EKO MC-11 User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
MC-11
4-20mA Signal Converte
r
for Pyranometers

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 1
1. Index
1. Index 1
2. Important User Information 2
2-1. Contact Information 2
2-2. Warranty and Liability 2
2-3. About Instruction Manual 3
2-4. Environment 3
2-5. CE Declaration 4
3. Safety Information 5
3-1. WARNING/CAUTION 5
4. Introduction 6
4-1. Main Functions 6
4-2. Package Contents 7
5. Getting Started 8
5-1. Parts Name 8
5-2. Setup 9
5-3. Measurement 11
6. Troubleshooting 12
6-1. Troubleshooting 12
7. Specification 13
7-1. Transducer Specification 13
7-2. Dimensions 14
7-3. Accessories List 15
APPENDIX 16
A-1. Optional Items 16

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 2
2. Important User Information
Thank you for using EKO Products
Make sure to read this instruction manual thoroughly and to understand the contents before starting to operate the
instrument. Keep this manual at safe and handy place for whenever it is needed.
For any questions, please contact us at one of the EKO offices given below:
2-1. Contact Information
EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD.
Asia, Oceania Region
www.eko.co.jp
[email protected]
EKO INSTRUMENTS Co., Ltd.
1-21-8 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku
Tokyo, 151-0072 Japan
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Europe, Middle East, Africa, South America Region
www.eko-eu.com
[email protected]
EKO INSTRUMENTS Europe B.V.
Lulofsstraat 55, Unit 32,
2521 AL, Den Haag, The Netherlands
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
North America Region
www.eko-usa.com
[email protected]
EKO INSTRUMENTS USA Inc.
95 South Market Street, Suite 300
San Jose, CA 95113 USA
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
2-2. Warranty and Liability
For warranty terms and conditions, contact EKO or your distributor for further details.
EKO guarantees that the product delivered to customer has been verified, checked and tested to ensure that
the product meets the appropriate specifications. The product warranty is valid only if the product has been
installed and used according to the directives provided in this instruction manual.
In case of any manufacturing defect, the product will be repaired or replaced under warranty. However, the
warranty does not apply if:
Any modification or repair was done by any person or organization other than EKO service
personnel.
The damage or defect is caused by not respecting the instructions of use as given on the product
brochure or the instruction manual.

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 3
2-3. About Instruction Manual
Copy Rights Reserved by EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. Making copies of whole or parts of this
document without permission from EKO is prohibited.
This manual was issued: 2017/05/23
Version Number: 5
2-4. Environment
1. WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC
(Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment)
This product is not subjected to WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC however it should not be mixed with general
household waste. For proper treatment, recovery and recycling, please take this product(s) to designated
collection points.
Disposing of this product correctly will help save valuable resources and prevent any potential negative
effects on human health and the environment, which could otherwise arise from inappropriate waste
handling.
2. RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC
EKO Instruments has completed a comprehensive evaluation of its product range to ensure compliance with
RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC regarding maximum concentration values for substances. As a result all products
are manufactured using raw materials that do not contain any of the restricted substances referred to in the
RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC at concentration levels in excess of those permitted under the RoHS Directive
2002/95/EC, or up to levels allowed in excess of these concentrations by the Annex to the RoHS Directive
2002/95/EC.

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 4
2-5. CE Declaration
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
We: EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD
1-21-8 Hatagaya Shibuya-ku,
Tokyo 151-0072 JAPAN
Declare under our sole responsibility that the product:
Product Name: 4 to 20mA Signal Converter
Model No.: MC-11
To which this declaration relates is in conformity with the following harmonized
standards of other normative documents:
Harmonized standards:
EN 61326-1:2013 Class A (Emission)
EN 61326-1:2013 (Immunity)
Test was done in this condition which are signal cable length is under 3m and used the
metal box.
Following the provisions of the directive:
EMC-directive: 2004/108/EC
Date: July. 1, 2015
Position of Authorized Signatory: Deputy General Manager of Quality Assurance Dept.
Name of Authorized Signatory: Shuji Yoshida
Signature of Authorized Signatory:

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 5
3. Safety Information
EKO Products are designed and manufactured with consideration for safety; however, please make
sure to read and understand this instruction manual thoroughly to be able to operate the instrument
safely in the correct manner.
WARNING
CAUTION
Attention to user; pay attention to the instructions given on the
instruction manual with this sign.
3-1. WARNING/CAUTION
1. Setup
Install MC-11 in a dry place (where MC-11 will not get wet or soaked in water).
Do not install MC-11 in direct sun light.
Use MC-11 with grounding connection.
Although this product is tested to meet EMC Directive compliance requirements, it may not fully
satisfy its primary specification/performance when using this product near following locations
where strong electromagnetic wave is generated. Please pay attention to the installation
environment.
Outdoor: High voltage power line, power receiver/distribution facility, etc.
Indoor: Large-size chiller, large rotation device, microwave, etc.
2. Power Supply
Always check the voltage and AC/DC type for the specified supply power before connecting the
MC-11. If wrong type of power supply is connected, it may cause MC-11 malfunction and lead to
accidents.
Use with fuse around 0.5A connected in series on the power supply cable. Depending on the
power supply connected, large current may flow when the internal malfunction occur, and may lead
to generating heat and fire.

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 6
4. Introduction
4-1. Main Functions
Pyranometer Signal Converter MC-11 is a compact signal converter which converts the voltage signal output
(mV) from sensors like pyranometers into current loop signal output (mA). The output range of the current
loop is between 4 to 20mA; 4mA is equivalent to 0W/m2, 20mA is equivalent to 1,600W/m2of solar irradiance.
(This setting can be changed using the optional signal converter configuration cable and Configurator
Software.)
By converting the output into current loop signal, not only it makes easier to connect the pyranometers to PV
monitoring devices, it also reduce impacts from noise and signal level decrease when transmitting in a long
distance.
By using the signal converter configuration cable (optional) and the Configurator Software (optional), the
measurement configuration for the signal converter can be changed.
With IP65 signal converter box (optional), it can be installed outdoor.

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 7
4-2. Package Contents
Check the package contents first; if any missing item or damage is noticed, please contact EKO immediately.
Table 4-1 Package Contents
Standard Items Qty. Remarks
4-20mA Signal Converter 1 unit
L-Shaped Tab Terminals (Male) 4 pcs.
Plug-Type Crimping Terminals 4 pcs.
Round-Type Grounding Terminal 1 pc.
Double-Sems Screw for Grounding
Terminal 1pc.
Double-Sems Screws for Installation 2pcs
Inspection Report 1
Instruction Manual -- Not included in the package.
Please download from EKO Website

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 8
5. Getting Started
5-1. Parts Name
Each part name and its main functions are described below.
Table 5-1. Parts Name and Terminal Numbers
Parts Name Terminal Numbers
1 Pyranometer Voltage Signal Input Terminal ( - ) 1
2 Pyranometer Voltage Signal Input Terminal ( + ) 2
3 NTC Thermistor Connection Terminal 3
4 NTC Thermistor Connection Terminal 4
5 4-20mA Output & Power Supply Input Terminal ( - ) 5
6 4-20mA Output & Power Supply Input Terminal ( + ) 6
7 Grounding Terminal N/A
Figure 5-1. Parts Name
2
1
65 7
3 4

