Carmanah MX Series User manual

MX Series
SYSTEM PLANNER
LEVEL 1
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90694REVD

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SYSTEM PLANNER
LEVEL 1
MX Series Product Level Document Overview
LEVEL 1
System Planner
R920-MX
R829-MX
R247-MX
LEVEL 2
Power Modules
MX 100
MX 200
MX 300
MX 400
LEVEL 3
Flasher Modules
MX RRFB Module
MX Beacon Module
MX LED Sign
Module
MX Chevron Sign
Module
LEVEL 4
Kits*
*Not all kits shown
Push Button Kit
Beacon Mount Kit
Large Top of Pole
Mount Kit
Solar Panel Top of
Pole Mount Kit

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SYSTEM PLANNER
LEVEL 1
Table of Contents
Table of Contents .....................................................................................................................................................3
1.0 Warnings and Precautions ................................................................................................................................4
1.1 Warranty Disclaimer ...................................................................................................................................4
1.2 Standards ...................................................................................................................................................4
1.3 Safety and Usage Precautions...................................................................................................................4
2.0 Introduction.........................................................................................................................................................6
2.1 About the MX Series...................................................................................................................................6
2.2 Install Guides Overview..............................................................................................................................7
2.3 Power Module Dimensions.........................................................................................................................8
2.4 General Recommendations........................................................................................................................9
2.5 Local Connectivity.................................................................................................................................... 10
2.6 Remote Connectivity................................................................................................................................ 11
2.7 Typical Configurations............................................................................................................................. 12
2.8 Mounting Options..................................................................................................................................... 13
3.0 Product Settings and Applications................................................................................................................ 14
3.1 Default Flasher Module Settings ............................................................................................................. 14
3.2 Application 1 –R920-MX Crosswalk Systems ........................................................................................ 15
3.3 Application 2 –R829-MX School Zone Systems..................................................................................... 17
3.4 Application 3 –R247-MX 24-Hour Beacon Systems............................................................................... 18
3.5 Application 4 –R247-MX Radar-Triggered Warning Signs..................................................................... 19
3.6 Application 5 –R247-MX Chevron Warning Signs.................................................................................. 20
3.7 Cable & Wiring Information...................................................................................................................... 21
4.0 Commissioning & Troubleshooting............................................................................................................... 23
5.0 Customer Service and Warranty.................................................................................................................... 23

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SYSTEM PLANNER
LEVEL 1
1.0 Warnings and Precautions
The following symbols indicate important safety warnings and precautions throughout this manual:
WARNING indicates that serious bodily harm or death may result from failure to adhere to the
precautions.
CAUTION indicates that damage to equipment may result if the instructions are not followed.
NOTE suggests optimal conditions and provides additional information.
1.1 Warranty Disclaimer
This manual will familiarize you with the features, operation standards, and installation of Carmanah's MX Series
systems. Failure to comply with the use, storage, maintenance, installation, or placement instructions detailed in
this System Planner could void the warranty.
1.2 Standards
Perform all installation, wiring, grounding, and maintenance in conformance with local building and electrical
codes. Adherence to the National Electrical Code (NEC) is mandatory to comply with any certification markings.
Non-adherence to code may void the warranty.
1.3 Safety and Usage Precautions
Batteries are shipped fully charged. Use extreme caution when handling the batteries as they can
generate hazardous short-circuit currents. Remove all jewelry (bracelets, metal-strap watches,
etc.) before handling the batteries.
Solar panels produce DC electricity when exposed to light and can therefore produce an
electrical shock or burn. To render solar panels inoperative, remove them from sunlight or fully
cover their front surface with an opaque material.
Before lifting any heavy or bulky equipment, ensure the load is secured so moving parts do not
shift, and that it can be lifted as far as needed without back strain or loss of grip. Installation may
require more than one person.
Ensure the equipment is not powered during installation and wiring of the system.

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SYSTEM PLANNER
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Recheck all completed wiring for proper polarity prior to energizing the system.
Changes or modifications to Carmanah equipment not expressly approved by Carmanah could
void both the user's authority to operate the equipment and the warranty.
Carmanah MX Series traffic products use a constant-current LED output circuit. Only Carmanah
MX Series flasher modules are compatible with this system. Please contact Carmanah for
additional information and guidance when adding or replacing beacons or other hardware.
Product can have sharp edges. Accidental movement of hinged components can cause injury.
Please examine all parts before beginning assembly and installation. If anything is missing or
damaged, contact Carmanah or your Authorized Distributor immediately.
Certain combinations of settings can result in the system not meeting brightness or intensity
specifications (such as ITE or SAE J595). Contact Carmanah for guidance if unfamiliar with
system limitations. Modifying settings can significantly affect the solar energy balance of the
system which could result in reduced battery life and performance. Contact Carmanah for more
information about sustainable settings in your location.
All rights reserved. This notice applies to all copyrighted material included with this product, including but not
limited to this manual and software embodied within the product. This documentation is intended for the sole use
of the persons to whom it was provided. Any unauthorized distribution of the manual or dispersal of its contents is
strictly forbidden. This manual may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means whatsoever without the
express written permission of Carmanah.

