Gill Instruments MetPak II User manual

Doc No: 1723-PS-0001
Issue 9
User Manual
MetPak II
▪
MetPak II Remote
MetPak II Part: 1723-PK-100
Serial Number 11270001 onwards
Firmware 2436 V2.01 and higher
MetPak II R Part: 1723-PK-150
Serial Number 11300011 onwards
Firmware 2436 V2.01 and higher

Foreword
©2010 Gill Instruments Ltd. All rights reserved.
Thank you for purchasing the MetPak II/MetPak II R manufactured by Gill
Instruments Ltd. To achieve optimum performance we recommend that you read
the whole of this manual before proceeding with use.
Gill products are in continuous development and therefore specifications may be
subject to change and design improvements without prior notice.
The information contained in this manual remains the property of Gill Instruments
and should not be copied or reproduced for commercial gain.
Guarantee
For terms of guarantee, please contact your supplier.
Warranty is void if the coloured Wind Sensor security seal is damaged or broken,
or the Wind Sensor transducer caps have been damaged.
Trademarks
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
All other brands and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of
their respective owners.
Cautions and Notes
The following symbols are used in this guide:
CAUTION. This indicates an important operating instruction that should be
followed to avoid any potential damage to hardware or property, loss of data,
or personal injury.
NOTE. This indicates important information to help you make the best use of this
product.
Applicable Parts
MetPak II Part 1723-PK-100
Applies to:-
Serial Number 11270001 and higher
Firmware 2436 V2.01 and higher.
Met Pak R Part 1723-PK-150
Applies to:-
Serial Number 11300011 and higher.
Firmware 2436 V2.01 and higher.

MetPak II and MetPak R User Manual
Last Change ©Gill Instruments Ltd
09 March, 2012 Page i
Contents
1. Introduction.........................................................................................................1
1.1 Principle of Operation...................................................................................................... 3
1.1.1 Wind Speed and Direction Sensor.....................................................................3
1.1.2 Radiation Shield................................................................................................ 4
1.1.3 Temperature and Relative Humidity Sensor with Dewpoint Output.................... 4
1.1.4 Barometric Pressure.......................................................................................... 4
1.2 Abbreviations.................................................................................................................. 5
1.3 Initial Test Guides........................................................................................................... 6
1.3.1 MetPak II (Part 1723-PK-100) ........................................................................... 6
1.3.2 MetPak II R (Part 1723-PK-150)........................................................................ 8
2. Installation........................................................................................................10
2.1 Pre-Installation Checks.................................................................................................10
2.1.1 Spare Parts..................................................................................................... 10
2.2 Installation..................................................................................................................... 11
2.2.1 Bench system test........................................................................................... 11
2.2.2 Equipment Required........................................................................................ 11
2.2.3 Cabling............................................................................................................11
2.2.4 Communication connections............................................................................16
2.2.5 Mounting MetPak II and MetPak II R............................................................... 20
3. Operation...........................................................................................................25
3.1 MetView........................................................................................................................ 25
3.1.1 Opening MetView............................................................................................ 25
3.1.2 Scanning for Devices....................................................................................... 26
3.1.3 The MetView Console ..................................................................................... 27
3.1.4 MetView Console Display Options...................................................................28
3.1.5 MetView Gauge Ranges and Graphs.............................................................. 29
3.1.6 Data logging....................................................................................................31
3.2 Configuring MetPak II/MetPak II R................................................................................ 34
3.2.1 Configuring MetPak II/MetPak II R using MetSet............................................. 35
3.2.2 MetSet Editing Screen..................................................................................... 37
3.2.3 Configuring using HyperTerminal.................................................................... 39
3.2.4 Configuring MetPak II/MetPak II R for NMEA Output......................................43
3.2.5 Configuring MetPak II/MetPak II R for SDI-12................................................. 44
3.2.6 SDI-12 Commands.......................................................................................... 44
3.2.7 Safe Mode.......................................................................................................47

