Apollo AIM-1SL User manual

This manual contains confidential information and
may only be reproduced or distributed with the
written consent of Apollo Security Sales, Inc.
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
AIM-1SL & AIM-2SL
Hardware Manual
Revision Date: 19 OCT 2011

AIM-1SL & AIM-2SL Hardware Manual
by Apollo Security Inc.
All rights reserved. No parts of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means - graphic, electronic, or
mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or information storage and retrieval systems - without the
written permission of Apollo Security, Inc.
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this document, Apollo Security assumes no responsibility
for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of information contained in this document or from the
use of programs and source code that may accompany it. In no event shall the publisher and the author be liable for
any loss of profit or any other commercial damage caused or alleged to have been caused directly or indirectly by this
document.
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
Advanced Electronic Controller For Apollo Access Control Systems

W A R N I N G
HIGH VOLTAGE, AC MAIN POWER SHOULD ONLY BE CONNECTED BY QUALIFIED,
LICENSED ELECTRICIANS. ALL APPLICABLE LAWS AND CODES MUST BE FOLLOWED. IF
THIS PRECAUTION IS NOT OBSERVED, PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH COULD OCCUR
Power should not be applied to the system until after the installation has been completed. If this
precaution is not observed, personal injury or death could occur, and the equipment could be
damaged beyond repair.
-Verify that the external circuit breaker which supplies power to the device power supply is turned
off prior to installation.
-Verify that the output voltage of the power supply is within specifications prior to connection to the
device.
C A U T I O N
Several important procedures should be followed to prevent electro-static discharge (ESD) damage
to sensitive CMOS integrated circuits and modules.
-All transport of electronic components, including completed reader assemblies, should be in static
shield packaging and containers.
-Handle all ESD sensitive components at an approved static controlled work station. These work
stations consist of a desk mat, floor mat and a ESD wrist strap. Work stations are available from
various vendors including the 3M company.
FCC Compliance Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of 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 equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used
in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this device in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his/her own
expense. The user is advised that any equipment changes or modifications not expressly approved
by the party responsible for compliance would void the compliance to FCC regulations and
therefore, the user's authority to operate the equipment.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION

AIM-1SL & AIM-2SL Hardware ManualI
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
Table of Contents
Part I Introduction 2
...................................................................................................................................21Overview
...................................................................................................................................22 General Features
...................................................................................................................................33Modes Of Operation
Part II Hardware Layout 5
...................................................................................................................................61Terminal Connectors
...................................................................................................................................82DIP Switches
......................................................................................................................................................... 8DIP Switch Tables
......................................................................................................................................................... 9DIP Switch Function
...................................................................................................................................93Connectors
......................................................................................................................................................... 9Device Port Communication Driver Socket
......................................................................................................................................................... 9Additional Connectors
...................................................................................................................................94 LEDs
......................................................................................................................................................... 9Start Up Mode
......................................................................................................................................................... 10Normal Operation
...................................................................................................................................105Firmware
...................................................................................................................................106Memory Backup
...................................................................................................................................117 Additional Installation Information
......................................................................................................................................................... 11Mounting Holes
Part III System Wiring 13
...................................................................................................................................131Power
...................................................................................................................................132Grounding
......................................................................................................................................................... 13DC Ground
......................................................................................................................................................... 13RS-485 Signal Ground (SG)
......................................................................................................................................................... 14Safety (Earth) Ground
......................................................................................................................................................... 14Grounding System
......................................................................................................................................................... 14Grounding Potential Difference Checks Before Connecting
...................................................................................................................................143Communication Connection
...................................................................................................................................154RS-485 Communications Line
...................................................................................................................................175 Card Reader Wiring
...................................................................................................................................196Reader Input Wiring
......................................................................................................................................................... 19Input Supervision (Overview)
......................................................................................................................................................... 20Door Contact Input (Door Position Switch)
......................................................................................................................................................... 21Exit Pushbutton Input (Request To Exit, REX)
......................................................................................................................................................... 21Auxiliary Alarm Inputs
...................................................................................................................................217Output Relay Wiring
......................................................................................................................................................... 22Strike Wiring, General
......................................................................................................................................................... 22Strike Suppression Installation
......................................................................................................................................................... 23Strike Wiring, Internal Relay

