BEKA BA344D User manual

Issue: 5
7th April 2009
BA344D
Intrinsically safe
Battery powered
pulse input
field mounting
rate totaliser
Issue 5

2
1. Description
2. Operation
2.1 Controls
2.2 Displays
3. Intrinsic Safety Certification
3.1 ATEX certificate
3.2 Internal battery
3.3 Pulse input terminals
3.3.1 Voltage pulse
3.3.2 Contact or open collector
3.4 Remote reset terminals
3.5 Zones, gas groups and T rating
3.6 Certification label information
4.System Design for Hazardous Area
4.1 System certificates
4.2 Use with Zener barriers
4.3 Use with galvanic isolators
5. Installation
5.1 Location
5.2 Installation procedure
5.3 EMC
5.4 Installing a replacement battery
5.5 Disposal of used batteries
6. Programming and Calibration
6.1 Calibration structure
6.2 Accessing programme functions
6.3 Summary of programmable
functions.
6.4 Display update interval
6.5 Type of input
6.6 Position of the decimal points
6.7 Lower display
6.8 Rate scale factor
6.9 Timebase
6.10 Rate filter
6.11 Total scale factor
6.12 Clip-off
6.13 Local reset
6.14 Resetting grand total
6.15 Security code
7. Calibration Example
7.1 Calibration procedure
8. Maintenance
8.1 Fault finding during commissioning
8.2 Fault finding after commissioning
8.3 Servicing
8.4 Routine maintenance
8.5 Guarantee
9. Accessories
9.1 Units of measurement and
instrument identification.
9.2 Alarms
9.2.1 Solid state output
9.2.2 Intrinsic safety
9.2.3 Programming and
adjustment
9.2.4 Alarm enable
9.2.5 Type of alarm
9.2.6 Setpoint adjustment
9.2.7 Alarm function
9.2.8 Alarm output status
9.2.9 Hysteresis
9.2.10 Alarm delay
9.2.11 Alarm silence time
9.2.12 Access setpoint
9.2.13 Adjusting alarm setpoints
from display mode.
9.3 External push-buttons
9.4 Pipe mounting kits
9.5 Stem mounting kit
10. Index
Appendix 1
ATEX dust certification
Appendix 2
BA491 replacement battery
CONTENTS
The BA344D is CE marked to show compliance with the
European Explosive Atmospheres Directive 94/9/EC
and the European EMC Directive 2004/108/EC

3
1. DESCRIPTION
The BA344D is an intrinsically safe, battery
powered pulse input rate totaliser primarily
intended for use with flowmeters. The
instrument simultaneously displays the rate of
flow and the total flow in engineering units on
two separate displays.
The BA344D complies with the European
ATEX Directive 94/9/EC and has been certified
intrinsically safe for use in explosive gas and
combustible dust atmospheres by Notified
Body Intertek Testing Services (ITS).
ATEX dust certification is an option - See
Appendix 1.
Housed in a robust IP66 glass reinforced
polyester (GRP) enclosure with an armoured
glass window, the BA344D is surface
mounting, or may be pipe mounted using one
of the accessory kits. A stem mounting kit is
also available allowing direct mounting onto a
flowmeter conduit entry.
2. OPERATION
Fig 1 shows a simplified block diagram of a
BA344D. The instrument accepts pulses
which, after scaling, are shown on two
separate displays as the total number of pulses
received and their rate. When connected to a
pulse output flowmeter the BA344D will provide
an accurate display of total flow and the rate of
flow. The BA344D has two sets of input
terminals allowing connection to high or low
level voltage pulses, switch contacts or to an
open collector output, it may therefore be used
with most flowmeters. The total display may
be reset to zero by a remote switch contact,
the internal switches or via the optional
external keypad.
Optional alarms, which may be programmed to
function on the rate or total displays, further
extend the applications of this instrument.
The BA344D contains an internal replaceable
battery that will power the instrument for up to
five years. Battery life depends upon how the
BA344D is programmed, and the pulse input
frequency. A replacement BA491 battery may
be installed without removing the BA344D from
the hazardous area.
Fig 1 Simplified block diagram of BA344D
2.1 Controls
The BA344D is controlled and calibrated via
four push-button switches which are located
behind the instrument control cover, or as an
option on the outside of the control cover. In
the operating mode, i.e. when the instrument is
displaying rate and total flow, the switch
functions are:
Description of Switch Functions
E+ Down While these buttons are pushed the
total display will show the least
significant eight digits of the grand
total, and the grand total
annunciator will be activated.
E+Up While these two buttons are pushed
the total display will show the most
significant eight digits of the grand
total and the grand total annunciator
will be activated.
Down The total display is reset to zero
+Up when these two push-buttons are
operated simultaneously for two
seconds.
This function may be turned on or
off from within the programme
menu.
See section 6.13
PWhile these buttons are pushed the
+Down instrument will display the firmware
part number and version number.
Note: When optional alarms are fitted the
push-buttons may be programmed to have
alternative functions – see section 9.2