Contents
MetPak II and MetPak II R User Manual
©Gill Instruments Ltd Last Change
Page ii 09 March, 2012
4. Troubleshooting................................................................................................49
4.1 Fault-Finding................................................................................................................. 49
4.2 Servicing....................................................................................................................... 50
4.3 Bench Tests..................................................................................................................50
5. Maintenance ......................................................................................................53
6. Technical Information.......................................................................................55
6.1 Specification .................................................................................................................55
6.2 Hub PCB Connections..................................................................................................57
6.3 Electrical Conformity Certificate.................................................................................... 59
Figures
Figure 1 MetPak II 1
Figure 2 MetPak II R 2
Figure 3 Compass points 3
Figure 4 Position of Temperature and Relative Humidity Probe in the Radiation Shield 4
Figure 5 Internal view of the hub box 16
Figure 6 Connection of Gill USB Cable (Part No. 1723-10-051) 17
Figure 7 RS232 connections 17
Figure 8 RS422 connections 18
Figure 9 RS485 Connections 18
Figure 10 SDI-12 connections 19
Figure 11 Correct mounting position for MetPak II 21
Figure 12 WindSonic Sensor Mounting 23
Figure 13 Correct mounting position for MetPak II R parts 24
Figure 14 Opening MetView Screen 25
Figure 15 Scanning for MetPak II/MetPak II R Devices 26
Figure 16 The MetView Console 27
Figure 17 MetView Gauge Range 29
Figure 18 MetView Graph 30
Figure 19 Setting up data logging 31
Figure 20 A typical data log (viewed in Windows Notepad) 33
Figure 21 Opening MetSet Screen 35
Figure 22 Summary of MetPak II/MetPak II R Device Settings using MetSet 36
Tables
Table 1 Abbreviations 5
Table 2 Recommended Belden cable types 14
Table 3 Maximum cable lengths for supported communication networks 14
Table 4 Connection status indicators 27
Table 5 MetView scale and unit options 28
Table 6 MetView averaging options 28
Table 7 Max/min markers 28
Table 8 MetView Screen Settings Options 28
Table 9 Default configuration settings 34
Table 10 MetPak II/MetPak II R configuration commands 40
Table 11 Abbreviations used in UNIT configuration command 42

MetPak II and MetPak II User Manual
©Gill Instruments Ltd Last Change
Page iii 09 March, 2012
Table 12 Common problems and their solution 49
Table 13 Status codes as output with the MetPak II/MetPak II R data string 50
Table 14 HygroClip connections (6-way connector J1) 57
Table 15 MetPak II WindSonic anemometer connections (8-way connector J4) 57
Table 16 MetPak II R WindSonic anemometer connections (8-way connector J4) 57
Table 17 PC communications (8-way connector, J5) 58

MetPak II and Met Pak II R User Manual
Last Change ©Gill Instruments Ltd
09 March, 2012 Page 1
1. Introduction
MetPak II
MetPak II is a compact and lightweight multi-sensor instrument that measures the
most essential weather parameters. Gill ultrasonic technology, as used in the
proven WindSonic instrument, measures wind speed and direction. Temperature
and Humidity are measured and Dewpoint calculated using an industry standard
probe housed in a naturally aspirated radiation shield. Barometric pressure is
measured using an industry standard sensor.
The instrument is supplied with digital ASCII RS232/RS422/485 (2 wire point to
point) and digital SDI-12 outputs. NMEA 0183 output is also configurable. An
electrical hub box is fitted to the mounting bracket allowing convenient termination
of all electrical cables.
The instrument uses a rugged U-bolt mounting clamp that attaches to any vertical
pipe up to 50mm (2”) diameter.
An electrical hub box is fitted to the mounting bracket for termination of data and
power cables.
Figure 1 MetPak II
Wind speed and
direction sensor
Radiation shield
Temperature and
Relative humidity
sensor
Hub box
Mounting
bracket
Gore-Tex Vent for
Barometric
Pressure Sensor

Introduction
MetPak II and MetPak II R User Manual
©Gill Instruments Ltd Last Change
Page 2 09 March, 2012
MetPak II R
With all the features of the MetPak II the MetPak II R is a compact and lightweight
multi-sensor instrument that measures the most essential weather parameters.
Gill ultrasonic technology, as used in the proven WindSonic instrument, measures
wind speed and direction at up to 10 metres from the Hub box and bracket
assembly using a 10 metre extension cable. The WindSensor is designed to be
pipe mounted on a 44.45mm (1.75”) pipe of 3mm wall thickness.
Temperature and Humidity are measured and Dewpoint calculated using an
industry standard probe housed in a naturally aspirated radiation shield. Barometric
pressure is measured using an industry standard sensor.
The instrument is supplied with digital ASCII RS232/RS422/485 (2 wire point to
point) and digital SDI-12 outputs. NMEA 0183 output is also configurable. An
electrical hub box is fitted to the mounting bracket allowing convenient termination
of all electrical cables.
The instrument bracket assembly uses a rugged U-bolt mounting clamp that
attaches to any vertical pipe up to 50mm (2”) diameter.
Figure 2 MetPak II R
Remote WindSonic
(Supplied)
10 Metre Cable
(Supplied)
Temperature and
Humidity Sensor
Radiation Shield
Gore-Tex Vented Hub
Box containing
Barometric Pressure
Sensor.

