Dialight L-856 Troubleshooting guide

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 1of 31
QUICK START-UP GUIDE FOR
L-856 / L-864 High Intensity Strobe
With Infrared (IR)
D366A57CTRAC - Base Controller
D366A57270 - Power Supply & Flashhead

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 2of 31
Contents
Introduction .........................................................................................................................................3
Overview.............................................................................................................................................3
Warranty .............................................................................................................................................3
Monitor Board Connections and Calibration ........................................................................................ 4
Connection of the AC Marker Lights (L810’s) to the Side Light Board ............................................. 5
System Configuration Screens............................................................................................................6
The Startup Screen Displays........................................................................................................... 7
Main Configuration Screens ............................................................................................................ 8
Relay Latch Selection .......................................................................................................................14
Status Screen of Alarms ...................................................................................................................15
Manual Light Inspection Test (LIT) ....................................................................................................16
Event Logs........................................................................................................................................17
Setting the Real Time Clock..............................................................................................................17
Debug Screen...................................................................................................................................18
Tower Type A, B, C, G, or F.............................................................................................................. 18
Mode of Operation; Day, Twilight, Night............................................................................................ 18
Beacon Recognition Screen..............................................................................................................20
Base Controller Micro Status LED’s ..................................................................................................21
RESET Button: Located on the Main LCD Micro Board................................................................. 21
Flashhead to Power Supply Connections.......................................................................................... 22
Display and Events and Alarm Descriptions...................................................................................... 23
Lighting Inspection Test ....................................................................................................................28
Lighting Inspection Test for F and C structure types...................................................................... 30
Lighting Inspection Tests for G and B structure types ................................................................... 31
Revision History ................................................................................................................................31

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 3of 31
Introduction
This manual is for the calibration of the sidelight levels, configuration of the system and manual
lighting inspection.
Overview
The system has been designed to allow a single system to be used on FAA Type B, Type C, Type F
or Type G structures. The system gives the installer or site manager the ability to configure their
system by way of the base controller.
During the install, the minimum required setup is to set the total number of Beacons being addressed.
Failure to configure the system properly will result in “Config Errors” seen in the Alarm Log and S1
LED will be illuminated.
NOTE: Supplier of the system is responsible for providing wiring diagrams and connections.
During installing proper grounding techniques MUST be utilized. The system has built in
Lightning and RF immunity at each section, but for it to be effective proper ground connection
techniques must be used.
Warranty
Please visit www.dialight.com/resources/warranties for the latest warranty policy.

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 4of 31
Monitor Board Connections and Calibration
Refer to the installer supplied system drawings for proper wire size and terminations.
FAA Type L-810 Side light levels will be connected to TB2 inside the Base Controller.
If no side lights are being installed then the installer should still calibrate to zero out the calibration.
Re-calibration is required whenever a Side light is added or when a Side light is replaced.
WARNING: The use of other Side lights CANNOT be used with this system. If existing side lights are
not being replaced contact www.Dialight.com for compatibility.
NOTE: Calibration can be done once all lights are connected or done as levels are installed.
NOTE: Only calibrated side lights will be monitored.
Calibration
LEDs
Un-calibrate
Calibrate Reset
Button
Replacement P/N
D7503SLM

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 5of 31
Connection of the AC Marker Lights (L810’s) to the Side Light Board
WARNING: AC Voltage L810’s are to be used for connecting to this system.
NOTE: Dialight Part number is RTOCR2700x
1. Two tier of marker lights must be attached to TB2-L1 and L2 at a minimum for a standard
FAA Type F-2 system. Additional tiers may be connected to the consecutive ports L2, L3,
L4, L5 and L6 (as required).
2. Perform the Calibration scheme as follows:
A) Ensure Base Controller is ON and Home Screen is shown on LCD.
B) Un-calibrate the PCB by holding down the SW2 Un-calibrate button for
approximately 3 seconds located on the side light monitor board.
FAULT LEDs 1-6 will light up RED
C) Press the SW1 Reset button on the same monitor board.
D) During the 4 second wait, the CAL LED’s for each port (yellow) will light up,
and if a marker, or marker tier, is connected to one or more ports, each port
being utilized will have its OK LED (green) turn on, indicating a proper
connection. If no marker or tier is connected, all corresponding LED’s will
turn off.
E) Once the calibrated ports respective OK LED’s turn green and AC_OUT_1
LED (green) turns on (or if no markers are connected, all calibration lights
turn off and AC_OUT_1 LED (GREEN) turns on).
F) Press the Reset button located on the main LCD board.
Each calibration port has been designed to accurately power and monitor up to 4 L810’s
simultaneously. If no Side lights are connected or wired in-correctly all corresponding LED’s will turn
off. If for some un-foreseen reason additional L810’s are required contact www.Dialight.com.