4
2.2 Displays
The BA344D has two digital displays and
associated annunciators, plus a flow indicator
as shown on page 1.
Rate Shows the flow rate on the
Display smaller six digit display.
Total Shows the total flow on the
display larger eight digit display. Set
to zero when local or remote
reset switch is operated.
Flow This disc in the lower left
indicator hand corner of the display
'rotates' while input pulses are
being received. It will stop
rotating within two seconds of
the end of a display update
period in which no pulses were
received.
Hold Activated when input
annunciator frequency is below the clip-off
threshold.
Low battery Battery symbol containing
Annunciator word ‘LO’ is activated when
internal battery requires
replacement.
3. INTRINSIC SAFETY CERTIFICATION
3.1 ATEX certificate
The BA344D has been issued with an EC-Type
Examination Certificate by Notified Body ITS
Testing & Certification Ltd (ITS) confirming
compliance with the European ATEX Directive
94/9/EC for Group II, Category 1, gas and dust
atmospheres, EEx ia IIC T5. The instrument
bears the Community Mark and, subject to
local codes of practice, may be installed in any
of the European Economic Area (EEA)
member countries. ATEX certificates are also
acceptable for installations in Switzerland.
This manual describes installations in
explosive gas atmospheres which conform with
BS EN60079:Part14:2003 Electrical Installation
in Hazardous Areas. When designing systems
for installation outside the UK, the local Code
of Practice should be consulted.
For the use in the presence of combustible
gas, please refer to Appendix 1 which
describes installations complying with BS EN
50281-1-2:1999.
3.2 Internal battery
The BA344D is powered by a replaceable
lithium battery that is mounted within the
instrument. This will operate the BA344D for
about five years, the exact time depends upon
how the instrument is programmed and used,
whether alarms are fitted and the input pulse
frequency. A low battery alarm annuciator on
the instrument display will be activated when
the battery requires replacing. Normally the
rate totaliser will continue to operate for about
five hundred hours after the annunciator is
activated, but the exact time will depend upon
how the instrument is programmed, whether
alarms are fitted and the input frequency.
During this period the total and grand total will
continue to be transferred to permanent
memory once per hour. When the battery is
exhausted the instrument will display ‘bAtt’ and
stop functioning.
WARNING
To maintain the BA344D ATEX
certification, only a BEKA type
BA491 battery should be installed
in the instrument. No attempt
should be made to recharge an
exhausted battery or to open the
battery assembly.
A replacement battery may be installed while
the BA344D is mounted within the hazardous
area. See section 5.4 for detailed instructions.

5
3.3 Pulse input terminals
The BA344D rate totaliser has two alternative
pairs of input terminals enabling the instrument
to count pulses from a wide variety of sources.
Note: Only one pair of input terminals may be
used at one time.
3.3.1 Voltage pulse input
Terminals 3 and 4 are intended for connection
to a voltage pulse source. In Europe, sources
of energy which do not generate more than
1.5V; 100mA and 25mW are, for intrinsic safety
purposes, considered to be simple apparatus
(Clause 5.4 of EN50 020:1994).
Although the BA344D indicator does not itself
comply with the requirements for simple
apparatus, the EC-Type Examination
Certificate specifies that under fault conditions
the voltage, current and power at terminals 3 &
4 will not exceed those specified for simple
apparatus. This allows these input terminals
to be connected to any certified intrinsically
safe apparatus or circuit providing that the
output parameters of the apparatus or circuit
do not exceed: Uo = 28V dc
Io = 100mA dc
Po = 0.7W
The certified intrinsically safe voltage pulse
output of a flowmeter mounted in a hazardous
area, or the output of a certified magnetic pick-
off mounted in a hazardous area may be
directly connected to these terminals providing:
The output parameters of the device do
not exceed the figures shown above.
The device can withstand a 500V rms
insulation test to earth for one minute.
The BA344D EC-Type Examination Certificate
specifies that the maximum equivalent
capacitance and inductance between the two
pulse input terminals 3 and 4 is:
Ci = 30nF
Li = 10µH
To determine the maximum permissible cable
parameters these figures should be subtracted
from the maximum permitted cable parameters
specified for the device connected to terminals
3 and 4.
The BA344D system certificates specify the
maximum permitted cable parameters when a
28V 300ΩZener barrier or galvanic isolator is
connected to these terminals.
3.3.2 Contact or open collector input
Terminals 5 and 6 are intended for connection
to a switch contact or a certified open collector
output. Terminals 5 & 6 output safety
parameters are:
Uo = 3.7V dc
Io = 2mA dc
Po = 2mW
and the maximum permitted external
capacitance and inductance is:
Co = 99µF
Lo = 999mH
Mechanically operated switch contacts comply
with the requirements for simple apparatus.
Providing the switch and the BA344D are both
located in the same hazardous area, the switch
may be connected directly to terminals 5 & 6.
This also applies to most magnetically
operated reed switches used in turbine
flowmeters.
Similarly, certified intrinsically safe open
collector outputs may be directly connected to
terminals 5 and 6
In all cases the device and circuit connected to
terminals 5 & 6 must be capable of
withstanding a 500V rms insulation test to
earth for one minute and have IP20 protection
The maximum input safety parameters for
terminals 5 & 6 are:
Ui = 28V dc
Ii = 100mA dc
Pi = 0.7W
and the equivalent internal capacitance and
inductance are:
Ci = 30nF
Li = 10µH
This allows Zener barriers and galvanic
isolators to be connected to these terminals.
The BA344D system certificates specify the
maximum permitted cable parameters when a
28V 300ΩZener barrier or galvanic isolator is
used to transfer a pulse from the safe area to
the BA344D in a hazardous area.