Introduction
MetPak II and Met Pak II R User Manual
Last Change ©Gill Instruments Ltd
09 March, 2012 Page 3
1.1 Principle of Operation
1.1.1 Wind Speed and Direction Sensor
The MetPak II/MetPak II R uses the WindSonic wind speed and direction sensor.
The WindSonic measures the times taken for an ultrasonic pulse of sound to travel
from the North transducer to the South transducer, and compares it with the time
for a pulse to travel from S to N transducer. Likewise times are compared between
West and East, and E and W transducer.
If, for example, a North wind is blowing, then the time taken for the pulse to travel
from N to S will be faster than from S to N, whereas the W to E, and E to W times
will be the same. The wind speed and direction can then be calculated from the
differences in the times of flight on each axis. This calculation is independent of
factors such as temperature.
Figure 3 Compass points
Figure 3 shows the compass point and polarity of U and V if the wind components
along the U and V axis are blowing in the direction of the respective arrows.

Introduction
MetPak II and MetPak II R User Manual
©Gill Instruments Ltd Last Change
Page 4 09 March, 2012
1.1.2 Radiation Shield
The Multi-Plate Radiation Shield protects temperature and relative humidity
sensors from error-producing solar radiation and precipitation. This shield relies on
a combination of plate geometry, material and natural ventilation to provide
effective shielding.
1.1.3 Temperature and Relative Humidity Sensor with
Dewpoint Output
The Rotronic HygroClip module is a complete instrument, with integrated
temperature compensation. Calibration data is maintained within the integrated
electronics. It provides digital output signals for Relative Humidity, Temperature
and Dewpoint to the MetPak II/MetPak II R Hub box.
Figure 4 Position of Temperature and Relative Humidity Probe in the Radiation
Shield
1.1.4 Barometric Pressure
Barometric pressure output is provided by a solid-state device fitted on to the circuit
board in the MetPak II/MetPak II R hub box. Vent to atmosphere is via a Gore-Tex®
filter, which protects the pressure sensor from the effects of wind and rain.

Introduction
MetPak II and Met Pak II R User Manual
Last Change ©Gill Instruments Ltd
09 March, 2012 Page 5
1.2 Abbreviations
Table 1 Abbreviations
Item
Meaning
ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange
C Centigrade
CAL Calibration
CD Compact Disc
COM Communications
CR Carriage Return
CSV Comma Separated Variable
ETX End of String
F Fahrenheight
FPM Feet per Minute
HF High Frequency
HPA Hecto-Pascals
HTML Hyper Text Markup Language
Hz Hertz
IMM International Maritime Mobile
In Hg Inches of Mercury
K Kelvin
KPH Kilometres per Hour
KTS Knots
LF Line Feed
M Bar Milli Bars
Max Maximum
MF Medium Frequency
Min Minimum
Mm Hg Millimetres of Mercury
MPH Miles per Hour
MS Microsoft
MS Metres per Second
NMEA National Marine Electronics Association
NSEW North South East West
NVM Non-Volatile Memory
PC IBM compatible Personal Computer
ROM Read Only Memory
RS232 Communications standard
RS422 Communications standard
Rx Receive
RXD Received Data
SDI-12 Serial – Data Interface standard for microprocessor based
sensors
STX Start of String
Tx Transmit
TXD Transmitted Data
VHF Very High Frequency
WIMWV Wind Instrument Mean Wind direction and Velocity
WIXDR Wind Instrument Cross track error Dead Reckoning
WMO World Meteorological Organisation