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 6of 31
System Configuration Screens
After all wiring connections are completed checked for accuracy. Provide Input Voltage first to the
High Intensity Flashheads and Power Supplies, then power the Base Controller.
The Main LCD needs to be properly setup to ensure proper operation of the system. See pages 7
through 13 for setup procedure.
Home Screen displayed may be different – for reference purposes only
On the left side of the display will be the “UP” and “DWN” buttons.
On the right side of the display will be the “ENTR” and “CLR” buttons.

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 7of 31
The Startup Screen Displays
The next 2 displays occur whenever the system is powered up or the reset button is pressed.
The Site manager and Installer should take a note of this screen if any troubleshooting is required.
The screen will soon change to show the initialization of the system with a countdown of 15 flashes
as the system checks for connected fixtures.
In some cases, this screen will go back to the Main screen if synchronization was faulty and the
system will continue reboot until the issue is resolved.
If the screen stays at 15 and does not countdown, then no flashhead power supplies are being
detected. Check the RS485 communications cable for proper wiring. Verify connection at the Base
Controller, junction boxes, surge boards, and power supplies.
Dialight HI Base
REV. x Build: xx
Initial 15 Flashes
In Process

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 8of 31
Main Configuration Screens
The following screens allow the user or maintenance personnel to view and alter system
configuration by pressing the “ENTR” button. The configuration consists of thirteen screens that set
up the number of High Intensity Flashheads, enable AOL, number of sidelight levels and other
system features.
Display 1: Configuration Display
This screen requires the installer or site manager to “config” the system prior to completion of the
installation process. Each option displayed requires a selection of yes or no or a number to be
entered based on the structure requirements. By pressing the “ENTR” button the user enters into the
config setup.
Screen indicates the overall system configuration:
BC = Number of High Intensity Flashheads
AL = Number of Enabled AOL(s)
SL = Number of Sidelight Levels
EX = Enable External GPS for SYNC
Display 2: Setup number of High Intensity Flashheads
The installer must select a number from 1-18 by using the up/down arrows till the correct number of
Beacons is shown. Once the correct number is displayed by pressing the “ENTR” button the user will
enter the next screen.
If more Beacons are installed on the structure than the selected number, a “Config Event” will be
shown in the event log screen. AL1 and S7 will illuminate RED indicating the Base Controller
recorded more/less than the selected total Beacons.
Number of BC = 9
u/d =chg, enter=done
BC= xx, AL=x, SL=x, EX=N
‘enter’ to change

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 9of 31
Setup Display 3: Enable AOL
The factory default is 0 and can only be changed to 1, 2, or 3.
If the system does not require an AOL light, then the user can press “ENTR” to move to the next
option. An AOL can be added or disabled at any time during the operation of the system. The AOL
must be approved by Dialight if added after initial system installation for compatibility. The Base
Controller can accommodate up to three AOL units.
WARNING: For 1 AOL the translator Board rotary knob must be set to “0” zero to work properly.
For second AOL, set to “1”. For third AOL, set to “2”.
The translator Board rotary knob must be set accordingly for the added AOLs. See D1CW AOL User
Manual for additional details on translator board settings.
Setup Display 4: Number of Sidelight Monitor Boards (SD BDS)
The factory default for this is 1 and can only be changed to 2 or 3.
This is for the total number of Monitoring boards in the Base controller. The standard system comes
with one sidelight monitoring board.
For structures that don’t have sidelights, the SD BDS needs to remain at 1 since the Photocell is
connected to this board.
Once the selected number of monitoring boards is selected, press “ENTR” to move to the next option.
NOTE: The system recognizes the number of sidelight boards attached thus selecting more than
amount connected will cause AL1 and S7 to illuminate.
AOL present = 1
U/D =chg, enter=done
Number of SD BDS = 1
u/d =chg, enter=done

