Laser Technology TruSense S300 Series User manual

Copyright © [2019] Laser Technology, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized duplication, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.
Laser Technology, Inc.
TruSense®S300 Series
User’s Manual

LTI TruSense S300 Series Integration Manual 3rd Edition
Page i
Copyright © [2019] Laser Technology, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized duplication, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.
LTI TruSense® S300 Series User’s
Manual
3rd Edition
Part Number 0144847
Copyright Notice:
Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a
commitment on the part of Laser Technology Inc. No part of this manual may be reproduced in any
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or information
storage and retrieval systems, for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use, without the
express written consent of Laser Technology, Inc.
Copyright (c)[2019] Laser Technology, Inc. All Rights
Reserved. Unauthorized duplication, in whole or in part, is
strictly prohibited.
Printed in the United States of
America Trademarks:
TruSense is trademark of Laser Technology, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owner.
Patents:
This product is covered by pending patent applications and/or one or more of the following issued
patents: 5,612,779 and 6,445,444
LTI Contact Information: Laser Technology, Inc.
6912 S. Quentin Street
Centennial, CO 80112
Phone: [phone]
1-877-OWN-A-LIT (USA and Canada)
Fax: [phone]
Web Sites: www.lasertech.com
https://measuringthefuture.com/sen/
Email: [e-mail]
Order from:
C A Briggs Company
622 Mary Street; Suite 101
Warminster, PA 18974
Phone: [phone] - Fax: [phone]
[email protected] - www.cabriggs.com

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Table of Contents
1INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................................1
PURPOSE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………1
BASICPACKAGE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………1
ACCESSORY ITEMS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..1
SAFETYPRECAUTIONS............................................................................................................................................................1
MOUNTINGTHE TRUSENSE S300 ............................................................................................................................................2
2OEM MODELS................................................................................................................................................2
3GETTINGSTARTED..........................................................................................................................................2
MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUE...................................................................................................................................................2
ACQUIRING A TARGET ...........................................................................................................................................................2
LIQUIDS &FLUIDS APPLICATION..............................................................................................................................................3
OPTIONAL BEAM DIFFUSER ....................................................................................................................................................3
BEAM SPREAD OF S3XX OVER DISTANCE...................................................................................................................................4
WINDOW/SIGHT GLASS APPLICATION ......................................................................................................................................4
FOAM APPLICATION……………..…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………5
DENSE STEAM APPLICATION ...................................................................................................................................................5
TRANSMIT RECEIVE LENS .......................................................................................................................................................6
MEASUREMENT REFERENCE ...................................................................................................................................................6
HAZARDOUS LOCATIONS........................................................................................................................................................6
SUNLIGHT……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..6
4INITIAL SETUP REQUIREMENTS......................................................................................................................6
ELECTRICAL……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………6
I/O……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..6
MOUNTING…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..6
ALIGNMENT…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..6
5RS-232 ASCII SERIAL COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL.......................................................................................7
FACTORY DEFAULT SETTINGS ..................................................................................................................................................8
64-20MA LOOP SETUP.....................................................................................................................................8
BEFORE YOU START YOU WILL NEED:.........................................................................................................................................8
PROGRAMING THE S330 .......................................................................................................................................................9
74-20MA WORK SHEET..................................................................................................................................11
WORK SHEET FOR SETTING TRUSENSE S330 FOR INSTALLATION IN 4-20MALOOP .........................................................................12
8RS-232 ASCII MEASUREMENTOUTPUTMESSAGES....................................................................................... 13
FIRST TARGET………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………13
STRONGEST TARGET……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….13
LAST TARGET……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….13
9RS-232 ASCII SERIALCOMMANDS ................................................................................................................ 14
$AU DISPLAY BOARD AUX BOARD STATUS ........................................................................................................14
$BA RS232BAUD RATE.................................................................................................................................14
$CE N UMBER OF C ONSECUTIVE E RRORS B EFORE R EPORTING FOR L IQUID M EASUREMENT ...............................................15
$CL CONVERTERROR CODE TO ERROR MESSAGE.................................................................................................15
$CO DISPLAY$GOCOMMANDPARAMETERS ......................................................................................................15
$DB DISPLAYBANNER ....................................................................................................................................16
$DE ERROR CODEFORMAT .............................................................................................................................16
$DI DISPLAY RETURN INTENSITY .......................................................................................................................17
$DM TARGETMODE .......................................................................................................................................17