6
3.4 Remote reset terminals
The BA344D total display may be reset to zero
by connecting the reset terminals 7 and 8
together. These two terminals have the
following input and output safety parameters:
Uo = 3.7V dc
Io = 3.7mA dc
Po = 3.5mW
Ui = 28V dc
Ii = 100mA dc
Pi = 0.7W
The maximum equivalent capacitance and
inductance between them is:
Ci = 30nF
Li = 10µH
The total display may be reset to zero from
within the hazardous area by any mechanically
operated switch connected directly to terminals
7 and 8. The switch and associated wiring
must be capable of withstanding a 500V rms
insulation test to earth for one minute and have
IP20 protection.
To reset the total display from the safe area a
Zener barrier or intrinsically safe relay is
required to transfer the contact closure into the
hazardous area. Almost any intrinsically safe
relay with certification permitting the contacts
to be connected to equipment in the hazardous
area may be used. A positive diode return
Zener barrier may also be used as shown in
Fig 3. The system certificates list suitable
devices and define the maximum cable
parameters.
Notes:
The BA344D may be programmed so that the
total display is reset to zero when the Up and
Down push-buttons are operated
simultaneously. See 6.13
Each time the total display is reset to zero, the
grand total is transferred to permanent
memory.
3.5 Zones, gas groups and T rating
The BA344D has been issued with an EC Type
Examination certificate confirming that it
complies with the requirements for Group II
Category 1 G EEx ia IIC T5 (Tamb –40 to
50oC) specified in the ATEX Directive. When
connected to a suitable system the BA344D
may be installed in:
Zone 0 explosive gas air mixture
continuously present.
Zone 1 explosive gas air mixture
likely to occur in normal
operation.
Zone 2 explosive gas air mixture
not likely to occur, and if it
does will only exist for a
short time.
Be used with gases in groups:
Group A propane
Group B ethylene
Group C hydrogen
Having a temperature classification of:
T1 450oC
T2 300oC
T3 200oC
T4 135oC
T5 100oC
At an ambient temperature between –40 and
+50oC.
Note: the guaranteed operating temperature
range is –20 to +50oC
This allows the BA344D to be installed in all
Zones and to be used with most common
industrial gases.
3.6 Certification Label Information
The certification label is fitted in a recess on
the top outer surface of the enclosure. It
shows the ATEX certification information plus
BEKA associates name and location. Non
European certification information may also be
included. The serial number and date of
manufacture are recorded on a separate label
inside the terminal compartment.

7
4. SYSTEM DESIGN FOR HAZARDOUS
AREAS
When mounted in a hazardous area the
BA344D can operate as a stand alone rate
totaliser without the need for Zener barriers or
galvanic isolators as shown in Fig 2.
Fig 2 Stand alone operation within hazardous
area
The voltage pulse input terminals 3 and 4 may
be directly connected to any certified
intrinsically safe voltage source within the
hazardous area which can withstand a 500V
rms insulation test to earth for one minute and
has output parameters equal to or less than:
Uo = 28V dc
Io = 100mA dc
Po = 0.7W
This enables the BA344D to be connected
directly to most flowmeters incorporating a
certified intrinsically safe magnetic pick-off, or
a certified intrinsically safe amplifier producing
a high level pulse output. The maximum input
counting frequency is 10kHz.
Any mechanically activated switch contact
located in the hazardous area may be directly
connected to terminals 5 & 6 providing the
switch and associated wiring have IP20
protection and can withstand a 500V rms
insulation test to earth for one minute. This
allows most magnetically activated reed relays
used in turbine flowmeters to be directly
connected to terminals 5 & 6. The BA344D
contains filtering to prevent contact bounce
being counted which limits the maximum
operating frequency for a switch contact to
100Hz.
Similarly, an open collector transistor with
certified segregation, such as those used in
intrinsically safe opto-isolators may be directly
connected to terminals 5 & 6. The maximum
input counting frequency is 10kHz.
4.1 System certificates
When the input signal is derived from the safe
area or the total display is to be reset from
within the safe area, Zener barriers or galvanic
isolators are required to transfer the signals in
and out of the hazardous area.
In addition to the ATEX EC-Type Examination
Certificate, ITS have issued two system
certificates. One defines how the BA344D may
be used with Zener barriers and the other with
galvanic isolators. Both are divided into two
sections to cover input signal sources in the
hazardous and in the safe area.
Interface Certificate No
Zener barriers Ex01E2018
Galvanic isolators Ex01E2019
This section interprets these system
certificates and illustrates how to design
systems with Zener barriers and galvanic
isolators.
System certificates are Certificates of
Conformity which are primarily issued for
guidance in the UK. They do not form part of
certification to the European ATEX Directive.
4.2 Use with Zener barriers
Zener barriers are the least expensive
intrinsically safe interface between a safe and
hazardous area. However they do not provide
isolation and require a high integrity earth
connection that may be expensive to install.
For a single BA344D it may be less expensive
and complicated to use galvanic isolators when
a high integrity earth connection is not already
available.
Any certified Zener barriers may be used with
the BA344D providing their output parameters
do not exceed the input parameters of the
terminals to which they are connected. Only
one polarity of Zener barrier i.e. positive or
negative , may be used with each instrument.

8
To assist with system design, the Zener barrier
system certificate specifies the maximum cable
parameters for popular barriers and lists some
of the diode return barriers that may be
used.Fig 3 illustrates the basic circuit that is
used when a BA344D is connected to a pulse
source in the safe area and / or is reset in the
safe area. For simplicity, connections for the
optional alarms are included in the accessory
section of this manual – see section 9.
Fig 3 BA344D used with Zener barriers
When designing a system it is important to
remember that terminals 4, 6 and 8 are
interconnected within the BA344D - see Fig 1.
4.3 Use with Galvanic Isolators
Galvanic isolators are probably the simplest
intrinsically safe interface as they provide
isolation and do not require a high integrity
earth connection.
Any certified galvanic isolator with output
parameters less than the input parameters of
the BA344D may be used. To assist with
system design, the galvanic isolator system
certificate specifies some popular devices and
defines the maximum cable parameters.
Fig 4 BA344D used with galvanic isolators
Fig 4 illustrates the basic circuit that is used
when a BA344D is connected to a pulse
source in the safe area and / or is reset in the
safe area. For simplicity, connections for the
optional alarms are shown in accessory section
of this manual – see section 9.

