ARAG alfa 310S User manual

46707001
MONITOR FOR SEEDER
02
Software rel. 1.0X
INSTallaTION

This manual is an integral part of the equipment to which it refers and must accompany the equipment in
case of sale or change of ownership. Keep it for future reference; ARAG reserves the right to modify the
specications and instructions regarding the product at any time and without prior notice.
 LEGEND SYMBOLS
=Generic danger
=Warning

3
CONTENTS
Legend symbols...............................................................................................................2
1 Product description .........................................................................................................4
1.1 Intended use............................................................................................................4
2 Precautions ......................................................................................................................4
3 Contents of the package .................................................................................................4
4 Installation........................................................................................................................5
4.1 System layout...........................................................................................................5
4.2 Monitor overall dimensions ......................................................................................6
4.3 Monitor installation...................................................................................................6
4.4 Sensors and wiring installation ................................................................................7
4.4.1 Seed and fertilizer sensors installation in the outlet pipe ......................................7
4.4.2 Alfa-Bus interface positioning ...............................................................................8
4.4.3 Sensors cable positioning.....................................................................................8
4.5 Monitor and sensors electrical connections.............................................................9
4.6 Connection to power supply................................................................................... 10
4.7 SD memory card.................................................................................................... 11
5 Machine Settings menu................................................................................................. 12
5.1 Using the keys ....................................................................................................... 12
5.2 Seed sensors number............................................................................................ 12
5.3 Fertilization ............................................................................................................ 13
5.4 No. of shaft sensors ............................................................................................... 13
5.5 Seeding state sensor ............................................................................................. 13
5.6 RPM counter.......................................................................................................... 14
5.7 Sensors management............................................................................................15
5.7.1 Assign functions ..................................................................................................15
5.7.2 Programming overview........................................................................................16
5.7.3 Programming the Alfa-Bus interfaces (for speed, RPM counter, etc.)
upon connection.................................................................................................. 17
5.7.4 Programming the Alfa-Bus interfaces (for speed, RPM counter, etc.)
after connection................................................................................................... 17
5.7.5 Delete all..............................................................................................................18
5.7.6 Sensors programming errors...............................................................................18
5.7.7 Sensors programming after replacement............................................................19
6 Maintenance / Diagnostics / Repair..............................................................................20
6.1 Errors during operation ..........................................................................................20
7 Technical data ...............................................................................................................22
7.1 Displayed data and relevant units of measurement ...............................................22
8 Disposal at the end of service ......................................................................................22
9 Use of the enclosed CD-ROM (Appendix) ...................................................................23
10 Guarantee terms.............................................................................................................26

4
 
Alfa 310S is a monitor that accurately displays seeding data and warns about any malfunction.
1.1 Intended use
This device is designed for installation on farming machines for precision seeding.
The machine is designed and built in compliance with EN ISO 14982 standard
(Electromagnetic compatibility - Forestry and farming machines), harmonized with
2004/108/CE Directive.
 
• Do not aim water jets at the equipment.
• Do not use solvents or fuel to clean the case outer surface.
• Do not clean equipment with direct water jets.
• Comply with the specied power voltage (12 Vdc).
• Disconnect Alfa 310S connectors and power cables before proceeding to any arc
welding operation.
• Only use ARAG genuine spare parts and accessories.
 
The table below shows the components you will nd inside the Alfa 310S monitor package:
1
5
2
Alfa 310
INSTALLAZIONE,USO E MANUTENZIONE
INSTALLATION,USE AND MAINTENCE
INSTALLATION,USE ET ENTRETIEN
INSTALACIÓN,USO Y MANTENIMIENTO
INSTALLATION,EINSATZ UND INSTANDHALTUNG
INSTALAÇÃO,USO E MANUTENÇÃO
46
9
3
810
7
11
12
F1
F3
F5
F7
F2
F4
F6
F8
Fig. 1
Legend:
1Alfa 310S monitor
2User guide
3SD memory card
4Inductive speed sensor
5Mounting kit
6Power cable - 3 m
7Alfa-Bus interface
8Intermediate cable - 6 m
9Power connector
10 Seed sensor (no. 8)
11 Cable for 8 sensors
12 Connector cap