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SYSTEM PLANNER
LEVEL 1
2.0 Introduction
2.1 About the MX Series
The MX Series is a modular, highly configurable, traffic safety signalling product with remote connectivity. It
consists of modules that can be arranged to suit many traffic warning applications such as:
•Pedestrian Crosswalks
•School Zone Beacons
•24-Hour Beacons
•Radar-Triggered Warning Signs
•Chevron Warning Signs
An MX system is defined as a power module wired to at least one flasher module or trigger kit. The elements
of one system are typically mounted on a single pole.
The minimum components to create a functioning MX system are:
•A power module (MX 100 or MX 200 solar, MX 300 or MX 400 solar or AC)
•A flasher module (MX RRFB, beacon or LED sign module) or trigger kit (push button, e.g.)
•MX cable
•Mounting hardware
At the core of each MX system is a power module and one or more flasher modules. Solar equipped power
modules facilitate battery charging while preventing overcharging and over discharging. Flasher module types can
be mixed and matched in a system, and any number of systems within radio range (>1000 ft with clear line of
sight) can be linked to suit the application. Trigger kits (including push buttons and pedestrian sensors) can be
added to activate flasher modules for a pre-set duration on demand.
Flasher modules leave the factory with default settings that meet requirements for most applications out-of-the-
box. When settings adjustments are necessary, on-site changes can be made using the MX Field App for iOS,
iPadOS and Android.
The factory-set flasher module parameters include:
•Flash pattern
•Night dimming
•Intensity
•Operation mode
•Radio operation
•Network settings
For more detail on designing a system, consult carmanah.com/build or contact Carmanah.
Refer to https://carmanah.com/mx-series/ to learn more about the MX Series.
To make changes to the default settings locally, the MX Field App must be used.
Download: carmanah.com/app
FOR REMOTE ACCESS: Log into MX Cloud: MXcloud.live

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SYSTEM PLANNER
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2.2 Install Guides Overview
Following a specific order for installation of MX modules is not mandatory. The documents for this product series
are organized in a hierarchy, beginning with this guide, and progressing downward:
Level 1 –MX Series System Planner (this document)
Level 2 –Power module installation guides
Level 3 –Flasher module installation guides
Level 4 –Other kit and accessory installation guides
These instructions assume that construction of the required infrastructure (AC power, poles, sidewalk treatments,
etc.) has been completed in advance.
User guides are also available for the MX Field App and MX Cloud platform.
Install each module or kit according to its included instructions.
Look for an “Open First” label on the power module packaging to get started with the installation.

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SYSTEM PLANNER
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2.3 Power Module Dimensions
MX 100
MX 200
MX 300
MX 400

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SYSTEM PLANNER
LEVEL 1
2.4 General Recommendations
Read all levels of included
documentation before installing
Connect each trigger to any
module
Install the batteries fully charged
Point the solar panel south1
Maintain line of sight between
radio antennas for maximum
range2
Follow MUTCD guidelines for
flasher mounting height and
direction
Direct flashers and signs toward
oncoming traffic
Hide wiring to reduce vandalism
Download the MX Field App & pair
to the system
Link systems to synchronize
behavior3
Adjust settings with the MX Field
App or MX Cloud
Add a padlock for increased
security
1Solar requirements (for solar option)
Ensure the installation location has an unobstructed view of the sun’s path. Obstructions such as trees or
buildings could significantly reduce the amount of sunlight on the solar panel.
The solar panel typically needs to face south in the Northern Hemisphere to receive maximum sunlight, but may
be rotated slightly if doing so increases solar collection due to local conditions.
We recommend contacting Carmanah for a complimentary Solar Power Report (SPR). An SPR is an easy-to-read
report that describes how the MX system will perform based on local solar and weather conditions, site-specific
shading hazards and your requirements for the product's operating settings.
2Radio communication
All MX modules include 2.4 GHz Bluetooth radios that provide seamless communication between systems.
To increase reliability of radio communications, modules should be located and oriented so there is direct line of
sight between systems and so structures or sources of interference (large signs, overpasses, powerlines, etc.) are
as far away from the communication path as practical.
3Linking Systems
For MX systems to trigger one another (such as two crosswalk systems installed on either side of a street) they
must share network parameters through a process called linking. Linking two or more systems allows any trigger
activation to activate the flasher modules of all linked systems, and synchronizes their flashing. Because of their
different applications, different flasher module types have different linking behaviours:
•Systems with one or more RRFB modules will automatically link with other RRFB systems within range.
When needed, network settings can be adjusted in the MX Field App to isolate systems that should
operate independently.
•Systems with MX beacons and MX LED sign modules (that don't contain any RRFB modules) won't
automatically link with other systems, but can be linked when desired using the MX Field App.