9
5. INSTALLATION
5.1 Location
The BA344D rate totaliser is housed in a
robust IP66 glass reinforced polyester (GRP)
enclosure incorporating an armoured glass
window and stainless steel fittings. It is
suitable for exterior mounting in most industrial
environments, including off-shore and waste
water treatment installations. Please consult
BEKA associates if high vibration is
anticipated.
The BA344D enclosure is surface mounting.
Accessory kits described in sections 9.4 & 9.5
of this manual enable the instrument to be
mounted onto a vertical or horizontal pipe, or
directly onto a flowmeter conduit entry.
The field terminals and the two mounting holes
are located in a separate compartment with a
sealed cover allowing the instrument to be
installed without exposing the display
assembly.
The BA344D earth terminal is connected to the
internal EMC filters. For maximum radio
frequency interference rejection this terminal
should be connected to a local earth, or to a
cable screen which is earthed in the safe area.
The BA344D enclosure is supplied with a
bonding plate to ensure electrical continuity
between the three conduit / cable entries.
5.2 Installation Procedure
Fig 5 illustrates the instrument installation
procedure.
a. Remove the instrument terminal cover by
unscrewing the two captive 'A' screws.
b. Mount the instrument on a flat surface
and secure with two M6 screws through
the 'B' holes. Alternatively use one of the
mounting kits described in section 9.4 &
9.5
c. Remove the temporary dust seals from
the three cable entries and install the
required glands, conduit fittings or
blanking plugs.
Note: The temporary dust seals fitted for
transit do not maintain the IP66
protection of the BA344D enclosure.
d. Connect the field wiring to the terminals
as shown in Fig 6.
e. If the instrument is about to be
commissioned, turn the BA344D ON by
moving the slide switch located above
terminals 3 and 4 to the right. See Figs 5
& 6.
Note: If the instrument has not been
switched on recently it may take a few
minutes to start functioning. If the
instrument does not start, please refer to
the battery configuration instructions in
Appendix 2 .
f. Replace the instrument terminal cover
and evenly tighten the two 'A' screws.
Fig 5 BA344D installation procedure
5.3 EMC
The BA344D complies with the requirements of
the European EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.
For specified immunity all wiring should be in
screened twisted pairs. The BA344D earth
terminal should be locally earthed or connected
to a cable screen which is earthed in the safe
area.
To prevent circulating currents, cable screens
should only be earthed at one point.

10
Fig 6 Dimensions and terminal connections
5.4 Installing a replacement battery
The internal battery will power the BA344D rate
totaliser for about five years; the exact time
depends upon how the instrument is
programmed and the input pulse frequency.
When the battery requires replacing the low
battery alarm annunciator on the instrument
display will be activated indicating that the rate
totaliser will continue to operate for about
another five hundred hours. When the battery
is exhausted the total and grand total will be
stored in permanent memory, totalisation will
stop and the instrument will display ‘bAtt’.
Replacement BA491 batteries are available
from BEKA associates and our agents. When
not installed in an instrument, at 20oC the
battery only loses about one percent of its
charge each year, so it is practical to hold
spares on-site. This long shelf life results from
an oxide layer which forms on the battery
internal electrodes and needs clearing before
use – see 5.4e and Appendix 2.
WARNING
To maintain the BA344D ATEX
certification, only a BEKA BA491
battery should be installed in the
instrument. No attempt should be
made to recharge or to open the
battery assembly.
The discharged battery may be removed and
the replacement fitted while the BA344D rate
totalisers is installed in the hazardous area.
Fig 7 illustrates the replacement sequence:
a. If the instrument has an external
keypad, remove the switch cover by
unscrewing the two ‘C’ screws and
unplug the ribbon cable from the outer
row of pins.
b. CAUTION
The total and grand total are
automatically stored in
permanent memory once every
hour. If the instrument is still
operational i.e. has a display
other than ‘bAtt’, turning the
instrument off could result in up
to 59 minutes of flow being lost
from these displays.
Entering and leaving the
programme menu by pressing P
and Efollowed by E, will force
the BA344D to immediately
store the totals in permanent
memory preventing data loss.
Remove the terminal cover by
unscrewing the two ‘A’ screws and turn
the instrument OFF by moving the
slide switch to the left. See Fig 5.
c. Remove the four ‘D’ screws and lift-off
the front of the enclosure.
d. Remove the two ‘E’ screws securing
the BA491 battery and gently pull the
battery away from the instrument
printed circuit board – see Fig 7.
e. Before installing a replacement BA491
battery it should be conditioned to
remove the oxide layer which forms on
the internal electrodes, please see
instruction sheet supplied with each
replacement BA491. Battery
conditioning is also described in
Appendix 2.

11
f. Plug the conditioned replacement
BEKA BA491 battery into the
instrument. Ensure that the two pins
on the instrument printed circuit board
are correctly aligned with the socket on
the battery and then replace the two ‘E’
screws.
g. Reassemble the instrument enclosure.
Before replacing the terminal cover
turn the instrument ON by moving the
slide switch to the right.
Fig 7 Replacement of internal battery
5.5 Disposal of used batteries
The BEKA BA491 battery contains Lithium
Thionyl Chloride cells that should not be
included with standard industrial waste. Do not
incinerate.
More information about disposal is available
from The British Battery Manufacturers
Association www.rebat.com