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$DT DISPLAY TIME.........................................................................................................................................18
$FT 4-20 CURRENT LOOP SETTING..........................................................................................................................18
$GO STARTDISTANCEMEASUREMENT................................................................................................................19
$ID INSTRUMENT IDENTIFICATION ...................................................................................................................20
$IS INSTRUMENT STATUS ..............................................................................................................................21
$MA MANUAL START .....................................................................................................................................21
$MM M EASUREMENT M ODE .............................................................................................................................22
$MU C HANGE MEASUREMENT UNIT ..................................................................................................................22
$NE E RROR R EPORTING ON / OFF ........................................................................................................................23
$OS L IQUID S ETUP C OMMAND ..........................................................................................................................23
$OZ INSTRUMENTTEMPERATURE .....................................................................................................................24
$PD POWERDOWNAND RESTARTUNIT.............................................................................................................24
$PE SET UPDATE PERIOD ...............................................................................................................................24
$PW ENTER PASSWORD..................................................................................................................................25
$PS CHANGE PASSWORD ...............................................................................................................................25
$RD SET TRIPDISTANCE..................................................................................................................................26
$SN INSTRUMENTSERIALNUMBER ...................................................................................................................26
$ST STOPDISTANCEMEASUREMENT ................................................................................................................26
$SU SAVE USERSETTINGS...............................................................................................................................27
$TG REMOTETRIGGER (TRUSENSE S300 AND S310) ..........................................................................................27
$UO USEROFFSET .........................................................................................................................................28
$VO TURNLASER POINTER ON (S310AND S330ONLY)........................................................................................28
$VF TURNLASER POINTER OFF (S310AND S330 ONLY).......................................................................................29
$WU WARMUP PERIOD..................................................................................................................................29
10 REFERENCE ..................................................................................................................................................30
APPLICATION EXAMPLES ......................................................................................................................................................30
LIQUID MEASUREMENT .......................................................................................................................................................30
11 SDI-12COMMUNICATION ............................................................................................................................ 31
INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….31
S300 /S310 SDI-12 CONFIGURATION..................................................................................................................................31
SDI-12 DATA PACKET FORMATS...........................................................................................................................................32
12 SDI-12COMMANDS .....................................................................................................................................34
LTI S300/S310SUPPORTED SDI-12 COMMANDS SUMMARY.....................................................................................................34
LTI S300/S310SUPPORTED SDI-12 EXTENDED COMMANDS.....................................................................................................36
13 SDI-12 COMMANDS DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS AND EXAMPLES ................................................................... 38
“?!”ADDRESS QUERY .........................................................................................................................................................38
“A!”ACKNOWLEDGE ACTIVE ................................................................................................................................................38
“AI!”SEND IDENTIFICATION .................................................................................................................................................38
“AAB!”CHANGE ADDRESS ...................................................................................................................................................38
“AM!”START MEASUREMENT DEFINED BY TARGET MODE “AXHN!” OR SERIAL COMMAND $DM ...................................................39
“AM5!”START MEASUREMENT FOR “TEMPERATURE”..............................................................................................................39
“AMCN!”START SPECIFIED MEASUREMENTWITH CRC.............................................................................................................39
“AC!”START CONCURRENT MEASUREMENT ;DEFINED BY TARGET MODE “AXHN!” OR SERIAL COMMAND $DM................................40
“AC5!” START CONCURRENT MEASUREMENT FOR “TEMPERATURE”............................................................................................40
ACCN!”START SPECIFIED CONCURRENT MEASUREMENT WITH CRC.............................................................................................40
“AR0!”START CONTINUOUS LEVELMEASUREMENT...................................................................................................................41
“AR5!”START CONTINUOUS MEASUREMENT FOR “TEMPERATURE”............................................................................................41
“ARCN!”START SPECIFIED CONTINUOUS MEASUREMENTWITH CRC ...........................................................................................41
“AD0!”SEND DATA……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..42
“AD1!”TO “AD9!”SEND ADDITIONAL DATA..........................................................................................................................43
“AV!”START VERIFICATION..................................................................................................................................................43