IIContents
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
......................................................................................................................................................... 26ADA External High Security Relays
.................................................................................................................................................. 27Strike Wiring, External ADA-10/11, High Security Relay
.................................................................................................................................................. 28Additional Output Relay Wiring
.................................................................................................................................................. 28ADA DIP Switches/Jumpers
...................................................................................................................................308General Alarm Inputs
......................................................................................................................................................... 31Cabinet Tamper
Part IV Troubleshooting 33
...................................................................................................................................331Communications
...................................................................................................................................342Reader / Keypad
...................................................................................................................................343Input Zones
...................................................................................................................................344 Output relays
Part V Specifications 36
Part VI Supplemental Figures 38
Part VII Table of Figures 45
Part VIII Revision History 47
Index 48

Part
Introduction
I

2Introduction
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
1Introduction
An access control system provides a means to replace traditional key and lock systems, which are easy to
defeat because of the ease of copying of keys and use by unauthorized personnel. With electronic access
control, the exact areas a person is able to access as well as during what time is configurable through a
central control system. In addition to the power of greater control, a historical record is maintained which is
useful in the case of a system security breach or for other purposes including calculating work time and
facility use costing.
1.1 Overview
The AIM-1SL and AIM-2SL Downloadable Reader Interface modules provides complete connectivity for card
readers and for control of door strikes with additional alarm inputs. The AIM-1/2SL works in conjunction with
AAN and AAM series controllers to form a distributed processing network providing access control,
integrated alarm monitoring and remote device control and reaction. Typical use of the system is the control
of site access by control of door locking devices associated with card readers and PIN keypads and
maintaining logs of this access for later reporting. Many levels of further integration with building alarm and
monitoring systems, time and attendance systems, and video surveillance systems are also possible.
The AIM-1/2SL provides interface connections for a variety of card reader technologies, including proximity,
biometric, bar code, and infrared readers. Any card reader with standard Wiegand or mag stripe output can
be connected to the AIM-1/2SL.The AIM-1/2SL communicates with the AAN/AAM controller to process card
reads and alarm input activation. A downloadable card database of up to 20,000 cardholders and storage of
up to 7000 events allows the AIM-1/2SL to work independently after initial programming.
The AIM-1SL supports two readers that control the single onboard door strike relay. A successful access
grant on either reader will open the strike relay--this is known as 'Paired Mode'. Exit push button, door
contact and two auxiliary inputs are provided.
The AIM-2SL supports two readers that can be configured to control the two onboard relays in either paired
mode (using both readers to control a single strike relay) or in unpaired mode (where each reader will control
a separate strike relay). Exit push buttons, door contacts are available for two doors. When operating in
paired mode, the unused door inputs are available for auxiliary use.
See the Modes of Operation topic for more information on paired and unpaired mode.
1.2 General Features
·Supports 2 readers, keypads or reader/keypad combinations for 1 or 2 (AIM-2SL only) door control
·Full Stand Alone Operation with Local database of 20,000 cards or 7,000 events
·Multiple Card Formats
·Up to 8 Facility Codes
·2Relay Outputs
·Control of up to 4 ADA-10/11 High Security Relay Output Modules
·RS-485 or RS-232
·Field-Replaceable plug-in communication drivers
·Flash Memory for easy firmware upgrades
·Real Time Clock
·Surface-mount manufacturing technology