12
6. PROGRAMMING & CALIBRATION
The BA344D is programmed and calibrated via
four push-buttons which are located behind the
instrument control cover, see Fig 10. If
frequent access to the push-buttons is
required, the rate totaliser can be supplied with
duplicate membrane push-buttons mounted on
the outside of the control cover.
All the programming functions are contained in
an easy to use menu that is shown
diagramatically in Fig 9. Each function is
summarised in section 6.3 and includes
references to more detailed information.
Although this simple menu driven system
enables most adjustments to be made without
repeated reference to this manual, it is
recommended that at least the summary of the
programmable functions in section 6.3 is read
before attempting programming or
recalibration.
When the BA344D is fitted with optional alarms
the basic menu is expanded to include the
option. Section 9 of this manual explains how
to programme these additional functions.
Note: While the instrument is being
programmed or calibrated, totalisation
continues so that any flow occurring during this
time is recorded.
6.1 Calibration structure
Fig 8 shows the BA344D calibration structure.
The rate and total display calibration functions
are totally independent allowing the displays to
have different units of measurement.
For the rate display the pulse input is scaled by
SCALE-r to show the required units of
measurement and multiplied by the timebase
t-bASE to calculate and display the rate of flow
per second, minute or hour.
Similarly, to calculate the total flow in the
required units of measurement, the number of
input pulses is divided by the total scale factor
SCALE-t. Total flow is continuously added to
the grand total.
The BA344D uses floating point arithmetic and
‘real’ decimal points. Moving the position of a
decimal point will therefore affect the
instrument calibration and display.
Fig 8 Calibration structure
6.2 Accessing programming functions
Throughout this manual push-buttons are
shown in italics e.g. P or Up push-button, and
legends displayed by the instrument are shown
within inverted commas e.g. 'CAL' and ' ALr2'.
Access to the programme menu is obtained by
operating the Pand Epush-buttons
simultaneously. If the instrument is not
protected by a security code the first parameter
'UPdAtE' will be displayed. If a security code
other than the default code 0000 has already
been entered, the instrument will display
'COdE'. Press Pto clear this prompt and enter
the security code for the instrument using the
Up or Down push-buttons to adjust each digit,
and the P push-button to move control to the
next digit. If the correct code has been
entered pressing Ewill cause the first
parameter 'UPdAtE' to be displayed. If an
incorrect code is entered, or a push-button is
not operated within ten seconds, the
instrument will automatically return to the
display mode.
Apart from defining the position of the decimal
point in the rate display all programme
functions and prompts are shown on the large
eight digit display.
Once within the main programme menu the
required parameter can be reached by scrolling
through the menu using the Up and Down
push-buttons as shown by the programme
structure in Fig 9.

13

14
All new BA344D rate totalisers are supplied
calibrated as requested at the time of ordering.
If calibration information is not supplied, the
instrument will be conditioned for an open
collector input, with SCALE-r and SCALE-t set
to 1 and a timebase of seconds.
6.3 Summary of programmable functions
This section summarises all the programmable
functions. When read in conjunction with Fig 9
it provides a quick aid for programming the
instrument. If more detail is required, each
section contains a reference to a full
description of the function.
SUMMARY
Display Description of function
‘UpdAtE’ Display update time
Allows the interval between
display updates to be selected.
Updating the display less
frequently lengthens battery
life.
See section 6.4
'InPut' Type of input
Enables one of four types of
input to be selected:
‘UOLtS’ Voltage pulse
‘COIL’ Magnetic pick-off
‘ContACt’ Switch contact
‘OP.COL’ Open collector
See section 6.5
'd.P.' Decimal points
Defines the position of the
decimal point in both the rate
and total displays and enables
the rate and total displays to
be interchanged.
See section 6.6
‘dISPLAY.2’ Lower display
Turns the lower display, which
normally shows rate, on or off.
See section 6.7
Display Description of function
'SCALE-r' Rate Scale Factor
Defines the arithmetic relationship
between the pulse input frequency
and the rate display. May be
adjusted between 0.001 and
99999999.
When used with a flowmeter,
SCALE-r should be set to the
flowmeter K factor (pulses per unit
of measurement) if the display is
required in the same units as the
K factor.
See section 6.8
't-bASE' Timebase
Selectable multiplier to display
flow rate in units per second, per
minute or per hour.
Select: ‘tb-1’ for flow / second
‘tb-60’ for flow / minute
‘tb-3600’ for flow / hour
See section 6.9
'FILtEr' Rate filter
Adjustable digital filter to reduce
noise on the rate display. Two
parameters each adjustable
between 0 and 9.
See section 6.10
'SCALE-t' Total Scale Factor
Defines the arithmetic relationship
between the number of input
pulses and the total display.
May be adjusted between 0.001
and 99999999.
When used with a flowmeter
SCALE-t should be set to the
flowmeter K factor (pulses per unit
of measurement).
See section 6.11
'CLIP-OFF' Clip off
To prevent the totalisation of very
low flow rates, clip-off enables the
user to select a flow rate below
which totalisation is inhibited.
See section 6.12