5
 
4.1 System layout
321
B
M
CS
CA
T
321321321321321321321
8S
2F
321321321
SI
A
321
321
SX
A
321
321
321
2F
321321321
SS
FA FB
5S
321321321321321
T
5S
321321321321321
3 2 1
SS
FA FB
TT
321
3 2 1
3 2 1
Esc
F1
F3
F5
F7
F2
F4
F6
F8
Fig. 2
The computer shall be directly connected to the farming machine battery. CAUTION! DO NOT connect the computer to key-operated switch (15/54).
System modular conguration allows you to add more connection cables to the one already available (, Fig. 2); please comply with the instructions below:
1. Respect system symmetry:
the number of sensors (for fertilizer, seeds, etc.) must be, as far as possible, the same to the right and left side of main cable . In the example shown in Fig. 2, 2 cables  were connected to the right and left side of cable  to add 8 seed sensors. Use the suitable caps Tto plug off any unused connectors.
2. To add fertilizer sensors ( - ), use the fertilizer sensor cable  (code 467070.020) as follows:
- remove one seed sensor  where you want to add fertilizer sensors. - connect cable  to the free connector . - connect the sensors ,  and  (previously removed) to  cable outputs.
ONLY use ARAG wiring harness, as specied on the catalogue. Failure to correctly connect system components or to use specied components might damage the device or its components.
Legend:
MSeed monitor Battery  Power cable  Intermediate cable Alfa-Bus interface for rotation and position sensors  Cable for no. 8 seed rows  Cable for no. 5 seed rows  Cable for no. 2 fertilizer sensors  Seed sensor  Fertilizer sensor - A-type  Fertilizer sensor - B-type  Inductive speed sensor  Auxiliary sensor (rotation, position…) TConnector cover
Connectors for system expansion

6
4.2 Monitor overall dimensions
222.00
130.00
58.80
40.00
Ø 6.50
Esc
F1
F3
F5
F7
F2
F4
F6
F8
Fig. 3
4.3 Monitor installation
Alfa 310S monitor shall be positioned in the farming machine cabin. Consider the following
warnings:
- Do NOT install the monitor in areas where it would be subjected to excessive vibra-
tions or shocks, to prevent any damage or accidental use of the control keys;
- Fasten the device in a visible area within driver hands' reach: consider that the
monitor shall not hinder movements or the driver's visibility.
Consider all the various connection required for operating the monitor, cable length, and suitable
room for connectors and cables. Please refer to par. 4.1 for any further information on system
conguration.
Install the monitor as follows:
- Fasten the relevant bracket where required (the previous picture shows the bracket drilling sizes).Slide
bracket out of its housing on the computer (A, Fig. 4) and fasten it using the supplied screws (B).
- Make sure bracket is safely installed, then assemble monitor on bracket and press until fully in
place (C).
A
B
C
F2
F4
F6
F8
F1
F3
F5
F7
F2
F4
F6
F8
F1
F3
F5
F7
Fig. 4

7
4.4 Sensors and wiring installation
Sensors installation instructions come with the products.
4.4.1 Seed and fertilizer sensors installation in the outlet pipe
The seed sensor is an optical device to be installed in the seed or fertilizer outlet pipe and outputs
the following data: number of seeds detected, pipe blockage, missing seed or fertilizer, sensor
efficiency.
The sensor must be installed in the seed or fertilizer outlet pipe by drilling two holes on the pipe,
one opposite the other. Drill these holes by means of a 19 mm cup drill bit.
Pay utmost attention while drilling the holes not to damage the outlet pipe inner surface,
but drill bit shall arrive as close to tube inner walls as possible, as shown in Fig. 5a, so that
sensors can perfectly detect tube inner surface and avoid any reading errors.
Set sensor lenses inside the holes, as shown in Fig. 5b, and fasten the sensor as adherent to the
tube as possible: use two ties (not supplied), and route them in the suitable housings (Ain Fig. 5c).
Once sensor is installed, connect it to the corresponding connector (see diagram in Fig. 2).
Secure sensor wiring so that it can reach the relevant monitor cable branch (8S in Par. 4.1).
After installation, duly verify that no sensor part or cables might interfere with machi-
ne moving organs.
ARAG will not be liable for damages to equipment or property, injury to persons, animals or
things due to wrong or unsuitable use or connection of the sensor.
Warranty becomes null and void in case of damages to sensor due to the above.
Connect the sensor (code 467070.201) EXCLUSIVELY to devices with Alfa-Bus protocol.
Fig. 5a
Fig. 5b
Fig. 5c