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 10 of 31
Setup Display 5: External GPS
The factory default setting for the config screen is NO.
By using the Up/Down buttons the installer can select “YES” or “NO” when an external sync pulse
(such as a GPS) is connected to the Base Controller, or another base controller is used for
synchronization between 2 systems.
Press “ENTR” to move to the next selection.
Setup Display 6: Transition Photocell Alarm
The factory default setting for the config screen is NO.
Selecting YES: The Base Controller will generate an alarm if the Photocell mode does not
change after 18 hours. The Base Controller will switch the system to Day mode. To clear the
alarm, the system requires a local reset or a forced operation change locally or remotely.
Selecting NO: After 18 hours of not transitioning the system will log an event in the log but the
system will continue to operate normally based on light conditions. No alarm via dry contact or
mod bus will be generated.
Use “UP” and “DWN” buttons to change from “NO” to “YES”, and then press “ENTR.”
External = NO
u/d =chg, enter=done
Trans PEC Alrm = YES
u/d=chg, enter=done
Trans PEC Alrm = NO
u/d=chg, enter=done

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 11 of 31
Setup Display 7: DAY Flash
The factory default setting for the config screen is ON.
This sets up the operation of the High Intensity flashheads for Day operation. Setting to ON, has the
system operate in White Day, White Twilight, and Red Night modes. Setting to OFF, the system will
operate only in Night mode (FAA Type A, Red Only).
Press “ENTR” to move to the next selection.
Setup Display 8: Night Flash Color
The factory default setting for the config screen is RED.
This screen allows the user to select the flashhead color at Night between Red or White. Some sites
do not require the use of Red at Night, so the system can operate White for Day, Twilight, and Night.
Check the FAA Determination for the site for proper Night color.
By pressing the “ENTR” button the user will enter the option screen that by using the up/down arrows
the desired flash at night can be selected. Once selected pressing the “ENTR” button the user will
return to the main screen and the selected flash will be saved.
Setup Display 9: Status on the sidelights
The factory default setting for the config screen is STEADY.
Depending on the FAA Determination, the sidelights will either be steady-state or flashing. When set
to flashing, the sidelight levels will flash in sync with the high intensity flashheads. If no sidelights are
installed within the system, the value will be set to Disable.
Night flash = White
u/d =chg, enter=done
Night flash = Red
u/d =chg, enter=done
DAY Flash = ON
u/d =chg, enter=done
L810 MODE= Steady
u/d =chg, enter=done

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 12 of 31
Setup Display 10: Number of Sidelight Tiers
The factory default setting for the config screen is 0.
Display allows for selecting the total number of Sidelight Tiers (levels) that are installed on the
structure. This will be set to 0 when no sidelights are installed. The maximum number allowed will be
six.
Use “UP” and “DWN” buttons to change the number of sidelight tiers. Press “ENTR” to move to the
next screen.
Setup Display 11: Total Number of Side lights
This will be the total number of sidelight fixtures installed. For systems without sidelights, set to zero.
If the system has four sidelight tiers with three fixtures at each tier, set the number to 12.
The maximum number allowed is 24 (6 tiers with 4 fixtures per tier).
Setup Display 12: Sidelight Flash Rate
The factory default setting for the config screen is 30.
This screen allows the setup of the flash rate of the sidelights. This will be set to 30 to match the flash
rate of the high intensity flashheads during Night mode.
Number of TIERS = x
u/d =chg, enter=done
Total NUM L810 = x
u/d =chg, enter=done
Flash per min= 30
u/d =chg, enter=done

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 13 of 31
Setup Display 13: Sidelight Calibration
This screen will allow for the automatic calibration of the installed sidelights. A manual calibration can
be done as noted in section “Monitor Board Calibration”. The typical setting will be zero. Manual
calibration is the preferred method.
After the configuration screens have been set to match the structure, the Base Controller requires a
reset by pushing the RESET button located in the center of the LCD board.
After the reset, the Base Controller LCD will reboot and initialize with the new settings. Once
completed, the Home Screen will appear.
Example Home Screen
RECAL L810 = NO
u/d =chg, enter=done
BC= 12, AL=1, SL=4, EX=N
‘enter’ to change