15
Display Description of function
'LOC.rSEt'Local reset of total display
When turned 'On' the total display
may be reset to zero from the
display mode by simultaneously
operating the Up and Down push-
buttons for two seconds.
See section 6.13
'CLr. Gtot'Clears grand total
This function resets the grand
total to zero when 'CLr YES' is
selected. 'SurE' must be entered
to confirm the instruction.
Note: Once cleared, a grand total
can not be recovered.
See section 6.14
'COdE' Security code
Defines a four digit numeric code
which must be entered to gain
access to the programmable
functions. Default code 0000
disables the security function and
allows unrestricted access to all
programmable functions.
See section 6.15
6.4 Display update interval: ‘UpdAtE’
Six different intervals between display updates
varying between 0.5 and 20 seconds may be
selected. Increasing the interval between
display updates will significantly lengthen
battery life and make it easier to read a rapidly
changing rate or total display. The selected
update interval does not affect the accuracy of
the display, but it will affect the response time
of the optional alarms.
When any of the push-buttons are operated,
the update time automatically changes to 0.5
seconds for 30 seconds to provide the fastest
response while adjustments are being made.
To define the update interval select ‘UpdAtE’
from the main menu and press Pto reveal the
current time. Pressing the Up or Down button
will scroll through the six times. When the
required interval has been selected press Eto
return to the main menu.
6.5 Type of input: ‘InPut’
The BA344D may be programmed to accept
pulse inputs from a wide variety of sensors.
To define an input type select ‘InPut’ from the
menu and press Pwhich will reveal the current
input type. Pressing Up or Down will scroll
through the four options:
‘UOLts’ Voltage pulse input
Threshold 1V and 3V
10kHz max.
Input terminals 3 and 4
‘COIL’ Low voltage pulse
Threshold typically 40mV
peak to peak ac.10kHz max.
Input terminals 3 and 4
‘COntACt’ Switch contact
Threshold 100 and 1000Ω
100Hz max.
Input terminals 5 and 6
‘OP.COL’ Open collector
Threshold 2 and 10kΩ
10kHz max.
Input terminals 5 and 6
When the required type of input has been
selected press Eto return to the main menu.
Note: To count reliably, the input signal must
fall below the lower switching threshold and
rise above the higher switching threshold.
6.6 Position of the decimal points: ‘d.P.’
The rate display can have up to six digits and
the decimal point may be positioned between
any of them, or omitted. Similarly, the total
display has eight digits and the decimal point
may be positioned between any of them, or
may be omitted.
To adjust the position of either decimal point
select 'd.P.' from the main menu and press P.
This will activate both displays with one digit
plus the following decimal point of the total
display flashing. If only the least significant
digit is flashing, this indicates that the decimal
point is omitted.
The position of the decimal point can be moved
by pressing the Up or Down push-button.
Operating the P push-button will toggle control
between the two displays. When both decimal
points have been correctly positioned press E
to return to the main menu.
If the application requires flow rate to be the
primary display i.e. shown on the large display,
the d.P. function enables the rate and total
displays to be interchanged. The rate display
will continue to have six digits but the total
display will be reduced from eight to six digits.
The rate and total annunciators will also be
exchanged. Pressing the Up and Down

16
buttons simultaneously will exchange the
displays.
Note: Both decimal points must be
repositioned after the displays have been
exchanged.
6.7 Lower display: ‘dISPLAY.2’
This function turns the lower display on or off.
When turned off, the BA344D will only have
one eight digit display which may be
programmed to show total flow or rate of flow.
To check the status of the lower display select
‘dISPLAY.2’ from the menu and press Pwhich
will reveal if the function is ‘On’ or ‘OFF’. The
settings may be changed by pressing the Up or
Down button followed by the Ebutton to return
to the menu.
6.8 Rate scale factor: ‘SCALE-r’
Together with the instrument timebase, this
function defines the arithmetic relationship
between the pulse input frequency and the rate
display. When used with a flowmeter SCALE-r
should be set to the K-factor of the flowmeter
i.e. the number of pulses the flowmeter
produces for a unit of flow. e.g. 45.6 pulses
per litre. See section 7 for a worked example.
SCALE-r is a dividing factor that may be
adjusted between 0.001 and 99999999.
To check or change the total scale factor select
'SCALE-r' from the main menu and press Pto
reveal the existing setting, one digit will be
flashing. The value of the flashing digit can be
changed by pressing the Up or Down buttons.
When this digit is correct pressing Pwill
transfer control to the next digit.
To position the decimal point in the rate scale
factor, move the flashing digit to the left hand
side of the required decimal point position and
simultaneously press the Up and Down
buttons.
When the required rate scale factor has been
entered, press E to store the number and
return to the main menu.
6.9 Timebase: ‘t-bASE’
The timebase multiplies the rate display by 1,
60 or 3,600 depending upon whether the
BA344D is required to display rate per second,
per minute or per hour. See Fig 8.
To check or change the timebase, select
't-bASE' from the main menu and press P
which will reveal the current setting. Pressing
the Up or Down button will index through the
three options: tb-1 for flow / second
tb-60 for flow / minute
tb-3600 for flow / hour
Select the required multiplier and press Eto
return to the main menu.
6.10 Rate filter: ‘FILtEr’
This digital filter has two independent
adjustable parameters enabling the rate
display frequency response to be tailored for
optimum performance.
The filter parameters are controlled by a two
digit number. The first digit defines the amount
of filtering applied to the display as shown
below.
First digit Filter time constant
seconds
0X 0
1X 1.3
2X 4.3
3X 6.5
4X 8.7
5X 11.3
6X 15.7
7X 20.9
8X 25.2
9X 31.5
The second digit defines the deviation from the
displayed rate at which the filter will be
overridden and the rate display will move
rapidly to the new value.
Second
digit Magnitude of step change which will
produce a rapid
response
X0 Off
X1 1%
X2 2%
X3 4%
X4 8%
X5 12%
X6 16%
X7 24%
X8 32%
X9 64%
By careful adjustment of the two parameters a
stable display with an acceptable step input
response can be obtained for most
applications.
During commissioning it is recommend that
initially the second digit is set to 0 (off) and the
first digit is adjusted to provide acceptable rate