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4.4.2 Alfa-Bus interface positioning
Position the Alfa-Bus interface in a sheltered place, next to the sensors it is to be connected to, and
make sure that all cables can reach the device.
CAUTION: route wiring in a bend, as shown in Fig. 6a.
- Fasten Alfa-Bus interface using the supplied screw.
- Connect wiring (S) to position / RPM sensor.
- Connect wiring (B) to a connector of the Alfa-Bus line.
- Connect wiring (A) to the wiring for expansion of the Alfa-Bus line (if any).
If left unused, plug connector off with a cover (code ECS0040 - not supplied).
- Fasten interface using the supplied tie, to avoid damages.
- Fasten the wiring using ties to avoid damages.
4.4.3 Sensors cable positioning
Lay down the wiring so as every branch is positioned at the seed row.
Fig. 6a Fig. 6b
Fig. 6c

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4.5 Monitor and sensors electrical connections
Fig. 7
1Service connector
2Power supply
3Alfa-Bus communication port
4SD Slot
5Cable for n°8 seed rows
Fasten the connectors into their corresponding housing, according to the system assembly drawing
(Par. 4.1).
Fig. 8
Insert connectors at the back of the monitor, paying attention to
the reference notch for correct insertion direction (Ain Fig. 8),
slightly press and then fully tighten the ring nut.
CAUTION:
Tighten connector ring nut nger tight. Do not use any
tool.
Fig. 9
Sensors installation instructions come with the products.
The following speed sensors can also be used as RPM or position
sensors:
• inductive speed sensor (code 467100.086)
• magnetic speed sensor (code 467100.100)
The Alfa-Bus interface and the sensors use the same type of con-
nector: fasten connector to the mating one on relevant wiring.
Make sure it is correctly in place then press fully home.
CAUTION: DO NOT CONNECT THE SENSORS YET!
Sensors shall be connected ONLY at a later time, du-
ring the sensors teach-in procedure (ref. Par. 7.6 - Use
and maintenance manual ARAG D20197).
- ONLY use sensors and wiring supplied by ARAG.
- All and any warranty will become null and void in case of damages due to use of not suitable
sensors and wiring or in any case not manufactured by ARAG.
- Fasten the wiring so that it will not interfere with moving organs; lay down wiring making
sure that cables will not fail or get damaged by twisting or machine movements.
ARAG will not be liable for damages to equipment or property, injury to persons, animals or
things due to failure to comply with the above.

10
4.6 Connection to power supply
The package contains the power connector that shall be connected to the farming machine battery;
Fig. 10c shows the drilling sizes for the power connector.
Connect the power connector to battery wires by means of two 6 mm fast-on connectors, as shown
in Figures 10a and 10b.
Use the supplied cable (cable 6in Fig. 1) to connect the monitor to power supply.
Fig. 10a
CAUTION:
To avoid short-circuits, connect the power cables to the battery only after comple-
ting installation. Before powering the monitor and system on, make sure that battery
voltage is correct (12 Vdc).
Alfa 310S is directly powered by the farming machine battery (12 Vdc): ALWAYS switch monitor
on through the relevant procedure; after use, remember to manually switch monitor off through the
relevant push-button on control panel.
Leaving Alfa 310S on for too long while farming machine is stopped could drain the
tractor's battery. If the machine stays with engine off for a long time, make sure you
turned the monitor off.
Power supply shall be connected as shown in Fig. 11.
Fig. 11
CAUTION:
• The power circuit shall ALWAYS be protected by a 7,5 A fuse like the ones for auto-
motive applications.
• All cables connected to the battery shall have a minimum cross-section of 1,5 mm2.
• To avoid short-circuits, connect the power cable connector only after completing
installation.
• Use cables with suitable terminals ensuring correct connection of all wires.
Fig. 10b Fig. 10c