3AIM-1SL & AIM-2SL Hardware Manual
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
1.3 Modes Of Operation
CONFIGURATION / INITIAL MODE
To establish operating configuration, the AIM-1/2SL interface requires connection to an AAN or AAM
controller which is programmed via a software database interface program. Configuration options including
cardholders are stored in a central database and then transmitted via a proprietary encrypted protocol to the
AAN/AAM controller. Once programmed, the AAN/AAM controller will communicate to the AIM-1/2SL
interface to upload configuration the following configuration information:
·Card Reader Data Output Format: Wiegand or Mag Stripe
·Strike Time—The time duration that the strike relay will be energized for in the case of an access grant
·Held Open Time—After an access grant and a subsequent opening of the door contact, the time in which
the door contact must be closed before an alarm state is reported
·Initial Reader Mode—The access mode in which the reader will function upon powering up or when
communication has been interrupted with the AAN/AMM controller. The following modes are supported:
oCard Only—An access request is made by presenting a card to the reader. The data is verified against
the AIM-1/2SL database to ensure that the card has a valid Facility Code and Card Number.
oCard or PIN—Access requests are made either by presenting a card or by keying in a PIN (Personal
Identification Number) on a keypad. A card entry is process as in Card Only access mode.
oCard & PIN—A card must be read to start the access request. If the card is valid, the user is prompted
to enter the corresponding PIN. The request is granted only if the card and PIN match.
oLocked—No access granted. Reader ignores all cards and PIN entries.
oUnlocked—Door strike is continuously energized and the door contact input is not monitored. Access is
not controlled.
oFacility Code—The entire card contents are read by the AIM-1/2SL, but only the Facility Code is
checked, and if it matches a Facility Code downloaded from the AAN/AAM controller, access is granted.
PAIRED / UNPAIRED MODE (1 or 2 Door Control)
The AIM-1SL always works in paired mode. A successful card read on either reader will energize the single
onboard strike relay.
The AIM-2SL can be configured via software to operate in either paired or unpaired reader mode. In the first
case (the default mode), both readers of the AIM-2SL will control one door strike relay. In this case, the
second onboard relay serves as a local alarm relay and auxiliary inputs will be available. If unpaired reader
mode is selected, each reader will control a separate strike relay, thus two doors can be controlled. The
inputs that are auxiliary in paired mode are used for exit push button and door contact for the second reader
in this mode.

Part
Hardware Layout
II

5AIM-1SL & AIM-2SL Hardware Manual
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
2 Hardware Layout
Figure 2.1 AIM-1/2SL Diagram. Terminal connectors, DIP switch, output relays, device port driver
connection, and other component locations are shown.

6Hardware Layout
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
2.1 Terminal Connectors
The AIM-1/2SL has three terminal blocks for connecting power, reader and alarm inputs, and relay output
connections. The AIM-2SL is equipped with a fourth terminal block for an additional relay. The connection
terminals are factory equipped with removable screw-down quick connectors which are easily removed from
the board by firmly grasping the connector and pulling away from the board. If pliers are used to remove the
connectors, they should be of the rubber-tipped type. Take care in using any tools near the board not to
damage onboard components. The proper location of the quick connectors is outlined in white on the board.
AIM-1/2SL Terminal Connections
Position
Type
Label
Function
TB1-1
Tamper Input
TMPR
Cabinet Tamper Input
TB1-2
Tamper Input Return
GND
TB6-1
Door Contact Input
DC
Door Contact Input (Reader 1)
TB6-2
Door Contact Input
Return
DCR
TB6-3
Exit Push Button
EPB
Exit Push Button (Reader 1)
TB6-4
Exit Push Button Return
EPBR
TB6-5
Aux Input 1
AUX1
PAIRED MODE
UNPAIRED MODE
(AIM-2SL only)
TB6-6
Aux Input 1 Return
AUX1R
Auxiliary Input 1
(Normally Closed)
Door Contact Input
(Reader 2)
(Normally Closed)
TB6-7
Aux Input 2
AUX2
Auxiliary Input 2
(Normally Closed)
Exit Push Button
(Reader 2)
(Normally Open)
TB6-8
Aux Input 2 Return
AUX2R
TB4-1
Yellow LED Control
YLED
Reader 1 Device Connections
TB4-2
Red LED Control
RLED
TB4-3
DC Reader Power
Output
VDC
TB4-4
Wiegand Data 0
DATA0
TB4-5
Wiegand Data 1
DATA1
TB4-6
Buzzer Control
BZR
TB4-7
Green LED Control
GLED
TB4-8
DC Reader Power
Ground
GND
TB3-5
Signal Ground
SG
Serial Communication Connection
TB3-4
Receive Data (-)
RX-
TB3-3
Receive Data (+)
RX+
TB3-2
Transmit Data (-)
TX-
TB3-1
Transmit Data (+)
TX+