17
display stability. The second digit should then
be increased until the selected step size is
greater than the noise on the display signal, at
which setting the rate display will again
become stable. These will be the optimum
filter parameters for acceptable rate display
stability and a fast response to a large rate
signal change.
To check or change the filter select 'FILtEr'
from the main menu and press Pto reveal the
current settings. Pressing the Up or Down
button will change the flashing digit and Pwill
transfer control to the second digit. While
making adjustments the filtered rate display is
shown on the lower display so that stability can
be assessed. When set as required, press the
Ebutton to enter the revised parameters and
return to the main menu.
6.11 Total scale factor: ‘SCALE-t’
This factor defines the arithmetic relationship
between the number of input pulses and the
total display. SCALE-t is a dividing factor that
may be adjusted between 0.001 and
99999999. See Fig 8.
When used with a flowmeter SCALE-t should
be set to the K-factor of the flowmeter i.e. the
number of pulses the flowmeter produces for a
unit of flow. If the BA344D total display is
required in units different from those in which
the flowmeter K factor is specified, a
conversion factor will be required.
e.g. If the flowmeter has a K factor of 45.6
pulses per litre and the BA344D total display is
required in units of 1,000 gallons, then
SCALE-t should be set to number of pulses
produced by the flowmeter per 1,000 gallons:
45.6 x 4.54609 x 1000
207,301.7 pulses per 1000 gallons
.
(there are 4.54609 litres in a UK gallon)
To check or change the total scale factor select
'SCALE-t' from the main menu and press Pto
reveal the existing setting, one digit will be
flashing. The value of the flashing digit can be
changed by pressing the Up or Down buttons.
When this digit is correct pressing Pwill
transfer control to the next digit.
To position the decimal point in the scale
factor, move the flashing digit to the left hand
side of the required decimal point position and
simultaneously press the Up and Down
buttons.
When the required total scale factor has been
entered, press E to store the number and
return to the main menu.
Note: After changing the total scale factor, the
total and grand total will be reset to zero
6.12 Clip-off: ‘CLIP-OFF’
To prevent totalisation of very low flow rates
which over long periods may result in
significant totalisation errors, the BA344D may
be programmed to stop totalising when the flow
rate falls below an adjustable threshold.
To check or change the clip-off threshold select
'CLIP-OFF' from the main menu and press P
which will reveal the current setting. The
threshold is shown in units of flow rate with one
digit flashing. The value of the flashing digit
may be changed by pressing the Up or Down
buttons. When this digit is correct pressing P
will transfer control to the next digit. When set
as required, press the E button to enter the
revised figure and return to the main
programme menu.
If the flow rate falls below the entered
threshold, the rate display will show zero flow,
totalisation will stop and the HOLD annunciator
will be activated. The flow indicator will
continue to rotate as defined in section 2.2
Note: When the rate scale factor SCALE-r, the
timebase t-bASE, or the position of the rate
display decimal point are changed, clip-off will
automatically be reset to zero. If required, a
new clip-off threshold may then be entered.
6.13 Local reset of total display:
‘LOC. rSEt’
When activated this function enables the
operator to reset the BA344D total display to
zero in the display mode by operating the Up
and Down push-buttons simultaneously for two
seconds. To check the status of the local
reset function select 'LOC.rSEt' from the menu
and press P which will reveal if the function is
'On' or 'OFF'. If necessary press the Up or
Down button to change the setting, followed by
the E button to return to the main menu.
The total display may also be reset to zero
remotely by connecting terminals 7 and 8
together. See section 3.4 of this manual.

18
6.14 Resetting grand total: ‘CLr. Gtot’
The grand total is a separate sixteen digit
counter which duplicates the total display but is
not zeroed when the total display is reset to
zero. The grand total may be viewed in the
display mode in two eight digit sections as
described in section 2.1 of this manual.
The grand total counter can only be reset to
zero from the 'CLr. Gtot' function in the main
programme menu. To zero the grand total
counter select 'CLr. Gtot' and press P which
will cause the instrument to display 'Clr. no'
with 'no' flashing. Continuously press the Up
or Down push-buttons until 'CLr. YES' is
displayed and then press Pwhich will result in
a '0000' prompt. Using the Up, and Down
buttons and the P button to move to the next
digit, confirm the request by entering the
password 'SurE'. Note 'S' is entered as '5'.
Pressing E will then reset the grand total
counter to zero and return the instrument to the
'CLr. Gtot' prompt in the main menu.
WARNING
After resetting the grand total
to zero the old grand total can
not be recovered.
6.15 Security code: ‘CodE’
The calibration and conditioning of the
instrument may be protected by a four digit
security code which must be entered before
access to the programme menu is granted.
New instruments are programmed with the
default security code 0000 which allows
unrestricted access to all programming
functions without entering a security code.
To enter a new security code select 'COdE'
from the menu and press P which will cause
the instrument to display the current security
code. Each digit of the code can be changed
using the Up and Down push-buttons, and the
Pbutton to move to the next digit. When the
required code has been entered press E to
return to the main menu. The revised security
code will be activated when the indicator is
returned to the operating mode.
If the security code is lost, access to the
programmable functions can be obtained by
moving the internal security link to the override
position. The original security code can then
be viewed by selecting 'CodE' from the main
menu and pressing P.
To gain access to the security code link,
remove the instrument control cover by
undoing the two ‘C’ screws – see Fig 5. If the
instrument is fitted with external push-buttons
the connecting ribbon cable should be
unplugged from the outer row of the five pin
connector. The security code override link is
located on the inner row of the five pin
connector as shown in Fig 10.
Security code
operational Security code override
PE
Fig 10 Location of security override link &
function of push-buttons

