Chino AL3000 SERIES User manual

Please make sure that this manual is handed to the final user of the instrument.
INST.№ INE-272K
COMMUNICATION
INTERFACES
A
L3000/AH3000 SERIES
HYBRID RECORDER
Retain this manual apart from the
instrument and in an easily accessible.

Contents
INTRODUCTION 1
1 GENERAL 2
1.1 RS-232C Communications Interface
1.2 RS-422A/485 Communications Interface
2COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOL 2
2.1 Communications Protocol and Mode Switching
3 COMMUNICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS 3
4 CHECK AND SETTING OF COMMUNICATIONS PARAMETERS 4
4.1 Check of Communications Parameters
4.2 Programming (Changing) Communications Parameters
5 CONNECTIONS 6
5.1 Connection Precautions
5.2 Communications Cables
5.3 RS-232C Connections
5.4 RS-422A/485 Connections
6MODBUS PROTOCOL 12
6.1 Message Transmission Modes
6.2 Data Time Interval
6.3 Message Configuration
6.4 Creating a Message
6.5 Function Code
6.6 Processing in Abnormal Status
6.7 Title Printing Function
6.8 Data Communication Input
6.9 Table of Reference
7PRIVATE PROTOCOL 62
7.1 Basics of the Communications Sequence
7.2 Control Character Code
7.3 Data Link
7.4 Data Transmission and Reception
7.5 Checksums
8 HARDWARE CHECK FOR COMMUNICATIONS FUNCTION 68
8.1 Connection
8.2 Hardware Check Procedure
9 HOW TO CHANGE THE COMMUNICATIONS PORT 70
10
SAMPLE PROGRAM (For Private Protocol) 71
10.1 Sample Program for RS-232C Communications Interface
10．2 Sample Program for RS-422A /485 Communications Interface

－1－
INTRODUCTION
This instruction manual describes the specifications and operation of three built-in communications
interfaces (RS-232C, RS-422, and RS-485) of the AL3000/AH3000 series Hybrid Recorders.
The explanation for these interfaces are partly the same. However, their differences are explained
separately in [ In case of RS-232C] and [In case of RS-422A and RS-485]. Please read the required part
carefully. Be sure to confirm the model code of the AL3000/AH3000 recorders you purchased as this
determines the required communications interface type.
AL3000 Series Recorders
AL3
AH3000 Series Recorders
AH3
Communications interface
N: None
A: RS-422C
S: RS-485
R: RS-232C
E: Ethernet
Communications interface
N: None
A: RS-422A
S: RS-485
R: RS-232C
E: Ethernet
1. Other Instruction Manual to be consulted.
To understand the contents of this instruction, it is necessary to fully understand the operations and
specifications of the AL3000/AH3000 series recorders.
This instruction manual is for the communications interface only. For the running and operation, please
refer to the following instruction manuals:
1. AL3000 series Hybrid Recorders (Manual No. INE-270)
2. AH3000 series Hybrid Recorder (Manual No. INE-271)
3. AL3000 series (Pen Type) AH3000 series (Pen Type) Hybrid Recorders (Manual No. INE-308)
4. SC8-10 Line Converter (Manual No. INE-39)
※Also refer to the instruction manual of the computer being used.
2.Caution Display
This manual contains explanation of precautions. Observe these precautions when operating and handling
the communications interfaces, otherwise the instrument maybe damaged, resulting in a deterioration in its
performance, or operation failures may also occur.
(1) The right is reserved to change the contents of this manual at any time
without notice.
(2) The contents of this manual have been prepared professionally.
However, if you have any questions, or notice of error or an omission of
descriptions found on this manual, please contact your nearest CHINO
sales agent.
(3) CHINO Corporation is not responsible for any results influenced by the
operation of this communications interface, irrespective of item (2)
above.
Caution