11
4.7 SD memory card
The SD memory card is used for exchanging data across Alfa 310S and a Personal Computer.
Before use, make sure the card is unlocked - writing allowed (Fig. 12b).
Fig. 12a Fig. 12b
ALWAYS switch device off before inserting or removing the SD memory card.
Fig. 13
• Insertion:
Insert the memory card paying attention
to the direction of insertion: the card cut-
off shall face down; press until it locks
in place and close the suitable cover.
• Removal:
Press the card inside its housing and
release it immediately to unlock: now
slide it out.
The SD memory card shall be inserted when device is OFF and shall always be
available during operation (Par. 6.1 - Operating faults). When the SD memory card is
removed from the device, set it inside the relevant (supplied) case.

12
 
Please nd a detailed description of the procedure in the manual (CD-ROM).
5.1 Using the keys
Machine Settings
Fertilization:
Shaft Sensors No.:
Seed sensors number: 1
Seed State Sensor:
Revolution counter:
Sensor Management:
None
0
Disabled
F1
F3
F5
F7
Esc
F2
F4
F6
F8
A
A
BC
Fig. 14


Press repeatedly to toggle from one item to ano-
ther (selected item is highlighted by a black line)
Press to open the selected item or conrm any
changes
CPress to quit current page or exit without conr-
ming changes
Machine Settings
Fertilization:
Shaft Sensors No.:
Seed sensors number: 1
Seed State Sensor:
Revolution counter:
Sensor Management:
None
0
Disabled
1 sec.
1 2
Fig. 15
1From the main page, press this key;
User Menu page is displayed.
2Hold depressed both keys at the same time for
about one second; Machine Settings page is
displayed.
5.2 Seed sensors number
Set the number of seed sensors that will be connected to the monitor (Default setting: 1).
reset
data
shift
the
cursor
scroll data
or edit
values
conrm access
or modication
of value
quit the function
or data editing

13
5.3 Fertilization
Set the number and layout of fertilizer sensors that will be connected to the monitor.
It is possible to install up to 2 fertilizer sensors per seed row (Fig. 17):
- None (Default), Single, Double.
In both cases fertilization could be either total or partial (Default: partial):
- Total = sensors are on all seed rows (see example in Figures 18 and 19)
- Partial = sensors are on a few seed rows only (see example in Fig. 19).
Only applies to partial fertilization: enable or disable the sensors on each seed row
(Fig. 20). Default setting: Disabled.
Fig. 17 Fig. 18
Fig. 19 Fig. 20
5.4 No. of shaft sensors
The shaft sensors monitor operation of the seed distributor transmission shafts.
Set the number of shaft sensors that will be connected to the monitor (Default setting: 0).
If monitor (Fig. 24) shows the shaft sensor alarm Shaft XX: No rotation and it is necessa-
ry to manually work on the moving parts, TURN OFF THE FARMING MACHINE AND MAKE
SURE ALL MOVING ORGANS ARE ACTUALLY AT A HALT before attempting any operation.
5.5 Seeding state sensor
Enable/disable the connection for the sensor that checks whether machine is seeding
(Default setting: Disabled).
reset
data
shift
the
cursor
scroll data
or edit
values
conrm access
or modication
of value
quit the function
or data editing

14
reset
data
shift
the
cursor
scroll data
or edit
values
conrm access
or modication
of value
quit the function
or data editing
5.6 RPM counter
Set RPM counters, if any; by default this eld is disabled (Fig. 21): enter constant value to enable
them (Fig. 22);
Set minimum and maximum speed alarms: out of set range the monitor will trigger an alarm
(Fig. 23).
Fig. 21 Fig. 22
RPM Alarms RPM sensor constant:
indicates the number of pulses output by the sensor,
per revolution of the rotary shaft.
Constant: 0 pls/rev = sensor disabled
Fig. 24
If monitor (Fig. 24) shows an RPM sensor rea-
ding of 0 RPM and it is necessary to manually
work on the moving parts, TURN OFF THE
FARMING MACHINE AND MAKE SURE ALL
MOVING ORGANS ARE ACTUALLY AT A HALT
before attempting any operation.
Fig. 23