Introduction
MetPak II and MetPak II R User Manual
©Gill Instruments Ltd Last Change
Page 6 09 March, 2012
1.3 Initial Test Guides
1.3.1 MetPak II (Part 1723-PK-100)
This section provides an overview of the installation and operation of MetPak II.
For more detailed information about any of the steps, use the references to other
sections of this manual.
1. Decide how you are going to connect MetPak II to your PC or
communications network. MetPak II supports the following options:
USB connection using Gill’s RS232 to USB 1.8M configuration cable
(includes integral 5V power supply). To order, contact your dealer
quoting part number: 1723-10-051).
NOTE. You could use an equivalent RS232-USB adapter such as
EasySynch RS232 to USB adaptor.
RS232 connection using standard cable and PC COM port. Separate
5V to 30V dc power supply also required.
RS422 using RS232 converter.
RS485 2 wire point-to-point communication using suitable converter
(note RS485 2 wire point-to-point is not compatible with MetView
Software).
SDI-12 connection (note SDI-12 is not compatible with MetView
Software).
NOTE. MetPak II is pre-configured for RS232 communication (factory
setting). If you want to use an alternative communication protocol, you
will need to set up the unit using an RS232 connection (with an
appropriately wired cable), change the setting (see page 34), shut the
unit down, attach a cable for the new communication type, and then
restart the unit.
2. Unpack MetPak II. Check that you have the following:
MetPak II unit (Part No.1723-PK-100).
Gill MetView, MetSet Software and Manual supplied on the CD.
If any parts are missing, please contact your dealer.
3. Open the hub box by unfastening the four retaining screws. Locate the
connector: J5 (see Page 16, Figure 5). Carefully pull the connector block
from its pins.
4. Prepare the communications cable by stripping the wires to a length of 8mm.
Feed the prepared cable through one of the two available ports on the side
of the hub box.
5. Connect the cable to J5 as described on page 16 for your chosen
communications method.
6. Carefully press J5 onto its circuit board pins.
7. Replace the top on the connection box. Tighten the gland on the connection
port to seal the cable in place.
8. If you are carrying out a bench test, continue to step 13. When you have
finished testing, return to Step 9.

Introduction
MetPak II and Met Pak II R User Manual
Last Change ©Gill Instruments Ltd
09 March, 2012 Page 7
9. Unfasten the mounting bracket. Position the MetPak II against the mounting
post (see page 21), replace the mounting bracket and tighten sufficiently to
hold the unit in place but allowing it to be rotated or moved up and down the
pole.
10. Check the orientation and alignment of the unit (see page 21).
11. Check the height of the unit and ensure it is clear of any obstructions,
including the mounting post, that could interfere with MetPak II’s
measurements (see page 21).
12. Tighten the mounting bracket to hold the unit firmly in place.
13. Connect the communications cable to your PC or network device.
14. Place the MetPak II CD in your PC’s CD drive and install MetView.
15. Run MetView.
16. Click on the Scan button. MetView Software searches for the MetPak II
connection.
17. Allow the software to search for the MetPak II unit through the available
COM ports. If you have more than one unit configured, you may have to
select the unit based on the COM port assignments.
18. MetView reads the unit and reports its wind, temperature, humidity, dewpoint
and pressure measurements (see below). If you have any problems, please
read the Installation chapter for full details of these steps.

Introduction
MetPak II and MetPak II R User Manual
©Gill Instruments Ltd Last Change
Page 8 09 March, 2012
1.3.2 MetPak II R (Part 1723-PK-150)
This section provides an overview of the installation and operation of MetPak II R.
For more detailed information about any of the steps, use the references to other
sections of this manual.
1. Decide how you are going to connect MetPak II R to your PC or
communications network. MetPak II R supports the following options:
USB connection using Gill’s RS232 to USB 1.8M configuration cable
(includes integral 5V power supply). To order, contact your dealer
quoting part number: 1723-10-051).
NOTE. You could use an equivalent RS232-USB adapter such as
EasySynch RS232 to USB adaptor.
RS232 connection using standard cable and PC COM port. Separate
5V to 30V dc power supply also required.
RS422 using RS232 converter.
RS485 2 wire point-to-point communication using suitable converter
(note RS485 2 wire point-to-point is not compatible with MetView
Software).
SDI-12 connection (note SDI-12 is not compatible with MetView
Software).
NOTE. MetPak II R is pre-configured for RS232 communication
(factory setting). If you want to use an alternative communication
protocol, you will need to set up the unit using an RS232 connection
(with an appropriately wired cable), change the setting (see page 34),
shut the unit down, attach a cable for the new communication type,
and then restart the unit.
2. Unpack MetPak II R. Check that you have the following:
MetPak II R Bracket/10 Metre Cable and Connector pack
(Spare Part No.1723-PK-153).
Gill WindSonic WindSensor (Spare Part No. 1723-PK-151).
Gill MetView, MetSet Software and Manual supplied on the CD.
If any parts are missing, please contact your dealer.
3. Assemble the 9 way Clipper connector to the end of the 10 metre cable (see
Para 2.2.3).
If it is required to shorten the 10 Metre cable then cut the cable to the
required length, strip the cable and fit solder pins supplied to the wires.
Instructions for preparing the cable for new pins and fitting/removal of the 9-
way connector are detailed in Para 2.2.3.
4. Plug the cable 9-way clipper connector into the WindSonic Wind Sensor
socket.
5. Open the hub box by unfastening the four retaining screws. Locate the
connector: J5 (see Page 16, Figure 5). Carefully pull the connector block
from its pins.
6. Prepare the communications cable by stripping the wires to a length of 8mm.
Feed the prepared cable through one of the two available ports on the side
of the hub box.
7. Connect the cable to J5 as described on page 16 for your chosen
communications method.