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“AXAN!” SET MEASUREMENT MODE ....................................................................................................................................44
“AXBN!” SET LIQUID FILTER MODE .......................................................................................................................................44
“AXCN!”ENABLE/DISABLE AUTO-START MODE ......................................................................................................................44
“AXDN!” SET LIQUID OUTPUT..............................................................................................................................................45
“AXEN!” SET ADVANCED FILTER ...........................................................................................................................................45
“AXFN!”SET RUNNING AVERAGE..........................................................................................................................................45
“AXGN!”NUMBER OF CONSECUTIVE ERRORS..........................................................................................................................45
“AXHN!”SET TARGET MODE ...............................................................................................................................................46
“AXMN!”SET NUMBER OF MEASUREMENTSTO MAKE .............................................................................................................46
“AXP!”GET MEASUREMENT UPDATE PERIOD .........................................................................................................................46
“AXR!”RESET INSTRUMENT.................................................................................................................................................47
“AXS!”SAVE CURRENT SETTINGS..........................................................................................................................................47
“AXVN!”TURN ALIGNMENT LASER POINTER ON/OFF...............................................................................................................47
“AXWN!”SET WARM-UP PERIOD ........................................................................................................................................47
14 SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 49
15 ERROR CODES RS-232.................................................................................................................................. 50
16 TROUBLESHOOTING .................................................................................................................................... 52
17 CARE AND MAINTENANCE...........................................................................................................................53
OPERATING TEMPERATURE...................................................................................................................................................53
MOISTURE AND DUST PROTECTION........................................................................................................................................53
CLEANING…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..53
18 DIAGRAMS - WIRING AND PINOUTS............................................................................................................ 54
7054674 OEM CABLE.......................................................................................................................................................54
7054671 EXTERNAL CABLE:12VPOWER DOWNLOAD CABLE................................................................................................55
4824758 I NTEGRATION C ABLE WITH L EADS ........................................................................................................................56
7054691 EXTERNAL CABLE:RUGGEDIZED ENCLOSURE TERMINAL BLOCK CABLE............................................................................57
S3304-20MACURRENT LOOP WIRING CABLEWITH OPTIONALRS-232 ......................................................................................58
S3304-20MACURRENT LOOP WIRING WITH OPTIONAL RS-232 FOR RUGGEDIZEDENCLOSURETERMINALBLOCK ...............................59
S300 /S310 I/O TRIGGER CABLE WIRING WITH OPTIONAL RS-232.................................................................................60
S300/S310I/OTRIGGERCABLEWIRINGWITHOPTIONALRS-232FORRUGGEDIZEDENCLOSURETERMINALBLOCK.......................................61
S300 /S310 SDI-12 CABLE WIRING FOR OPTIONAL RS-232 FOR RUGGEDIZED ENCLOSURE TERMINAL BLOCK ..................................62
S300/S310SDI-12CABLE WITH OPTIONALRS-232...............................................................................................................63
19 DIAGRAMS - MECHANICAL .................................................................................................................... 64
RUGGEDIZED ENCLOSURE OUTSIDE DIMENSIONS......................................................................................................................64
RUGGEDIZED ENCLOSURE INSIDE DIMENSIONS.........................................................................................................................65
3004956 TANK ADAPTOR...................................................................................................................................................66
3004960 4INCH FLANGE ...................................................................................................................................................67
3004957 DUST /SPLASH TUBE ...........................................................................................................................................68
77035137 MOUNTING PLATE .............................................................................................................................................69
1134749SUN SHADE INDUSTRIALMOUNT .............................................................................................................................70
HOUSED MODEL DIMENSIONS WITHOUT LENSES .......................................................................................................................71
OEM MODEL DIMENSIONS..................................................................................................................................................72
20 DEFINITIONS................................................................................................................................................ 73
21 APPENDIX A –RUGGEDIZED ENCLOSURE FOR THE TRUSENSE S300 SERIES..................................................76
RUGGEDIZED ENCLOSURE PARTS LIST .....................................................................................................................................78
RUGGEDIZED ENCLOSURE TERMINAL BLOCK ............................................................................................................................79
RUGGEDIZED ENCLOSURE INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS &CAUTIONS...........................................................................................80
22 APPENDIX B- TRUSENSE S330 USER’S INTERFACE SETUP TOOL....................................................................81

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WHAT YOU NEED TO GET STARTED .........................................................................................................................................81
OPERATION OF THE S330 SOFTWARE TOOL ............................................................................................................................82
MAIN WINDOW…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..82
CONFIGURATION WINDOW ..................................................................................................................................................84
23 NOTES: ........................................................................................................................................................ 85

LTI TruSense S300 Series Integration Manual 3rd Edition
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1 Introduction
Purpose
This document defines and provides the means to control and integrate the Laser Technology
TruSense S300-series liquid laser sensor for the following configurations:
I/O
Visible
Alignment
Laser
RS232
SDI 12
4-20
Trigger
S300
⚫
⚫
⚫
S310
⚫
⚫
⚫
⚫
S330
⚫
⚫
⚫
Table 1: Outputs for Each Model
S3xx is used as a generic term for all S300 models in this manual.
BasicPackage
 S300 Series Sensor or S300 Series OEM Sensor
 Communication Cable with Flying Leads
 LTI Limited Warranty
Accessory Items
 Power/Comm Cable
 Universal Mounting Plate
 Diffuser Lenses
 Sun Shade
SafetyPrecautions
•Avoid staring directly at the laser beam for prolonged periods. The TruSense S300 is
designed to meet FDA eye safety requirements and is classified as eye safe to FDA
(CFR21) Class I 7 mm limits, which means that virtually no hazard is associated with
directly viewing the laser output under normal conditions. As with any laser device,
however, reasonable precautions should be taken in its operation.
•It is recommended that you avoid staring into the transmit aperture while firing the laser.
The use of optical instruments with this product may increase eye hazard.
•Do not use the laser within 15 meters (50 feet) of a prism. The reflective energy from a
prism within this range can oversaturate the laser receiver, resulting in permanent
damage to the sensor.
•Never point the instrument directly at the sun. Exposing the lens system to direct
sunlight, even for a brief period, may permanently damage the laser receiver and/or
transmitter.
•Effective for the S310 and S330 only: The Class 2 Alignment Laser Exit Aperture is
located on the upper portion of the Front Plate between the Transmit and Receive
Lenses of the Class 1 Measurement Laser:
For more information on S300 series
accessories, please visit:
http://www.lasertech.com/Laser-
Sensors.aspx