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AIM-1/2SL Terminal Connections
TB7-4
Diode
DIODE
Internal Suppression Diode Connection
Strike Relay 1
TB7-3
Normally Open
NO
Door 1 Strike Relay Connection
TB7-2
Normally Closed
NC
TB7-1
Common
COM
TB2-2
20mA Loop Signal Out
DSOUT
ADA 10/11 External Relay Loop
TB2-1
20mA Loop Signal
Return
DSRET
TB5-8
DC Reader Power
Ground
GND
Reader 2 Device Connections
TB5-7
Green LED Control
GLED
TB5-6
Buzzer Control
BZR
TB5-5
Wiegand Data 1
DATA1
TB5-4
Wiegand Data 0
DATA0
TB5-3
DC Reader Power
Output
VDC
TB5-2
Red LED Control
RLED
TB5-1
Yellow LED Control
YLED
TB9-1
Common
COM (AIM-2SL only)
PAIRED MODE
UNPAIRED MODE
(AIM-2SL only)
TB9-2
Normally Closed
NC (AIM-2SL only)
LOCAL ALARM
Relay Connection
(not AUX! - see
Additional Output
Relay Wiring topic)
Door 2 Strike Relay
Connection
TB9-3
Normally Open
NO (AIM-2SL only)
TB9-4
Diode
DIODE (AIM-2SL only)
Internal Suppression Diode Connection
Strike Relay 2
TB8-1
Power Input
VIN
Power Input Connection
TB8-2
Ground
GND
Table 2.1: AIM-1/2SL Terminal Connections.

8Hardware Layout
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
2.2 DIP Switches
The AIM-1/2SL has one block of DIP switches, with 8 switches. These switches are used to set various
configuration options for the interface. It is recommended to power the board down before making any
changes in the DIP switch settings as any changes will not take effect unless the power is cycled.
2.2.1 DIP Switch Tables
Communications Address (SW1)
4
5
6
7
8
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
0
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
ON
1
OFF
OFF
OFF
ON
OFF
2
OFF
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
3
OFF
OFF
ON
OFF
OFF
4
OFF
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
5
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
OFF
6
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
ON
7
OFF
ON
OFF
OFF
OFF
8
OFF
ON
OFF
OFF
ON
9
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
10
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
ON
11
OFF
ON
ON
OFF
OFF
12
OFF
ON
ON
OFF
ON
13
OFF
ON
ON
ON
OFF
14
OFF
ON
ON
ON
ON
15
ON
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
16
ON
OFF
OFF
OFF
ON
17
ON
OFF
OFF
ON
OFF
18
ON
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
19
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
OFF
20
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
21
ON
OFF
ON
ON
OFF
22
ON
OFF
ON
ON
ON
23
ON
ON
OFF
OFF
OFF
24
ON
ON
OFF
OFF
ON
25
ON
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
26
ON
ON
OFF
ON
ON
27
ON
ON
ON
OFF
OFF
28
ON
ON
ON
OFF
ON
29
ON
ON
ON
ON
OFF
30
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
31
Baud Rate
2
3
1200
OFF
OFF
2400
OFF
ON
4800
ON
OFF
9600
ON
ON
Input Monitor Mode
1
Unsupervised
OFF
Supervised
ON
Table 2.2: AIM-1/2SL DIP Switch Settings