Introduction
MetPak II and Met Pak II R User Manual
Last Change ©Gill Instruments Ltd
09 March, 2012 Page 9
8. Carefully press J5 onto its circuit board pins.
9. Replace the top on the connection box. Tighten the gland on the connection
port to seal the cable in place.
10. Connect the communications cable to your PC or network device.
11. Place the MetPak II/MetPak II R CD in your PC’s CD drive and install
MetView.
12. Run MetView.
13. Click on the Scan button. MetView Software searches for the MetPak II R
connection.
14. Allow the software to search for the MetPak II R unit through the available
COM ports. If you have more than one unit configured, you may have to
select the unit based on the COM port assignments.
15. MetView reads the unit and reports its wind, temperature, humidity, dewpoint
and pressure measurements (see below). If you have any problems, please
read the Installation chapter for full details of these steps.

Installation
MetPak II and MetPak II R User Manual
©Gill Instruments Ltd Last Change
Page 10 09 March, 2012
2. Installation
MetPak II/MetPak II R has been designed to meet and exceed the stringent
standards listed in its specification (see Para 6.1).
2.1 Pre-Installation Checks
As with any sophisticated electronics, good engineering practice should be
followed to ensure correct operation:
Ensure the MetPak II/MetPak II R will not be affected by other equipment
operating locally, which may not conform to current standards, e.g.
radio/radar transmitters, generators etc.
Avoid mounting in the plane of any radar scanner – a vertical separation of
at least 2m should be achieved.
When installing MetPak II/MetPak II R near radio transmitting antennas,
ensure that the mounting position fulfills the following minimum separations
(all round):
VHF IMM – 1m
MF/HF – 5m
Satcom – 5m (avoid likely lines of sight)
Use cables recommended by Gill (see Para 2.2.3). If cables are cut and re-
connected incorrectly (perhaps in a junction box) then EMC performance
may be compromised if cable screen integrity is not maintained.
Avoid earth loops – wire the system in accordance with these installation
guidelines.
Ensure that the power supply operates to the MetPak II/MetPak II R
specification (see Para 6.1) at all times.
Avoid turbulence caused by surrounding structures that will affect the
accuracy of the sensors such as trees, masts and buildings. The WMO
make the following recommendations. The standard exposure of wind
instruments over level open terrain is 10m above the ground. Open terrain
is defined as an area where the distance between the sensor and any
obstruction is at least 10 times the height of the obstruction.
Keep away from building exhaust vents, machinery and motors.
2.1.1 Spare Parts
1405-PK-069 WindSonic 9 way connector (MetPak II R).
1405-30-056 WindSonic 0.5 metre support tube drilled (MetPak II R).
1723-PK-151 WindSonic (MetPak II R).
1723-PK-152 Hub Box assembly (MetPak II R).
1723-PK-153 10 Metre cable with pins (MetPak II R).
1723-10-051 RS232 to USB 1.8M configuration cable (both units).
1723-PK-024 Pressure Sensor Filter Spares kit.
1723-PK-025 Hygroclip Filter Replacement Kit (2 Filters).