15
5.7 Sensors management
Allocate functions
Alfa-Bus communication system allows all sensors to output work data to the monitor: to make sure the
monitor recognizes which sensor is sending in data, a name shall be allocated to each of them.
Carry out this operation to determine the specic name (function) of each sensor of the system.
Before allocating the functions to sensors:
- Make sure that all sensors of the system are DISCONNECTED;
- Set up all settings within the Machine settings menu (Par. 5.1 - 5.6).
If sensors have already been allocated a function, connect the sensors and reset them
using Delete all menu (Par. 5.7.5).
Delete all
Carry out this operation to delete the functions allocated to sensors, for instance if an error occurred
in the sensors connection sequence and it is necessary to repeat the procedure.
5.7.1 Assign functions
Fig. 25 Fig. 26
Set the connection sequence for the seed and fertilizer sensors (Fig. 25).
When connecting the sensors, follow the set sequence for every seed row. In the example sequence
is: seed sensor, fertilizer sensor A, fertilizer sensor B.
Connect sensors (Fig. 25) one at a time: the monitor will acknowledge connection and allocate a
name in this sequence.
Alfa 310S beeps once after connection of a sensor and twice to indicate that function was
stored.
Unlike seed and fertilizer sensors, when connecting an Alfa-Bus interface, the monitor prompts
user to specify the type of sensor installed. The procedure can be completed during connection of
sensors (Par. 5.7.3) or once all sensors are connected (Par. 5.7.4).
CONTINUES
reset
data
shift
the
cursor
scroll data
or edit
values
conrm access
or modication
of value
quit the function
or data editing

16
It is possible to quit programming mode at any time:
Fig. 27
If you choose to quit programming mode any
unprogrammed sensors will not be recognized
by the system.
5.7.2 Programming overview
It is possible to display a programming overview at any time during the procedure:
Assign functions
Speed
Revolution counter
Alfa-Bus interface
0/1
0/2
1/3
2/6
Seed
Assign functions
Connect Sensor
Esc
Fig. 28
Press F2 (Fig. 28): for every type of sensor, Alfa 310 displays the number of sensors assigned with
the function as well as the number of sensors set during programming of the Machine Settings
menu.
For instance, Seed 2/6 indicates that 2 seed sensors were connected but the system is set for 6
seed sensors.
Alfa-Bus interface item includes the following sensors: speed, RPM counter, shaft sensor
and seeding state sensor; seed and fertilizer sensors are not included.
CAUTION:
Alfa-Bus interface item does not indicate the assigned function but only the number of
connected sensors.
Functions programming is described under par. 5.7.3 e 5.7.4.
Press
to quit over-
view page
reset
data
shift
the
cursor
scroll data
or edit
values
conrm access
or modication
of value
quit the function
or data editing

17
5.7.3 Programming the Alfa-Bus interfaces (for speed, RPM counter, etc.) upon connection
Assign functions
Program
Set sensor data!
Revolution counter
Sensor Type
Sensor number 1
Assign functions
Set sensor data!
Sensor Type Alfa-Bus interface
Alfa-Bus interface
Revolution counter
Speed
Fig. 29a
- Connect one Alfa-Bus interface: the page shown in Fig. 28a is displayed immediately. Press OK
to start setup;
- Select a function by pressing F4 ed F6 (Fig. 29b):
- If more sensors of the same type are provided, select the number of the sensor (RPM sensor in
the instance considered, Fig. 29c);
- Press F8 to conrm setup.
Perform this procedure any time you connect one Alfa-Bus interface.
5.7.4 Programming the Alfa-Bus interfaces (for speed, RPM counter, etc.) after connection
- Connect all sensors and interfaces but make sure you remember the connection sequence
of the latter; Alfa 310S displays the page shown in Fig. 29;
- Select the sensor and program every connected sensor, as described under Par. 5.7.3.
Fig. 30
Once all sensors are programmed,
the monitor automatically quits the
procedure.
Fig. 29b Fig. 29c
reset
data
shift
the
cursor
scroll data
or edit
values
conrm access
or modication
of value
quit the function
or data editing