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2.2.2 DIP Switch Function
Communications Address—Sets the address that identifies the device on the communications line. This
number must be unique for each device on a single RS-485 communications line. In most systems, this
address will correspond to Reader 1 and the following addresses on the serial line will be reserved for
Readers 2 which uses this ‘virtual’ addresses (Unpaired & Paired mode).
Baud Rate—Specifies the baud rate for the serial line of interface. This setting must be the same for all
devices on the communication line connected to this port.
Input Monitor Mode—Specifies whether all inputs on the interface (Auxiliary inputs, door contacts, exit
push buttons) will be monitored by comparing the resistance value of the input line with the expected value.
ON—In the event of tampering with the input, the interface will report the specific type of error.
OFF—Inputs will operate in standard mode.
Table 2.2.1 : DIP Switch Function
2.3 Connectors
The AIM-1/2SL has several connectors for interfacing with removable components. Take care when
installing and removing components in order not to damage pins or sockets. Do not use force greater than
gentle pressure when installing any components. Refer to the figure for the exact location of these
connectors. The connectors are also labeled on the AIM-1/2SL in white lettering on the circuit board.
2.3.1 Device Port Communication Driver Socket
Port Communication Driver Socket: J4
For the functioning of serial communication on the AIM-1/2SL, a proper communication driver must be
connected to the 12-pin socket. The communication driver module can be either ASM-48 (RS-485, part
number 430-131) or ASM-23 (RS-232, part number 430-132) depending on the type of communication
required on the port. The module should be installed so the long end extends towards the middle of the
board and the mounting holes provided on the AIM-1/2SL and ASM align so a plastic stand-off can be
attached to connect the holes. Alternatively, for network configurations, an ENI-10 or ENI-100 Ethernet
Interface Module can be installed in the socket. The ENI should be properly fastened with plastic screws and
standoffs provided with the ENI. METAL SCREWS AND STANDOFFS SHOULD NOT BE USED TO
MOUNT THE ENI.
2.3.2 Additional Connectors
Additional Connectors/Jumpers: J2, J3
These connectors and jumpers are used for factory configuration and should not be modified or connected in
any way unless directed by your technical support.
2.4 LEDs
The AIM-1/2SL has 2 LEDs for use in monitoring functioning of panel and for diagnosis of problems. The
LEDs function in two modes: startup and normal operation
2.4.1 Start Up Mode
Immediately after powering on the panel, the start-up test will initiate and the results will be displayed on the
LEDs. If there are no failures, the test will progress. If the panel encounters an error, it will stop with the failed
test and display the LED sequence corresponding to that test. The test sequence and the LED codes are:

10Hardware Layout
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
Test
D4
D5
ROM/Firmware
ON
OFF
RAM
OFF
ON
Test OK—Loading Config
ON
ON
Table 2. 4: AIM-1/2SL Start up LED Function
2.4.2 Normal Operation
After initialization and self tests, the LEDs will switch to normal operation and will display information about
the panel operation.
Heartbeat (D4)—Shows a constant ‘heartbeat’ (0.2 sec ON, 0.8 sec OFF) to indicate proper operation of the
panel and firmware.
Port Status (D5)—Shows activity on the serial port. Normal activity on the ports will be observed as the LED
blinks many times a second or lighted solid, depending on the amount of activity.
2.5 Firmware
The operating program for the AIM-1/2SL is stored in re-programmable flash memory. In the event that the
firmware must be re-installed or updated, no chips need to be replaced on the panel. The new program can
be loaded from the host via special software. For normal operation it is not necessary to update the firmware.
If this becomes necessary, contact your Apollo Support Representative. Firmware updating should only be
done under the recommendation and guidance of your Apollo technical support representative.
2.6 Memory Backup
The AIM-1/2SL is equipped with onboard memory to store configuration information and event data. This
memory, as well as the real-time clock, is provided with back-up power (for up to 5 days) in the event of
primary power failure. Power is supplied by a special capacitor-based circuit. Battery replacement is never
required.
If clearing of the system memory is necessary, the capacitor circuit can be 'drained' thus removing power
from the configuration memory so a completely new configuration can be loaded. See the troubleshooting
section for more information.

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2.7 Additional Installation Information
2.7.1 Mounting Holes
Four holes are provided for mounting the AIM-1/2SL. Standoffs should be used when mounting in order to
protect the underside of the circuit board.
Figure 2.7.1 AIM-1/2SL Mounting Holes. Location of mounting holes for the AIM-1/2SL is shown in
scale. Note that the drawing will not print the exact size of the actual circuit board.