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ALIGNMENT LASER = CLASS 2
MEASUREMENT LASER = CLASS 1
Mounting the TruSense S300
IMPORTANT!
When mounting the S300, always use a washer between the housing feet and the screw head.
Do not exceed 5 inch-pounds of torque when securing.
2 OEM Models
Due to the sensitivity of the OEM models, it is recommended all ESD, Electrostatic Discharge
procedures as outlined in ANSI/ESD S20.20, ESD Association Standard for the Development of an
Electrostatic Discharge Control Program for Protection of Electrical and Electronic Parts is followed
whenever handling an OEM sensor.
3 Getting Started
•It is recommended to get familiar with the sensor performance and configuration in a
controlled environment.
•After unpacking, connect and wire the supplied cabling. Note: with the optional Power
Comm Cable, you can power and connect the sensor via the DB9 pin serial connector to a
serial I/O device (i.e., USB-to-COM cable on a PC).
•A DB9-to-USB adaptor may be required to connect to many PCs. Make sure the adaptor
cable is compatible with your PCs USB specifications.
•To communicate with the sensor, use a terminal emulation program such as Tera Term
or HyperTerminal.
•Factory Default Communication Settings: 115200 baud-rate, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop
bit, no flow control.
Measurement Technique
Acquiring a Target
The S300 uses infrared laser light to measure distance. This invisible laser light is emitted
from the transmit lens of the sensor, reflects off the liquid surface and returns to the
receive lens of the sensor. The exact distance is then calculated by comparing the return
time to the speed-of-light constant (Time of Flight).
The ability of a laser sensor to measure to a liquid surface depends on the liquid’s
reflectance and angle of incident. Reflectance of a liquid is defined by refractive index of
the liquid in relationship to reflection angle of the laser. For example, a smooth surface
with the laser normal angle of incident is more reflective than a turbulent surface where

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the angle of incident varies moment to moment.
The S300 is a highly-sensitive precision laser sensor and can measure to liquid surfaces
within its range specification. This includes penetrating through light steam or fog using
the Last target mode. A general rule of thumb when measuring through steam or fog is if
you can visually see the target, the sensor likely can as well. Remember, humans see in
the visible light spectrum whereas the LTI laser sensor utilizes the Infrared wave length
(IR) of 905nm. Certain objects will appear differently in the visible spectrum compared
to the 905nm wave length, which is why the human eye test is only a general rule of
thumb and not an absolute test of what the laser sensor is able penetrate through to the
liquid surface.
Liquids & Fluids Application
The S300 series sensor is engineered and specifically designed to directly measure all types of
fluids surfaces, including those that are low in reflectivity (such as clear water) and turbulent
surfaces. The S300 generates reliable results from the laser’s transmitted reflections off the
liquid surface that is picked up by the receiver, utilizing complex algorithms, which smooth out
the peaks and valleys caused by turbulent fluids surfaces. Because of this, TruSense S300 series
will integrate well in static and/or dynamic liquid level monitoring or control systems.
Optional Beam Diffuser
Figure 1: Beam Diffuser
The S300 Diffusing Lens accessory (Part # 7024972) will spread the beam of the laser
over a greater area. The diffusing lens will allow the S300 to achieve better results under
certain conditions. The diffusing lens in recommended under the following conditions:
•Whenever the range to the target is less than 10 meters.
•Whenever the liquid surface is turbulent during measurement.
•Whenever the beam width is not restricted by the diameter of a stilling pipe.
The S300 Diffusing Lens is not recommended when:
•Measuring a range over 50 meters.
•Whenever a stilling pipe is so narrow over its length that the diameter of the
stilling pipe will be less than the diameter of the beam spread (see Table 2).
✓
Figure 2: Beam Spread

LTI TruSense S300 Series Integration Manual 3rd Edition
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Mounting the S300 Diffusing Lens
The diffusing lens is attached to the front of the S3xx using the 3 screws
provided. A 2mm Allen wrench is included in the diffusing lens package to
attach the lens to the TruSense face. Use of the diffusing lens does not
compromise the IP rating of the sensor.
The diffusing lens comes with the parts illustrated to the left. Assemble the
parts as shown to the front face plate of the sensor.
Beam Spread of S3xx Over Distance
The laser beam will spread over distance. The beam spread with increase if the diffusing lens is
used. Below is a table to calculate the estimated beam spread at different distances. These
calculations should be considered when mounting the sensor against a wall, shooting down a
stilling pipe, or where other obstructions could be in the way of the laser beam.
TABLE 2: Laser Beam Spread
Beam Diameter at the Target = Free Aperture + (Divergence x Range)
Example:
Distance to the Target
= 100 m
Divergence
= 3 mrad
Free Aperture
Beam Diameter at the Target
= 23 mm
= 0.023 + (0.003 x 100) = 323 mm
Window/Sight Glass Application
S3XX SENSOR
BEAM WIDTH
BEAM WIDTH W/DIFFUSING LENS
Distance to Target–
Meters (Feet)
Beam Width
w/o diffuser
Meters (Feet)
Beam Width
With 2.5 diffuser
Meters (Feet)
.5 (1.64)
.025 (.08)
.045 (.14)
1.0 (3.28)
.026 (.08)
.067 (.21)
1.5 (4.92)
.028 (.09)
.088 (.28)
2.0 (6.56)
.029 (.09)
.110 (.35)
2.5 (8.20)
.031 (.10)
.132 (.43)
3.0 (9.84)
.032 (.10)
.154 (.50)
3.5 (11.48)
.034 (.11)
.176 (.57)
4.0 (13.12)
.035 (.11)
.198 (.64)
4.5 (14.76)
.037 (.12)
.219 (.71)
5.0 (16.40)
.038 (.12)
.241 (.78)
5.5 (18.04)
.040 (.13)
.263 (.85)
6.0 (19.69)
.041 (.13)
.285 (.92)
6.5 (21.33)
.043 (.14)
.307 (.99)
7.0 (22.97)
.044 (.14)
.328 (1.06)
7.5 (24.61)
.046 (.15)
.350 (1.13)
8.0 (26.25)
.047 (.15)
.372 (1.20)
8.5 (27.89)
.049 (.16)
.394 (1.27)
9.0 (29.53)
.050 (.16)
.416 (1.34)
9.5 (31.17)
.052 (.17)
.438 (1.41)
10.0 (32.81)
.053 (.17)
.459 (1.48)
Figure 3: Diffuser Install