－2－
1GENERAL
There are three types of communication interfaces (RS-232C, RS-422A and RS-485) available between
the AL3000/AH3000 recorders and personal computers (PCs).
PCs can be used to receive measured data from the AL3000/AH3000 recorders, program different
parameters and issue control commands. The number of AL3000/AH3000 recorders that are connectable
to a PC is one for the RS-232C and up to 31 for the RS-422A/485.
1.1 RS-232C Communications Interface
The RS-232C is the data communications standard being set and issued by EIA (Electronic Industries
Association) in the USA and JIS C 6361 in Japan.
This standard is a basic interface between MODEM and connected data terminal units, and specifies
electrical and mechanical specifications only. Most of the RS-232C communications interface is being used
for personal computers and industrial instruments such as AL3000/AH3000 recorders do not completely
conform to this standard at present, and have different signal wire numbers, connectors to those specified in
the standard. Also, since this standard does not specify any software parts, or so-called [data transmission
procedures], units having the RS-232C communications interface can not be interconnected with each
other unconditionally. With these reasons, users must survey and check the specifications and transmission
procedures in advance of units being connected. However, if the counter unit is for a personal computers
or similar device which can optionally program the specifications, then all the units can be combined by
having proper programs prepared by a program designer.
1.2 RS-422A/485 Communications Interface
The RS-422A and RS-485 communications interface can communicate with multiple AL3000/AH3000
recorders (up to 31 sets) in parallel by signals conforming to RS-422A and RS-485.
There are few personal computers which provide RS-422A or RS-485 communications interface. However,
since these communications interfaces are characterized with serial communications, these are easily
connectable to the personal computer having the RS-232C communications interface by using an RS-422A
or RS-485 ⇔RS-232C signal converting unit. A line converter (Model SC8-10: sold separately) is available
for RS-422A and RS-485 ⇔RS-232C signal conversion at CHINO.
Regarding the difference between RS-422A and RS-485 communications interfaces, the RS-422A needs
four signal cables, while RS-485 needs only two signal cables.
2COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOL
AL3000/AH3000 recorders have the following two communications protocols which can be selected by key
programming.
(1) MODBUS Protocol (MODBUS is the registered trademark of Schneider Automation Inc.)
MODBUS Protocol has RTU mode and ASCII mode which can be selected by key programming.
MODBUS protocol provides the function of transmitting measured data as well as the programming and
operating function.
(2) Private Protocol
This protocol has only the function of transmitting measured data. It is compatible with our products AL56*,
AL.66*, AH5**, AH6** and AH7** recorders.

－3－
2.1 Communications Protocol and Mode Switching
(Note) When switched from ASCII mode to RTU mode, the character configuration is forcibly changed to "8 bits,
parity disabled, stop bit 1".
3COMMUNICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS
* Half-duplex (polling selecting system)
* Protocol: MODBUS protocol/Private protocol
* Transmission speed: 19200, 9600, 4800, 2400, 1200 bps selectable (depending on protocol)
* Start bit: 1 bit
* Data length: 7 bits/8 bits selectable
* Parity bit: Even / Odd / Disabled selectable
* Stop bit: 1 bit / 2 bits selectable
* Transmission code : Binary / ASCII (depending on protocol)
* Error check: Depending on protocol
* External units given priority for communications
* Data transmission procedure: None
* Signals in use: Transmitted and received data only (no control signal in use)
Operation Display
MODBUS
protocol
selected?
Y
ES
NO
PROTOCOL PRIVATE
COMMODE ASCII
IFPORT COM
3 sec. or more, and
＋
(
Note
)
PROTOCOL MODBUS
COMMODE RTU

－4－
4 CHECK AND SETTING OF COMMUNICATIONS PARAMETERS
4.1 Check of Communications Parameters
By pressing + keys for more than 3 sec. under the operation display condition, the
[Communications parameters] check display appears and then program the parameters.
Checking flow chart (Displays shown are default values.)
Communications type
RS-232C, RS-422A or RS-485
Address [instrument number] * 1
(01 to 31 required for RS-422A/485 only.)
Transmission speed * 2
(1200, 2400, 4800, 9600,19200bps)
Character formation * 3
Code
Data length Parity check
Stop bit
7E1 1
7E2 Even 2
701 1
702
7 bits
Odd 2
8N1 1
8N2 Non 2
8E1 1
8E2 Even 2
801 1
802
8 bits
Odd 2
Note) RTU Mode : 8 bits only
Check sum enabled/disabled *4
ON: (enabled) OFF :(disabled).
+
Operation Display
The display of parameters is different by the communications type.
*1: When Private Protocol is selected, the programmable range of address is 01 to 99. The address i
s
automatically programmed to “01” upon switching from Private to MODBUS protocol. There is n
o
change in communications address when changing from MODBUS to Private Protocol.
*2: A selectable bit rate depends on the protocol in use. Bit rate is automatically changed to “9600 bps
”
upon changing from Private to MODBUS protocol. No change in bit rate when changing from
MODBUS to Private Protocol.
*3: Character code is automatically changed to "8N1 (8 bits, parity disabled, stop bit 1)” upon changing
from Private to MODBUS protocol. No change in character code when changing from MODBUS t
o
Private protocol.
*4 : Not displayed when MODBUS protocol is selected.
Not displayed on RS-232C
ADDRESS
BIT RATE
CHARACTER 8N1
For more than 2 sec
CHECK SUM ON
COMMUNI RS-422
A
For more
than 3 sec.

