3. PRODUCT INTRODUCTION
Our Serial Input Meter (or remote display) accepts serial data from scales, computers,
programmable controllers, instruments or other devices to provide a six-digit numeric display
from -999,999 to +999,999. It can also provide relay closures and one or two analog outputs
based on the received serial data. Its appearance matches that of our 1/8 DIN digital panel
meters, counters and timers.
The Serial Input Meter is a 6-digit counter without a signal conditioner board, but with a com-
munications board, which is required. Choices are RS232, RS485, USB or Ethernet. With
RS232, RS485 or USB, the received data can be continuous (or streaming), be in command
mode using Laurel’s Custom ASCII protocol, or be in command mode using the Modbus R U
protocol. With Ethernet, the received data can only be in command mode using the Modbus
CP/IP protocol, which uses the same syntax as Modbus R U.
A Serial Input Meter can augment a Laureate meter or counter by displaying parameters that
cannot be displayed on the single numeric display of that instrument. For example, a Laureate
FR counter can only display rate A, rate B, ratio A/B or peak one at a time. By augmenting the
counter with remote displays, all these parameters can be displayed simultaneously. he
required user-selectable modes are provided for the sending counter and serial input meter.
A single or dual channel analog output board is optional. Opto-isolation and 16-bit output
resolution turn the Serial Input Meter into a low-cost and highly accurate isolated digital-to-
analog converter or transmitter. he dual analog output board uses the same digital input to
provide two individually scalable analog outputs, such as 4-20 mA plus 0-10V.
A 2- or 4-relay output board is optional and can add alarm or setpoint control capability. he
relays can be 8A contact relays or 130 mA opto-isolated AC/DC solid state relays. he relays
can respond to the transmitted values or to any of 8 serially transmitted control characters. he
control characters can be generated by external software or by one of our meters, counters or
timers, thereby assuring that the local and remote alarm points are identical.
A standard switching power supply allows the Serial Input Meter to be powered worldwide
from 85 to 264 Vac. An optional power supply operates from batteries or low voltage sources,
such as 12-32 Vac or 10-48 Vdc.
The meter case meets the 1/8 DIN size standard and is sealed to NEMA-4X (IP65) when
panel mounted. Mounting is from the front of the panel and requires less than 110 mm behind
the panel. All wiring is via removable plugs conforming to IEC950 safety standards. All output
options are isolated from meter and power grounds to 250 Vac.
Meter programming can be via the meter’s front panel or a PC running Windows based
Instrument Setup (IS) software.
A signal conditioner board is not required but will not interfere with remote display operation
if installed. Operation as a remote display is selectable for our 6-digit counters with a signal
conditioner, as explained in our separate Counter Manual.