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When measuring through a window or sight glass, ensure the face plate of the sensor is 3
mm or closer to the window and the laser beam is aligned as close to a normal angle to the
window, keeping in mind the liquid surface must be at a normal angle to the laser beam. In
addition to distance from the window, reflections will increase with an increased angle to
the window in relationship to the laser beam path. Both distance and angle from window
could result in measurement errors due to “crosstalk”. Crosstalk occurs when the
transmitted laser beam is reflected from the window back into the receiver causing inaccurate
measurements. To help mitigate crosstalk, place a light baffle between the TruSense
transmitter and receiver.
Whenever you are shooting through a glass or plastic material, it is recommended to use
materials with high IR (905nm) transmission.
When calculating signal loss due to transmission properties of a window, it is 2x the
transmission (Transmission Loss outbound + Transmission loss inbound).
Foam Application
The laser will likely measure to the top of the foam if present. However, the use a stilling
well or by-pass pipe can mitigate this condition. These devices allow the fluids to enter
through perforations and reach the same level as the rest of the vessel but reducing the
amount of agitation and foam that may be present outside of the stilling well. Another
technique to counter foam is to create a small “wash-down” area at the side of the tank
which will clear a small area through the foam, down to the material layer. Shoot the
laser at this spot.
If both the foam layer and the below liquid surface layer are required to be monitored,
two separate TruSense S300 models can be set up to provide both measurements. For
example, one can be used inside a stilling well and the other outside to measure both
targets.
Figure 4: Stilling/By-Pass
Dense Steam Application
The presence of steam is a particularly challenging condition. Like most scenarios it
depends on the density & composition of the steam and the nature of the surface to be
measured (still or turbulent). A general rule of thumb is that if you can see through the
steam to the liquid surface, the laser should be able to as well.

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Transmit Receive Lens
Left side referencing the front view as shown in the figure to the
right.
Measurement Reference
Distance measurements are from the sensor front plate to the target
as shown in the figure to the right. Note: The zero point will change
slightly due to Diffuser lens, Window (if present) and/or mounting
environment. For these reasons a User’s Offset can be programmed
into the TruSense to set the zero point.
Hazardous Locations
It is recommended to use the Ruggedized Housing Enclosure designed to house the S300
(see Appendix A of the document for more information). This can be mounted to an
adaptor and flange for easy installation in a tank or silo. A dust tube will attach to the
adaptor and provides an ¼ X 18 NPT access for an air tube to provide positive air
pressure inside the tube for dusty environments.
Sunlight
If installing the TruSense sensor outdoors, it is important not to allow direct sun to shine
on the sensor. Direct sun light can raise temperatures above the safe operating
temperature of the sealed TruSense sensor causing a thermal shutdown of the sensor
until sensor returns to normal operating temperatures.
4 Initial Setup Requirements
Electrical
Recommend 12 to 24 volts dc.
I/O
Default RS-232 Communication (found on all models) = 115200 baud rate, no parity, 8
data bits, 1 stop bit, no flow control.
Note: Additional I/O available, depending on model.
Mounting
Mounting slots are 4 X 3.2mm (0.13 inches), always use a washer and do not exceed 5
Inch pounds of torque when securing. Recommended bolt size is M3, or 4-40.
Alignment
To get best performance from the TruSense S3xx, it is important to setup the sensor to be as
close to 90 degrees to the liquid surface (+/-2 degrees).
There are two methods to orient the sensor to the surface of the liquid, aligning with a bubble
level or signal strength return displayed via the RS-232 communication.
1. Bubble level alignment: During manufacturing, the TruSense laser beam is precisely
aligned to the outer body of the TruSense sensor. Placing a level on the back plate or
sides of the sensor will allow a method to assure the sensor is in the correct downward
orientation. Note: For OEM sensor the front face plate is orientated 90 degrees to the
laser beam.
2. Signal Strength Return: This method will require a Laptop Windows computer with a
RS-232 Com Port attached to the TruSense sensor and a Terminal communication