18
5.7.5 Delete all
This operation is necessary any time the Assign functions procedure shall be repeated: for a
correct programming, it is compulsory to delete previously allocated functions.
Fig. 31 Fig. 32
5.7.6 Sensors programming errors
Fig. 33
Function can not be allocated to sensor, due
to various communication errors:
- Change the sensor;
- Press Ok to continue setup.
Should it not be possible to imme-
diately change the sensor, delete
programming done so far using
the Delete all menu (Par. 5.7.5).
Repeat the programming procedure
(Par. 5.7) ONLY after replacing the
sensor.
Fig. 34
You connected a sensor not expected by
machine conguration:
- Remove the sensor;
- Press Ok to carry on allocating functions
to the remaining sensors.
reset
data
shift
the
cursor
scroll data
or edit
values
conrm access
or modication
of value
quit the function
or data editing

19
Fig. 35
Alfa 310S can not correctly delete the sensors:
- Press Ok to repeat deletion process.
If error comes back again, one of the sensors
might be faulty:
- Disconnect all sensors;
- Connect one sensor and delete program-
ming (Delete all, par. 5.7.5):
if the error shown on the side is displayed,
change the sensor you have just connected.
- Repeat the procedure for each sensor.
5.7.7 Sensors programming after replacement
When using Alfa 310S some sensors might require replacement.
In this case, it is not necessary to repeat programming of all functions, since only the replaced
sensors need reprogramming.
This procedure is required for every sensor (one at a time):
- Switch monitor off;
- Change the sensor;
- Switch monitor on: Alfa 310S will automatically program the function if just one sensor is replaced.
If many sensors are replaced, Alfa 310S will display the page shown Fig. 36: in this instance, select
the function to allocate to replaced sensor and press OK;
- Switch monitor off and repeat the procedure for every sensor.
Fig. 36
After programming the sensor, the
monitor automatically quits the
procedure.
reset
data
shift
the
cursor
scroll data
or edit
values
conrm access
or modication
of value
quit the function
or data editing

20
 
- Only use a soft dampened cloth to clean the unit.
- Do NOT use aggressive detergents or substances.
- Do NOT clean equipment with direct water jets.
6.1 Errors during operation
Fig. 37
23 1
ha
7.84
Job : Job3
4:36
38 hh:mm
rpm
2
Rev. sensor 1 ! No rotation
12:01
s/m
2.2 1
km/h
5.8
4
ALARM MESSAGE WHAT TO DO
Seed sensor XX ! No signal
Alfa 310S is not receiving the signal from seed
sensor on line XX
Check the led on the sensor:
• Led off: check sensor connections.
• Led on: replace the sensor and carry out the procedure
described under Par. 5.7.7.
REV sensor X! No signal
Alfa 310S is not receiving the signal from RPM
sensor X
• Check Alfa-Bus interface connection of the sensor.
If connection is correct, change the Alfa-Bus interface and carry
out the procedure described under Par. 5.7.7.
Speed sensor! No signal
Alfa 310S is not receiving the signal from speed
sensor
Position sensor! No signal
Alfa 310S is not receiving the signal from seed
state sensor
Shaft sensor XX! No signal
Alfa 310S is not receiving the signal from shaft
RPM sensor XX
seeding exceeding max. limit
Number of seeds per metre exceeds maximum set
value
• Make sure that speed is measured correctly; if required, enter
the correct wheel constant.
• Check that seeds per metre setting on the monitor is the same
as the one on machine distributor.
• Check out any mechanical jams on the machine.
seeding below min. limit
Number of seeds per metre is below minimum set
value
Row XX: seeding exceeding max. limit
Number of seeds per metre on seed row XX
exceeds maximum set value
• Check correct operation of the distributor and of the device
eliminating the double seeds.
• Make sure the sensor is not too dirty; if required, clean the
sensor by blowing compressed air: make sure not to aim the air
jet to the face.
CONTINUES