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SYSTEM PLANNER
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2.5 Local Connectivity
MX modules communicate with other nearby modules both wirelessly and through the cables that connect them.
In the diagram below, System A represents MX modules on one pole, and System B represents a linked system
of MX modules on another pole:
Wired local communication between MX modules within a system occurs through the four-conductor inter-
module cables. Trigger activation signals are conveyed via the wired interface along with various other system-
level messages. Inter-module cables also provide flasher modules with power.
Wireless local communication takes place in MX modules in several different forms:
•MX modules within a system communicate with one another to convey system settings and module
status information. Flasher modules don't communicate wirelessly with other flasher modules.
•MX power modules from different systems communicate activation and flash synchronization signals.
•Using the MX Field App, an authorized user's mobile device communicates with an MX power module.
During firmware upgrades, flasher modules can also communicate with the mobile device.
The local communications radio within all MX modules uses 2.4 GHz DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum)
with an AES128 encrypted signal. Reliable wireless communication range typically exceeds 1,000 feet (305
meters) between power modules and 75 feet between power and flasher modules but is dependent on local
environmental conditions.
In rare cases, unforeseen site conditions can result in poor radio communications
between linked systems. A simple-to-install remote antenna kit is available to
improve local system-to-system radio communications when required. The remote
antenna kit includes a remote Bluetooth antenna, a mounting bracket and an
extension cable so that the antenna can be ideally positioned.
Wireless range between systems can be reduced when power modules' Bluetooth antennas
don't have clear line of sight. Though it depends on other environmental conditions, wireless
range typically exceeds 500ft even when Bluetooth antennas don't have clear line of sight.
Wireless range can also be reduced by the following:
•Interference from other wireless devices
•Objects between modules that block wireless signals
•Nearby objects that reflect wireless signals
•Heavy rain or snow
System B
System A
Power
module A
Flasher
module A1
Flasher
module A2
Power
module B
Flasher
module B1
Flasher
module B2
Wireless
Wired
Communication Type:
Remote
Antenna
Kit

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SYSTEM PLANNER
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Bluetooth antenna
Cellular & GPS antenna
2.6 Remote Connectivity
MX power modules include a cellular modem for remote connectivity to the MX Cloud software, where users can:
•Remotely monitor their systems
•Edit system default settings
•Manage user access
•Download data
MX power modules also contain a GPS module that provides precise device location. The location power module
antennas are shown below.
A three-year subscription to MX Lite is included with every system. Enhanced features are available through MX
Plus and MX Pro paid subscriptions. Learn more about Carmanah’s MX Cloud at carmanah.com.
System owners may need to apply MX Plus and MX Pro subscriptions to desired systems in MX
Cloud. See MX Cloud Guide for details.
FOR REMOTE ACCESS: Log into MX Cloud software –MXcloud.live

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SYSTEM PLANNER
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2.7 Typical Configurations
SYSTEM
POWER MODULES
MX 100
MX 200
MX 300
MX 400
FLASHER MODULES
MX RRFB
MODULE
MX BEACON
MODULE
MX LED SIGN
MODULE
MX CHEVRON
SIGN MODULE
TRIGGER KITS
PUSH BUTTON
RADAR KIT
PEDESTRIAN SENSOR

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SYSTEM PLANNER
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2.8 Mounting Options
Large Top of Pole
Small Top of Pole
Large Side of Pole
Small Side of Pole
Solar Panel Top of Pole
Solar Panel Side of Pole
Wood Post Top of Pole
Beacon Side of Pole
Beacon Top of Pole
Integrated Beacon Side of Pole
Not all mounting combinations shown.