LTI TruSense S300 Series Integration Manual 3rd Edition
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program like Tera Term or Hyper Term. The TruSense S300-series sensor will output a
signal strength reading from 0-2000 where 2000 indicates the strongest return. By
orientating the sensor, the goal is to peak the signal strength to the highest value
possible. The power return value above 1000 is considered excellent.
5 RS-232 ASCII Serial Communication Protocol
RS-232 communication is available in all the S3xx models. This communication pathway
can be used for setting, controlling and configurating the sensor.
•Each command line and reply line begins with a ‘$’ sign and ends with *CRC16
<CR><LF>. Note: CR is carriage return and LF is line feed.
•RS-232 factory default communication parameters: baud rate 115200, no parity, 8
data bits, 1 stop bit, no flow control.
•There are four types of RS-232 commands: Get, Set, Get & Set, and Direct
Action.
•On commands that have the ‘Get’function, issuing a command without an
associated parameter(s), prompts the S3xx to reply with the current setting of
that parameter(s). Example: Sent: $,<Command><CR><LF> Return:
$,<Command>,<Parameter> * CRC16
•On commands that have the ‘Set’ function, issuing the command as
followed: $,<Command>,<Parameter Value> <CR><LF> . Some commands
have multiple parameters that can be set which would be separated by
additional ‘,’. Example: $,<Command>,<1st Parameter Value>,<2nd
Parameter Value>…… <CR><LF> . Note: Additional characters to the right of
the parameter(s) are ignored.
•On direct action commands, issuing the command will be executed directly
after the <CR><LF> is sent. Example: $,<Command><CR><LF>
Note: Each command is made up of two alpha characters that are not case sensitive.
Important: Before entering any command, issue the Stop command (Direct Action
command) Example: $ST<CR><LF>.
Important: After changing any Set command parameters, to permanently save in
non-volatile memory, the Save command (Direct Action command) $SU<CR><LF>
must be executed. Note: After execution the sensor will save current settings and
reboot.
•When first applying power, the unit performs an initialization and onboard self-
test to ensure the sensor systems pass.
•Thre are three methods for initiating a measurement:
•Serial command request (see $GO command).
•Auto start at boot-up (see $MA command).
•Hardware control via the Ext-Trig control signal (see $TG command).
•The time for an individual measurement will vary depending on liquid mode
settings, warm up time, and update period. For more detailed information
see Section 7.

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Factory Default Settings
Note: For detailed information on RS-232 ASCII Commands for setting up sensor, see
Section 7.
S300
S310
S330
Command Description
Command
Settings
Settings
Settings
Baud Rate
BA
115200
115200
115200
Consecutive Errors
CE
5
5
5
Display Banner
DB
0
0
0
Error Code Output Format
DE
0
0
0
HS Intensity
DI
1
1
1
Target Mode
DM
5
5
5
HS Time Display
DT
0
0
0
4-20mA Setting
FT
0.000,10.000,0.0,
1,1,0,0,0,0
0.000,10.000,0.0,
1,1,0,0,0,0
0.000,10.000,0.0,
1,1,0,0,0,0
Auto-Start Measurement Mode
MA
1
1
1
Measurement Mode
MM
4
4
4
Measurement Units & Resolution
MU
M,3
M,3
M,3
Generate Errors
NE
0
0
0
Liquid Filter
OS
2,1,0,0
2,1,0,0
2,1,0,0
External Trigger Gates
RD
1,10
1,10
N/A
External Trigger Mode
TG
5
5
0
User Offset
$UO
0
0
0
Visible Laser Pointer off
$VF
N/A
Yes
Yes
Table 3: Factory Default
6 4-20mA Loop Setup
This section will cover the setup of the TruSense sensor for a 4-20mA installation using
the RS-232 ASCII communication. The TruSense sensor is configured from the factory to
measure most liquid measurement situations out of the box. Since the S330 is a smart
sensor, to implement the 4-20mA loop, the user need only define the loop boundaries
and empty current (Item 2 under the Programing the S330 section). The user can setup
the sensor at a bench prior to installation or at the working location. By answering the
below question and programing the sensor with the RS-232 ASCII serial commands, the
sensor should be ready to integrate into your level measurement system.
Note: An alternative programing method is to use the LTI S330 programing interface software tool. (See
Appendix B)
Before you start you will need:
1. The TruSense S330 is not loop powered so a 12-24DC power and ground needs
to be at the sensor location in addition to the powered current loop supply and
return wires.
2. Open 4-20mA receiver on a PLC.
3. Vessel height from Empty to Full level (Measurement Span). Typically, this would
be to overflow pipe.
4. The distance from sensor mounting point to the Full level of vessel (Instrument
Offset).
5. If your PLC accepts error current signal, what current values are available.

