Before installing and calibrating your velocity alarm, you should be familiar with ANSI/ASHRAE
STANDARD 110 for proper methods of testing performance of laboratory fume hoods.
The following items are identified by ASHRAE as being important factors contributing to the safe
operation of laboratory fume hoods:
1. Cross-drafts. Air currents may, by creating turbulent air pockets, draw contaminants from the
hood. Such cross-drafts could be caused by air supply diffusers or grilles, open windows or doors, or
rapid movements of people in front of the hood.
2. Work procedures. There is substantial evidence to suggest that all work in a hood should be
conducted as far back in the hood as practical. Typically, users have standardized the requirement
that all work should occur at least 6 inches behind the face of the hood. However, significantly
improved protection can be achieved by working farther than 6 inches from the face of the hood.
3. Internal obstructions. The location of too much laboratory equipment (bottles, glass, etc.) in the
hood will disturb airflow patterns into the hood.
4. The procedure being performed. The intrinsic hazard of the procedure being performed can
affect the level of safety required by the user.
5. Thermal challenge. Heat produced in the hood can cause significant disturbance in the hood
performance and even cause leakage of warm and possibly contaminated air from the top of the hood
or from behind the sash.
6. Rate of response. The transient state or interval required for a variable-air-volume hood to
respond to a rapid opening of the sash, or the time interval required for a hood to respond to a
change in static pressure in the main exhaust duct serving multiple hoods, may affect hood
performance.

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page 2
General Description
1. Mounting Holes: Both mounting holes are elongated to provide horizontal and vertical adjustment so
the alarm can be perfectly aligned with the mounting surface.
2. Inlet Port: Air is drawn in from the room through the inlet port where it is measured by the internal
mass flow sensor and then exits into the negatively pressurized fume hood or BSC exhaust duct.
3. Visual Status Indicators: There are two visual status indicators; one Red LED and one Green LED.
During normal operation, the Green LED is ON and the RED LED is OFF. During an alarm condition,
the Green LED is OFF and the RED LED Flashes. When the Mute Button is pressed and held for 3-
seconds, the two LEDs are also used to indicate which calibration mode is presently active.
4. Mute Button: Highly visible and easy to access for quick actuation.
Pressing the Mute Button momentarily during an alarm condition will silence the horn. Pressing
Mute again, will reactivate the horn. If the horn is muted and the alarm has not cleared, the horn will
chirp (re-beep) every five minutes as a reminder that the horn is muted.
Pressing and holding the Mute Button for 3-seconds, will provide a visual indication of the present
calibration mode. If one LED turns ON, then the unit is operating in Mode 1. If both LEDs turn ON,
then the unit is operating in Mode 2.
Pressing and holding the Mute Button for 15-seconds, will disable the horn with no re-beep. The
horn will remain OFF until the Mute Button is pressed again or the alarm condition clears.
5. Calibration Button: The calibration button is recessed to prevent accidental triggering. To press the
calibration button, use the end of a paper clip.
Pressing the Calibration Button momentarily will toggle the alarm calibration mode.
Pressing and holding the Calibration Button for 5-seconds, will initiate the Alarm Calibration.
Pressing and holding the Calibration Button for 10-seconds, will re-zero the sensor. The sensor
should not need to be re-zeroed unless directed to do so by the factory. Re-zero should only be
performed with the airflow sensor blocked.
6. Tilted Surface: Because the alarm is normally installed above eye level, the front surface is angled
downward for easy viewing.
7. I/O Terminal Block: Use stranded wire between 16 and 20 AWG only, stripped back ¼ - ½ inch.
Remote Mute: Sending a contact closure to the Remote Mute input will mute the horn same as
pressing the Mute Button. Remote Mute is normally used during unoccupied hours.
Alarm Output: Alarms can be communicated to other devices and the building automation system
using the relay output at terminals 3, 4 and 5. The relay changes state during alarm condition, and
returns to normal when the alarm condition has been cleared.
8. Hood Probe Port: This is the exit side of the mass airflow sensor. Tubing from the hood probe or
BSC exhaust duct is connected here.
9. Input Power Plug: The DC Power Module provided connects directly to plug on the back of the unit.
1. Mounting
Holes
6. Tilted
Surface
2. Inlet Port
3. Visual
Status
Indicators
4. Mute
Button
5. Calibration
Button
8. Hood
Probe
7. I/O
Term.
9. Power
Term.
Front View
Side View
Back View