Part
System Wiring
III

13 AIM-1SL & AIM-2SL Hardware Manual
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3System Wiring
SPECIAL NOTE: To guard personal safety and avoid damaging
equipment it is important to have a full understanding of electrical
wiring practices and safety. The following sections provide general
guidelines relating to the AIM-1/2SL, but are not a substitute for
complete training in dealing with electrical systems!
3.1 Power
Power Connection: TB8
Power is supplied to the AIM-1/2SL by the voltage connection in terminal block 8 (see Part 2.1 for exact
locations of terminals). The power connection should be 12-24 VDC. Power consumption is 250 mA. The
AIM-1/2SL is protected from over-current and over-voltage by onboard circuitry.
Take care when selecting a power supply for use with the AIM-1/2SL. Most power supplies in the market
today provide good input/output isolation, however those which do not provide isolation (or have high leakage
capacitance), coupled with accidental AC power lines interchange, present serious ground fault problems for
installers. With ground fault, the signal reference between subsystems may be 115 VAc (230 VAc) apart. If
these subsystems are interconnected, the large potential difference will cause equipment damage or
personal injury. Apollo recommends the use of isolated continuous power supplies only. All Apollo supplied
power supply assemblies are transformer isolated for safety and to minimize ground loop problems.
In the case of over-current, solid-state fuses integrated on the AIM-1/2SL panel will ‘trip’ to protect the
components of the panel. In many cases, the solid-state fuses will reset automatically when normal current
resumes, however it may be necessary to interrupt the supply of power to allow the fuses to reset.
3.2 Grounding
Special care should be taken when grounding the AIM-1/2SL controller and other devices connected to it via
the direct communication lines. Each device must be grounded to provide ESD protection, personnel safety,
and signal reference for devices which communicate with each other. Grounding the reader provides a good
shield against external transients. There are three types of circuit grounds in systems using Apollo products:
DC ground, RS-485 signal ground, and Safety (Earth) ground.
3.2.1 DC Ground
This is typically the minus (-) side of the DC output of the power supply. It is to be connected to the DC
ground input of all devices being powered by one supply. It must not be connected in any way to any of the 5
RS-485 signals or the AC side of the line including Safety (Earth) ground (one connection to Safety (Earth)
ground is acceptable, but this connection is usually internal in the host computer and should not be
introduced externally if direct connection is used (RS-232/485)).
3.2.2 RS-485 Signal Ground (SG)
This is the 5th wire used for the RS-485 communications. It is used to provide a common reference between
all devices on the line and should only be connected to each of the devices' SG input. The SG wire must not
be allowed to touch any other potential, especially earth ground. The shield drain wire of the RS-485
communications cable is commonly used to connect the SG leads together. Usually this wire does not have
an electrical insulator. It is important that the SG wire is thoroughly insulated by the installer at all connection
points. Improper insulation of this conductor may allow accidental shorting to earth ground through conduit or
other metallic components, causing intermittent communications or equipment damage.

14System Wiring
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
3.2.3 Safety (Earth) Ground
Safety ground is part of the AC power system. To avoid ground loop current, there must be only ONE point
at which the safety ground connects to the DC ground.
The RS-485 signal ground must be isolated from the safety ground. This means that the RS-485 cable shield
drain wire must be insulated at connection points so that it will NOT accidentally short circuit to the conduit in
instances where the conduit is connected to the safety ground. (See Figure 117)
Please check the applicable regulations and legislation in your country prior to installing the AIM-1/2SL
controller and other Apollo products. In the US, the National Electrical Code, as well as other safety
regulations, require that all equipment chassis and/or enclosures be grounded in order to prevent electrical
shock hazards. Each device must have a green wire safety ground. The function of the green wire safety
ground is to provide a redundant path for fault currents and to insure that the circuit breaker will open in the
event of a fault. In addition, grounding the enclosure provides a path for ESD dissipation, thus protecting
sensitive electronic devices. (See Figures 115 and 116)
3.2.4 Grounding System
Agrounding system can be viewed as two subsystems: the DC system and the Ground System. The DC
system consists of all interconnected power supply returns, DC distribution wiring, and load devices. The
principal function of the DC system is to provide signal reference for communication. The Ground System
consists of all chassis grounds for power supplies and other devices, safety grounds, and AC grounds.
Ground connection should be made to avoid ground loop problems. (See Figure 115)
Ideally, there should be ONLY ONE ground return point in a power supply system. In a system with a PC
(personal computer), it is likely that the PC already provides the DC Ground connection to the Ground
System (earth ground). Care must be taken NOT to create more ground connections. In systems with
multiple PCs communicating to Apollo Hardware via direct connection, the ground potential must be the
same for inter-connection, or some form of isolation must be provided.
3.2.5 Grounding Potential Difference Checks Before Connecting
Before a device is connected to an RS-485 subsystem, it must be checked for ground fault. Uncorrected
ground fault can damage all devices connected to the RS-485 communication line.
To check if there is ground fault for a new unit, follow the steps below (See Figures 105, 113, 115, 116 and
120):
1. Apply power to all devices already successfully connected to the RS-485 line.
2. Power up the new unit, but DO NOT connect it to the RS-485 line.
3. Connect the signal ground (SG) of the RS-485 line through a 10k limiting resistor.
4. Measure the AC and DC voltage across the resistor. There should NOT be more than 1 volt across the
resistor. Otherwise find and clear the fault.
5. Connect the new unit to the RS-485 line only if no ground fault is found.
3.3 Communication Connection
The serial connection from the AIM-1/2SL to controller devices is used to collect requests and information
from the AIM-1/2SL to the controller and for the controller to transmit responses to these messages. The
AIM-1/2SL does not originate communication on the device communication lines but waits for a poll from the
controller and then establishes communication for configuration. The first communication from the controller
establishes the presence and proper functioning of the field device, and then the configuration is
subsequently sent in the following polling cycles. This polling is done many times a second, with the exact
parameters for polling (intervals, timeout, retries) being set by the host software.