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6. Available COM port on the programing PC.
7. TruSense Power COM cable or equivalent.
8. Terminal program like Tera Term or HyperTerminal.
Note: Terminal communication parameters: baud rate 115200, no parity, 8 data bits, 1
stop bit, no flow control.
Programing the S330
Note: An alternative programing method is available for setting up the sensor. The LTI TruSense S330
programing interface software tool (See Appendix B). Using this tool for setting up the sensor in an
application requires no prior knowledge of the RS-232 ASCII commands. The tool will send the
appropriate commands necessary to configure the sensor to integrate to your application.
1. Measurement Units ($MU)
This will setup the instrument measurement units for all measurement communication
formats. For liquid measurements, the available options are feet or meters. In addition
to setting measurement units, you can specify how many decimal places to display in the
RS-232 data export.
Note: Decimal place setting has no effect on the current loop resolution.
1.1. What measurement unit are you using?
oMeters, two decimals? Serial Command: $MU,m,2<Return>
oMeters, three decimals? Serial Command: $MU,m,3<Return>
oFeet, two decimals? Serial Command: $MU,f,2<Return>
oFeet, three decimals? Serial Command: $MU,f,3<Return>
Note: See Serial Command $MU for more information.
2. Setting the Current loop boundaries and error current. ($FT)
The following questions will setup the $FT serial command parameters, 4mA boundary, 20mA
boundary, and error current (Refer to Figure 5).
2.1.What is the Measurement Span of the vessel (Vessel Height)?
2.2.What is the Instrument Offset?
2.3.What is the Error Current setting?
2.4.What is Distance Span (Instrument Offset + Measurement Span)?
2.5.What is Distance Span current boundary? 4mA or 20mA
2.6.What error current do you need?
3. Liquid sensing setup. ($OS)
This command controls the filtering type, measurements per second, advance noise filter, and running
average. See serial command $OS for more information.
3.1. What filtering types do you need for the liquid surface you are measuring to?
3.1.1. Smooth Surface = 1
Note: The Smooth filter works in environments with smooth surfaces, producing a
slightly more accurate reading.
3.1.2. Turbulent = 2
Note: The Turbulent filter should be used in environments that can transition from
smooth to turbulent or are always turbulent.
3.2. Measurements per Second.
3.2.1. Available 1 to 14.
Note: Only set greater than 1 if your system requires faster than one second

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updates to the current loop.
3.3. Advanced noise Is always set to 0.
3.4. What Running Average do you need?
3.4.1. Available options are 0(off) and from 2 seconds to 30 seconds in whole
second intervals.
4. Error Reporting. ($CE and $NE)
Error reporting can be turned on or off ($NE). An enhanced feature is the addition of
consecutive error reporting. During turbulent surface condition momentary single return losses
can occur. By setting this, you can account for this condition and only report error that are true
in nature.
Note: For more information see serial commands $CE and $NE.
4.1.Do you error reporting?
4.1.1. Yes $NE,0 (On)
4.1.2. No $NE,1 (Off)
4.2.What kind of liquid surface is most common?
4.2.1. No Turbulence $CE,3
4.2.2. Slight Turbulence $CE,10
4.2.3. Moderate Turbulence $CE,100
4.2.4. Very Turbulence $CD,255
Note: Any whole number between 1 to 255 can work but the above values work in
most cases.
5. Sensing Environment ($DM)
The TruSense sensor can identify multiple targets, if found. In stilling wells, light steam or fog
the last target reporting will mitigate the possibility of early returns from these obstacles.
Note: For more information see serial command $DM
5.1. What measurement conditions?
5.1.1. Open vessel $DN,5 (First Target)
5.1.2. Stilling well $DM,7 (Last Target)

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Figure 5: Vessel 4-20 Setup
7 4-20mA Work Sheet
The following Work Sheet can be printed out and used to build ASCII serial command and
record the sensor settings for future reference. The intent of this worksheet is to allow the
user to build each ASCII serial command for the 4-20mA loop.
Note: An alternative programing method is available for setting up the sensor. The LTI
TruSense S330 programing interface software tool (See Appendix B). Using this tool for
setting up the sensor in an application requires no prior knowledge of the RS-232 ASCII
commands. The tool will send the appropriate commands necessary to configure the
sensor to integrate to your application environment.

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Work Sheet for setting TruSense S330 for installation in 4-20mA Loop
Sensor Serial Number: _____________ Sensor Location: ______________________________________________
Measurement unit
$MU
Question
1
Meters, two decimals?
$MU,m,2
Meters, three decimals?
$MU,m,3
Feet, two decimals?
$MU,f,2
Feet, three decimals?
$MU,f,3
ASCII Command
$MU,______,_____
ASCII Command to send
$MU,<Line1>
Current Loop $FT
Question
2
Measurement Span Height?
3
Instrument Offset Height?
______________
4
Distance Span Calculation
<Line5> + <Line 6> =___________
5
4mA Current boundary?
Distance Span or Instrument offset
Value: ______________
6
20mA Current boundary?
Distance Span or Instrument offset
Value: ______________
7
Error Current?
0 = Loop out of bounds error current 24mA
1 = Loop out of bounds error current 3.5mA
ASCII Command
$FT,_____,_____,0,_____,1
ASCII Command to send
$FT,<Line 5 >,<Line 6>,0,<Line7>,1
Liquid Setting $OS
Question
8
What Filter Type?
Smooth Surface = 1
Turbulent Surface = 2
9
Measurement per second?
Value 1 to 14: ______
10
Running Average?
Value 0=off 2-30 = on:_______
ASCII Command
$OS,_____,_____,0,_____
ASCII Command to send
$OS,<Line8 >,<Line 9>,0,<Line 10>
Error Reporting $NE
Question
11
Error Reporting?
On = 0
Off = 1
ASCII Command
$NE,_______
ASCII Command to send
$NE,<Line 11>
Consecutive Errors $CE
Question
12
Consecutive Errors?
No Turbulance = 3
Slight Turbulance = 10
Moderate Turbulance = 100
Very Turbulant = 255
ASCII Command
$CE,_______
ASCII Command to send
$CE,<Line 12>
Target Mode $DM
Question
13
Target Mode?
Open Vessel = 5
Stilling Well = 7
ASCII Command
$DM,________
ASCII Command to send
$DM,<Line13>