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page 3
Specifications
INPUT POWER
15VDC +/- 20% provided by Class II UL approved wall pluggable power module
VELOCITY RANGE
30 –2,000 FPM
ACCURACY
+/- 10% of set point or +/- 10 FPM, whichever is greater
VELOCITY SENSOR
Type: micro-bridge mass flow sensor
Overpressure: 25 PSI
ENVIRONMENT
Temperature: Storage; 0°F to 150°F, Nominal Operating; 55°F to 85°F
Humidity:10% to 90% RH, non-condensing
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Enclosure Size: 2.76” W x 4.5”H x 1.25”D
Weight: approximately 5oz.
Hood Probe: 7/16” diameter, feed through bushing, press fit, 5’ tubing
Materials: Enclosure; ABS plastic
Tubing; 0.170” I.D., ¼” O.D., clear polyurethane, ester base
Hood Probe; Polyethylene
LED INDICATORS
Two ultra bright clear lens LEDs, Green indicates normal, Red flashing indicates alarm
AUDIBLE HORN
Sound Level: 90 dB at 10cm
Operation: horn sounds during alarm condition unless Mute is activated
Re-Beep Mode: single fast tone every 5 minutes when horn muted and alarm not cleared.
ALARM DELAY
7 seconds (to reduce false alarms)
ALARM RELAY OUTPUT (I/O Terminal, Positions 3, 4 and 5)
Type: SPDT relay
Specifications: 1A @ 30 VDC, 0.5A @ 125 VAC (resistive load)
Operation:
NORMAL, Power ON
ALARM, Fault or Power Loss
Relay Contact Term. 3 –4:
OPEN
CLOSED
Relay Contact Term. 5 –4:
CLOSED
OPEN
REMOTE MUTE INPUT (I/O Terminal, Positions 1 and 2)
Type: un-powered dry contact
Operation: when input is shorted (1000 ohms max), horn is muted and re-beep mode active
MUTE PUSH BUTTON
Pressing Once Momentarily silences horn, enables re-beep mode and resets after the alarm
condition is cleared or the Mute Button is pressed momentarily again.
Pressing and Holding Mute for 3 Seconds provides indication of present calibration mode.
One LED ON indicates Cal Mode 1, Both LEDs ON indicates Cal Mode 2.
Pressing and Holding Mute for 15 Seconds while in alarm disables the horn with re-beep
inactive. If alarm clears, or mute is pressed for 15 seconds, normal operation is restored.

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page 4
Model Code Description
T –ABVA - ________
Model Number Includes
(1) Apex Basic Velocity Alarm
(2) 6-32 x 1.5” Mounting Screws
(2) #6 x 1.5” Sheet Metal Screws
(1) Reference Guide
(1) Mounting Template
(1) Wall Pluggable 15VDC Power Supply
(2) Bushings for surface mounting
Hood Size and Type
FH1P = Single Hood Probe Kit (for fume hoods less than 8-feet wide)
FH2P =Dual Hood Probe Kit (for fume hoods 8-feet wide and greater)
BS1P =Probe Kit for BSC Duct
Optional Items (Sold Separately)
1025CAB00066: 6-Foot Extension Cable for Power Supply
T-ABVA-SMKIT: Side Mount Kit
Getting Started / Unpacking
Before proceeding, unpack box and verify all components arrived safely through shipping.
Item
Qty.
Description
1
1
Velocity Alarm Main Unit
2
1
Wall Pluggable Power Module
3
2
Bushings
4
1
Mounting Template
5
2
Screws, SS Machine, # 6-32-1.25”
6
2
Screws, SS Sheet Metal, # 6-32-1.25”
7
1
Hood Probe Kit; Single Hood Probe Kit Shown
2
3
5
7
6
1
4

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page 5
Installation
Step 1: Choose Suitable Mounting Location (Fume Hood Installation Shown)
Option 2: Installing the ABVA Directly to Surface
a. Remove the backing from the mounting template provided (PN 2111TAG00642) and adhere it to the
location selected in Step 1. Be sure to mount the template straight.
b. Using a center punch or similar tool, mark the 5-hole centers using enough force to dimple the
mounting surface.
c. Using a 7/64” bit, drill the upper and lower mounting holes.
d. Drill the two 11/16” holes and one 7/8” hole. Suggestion: Use a Step Bit for drilling these three holes.
e. Install the two bushings provided into the 11/16” holes.
f. The ABVA will be mounted to the surface using the two sheet metal screws provided, however do not
secure until Steps 3 through 7 have been completed.
Option 3: Installing the ABVA Using the Side Mount Kit (Optional Item, Sold Separately)
a. Using the hardware and instruction
sheet provided with the side mount kit,
Accutrol LLC PN T-ABVA-SMKIT, install
the bracket to the side panel of the
device being monitored.
b. Install the plastic electrical box provided
to the side-mount bracket using the
hardware provided.
c. Install the ABVA to the plastic electrical
box, however do not secure until Steps
3 through 7 have been completed.
With the fume hood sash fully opened, the ABVA should
be mounted at a height above the maximum opening to
prevent cross drafts from affecting the performance of
the velocity sensor. Figure 1 shows a good mounting
location on a standard fume hood.
Velocity
Alarm
Fully Opened Sash
Figure 1
Step 2: Install the ABVA Alarm
The versatile design of the ABVA allows for various
mounting options, three of which are explained below.
Choose the option best suited for your application.
Option 1: Installing the ABVA onto a Single-Gang Electrical Box
The ABVA is designed to fit directly onto a 1-gang electrical box. For mounting, use the two machine
screws provided, however, do not secure until completing Steps 3 through 7