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 14 of 31
Relay Latch Selection
This screen allows the user to decide if the Dry contact relays are to be either latched or non-latched
type. At the HOME DISPLAY screen, press the DWN button to navigate to the Relay Latch screen.
Latched Relays: The relay will stay in its selected state upon an “Alarm” but will not clear till the
Alarm is resolved. Resetting the system by use of the RESET button on the main Micro is required.
Non-Latched Relay: The relay will clear the alarm based on if the system returns to normal
operation. It is possible to get numerous Alarm notices if there is an intermittent condition.
Each relay can have its own setting; thus all 7 relay alarms can be either set to latch or non-latch.
Factory default setting is non-latching for the 7 selections.
………
NOTE: AL8 (marked x) is the Photocell mode thus latching is not permissible.
Relays: ENTER to Chg
N N N N N N N x
Relay 1 Non-Latching
u/d =chg, enter=done
Relay 7 Non-Latching
u/d =chg, enter=done

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 15 of 31
Status Screen of Alarms
If an Alarm occurs, the Status screen will change from “NORMAL” to “ALARM” to indicate there is an
active Alarm.
From the HOME DISPLAY, press “ENTR” twice to get to the Alarm Status screen. Time stamps are
actual times that the alarm occurred. Refer to interpretation of the logs on page 25 of this guide for
further details.
When pressing the “ENTR” button, the last recorded alarm will be displayed first.
NOTE: Once the system is fully installed the Alarm logs MUST be cleared. It is recommended to clear
any alarms that may have been generated during the installation and setup of the system.
To clear the logs, press and hold the “CLR” button until the display states “Clearing alarms, wait…”.
Once completed, the alarm logs will be cleared.
The following display is an example showing once the ENTR button is pressed.
ACT= Active Alarm CLR= Cleared Alarm
To return to main displays press the “CLR” button.
Status: Normal
‘Enter’ to view Alrm
Status: Alarm
‘Enter’ to view Alrm
A OCT 26, 13 “Time”
XXX Alarm Message ACT
A OCT 26, 13 “Time”
XXX Alarm Message CLR

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 16 of 31
Manual Light Inspection Test (LIT)
The user can perform a manual lighting inspection to ensure proper operation of the system in its
entirety. Full details of the LIT can be found starting on page 28 of this guide.
NOTE: Discrete and Modbus alarms will be generated during this test, if NOC is actively
monitoring at the time of test, they will receive the generated alarms. Inform the NOC prior to
starting the manual lighting inspection (MLI). See section “Manual Lighting Inspection Test” for
more information and procedure to conduct the test.
Test will time out after 2 minutes of no user input during the manual test. The test relies on user
input to complete the necessary checks.
NOTE: A lighting inspection can be done remotely but the Auto Lighting Inspection is required.
The auto does not require covering of the photocell or pressing the selected mode during the
auto test.
System must be in Day mode with the photocell before starting the test.
Press “ENTR” to initiate Lighting Inspection.
Manual LI TEST
“enter” to Test

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 17 of 31
Event Logs
This screen allows the user to view all the Events that have occurred at a given time stamp. The
highest or last log will be shown first. By using the up/down keys the user can scroll back 127 entries
before the screen rolls back to the latest entry.
NOTE: If for some reason the highest entry cannot be found, press the “Clr” button to exit the log and
then press the “ENTR” key to return to highest log.
The following display is shown once the ENTR button is pressed
ACT: Active Alarm CLR: Cleared Alarm
To return to main displays press the “CLR” button
To clear the logs, press and hold the “CLR” button for about 5 seconds or till the display “Clear
alarms, wait ….”.
Setting the Real Time Clock
By selecting “ENTR” the user can set the actual time and date of the Base Controller. This is very
important for troubleshooting or reviewing the Event and Alarm files. The micro board has a battery
backup, so any loss of power to the Base Controller will not affect the date/time stamp. The time will
not change automatically for Daylight Savings.
Press ‘enter’ key
to view event log.
MMM, DD,YY “Time”
‘Enter’ to set Clock
E OCT 26, 22 “Time”
XXX Event Message ACT
MMM, DD, YY “Time”
UD=Chg E=NEXT C=EXIT
E OCT 26, 22 “Time”
XXX Event Message CLR