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8 RS-232 ASCII MeasurementOutputMessages
This section defines the RS-232 ASCII measurement output format. For detailed information on RS-232
ASCII Commands for setting up sensor, see Section 9.
First Target
Output message if $DI = 0 (Intensity Off) and $DT = 0 (Time Stamp Off)
$DF,< distance> *CRC16 <CR><LF>
Example: $DF,1.39*7321 <CR><LF>
Output message if $DI = 0 (Intensity Off) and $DT = 1 (Time Stamp On)
$DF,< distance>,< since power on>*CRC16 <CR><LF>
Example: $DF,1.40,3.236*35E4
Output message if $DI = 1 (Intensity On) and $DT = 0 or 1 (Time Stamp Off or On)
$DF,< distance>,< time stamp on>,<Power Return>*CRC16 <CR><LF>
Example: $DF,1.40,8.678,1543*C392
Strongest Target
Output message if $DI = 0 (Intensity Off) and $DT = 0 (Time Stamp Off)
$DS,< distance> *CRC16 <CR><LF>
Example: $DS,1.38*76E2 <CR><LF>
Output message if $DI = 0 (Intensity Off) and $DT = 1 (Time Stamp On)
$DS,< distance>,< time stamp on>*CRC16 <CR><LF>
Example: $DS,1.38,8.653*43C6 <CR><LF>
Output message if $DI = 1 (Intensity On) and $DT = 0 or 1 (Time Stamp Off or On)
$DS,< distance>,< time stamp on>,<Power Return>*CRC16 <CR><LF>
Example: $DS,1.38,2.396,1430*CF7B <CR><LF>
Last Target
Output message if $DI = 0 (Intensity Off) and $DT = 0 (Time Stamp Off)
$DL,< distance> *CRC16 <CR><LF>
Example: $DL,1.38*19E0 <CR><LF>
Output message if $DI = 0 (Intensity Off) and $DT = 1 (Time Stamp On)
$DL,< distance>,< time stamp on>*CRC16 <CR><LF>
Example: $DL,1.40,6.767*BCE2 <CR><LF>
Output message if $DI = 1 (Intensity On) and $DT = 0 or 1 (Time Stamp Off or On)
$DL,< distance>,< time power on>,<Power Return>*CRC16 <CR><LF>
Example: $DL,1.40,7.023,1420*6142 <CR><LF>

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9 RS-232 ASCII SerialCommands
This section defines the individual ASCII commands for setting up and controlling measurement over
the RS-232 communication pathway.
$AU Display Board AUX Board Status
Gets AUX board information that defines Visible laser pointer and additional communication pathways.
Get:
$AU<CR><LF>
Instrument
Reply:
$AU,<aux board configuration>,<working aux configuration>,<factory setting>
*CRC16<CR><LF>
The S300 gives actual aux board configuration as well as working configuration. Normally, actual
configuration is same as working one, but some function is disabled if there is conflict. If Actual
configuration sets a bit for the wrong setting, S300 may not work correctly. All configurations are
hexadecimal digits. See below bit description:
oS300 SDI-12; No Visible Laser Pointer Response: $AU,0x0,0x10,0x10*5DEB
oS310 SDI-12; Visible Laser Pointer Response: $AU,0x9,0x1,0x11*9053
oS330 4-20mA; Visible Laser Pointer Response: $AU,0x7,0x7,0x7*F0B4
Example:
Input: Get
$AU<CR><LF>
Reply:
$AU,0x7,0x7,0x7*F0B4<CR><LF>
$BA RS232Baud Rate
Sets and gets the serial communications data rate. The reply message to this command is sent at
the previous baud rate. Default baud value = 115200 .
Important: Once $PD is issued, the user must configure communication link to new Baud Rate.
where:
$
= message identifier
BA
n
= mnemonic for RS232 Baud Rate
= baud rate: 9600
19200
38400
57600
115200
230400
*CRC16
= 16-bit CRC
<CR>
= carriage return
<LF>
= line feed
Example:
Input: Get
$BA<CR><LF>
Reply:
$BA,115200*6FC3<CR><LF>
TO SET NEW BAUDRATE, USE $PD
POWER CYCLE
Input: Set
$BA,4800<CR><LF>
Reply:
$BA,4800*3A67 <CR><LF>
TO SET NEW BAUDRATE, USE $PD
OROWER CYCLE
Set:
$BA, n <CR><LF>
Instrument Reply: $BA,n*CRC16<CR><LF>
TO SET NEW BAUDRATE, USE $PD OR POWER CYCLE
Get:
$BA<CR><LF>
Instrument Reply: $BA,n*CRC16<CR><LF>