－5－
4.2 Programming (Changing) Communications Parameters
This procedure is used to match the communications
protocols between PCs and AL3000/AH3000 recorders or
program communications addresses (instrument Nos.).
Programming Flow Chart (Displays shown are default values.)
Item Parameters
Protocol MODBUS
Communications Address
01
Transmission Speed
9600bps
Character length
8 bits
Parity Non
Communication s
Character
Stop bit 1 bit
Reference
Default Communications
Parameters
＋
Operation Displa
y
STORE
Programming transmission speed
*2
Select the transmission speed by
key.
(1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 or 19,200)
STORE
STORE
Programming check sum *4
Select ON (enabled) or OFF (disabled
)
by key.
STORE
COMMUNI RS-422A
For shifting the cursor
Programming can b
e
executed when curso
r
a
pp
ears.
BIT RATE
CHARACTER 8N1
CHECK SUM ON
Confirmation of interface type
One of RS-232C/422A/485 on display.
(The interface type specified on ordering
is displayed.)
Starts programming.
For more
than 3 sec.
For more than 2 sec.
The display of parameters is different for each communications type.
Programming communications address
*1
Move cursor and program instrument No.
by to keys.
(Programming range between 01-31)
Not displayed on RS-323C
Programming communications character
*3
Select the code by key.
(*1 to *4: Refer to Para.4.1)

－6－
5CONNECTIONS
5.1 Connection Precautions
5.1.1 Communication Terminals
Disposition of terminals are different with each communications interface.
5.1.2 Total extension of RS-422A/485 communications cable is up to 1.2km.
The wiring interval between each instrument is option, but the total extension distance of cable is within
1.2km.
(Line converter the final end of AL3000/AH3000 recorders)
5.1.3 Noise preventive terminals
Separate the communications cable from drive power cables and other communications cable more than
50cm so as not to be affected by noises.
5.1.4 Crimp style terminals
Falling off of connections is one of communications
failures. Terminate the communications cable with an
[O] or [Y] type crimp style terminal having an
insulation sleeve. (The terminal screws of
AL3000/AH3000 recorders and line converters are
M3.5mm.)
5.1.5 Mount an insulation resistor
For using the RS-422A or RS-485 communications interface, mount a 100 Ωresistor to the
AL3000/AH3000 recorder connected at the final end. (For details, see Section 5.4)
[A general metal film resistor can be used. The resistor (sold separately) is available at CHINO.]
5.1.6 Number of AL3000/AH3000 recorders connectable
For RS-232C: 1 set
For RS-422A or RS-485: Up to 31 sets
Total extension of cable: Within 1.2km
Line converter AL3000/AH3000 recorders
RDA
SDA SDB
RS-422A Terminals
RS-232C Terminals
SD RD SG
RS-485 Terminals
SA
Insulation sleeves
O type crimp terminal
3.7 more
8 or less
3.7 more
8 or less
Y type crimp terminal
Insulation sleeves
(mm)
RS-422A
RDB SG
RS-232C RS-485
SB SG

－7－
5.2 Communications Cables
Make ready cables dedicated to communications before performing connection. Dedicated communications
cables (sold separately) are available at CHINO.
5.2.1 Communications cables for RS-232SC
(1) Connection between PC (with 9 pin-terminal) and AL3000/AH3000 recorder and between PC (with 9
pin-terminal) and line converter.
Cable 9-pin connector RS-232C cable with O-shaped crimp terminal
Style
Internal wiring
Type code
RZ-CRS6
Cable length of 1 to 15 m (To be specified)
(2) Connection between PC (with 25 pin-terminal) and AL3000/AH3000 recorder and between PC(with 25
pin-terminal) and line converter.
Cable 25-pin connector RS-232C cable with O-shaped crimp terminal
Style
Internal wiring
Type code
RZ-CRS2□□
Cable length of 1 to 15 m (To be specified)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
RD
SD
SG
25-pinconnector
to PC
To AL3000/AH3000 recorder
or line converter
In case of NEC's PC98 series(except NX)
SD
RD
SG
SD
RD
SG
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
RS-232C cable (max. length of 15 m)
RD
SD
SG
9-pin connector
to PC
To AL3000/AH3000
recorder or line converter
RS-232C cable
(
max. len
g
th of 15 m
)

－8－
5.2.2 Communications cables for RS-422A
(1) Connection between line converter and AL3000/AH3000 recorder
Cable
O-shaped crimp terminal RS-422A cable with O-shaped crimp terminal (for line converter)
Style
The cable consists of a pair of twisted dual-core CVVS wires with SG (signal
grounding) wire at both ends. Cut off the SG wire on the line converter side because
this has no SG terminal.
Internal wiring
Type code
RZ-CRA2
Cable length of 1 to 99 m (To be specified)
(2) Connection between AL3000/AH3000 recorder and AL3000/AH3000 recorder
Cable
O-shaped crimp terminal RS-422A cable with O-shaped crimp terminal (for parallel connection)
Style
The cable consists of a pair of twisted dual-core CVVS wires with SG (signal
grounding) wire at both ends.
Internal wiring
Type code
RZ-CRA1
Cable length of 1 to 99 m (To be specified)
RDA
RDA
RDB
RDB
SDA
SDA
SDB
SDB
SG SG
To line converter To AL3000/AH3000 recorder
RDA RDA
RDB RDB
SDA SDA
SDB SDB
SG SG
To AL3000/AH3000 recorde
r
To AL3000/AH3000 recorder
RDB
RD
A
SD
A
SD
B
SG
RDB
RDA
SDA
SDB
SG
RD
B
RD
A
SD
A
SDB
SG
RDB
RDA
SDA
SDB
SG