15 AIM-1SL & AIM-2SL Hardware Manual
© 2011 Apollo Security Inc.
3.4 RS-485 Communications Line
The typical connection for field devices (such as the AIM-1/2SL) on a device port with an Apollo AAN/AAM
controller is through an RS-485 serial communication line. First, for communication to be possible, the
device port must have a communications driver installed in the corresponding socket (see Part 2.3). For
RS-485, the ASM-48 Communications Driver module is required. If it is necessary to use RS-232 to connect
adevice to the AAN-100, contact your Apollo technical support representative for more information.
Overview:The RS-485 standard is an electrical interface for multi-point communication on bus transmission
lines. It allows high speed data transfer over extended distance (4000 ft, 1219 m). Unlike the RS-232C or
current loop interfaces, the RS-485 interface allows multiple devices to communicate at high data rates on a
single cable, over long distance. Obviously, the RS-485 interface provides advantages in cost saving for
installation and improved system performance, but it also brings about issues which would not commonly be
seen on systems using RS-232C or current loop interfaces.
Bus Configuration: Communication cables for RS-485 should be laid out in a "Bus topology". This means
that there should only be two ends to the line and devices should be located directly along this line or (as an
exception) on short drops coming from the main line (10 feet max.). The controller can be located at any
point along the line (See Figure 3.4.1.1). Long stubs (T connection) should be avoided because they create
discontinuities and degrade signals. DO NOT connect devices in ‘star’ configuration. A star connection
creates long stubs and causes difficulty in cable termination. The maximum number of field devices on one
RS-485 communications bus is 32. Each field device must have a unique address, and all the devices must
use the same baud rate, typically 9600bps (both set by the device’s DIP switches, and should have the same
corresponding settings in the host software).
Signal Ground: Using long communication cable with multiple devices often necessitates powering devices
from different power sources. This can result in ground faults, which can cause communication problems
and possible equipment damage. Because the RS-485 interface communicates in the base band and
provides no DC isolation, ground fault places devices at different electrical ground levels and causes large
ground currents to flow. The possibility of ground fault makes it necessary for careful system planning and
installation verification. The signal ground (SG) provides a common mode signal reference for the
communicating devices. Each device must connect its SG to the cable shield drain wire. Failure to use the
SG connection may cause communication error. If the environment is known to be electrically noisy, an
additional wire may be used for the signal ground, and the shield can be then grounded as an electric noise
shield.
Termination: Longer communication cable can also create noise and signal reflection problems if proper
cable is not used or if the cable is not correctly terminated. Therefore, RS-485 must be terminated at both
ends. Terminating the line provides more reliable communication by minimizing signal reflection and
external noise coupling. The factory recommends AC termination to minimize DC loss. Terminator
assemblies with screw terminals (ATM-48, P/N 470-030) are recommended for installation convenience.
Device Wiring: Typical RS-485 consists of four wires: Positive Receive (R+), Negative Receive (R-),
Positive Transmit (T+), Negative Transmit (T-), and Signal Ground (SG). The controller will serve as “Master”
on the line and the other field devices (such as the AIM-1/2SL) as “Slaves”. There can only be one master
per line. The transmit lines of the MASTER device are connected to the receive lines of the SLAVE devices
and the receive lines of the MASTER device are connected to the transmit lines of the SLAVE devices.