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page 6
Sash 100% Open
Figure 2
Installation
Step 5: Wiring the Terminal Strip
On the back of the ABVA there is a 5-conductor (screw-less) terminal strip used for connecting the
“Remote Mute Input” and “Alarm Relay Output”. If these features are not being used, proceed to Step 6.
Otherwise, route the wires through the appropriate holes or electrical box knock-outs and connect to the
respective terminals. Note: Connections to the terminal strip are made by pushing the button above the
terminal, inserting the stripped end (1/4”) of the wire into the hole and releasing the button.
Step 6: Connecting Input Power
Route the cord end of the DC Power Module through the appropriate hole or electrical box knock-out and
insert into the power plug located on the back of the ABVA.
Step 7: Connect the Tubing to the ABVA
Route the hood probe tubing through the appropriate hole or electrical box knock-out, using caution not to
cause any kinks. Slide the tubing over the sensor port on the back side of the ABVA.
Step 8: Secure the ABVA
Secure the ABVA to the mounting surface using the appropriate two screws provided.
Drilled Hole
(Inside of
Fume Hood)
Step 3: Locate the Hood Probe
Due to the wide variety of fume hoods and configurations available,
there is no single hood probe location that will work for all fume
hoods.Contact the fume hood manufacturer to obtain the
optimum side wall probe location for the specific model hood
being used.
If no information is available, generally good performance is
achieved when the probe is mounted as shown in Figure 2.
Step 4: Install the Hood Probe
Before proceeding, reference the fume hood manufacturer
recommendations for best method and safety precautions for drilling
the fume hood sidewall.
a. Drill a 7/16” diameter hole in the side wall of the fume hood in
the location selected in Step 3.
b. Working from the inside of the fume hood, insert the end of the
tubing through the drilled hole feeding the entire length through
up to the probe.
c. Firmly insert the probe into the predrilled hole. It
should not be required; however you may apply some
sealant / adhesive to the back of the probe flange to
secure the probe to the sidewall if desired.

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page 7
Pre-Calibration
Mute Button
The Mute Button has three functions, which are selected based on the time duration the button is held.
Calibration Button
To prevent accidental contact, the Calibration Button is located below the hole in the front lower right
corner of the ABVA. In order to press the Calibration Button, simply straighten the end of a small paper
clip and insert straight into the hole.
Calibration Modes
The ABVA has two different modes for calibrating the alarm set point. Mode 1 calibrates the alarm set
point to the velocity at which the fume hood is presently operating and Mode 2 calibrates the alarm set
point to 20% less than the operating velocity. NOTE: Mode 2 was added in April 2008. Units sold
prior to April 2008 include Mode 1 only. (Serial #’s > 1500 have MODE 1 & 2)
Mode 1 should be used if the desired alarm set point can be achieved by either modulating the exhaust
flow or by positioning the fume hood sash. Mode 2 should be used if the desired alarm set point can not
be achieved and is 20% less than operating velocity. Two examples are provided below for selecting
which Mode is suited best for your application.
Example 1:
Desired Alarm Set Point: 80 FPM
Fume Hood Type: Constant Exhaust Volume
Face Velocity Range: When Sash is 100% Open the Face Velocity is measured at 80 FP.
Calibration Mode: Select Mode 1; because the desired alarm set point can be achieved by opening the sash 100%.
Example 2:
Desired Alarm Set Point: 80 FPM
Fume Hood Type: Variable Exhaust Volume
Face Velocity Range: Face Velocity is controlled to 100 FPM, regardless of sash position.
Calibration Mode: Select Mode 2; because the desired alarm set point is 20% less than the operating velocity.
Calibration Button
Pressing and releasing; toggles calibration modes.
Pressing and holding for 5 seconds; initiates alarm calibration.
Pressing and holding for 10 seconds; zeros the sensor.
Note: The sensor should not need to be re-zeroed unless directed to do
so by the factory. Re-zero should only be performed with the airflow
sensor blocked.
Mute Button
Pressing and releasing once; during alarm condition will silence the
horn. Pressing again reactivates the alarm horn.
Pressing and holding for 3 seconds; provides visual indication of the
present calibration mode. One LED ON = Mode 1, Two LEDs ON =
Mode 2.
Pressing and holding for 15 seconds; disables the horn with no re-
beep. The horn will remain off until Mute is held again for 15 seconds.