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 9
5-2. Setup
1. Installation
1) Install MC-11 in dry location (where it will not get wet or get soaked in water).
2) Keep MC-11 away from direct sunlight.
3) When fixing the MC-11 to mounting plate, use provided Double-Sems Screws for installation. Maximum
torque for fastening the MC-11 to mounting is 0.4N/m.
NOTE: MC-11 is paired with the pyranometer which is purchased together; when connecting with the
pyranometer, make sure to connect with the right pyranometer. Use the pyranometer with same serial
number stated on the MC-11 inspection report.
NOTE: The recommended maximum length of 4-20mA signal cable is 300m when using DC24V power
supply and AWG25 (0.2sq) cable.
2. Wiring
1) Attach the provided L-shaped tab terminal (male) to the terminal numbers 1, 2, 5, and 6.
2) Crimp and connect the plug-type crimping terminal (female) to input and output cable ends. (Please use
crimping tool that is for crimping terminal with insulating coating applicable for 1.25mm2).
3) Connect the L-shaped tab terminal (male) attached to the MC-11 and plug-type crimping terminal
(female).
4) There are 2 ways to connect with the peripheral devices:
・ Using Current Meter: As shown on Figure 5-2, insert the current meter directly to the 4-20mA
current loop circuit and measure its value. A voltage drop occurs with the internal resistance of the
ammeter. Check the internal resistance of the ammeter and select the power supply voltage taking
voltage drop into account. The recommended power supply voltage is 24V.
・ Using Voltmeter: As shown on Figure 5-3, insert shunt resistance to the 4-20mA current loop circuit
and measure the voltage at both ends of resistance. When 250Ωshunt resistance value for
example is inserted, 4-20mA is converted into 1-5V. Prepare shunt resistance according to the
measurement range of voltmeter to be used. Moreover, voltage decreases by inserting shunt
resistance; please keep this in mind when selecting power supply voltage. The recommended
power supply voltage is 24V.
5) Connect the shield cable from Pyranometer to grounding terminal on MC-11. Also ground the MC-11
grounding terminal. When connecting the cable to the grounding terminal, use provided round terminal
for grounding terminal and double-sems screw for grounding terminal.
6) Prepare a fuse with rated current 0.5A. Using the fuse holder specified for this fuse, connect in series to
the power supply. Depending on the connecting power supply, there are risks for internal malfunction
and generating heat and fire when large amount of current flows
7) To use the temperature compensation function using a pyranometer with output wire for NTC Thermistor,
connect this output wire to terminal numbers 3 and 4.
(To use the temperature compensation function, optional converter configuration cable and Configurator
Software are required)
(44031 (Measurement Specialties Inc.) Only 10kΩNTC thermistor can be connected.)

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 10

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 11
5-3. Measurement
1. Calculation of Solar Irradiance from Current Output
To determine the solar irradiance [W/m2], apply the current loop signal [mA] from the Signal Converter or
voltage value measured at both side of shunt resistance [V] to the following conversion formula:
Calculation Method for Solar Irradiance [W/m2]
When using measuring device with current input (the wiring connection case of Figure 5-2):
To convert the measured current loop signal (4-20mA) into solar irradiance, use following formula:
Where:
Ir = Solar Irradiance [W/m2]
Iout = Measured Current Loop Signal [mA]
Irmax = Maximum Irradiance Setting Value* (Default value: 1,600W/m2)
*The maximum irradiance setting value can be changed using optional converter configuration cable
and Configurator Software.
When using measuring device with voltage input (Shunt resistance is required( Figure 5-3):
To convert the measured voltage at both sides of shunt resistance into solar irradiance, use following formula:
Where:
Ir = Solar Irradiance [W/m2]
V = Measured Voltage [V]
R = Shunt Resistance Value [Ω]
Irmax = Maximum Irradiance Setting Value* (Default value: 1,600W/m2)
*The maximum irradiance setting value can be changed using optional converter configuration cable
and Configurator Software.
]/[
][4][20 ][4][
]/[ max ㎡㎡ WIr
mAmA mAmAI
WIr out 



]/[
][4][20
][4000,1
][ ][
][W/ max ㎡
Ω
㎡WIr
mAmA
mA
RVV
Ir 




EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 12
6. Troubleshooting
6-1. Troubleshooting
Check the following items in case of trouble with the instrument. If any questions should remain, contact
EKO for further technical support.
Table 6-1. Troubleshooting
Failure Action
There is no output from the signal
converter.
Check the output cable connection, and make sure there are no
disconnections and the pyranometer is surely connected.
Check to make sure that appropriate power supply voltage is supplied.
Output value from the signal
converter is not appropriate.
Check the pyranometer serial number; make sure it is same as the serial
number stated on the inspection report.
There is output more than 20mA
from the signal converter.
If the irradiance is greater than the set value of maximum irradiance, it will
be output larger than 20 mA (maximum 20.5 mA). )
There is output less than 4mA
from the signal converter.
Check wither the + and – wirings are connected in reverse.
NOTE: This phenomenon is not an abnormal condition; there are cases
that less than 4mA output show due to pyranometer zero-offset effects.
(minimum 3.8 mA)
Signal converter output is
unstable.
Check for any loose wire/cable connections.
Confirm that the pyranometer is connected.