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SYSTEM PLANNER
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3.0 Product Settings and Applications
3.1 Default Flasher Module Settings
In Auto mode, systems operate with default settings that are suitable for most applications. When changes to
these default settings are required, the MX Field App can be used to put the system into Manual mode and modify
the required settings. Manual mode settings changes always apply to all flasher modules in the system. Note that
not all settings can be adjusted when different flasher module types are used in one system.
Table 1: Auto Mode (Default) Flasher Module Operation
Flasher Module
Daytime Intensity
and ALC¹ setting
Night Intensity
Flash Pattern
Operation
Mode²
Duration
MX RRFB Module
SAE J595 or brighter
(MUTCD)
Fixed intensity, ALC
not available
30% of factory
default intensity
WW+S
Trigger/Standby
20 seconds
Yellow MX Beacon
Module
ITE (MUTCD)
ALC can reduce
intensity
30% of factory
default intensity
0.5s ON,
0.5s OFF
Always On
Red MX Beacon
Module
ITE (MUTCD)
ALC can reduce
intensity
100% of factory
default intensity
0.5s ON,
0.5s OFF
Always On
MX LED Sign
Module
Maximum Intensity
ALC can reduce
intensity
10% of factory
default intensity
0.25s ON,
0.75s OFF
Always On
MX Chevron Sign
Module
Maximum Intensity
ALC can reduce
intensity
10% of factory
default intensity
0.25s ON,
0.75s OFF
Always On
¹ Automatic Light Control (ALC), when enabled, allows solar-powered systems to reduce their beacon brightness in response to low battery states of charge, allowing the
battery to recover. When the solar power system is properly sized for its location, ALC will typically only intervene after a prolonged period of unusually poor weather, or in
cases of solar panel shading, improper connection of a battery, interconnect corrosion or other component failure. If by reducing the beacon intensity ALC cannot recover the
battery, the system will eventually reach Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) at which point the beacons are kept off to limit permanent battery damage. ALC is enabled by default
with all flasher modules except RRFBs, which aren't permitted to dim during the day per MUTCD requirements. If local standards or other requirements don't permit beacon
dimming, Manual mode can be used to set a fixed intensity for daytime and nighttime brightness. See MX Field App guide.
² The Trigger/Standby operation mode allows a connected push button or other peripheral device to activate the system. For RRFB modules, the operation mode is restricted
to Trigger/Standby only and cannot be changed. For other flasher modules the default is to flash continuously and can be changed to suit your application needs.

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3.2 Application 1 –R920-MX Crosswalk Systems
Once the systems are installed and energized, they will automatically:
•Connect to the MX Cloud software through the cellular modem
•Link to other R920-MX systems within wireless range by establishing a local wireless network
•Flash linked flasher modules at default settings (see Table 1) when activated by a connected trigger
Once a triggered activation has been made, such as from a push button or passive sensor, the flasher modules(s)
will commence flashing at the pre-set duration. Each subsequent activation will automatically restart the flash
duration.
If systems establish a link that causes undesired activations, use the MX Field App to isolate the
desired crosswalk(s) by creating a new link.
Beacon or LED sign equipped systems will require creating a new link to establish synchronized
flashing for these systems.
See the MX Field App Guide for more information and other adjustable settings.
Typical R920-MX Configurations
R920-MX with Single Light Bar and
Push Button (uni-directional)
R920-MX with Dual Light Bar and
Push Button (bi-directional)
R920-MX Advance Warning with
single Light Bar and no Push
Button (uni-directional)

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SYSTEM PLANNER
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Typical R920-MX (shown with MX 100)
5" Typical
41" Typical (Fits 30" Sign)
49" Typical (Fits 36" Sign)
66" Typical (Fits 48" Sign)
6" Typical
12" Typical
84" Typical
42" Typical
12'4" Typical with 30" Sign
13'0" Typical with 36" Sign
13'9" Typical with 48" Sign

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3.3 Application 2 –R829-MX School Zone Systems
Once the system is installed and energized, it will automatically:
•Connect to the MX Cloud software through the cellular modem
•Flash wired beacon modules continuously at default settings (see Table 1)
To set up a system for a school zone application, in the MX Field App:
•Change operation mode to Schedule
•Select or create a new schedule
•Upload the schedule to the system
Schedules are not shared between linked systems. Each system's schedule must be set
independently
See the MX Field App Guide for more information and other adjustable settings.

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3.4 Application 3 –R247-MX 24-Hour Beacon Systems
Once the system is installed and energized, it will automatically:
•Connect to the MX Cloud software through the cellular modem
•Flash wired beacon modules continuously at default settings (see Table 1)
See the MX Field App Guide for more information and other adjustable settings.

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3.5 Application 4 –R247-MX Radar-Triggered Warning Signs
Once the system is installed and energized, it will automatically:
•Connect to the MX Cloud software through the cellular modem
•Flash wired sign modules continuously at default settings (see Table 1)
To set up one or more systems for a radar-triggered warning sign application:
•If multiple systems are to flash together when activated by one or more radar modules, use the MX Field
App to link those systems
•Set operation mode to Trigger/Standby
•Ensure the radar has been programmed accordingly. Refer to the appropriate LEVEL 4 install guide for
more information
See the MX Field App Guide for more information and other adjustable settings.

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3.6 Application 5 –R247-MX Chevron Warning Signs
Once the system is installed and energized, it will automatically:
•Connect to the MX Cloud software through the cellular modem
•Flash wired sign modules continuously at default settings (see Table 1)
If multiple systems are to flash together, use the MX Field App to link those systems.
See the MX Field App Guide for more information and other adjustable settings.
If you wish to have the chevron warning sign(s) only come on at night, use the Dusk-to-Dawn
operation mode.