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page 8
Calibration
Confirm the following checklist items are completed before proceeding:
ABVA unit is installed properly and has been powered up for at least 20 minutes.
The laboratory airflow control system is functioning properly and lab pressurization is being
maintained per design requirements.
The fume hood or BSC exhaust control system is functioning properly and maintaining proper control
set point.
The laboratory temperature control system is functioning properly and room temperature is controlled
per specification (nominal temp 66 to 74 degrees F)
All airflow velocity measurements are to be taken using a calibrated meter providing a minimum
accuracy of +/- 5% of reading. Consult appropriate ANSI/ASHRAE Standards for methods.
Mode 1 Calibration
a. Verify unit is operating in Calibration Mode 1.
b. Once you have confirmed the Alarm is operating in Mode 1, adjust the exhaust flow volume or fume
hood sash to provide the desired velocity for the alarm set point.
c. Using a calibrated velocity meter, measure the average airflow velocity using appropriate
ANSI/ASHRAE method.
If the measured velocity is within the desired alarm set point, then proceed to Step d.
If not, then adjust exhaust flow or fume hood sash, and repeat Step c until the desired
velocity is achieved.
d. To calibrate the alarm set point, press and hold the Calibration Button for 5 seconds, until you hear
the buzzer beep, then release the Calibration Button and step away from the hood. You will now hear
a series of short fast beeps while the microprocessor is acquiring data from the sensor. After about
5-seconds, the buzzer will provide one longer beep to signify calibration set point has been stored.
e. Verify the alarm set point is calibrated properly by modulating the exhaust volume or moving the fume
hood sash to achieve the desired alarm set point.
After calibration is verified, you may place a calibration
sticker over the Calibration Button to identify date of
calibration.
Press and Hold CAL
Button for 5-Seconds
One LED ON = MODE 1
Press and Hold MUTE
Button for 3-Seconds

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page 9
Calibration
Mode 2 Calibration
a. Verify unit is operating in Calibration Mode 2.
b. Once you have confirmed the Alarm is operating in Mode 2, adjust the exhaust flow volume or fume
hood sash to provide velocity 20% greater than the desired alarm set point.
c. Using a calibrated velocity meter, measure the average airflow velocity using appropriate
ANSI/ASHRAE method.
If the measured velocity is 20% greater than the desired alarm set point, then proceed
to Step d. If not, then adjust exhaust flow or fume hood sash, and repeat Step c until
the desired velocity is achieved.
d. To calibrate the alarm set point, press and hold the Calibration Button for 5 seconds, until you hear
two quick beeps, then release the Calibration Button and step away from the hood. You will now hear
a series of short fast beeps while the microprocessor is acquiring data from the sensor. After about
5-seconds, the buzzer will provide one longer beep to signify calibration set point has been stored.
e. Verify the alarm set point is calibrated properly by modulating the exhaust volume or moving the fume
hood sash to achieve the desired alarm set point.
After calibration is verified, you may place a calibration
sticker over the Calibration Button to identify date of
calibration.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance or service is not required. The ABVA can be inspected and the alarm calibration
verified during the periodic Fume Hood or Bio Safety Cabinet performance certification. Inspection of the
ABVA should include; alarm calibration verification with re-calibration if required, visual hood probe
inspection and visual inspection of the inlet port on the front surface of the ABVA.
Press and Hold CAL
Button for 5-Seconds
Two LEDs ON = MODE 2
Press and Hold MUTE
Button for 3-Seconds

T-ABVA Manual |Rev.C, JULY 2017 Page
10
Notes

Revision History
ECN #
New Rev.
New File Name
2260
C
T-ABVA –Rev.C, February 2017
TOC
Updated company physical address to the front and back cover pages

Proudly made in the USA!
21 Commerce Dr
Danbury, CT 06810
Tel: [phone]
www.accutrolllc.com