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 13
7. Specification
7-1. Transducer Specification
Table 7-1. Transducer Specification
Characteristics Details
Input Range DC 0 to 100mV
Output DC 4 to 20mA
Resolution <5μV
Input Impedance > 10MΩ
Temperature Response (-20～50℃) < 0.2%
Accuracy Assured Operating Temperature
Range*1-20 to +50℃
Operating Temperature Range -40 to +80℃
Operating Humidity Range ≦95RH% (no condensation)
Response Time 1sec. (99% Output)
Non-Linearity < 0.1% (0 to 100mV)
Zero Offset <5μV (Output offset value when 0mV is input)
Power Supply Voltage Conversion Error <0.05% (When supply voltage changed from 12V to 24V)
Power Supply*2*3DC 12 to 24 V ±10%
Power Consumption 0.08 to 0.75W
Dimension φ45 × 23mm
Weight 0.03kg
*1 When the Signal Converter is used in ambient temperature over the Accuracy Assured Operating
Temperature Range, the measurement error may increase.
*2 The recommended power supply voltage is 24V.
*3 The maximum resistance value is 500Ωwhen the power supply voltage is DC 24V.

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 14
7-2. Dimensions
Unit in mm
Figure 7-1. Dimensions

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 15
7-3. Accessories List
Table 7-2. Accessories List
Option Items Remarks
Signal Converter Configurator Cable Cable Length: 1m
Signal Converter Configurator Software Program Name: EKO Sense Configurator
Signal Converter Box 1 Box for 1 unit signal converter (Includes: 4pcs M4 screws, 4pcs
Mounting Feet, 3pcs Blind Bar)
Signal Converter Box 2 Box for 2 units of signal converter (Includes: 4pcs M4 screws,
4pcs Mounting Feet, 4pcs Blind Bar)

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 16
APPENDIX
A-1. Optional Items
1. Signal Converter Configurator Cable
A cable for the Signal Converter configuration; this cable and the Signal Converter Configurator Software are
required for configuration. The configuration procedure is explained in A-1, [2. Configurator Software]
section
TableA-1. Package Content
Items Qty. Remarks
Signal Converter Configuration Cable 1 Cable Length: 1m
1) Specification
Table A-2. Specification for Signal Converter Cable
Items Specifications
Applicable OS Microsoft ® Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1
Interface USB2.0
Weight 0.15 kg
Cable Length 1.0m
2. Signal Converter Configurator Software
Configurator Software is used for changing each configuration on the Signal Converter and easy data review.
1) Specification
Table A-3. Specification for Configurator Software
Items Specifications
Name of Program EKO Sense Configurator
Applicable OS Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1
License No limitation
Operation
Environment
CPU: Applicable OS is operational
Memory: Applicable OS is operational
Hard Disk Capacity: More than 100MB
Display Resolution: More than 800x600

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 17
2) Installation Procedure
Follow below procedure to install the Signal Converter Configurator Software:
a. Download the latest version of Signal Converter Configurator Software from the EKO Website.
MC-11 product page: http://eko-eu.com/
b. When the installer file is executed, following Welcome Window appears. Click [Next] button
(Depending on the operating system, message for installation authorization may appear.)
c. Assign the folder for installation, and click [Next] button.
Figure A-1. Welcome Window
Figure A-2. Choose Destination Location Window

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 18
d. In the following window, decide whether to add short cut for this software to Windows Start Menu
and on Desktop. As default setting, the shortcuts are added to the Start Menu and Desktop.
Remove the checks from the checkboxes as necessary, then click [Next] button.
e. In the following window, click [Next] button to start the files required for the software to be copied to
your computer
Figure A-3. Set Program Shortcuts Window
Figure A-4. Confirm Setup Settings Window

EKO INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4-20mA Signal Converter MC-11 Instruction Manual Ver.5 Pg. 19
f. When all the files are copied to your computer, following window appears. By clicking [Finish]
button, the software installation is finished and software starts up. If you don’t want to start the
software immediately, place a check on checkbox before clicking the [Finish] button.
3) Connection Procedure
a. When configuring the Signal Converter, connect the Signal Converter according to the Figure A-6
b. Connect the Configurator Cable and PC with USB.
Connect the Red alligator clip on Configurator Cable to No.6 terminal, and Black alligator clip on
Configurator Cable to No. 5 terminal on the Signal Converter. (Figure A-7)
Figure A-6. Connection for Configuring the Signal Converter
Figure A-7. Connection between the Signal Converter and Configurator Cable
図A-5. Setup Complete Window