Installation
MetPak II and Met Pak II R User Manual
Last Change ©Gill Instruments Ltd
09 March, 2012 Page 11
2.2 Installation
2.2.1 Bench system test
Prior to physically mounting the MetPak II/MetPak II R in its final location, we
strongly recommend that a bench system test is carried out to confirm the system
is configured correctly, is fully functional and electrically compatible with the
selected host system and cabling (preferably utilising the final cable length). The
required data format, units, output rate, and other options should also all be set up
at this stage.
2.2.2 Equipment Required
1723-PK-100 MetPak II set for RS232 communication (factory default setting).
Or
1723-PK-150 MetPak II R set for RS232 communication (factory default setting).
1723-10-051 MetPak II RS232 to USB 1.8M configuration cable with integral 5v
power or alternatively use RS232, RS232 converter and separate
5v to 30 dc power supply.
ES-U-1001-A EasySynch RS232 to USB adaptor or equivalent (if not using Gill
part 1723-10-051) or connect directly to an RS232 COM port.
Power Supply 5V to 30Vdc at 50mA if required.
Belden 9503 3 pair cable (if not using Gill Part 1723-10-051), length as required.
Gill MetView Software supplied on the MetPak II/MetPak II R CD or download from
.http://www.gill.co.uk/main/software.html
2.2.3 Cabling
MetPak II R 10 Metre Cabling
If using a MetPak II R unit this comes with an integral 10 metre, Belden 8104 cable
fitted to the hub box connector J4 (see Table 16) and terminated in clipper
connector solder contacts for installing into a WindSonic Connector (supplied).
Details on fitting the connector pins on the 10 metre cable into the WindSonic
connector are as follows:-
If shortening the 10 Metre cable to a required length, strip and prepare as follows:-
Trim back the screened cable outer and screen sleeves 45mm.
Trim back the screen braid wire flush with the outer sleeve.
Cut back unused wires White/Green, Brown/White and White/Brown to 10mm from
the outer sleeve.
Strip back the connection wires by 4mm and tin solder.
Solder the contact pins to the wires. Note that the connector supplies the correct
strain relief for cables with an outside diameter of 6-12mm.
4 mm
45 mm Screen Braid is cut flush
Screen Twisted Pair
Cable

Installation
MetPak II and MetPak II R User Manual
©Gill Instruments Ltd Last Change
Page 12 09 March, 2012
Route the cable through the connector parts as in direction shown below.
Whilst squeezing the red retainer in the direction of ARROWS A, pull in the
direction of ARROW B.
A A B
Your connector should now resemble the connector in the picture below.
Insert each contact pin until you feel a slight click. If you have inserted the contact
into the incorrect hole it can be removed at this point by simply pulling it out.
Please note there will be some resistance.
Connections are:-
Green/White wire to Connector Pin 1
1
9
5
3
7
4
2
6
8
White/Orange wire to Connector Pin 2
Orange/White wire to Connector Pin 3
Blue/White wire to Connector Pin 4
White/Blue wire to Connector Pin 6
Rear View of Connector

Installation
MetPak II and Met Pak II R User Manual
Last Change ©Gill Instruments Ltd
09 March, 2012 Page 13
Continue to insert all of the contacts you require. Once all of the contacts are
inserted squeeze the 2 red retainers (See Arrows A on previous page) into place.
NB. The retainer can only be pushed back into place if the contacts are fully
engaged.
Fit the connector to the WindSonic Sensor so that you can finish assembling the
connector.
Screw the back shell onto the connector until it is fully in place. Please note that
the final rotations can be slightly stiff.
Now screw the next part of the connector into place.
Now screw the cable-clamping nut into place.
The connector can now be removed from the WindSonic.
NOTE: To disassemble the connector, reverse this procedure.

Installation
MetPak II and MetPak II R User Manual
©Gill Instruments Ltd Last Change
Page 14 09 March, 2012
Communication Cabling
MetPak II/MetPak II R has five communication connection options:
USB (using the 1.8m Gill USB cable, Part No. 1723-10-051).
RS232
RS422
RS485 (two wire point to point)
SDI-12
It is important that the cable is appropriate for the chosen communication network.
The following sections describe the recommended types and maximum lengths of
cable in each case.
NOTE. A 15-metre, 6-pair cable (wires stripped at each end) suitable for
RS232/RS422/485 or SDI-12 communication is available from Gill Instruments
(Part No. 1723-10-053).
Cable Type
Wire type: 24AWG
Wire size: 7x32 AWG.
Cable outer diameter: 6-8mm (to match the hub box gland).
For RS422/485 operation the cable should contain twisted pairs screened to match
the application.
The following table shows an example manufacturers’ reference; other
manufacturers’ equivalents can be used.
Table 2 Recommended Belden cable types
Application No. of Pairs Belden Ref.
SDI-12 or RS485 2 9729
Digital RS232 3 9503
Digital RS422 4 9504
Cable length
The maximum cable length is dependent on the chosen communication method.
The following table shows the maximum cable lengths for the supported
communication protocols at the given baud rates, using the recommended cable. If
any problems of data corruption etc are experienced, then a slower baud rate
should be used. Alternatively, a higher specification cable can be tried.
Table 3 Maximum cable lengths for supported communication networks
Communication format Baud rate Max. cable length
RS232 19200 6.5M
RS422/RS485 19200 1000M
SDI-12 1200 90m (300ft)