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 18 of 31
Debug Screen
This screen allows the user to enter into Debug mode for selecting an individually installed fixture.
By pressing the “ENTR” button the user can select the individual Beacon he wants to interrogate.
Using the up/down buttons the installer selects the beacon number they want to receive events and
alarms from. Once the number is selected, press the “CLR” button to go back to the main screens.
Scroll to the BC (Beacon list) screen and check that only the desired number is showing. Once
confirmed all the screens will act as normal but the event and alarm screen will only show results
from the Beacon selected.
NOTE: Once an individual Beacon is selected all the remaining powered Beacons will continue to
flash in their current mode but no events or alarms will be recorded.
WARNING:To go back to normal operation the user must go back in to the “Debug” screen and
select none and press “ENTR”. Once completed press the “CLR” button and return to the Beacon
screen and confirm all possible Beacons are on the list.
XX= is selected power supply/flashhead for debugging
Zero 0 = no power supply/flashhead is being debugged.
Tower Type A, B, C, G, or F
Only powered fixtures and fixtures connected to the RS485 will be detected. Additional power
supplies, AOL or Red / IR systems can be added at any time without changes to the Base Controller,
but the LCD must be programmed for additional AOL(s).
FAA Type G System with No Sidelights or AOL
Tower Style: X
Beacon, AOL, RED,
Press ‘enter’ Key
to debug BC
BC number to debug
U/D, 0 = None XX
Tower Style: G
Beacon, , RED,

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 19 of 31
Mode of Operation; Day, Twilight, Night
This screen allows the user to manually change the mode of the system. System will normally change
modes based off the ambient conditions seen by the photocell. There are no options to preprogram
selected times for Day, Twilight and Night.
Temperature (T):This displays the temperature inside the controller, there no events or alarms
reported for temperature.
Active: Options are WHT or Red (This is based on the system configured and installed)
This screen is also used to force mode changes.
Using the TEST buttons on the Main micro marked WHITE and RED
will force the system to change modes. This allows for visual
indication that all the lights are changing modes.
This by-passes the photocell operation and can be used when the
photocell is not connected. Once the system is forced, it will remain
in that set mode until reset. User must press “CLR” to return system
to normal operation.
NOTE: S3 and S4 on the LCD board will begin to flash when forced
is selected.
Force Modes for Red/White with IR Structures
Active mode Pressing White Pressing RED
Day Mode Active
Forces Twilight
Forces Red/IR at night
Twilight Mode
Forces Day White
Forces RED/IR at Night
Red Night/IR Mode
Forces Day White
Stays RED/IR
Force Modes for White Only Structures
Active mode Pressing White Pressing RED
Day Mode Active
Forces Twilight
Forces White at night
Twilight Mode
Forces Night White
Forces White at Night
White Night Mode
Forces Day White
Stays RED/IR
MODE: NIGHT T=+27c
ACTIVE: RED
Tower flashing DAY
‘enter’ to restore

Document: 9100-127-2908-99
Revision C
Release Date: 6/20/2023
1501 Route 34 South, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] www.dialight.com
Page 20 of 31
Beacon Recognition Screen
This screen shows all the Beacons currently being addressed by the Base Controller.
Each power supply must have its own unique address set for the Base Controller to recognize it. The
minimum number is 1 and the maximum is 18. It is required that sequential numbering is used. This
will be helpful later when locating the power supplies.
Refer to the installation manual for power supply address settings.
NOTE: It is suggested that level 1 (bottom of tower) be 1-3 and level 2 is 4-6 and so on up the tower.
Example System with six L-865/864 Flashheads
If during initial power up an address is blank, the base controller does not recognize any power
supplies/flashheads. Check all RS485 connections and power supply addresses.
BC:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,
12,13,14,15,16,17,18
BC:123456 , , ,
, , , , , ,