19
7. CALIBRATION EXAMPLE
In this example a BA344D rate totaliser is
connected to a turbine flowmeter having a K-
factor of 105.0 pulses per litre. The flowmeter
has a magnetic pick-off with a peak to peak
output greater than 40mV at 1 litre per minute
and a usable range of 1 to 40 litres per minute.
The BA344D is required to display rate of flow
in litres per hour with a resolution of one litre
and total flow in cubic metres with a resolution
of 0.01 cubic metres. Totalisation is to stop
when the flow rate falls below 1 litre per
minute. To maximise battery life, the display is
only to be updated once every twenty seconds.
Rate display filtering is required. In this
application the operator needs to reset the total
display to zero by simultaneously pushing the
Up and Down push-buttons. To prevent
tampering the instrument programme menu is
to be protected by security code 1209
7.1 Calibration procedure
The BA344D rate totaliser may be calibrated
on-site without disconnection from the power
supply or from the flowmeter.
Step 1 Enter the programming mode
Put the BA344D in the
programming mode by
simultaneously pressing P and E.
Assuming a security code has not
already been entered the
instrument will respond by
displaying 'UPdAtE' which is the
first function in the main menu.
See Fig 9.
Step 2 Select the interval between
display updates
With 'UPdAtE' displayed, press P
to reveal the existing interval
between display updates. If this is
not as required, press the Up or
Down button until ‘20’ is displayed.
(i.e. the display is updated once
every twenty seconds). Enter the
revised time and return to the
'UPdAtE' prompt in the main menu
by pressing E.
Step 3 Select the type of input
Using the Up or Down button scroll
through the main menu until ‘InPut’
is displayed, then press Pto reveal
the existing setting. Select ‘COIL’,
the input for a magnetic pick-off,
using the Up or Down button and
return to the 'InPut' prompt in the
main menu by pressing E.
Note: The BA344D has two pairs of
input terminals. 3 & 4 for voltage
inputs and 5 & 6 for switch contact
and open collector inputs. Ensure
that the magnetic pick-off, which
has a voltage output, is connected
to terminals 3 & 4.
Step 4 Position rate & total decimal
points
Select ‘d.P.’ from the main menu
and press P. The rate and total
displays will be activated with one
digit of the total display flashing.
Press the Up or Down push-button
until the third least significant digit
of the total display and following
decimal point are flashing. This
gives the required total display
resolution of 0.01
Press Pto move control to the rate
display. Using the Up or Down
push-button move the flashing digit
to the least significant position (right
hand side) which will result in no
decimal point being displayed.
Finally press Eto return to the 'd.P’.
prompt in the main menu.
Step 5 Enter the rate scaling factor
Select ‘SCALE-r’ from the main
menu and press Pto show the
current figure. The K factor of the
flowmeter in this example is 105.0*
pulses per litre which should be
entered as the rate scaling factor.
Firstly to position the decimal point,
operate the Ppush-button to move
the flashing digit to the second least
significant position. Pressing the
Up and Down buttons
simultaneously will then position the
decimal point in front of the least
significant digit.
Using the Up and Down buttons to
adjust each digit in turn and the P
button to transfer control between
digits, enter 105.0 Finally return
to the 'SCALE-r' prompt in the main
menu by pressing E.
* Could also be entered as 105

20
Step 6 Enter the rate timebase
Select ‘t-bASE’ from the main menu
and press Pto show the current
setting. In this example the rate
display is required in litres per hour.
Using the Up or Down button scroll
through the three options and
select ‘tb-3600’ which will multiply
the rate display by 3600. Return to
the ‘t-bASE’ prompt in the main
menu by pressing E.
Step 7 Adjust the rate filter
The rate display filter parameters
should be adjusted experimentally
after installation to provide a stable
rate display with an acceptable step
response.
During commissioning it is
recommend that initially the second
digit of the rate parameters is set to
0 (step response off) while the first
digit (amount of filtering) is adjusted
to provide acceptable rate display
stability. The second digit should
them be increased until acceptable
rate display stability is once again
achieved.
To adjust the filter parameters
select ‘FILtEr’ from the main menu
and press Pto reveal the current
setting. The first digit will be
flashing and may be adjusted using
the Up or Down button. The P
button will transfer control to the
second digit. When both are set as
required, return to the ‘FILtEr’
prompt in the main menu by
pressing E.
Note: While adjusting the filter, the rate is
shown on the lower display so that
stability can be assessed.
Step 8 Enter the total scaling factor
The K factor of the flowmeter in this
example is 105.0 pulses per litre
and the total display is required in
cubic metres.
There are 1000 litres in a cubic
metre so the BA344D is required to
display 1 cubic metre for every 105
x 1,000 pulses received. ‘SCALE-t’
should therefore be set to 105,000
Select ‘SCALE-t’ from the main
menu and press Pwhich will reveal
the current setting with one digit
flashing. To position the decimal
point, operate the Ppush-button to
move the flashing digit to the least
significant position. Pressing the
Up and Down buttons
simultaneously will then remove the
decimal point.
Using the Up and Down buttons to
adjust each digit in turn and the P
button to transfer control between
digits, enter 105000 - Finally
return to the 'SCALE-t' prompt in
the main menu by pressing E.
Step 9 Define clip-off
In this example totalisation is to be
inhibited at flow rates below 1 litre
per minute.
Select ‘CLIP-OFF’ from the main
menu and press Pwhich will reveal
the clip-off threshold in litres per
hour i.e. the same units already
selected for the rate display. The
most significant digit of the display
will be flashing indicating that this
digit may be adjusted. Pressing P
five times will move the flashing
digit to the third least significant
position.
Using the Up and Down buttons set
the second least significant digit to
6 i.e. a clip-off threshold of 60 litres
per hour (1 litre per minute).
Finally return to the 'CLIP-OFF'
prompt in the main menu by
pressing E.
.
Step 10 Turn local reset on
In this example the operator needs
to reset the total display to zero by
pressing the Up and Down buttons
simultaneously. To activate the
local reset function select
‘LOC.rSEt’ from the main menu and
press Pto display the current
setting. Pressing the Up or Down
button will toggle the display
between ‘On’ and ‘OFF’. Select
‘On’ and press Eto return to the
‘LOCrSEt’ prompt in the main
menu.