Lightning Protection International Lightning Warning System MKIII User manual

LIGHTNING PROTECTION INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD
ABN 11 099 190 897
www.lpi.com.au
Installation and
Operating Manual
Lightning Warning System MKIII

Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2011 LPI Page 1
Lightning Warning System
LWS-MKIII
Installation and Operating
Manual

Document:
LWS-MKIII Installation
and Operating Manual
Lightning Protection
International Pty Ltd
© Copyright 2012 LPI
Contents
Contents ...................................................................................................2-3
System Overview ................................................................................4
What is it? ..........................................................................................................4
What does it do? ............................................................................................. 4
Console ...............................................................................................................5
LWS Sensor Assembly .................................................................................. 5
Event Indication Levels ................................................................................ 5
Warning Indication ..................................................................................6
Alarm Indication ....................................................................................... 7
All Clear Indication ..................................................................................8
Optional Range Extenders ..........................................................................8
Installation .................................................................................................9
Console Installation ......................................................................................9
Sensor Installation .........................................................................................9
Installation of Console / Console Antenna ........................................18
Approved Sensor Locations .................................................................... 20
Range Extender Installation .....................................................................21
Operation .................................................................................................. 22
Accessing the Interface homepage ...................................................... 22
Event Log ........................................................................................................ 23
Saving in Internet Explorer ...................................................................... 24
Saving in Firefox ........................................................................................... 25
Saving in Google Chrome ......................................................................... 26
Changing the Settings ................................................................. 27
IP Address ....................................................................................................... 28
Update Status ............................................................................................... 29
System Time .................................................................................................. 30
System Status ................................................................................................31
Alarm Reassert ............................................................................................. 32
All Clear Time Out ........................................................................................ 32
Indication Duration ..................................................................................... 33
Alarm Enable Times .................................................................................... 34
All Clear Mode ............................................................................................... 35
User Name and Password ........................................................................ 36
Restoring Console Factory Default Values.........................................37
Page 2 Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI

Contents
Establishing a LAN Connection to the LWS .......... 38
Introduction ................................................................................................... 38
Setting up a Direct Connection Network for the LWS using
Windows 7 ...................................................................................................... 38
How to put LWS onto a Network .................................... 45
Initially ............................................................................................................. 45
If using DHCP follow these steps .......................................................... 45
If using a Static IP follow these steps ................................................. 47
General Browser Settings ........................................................................ 47
Relay / Alarm Output and Power Connectors ..... 49
Maintenance Check Recommendations ................... 49
Sensors and Range Extenders ............................................................... 49
Console ............................................................................................................ 49
Supporting Documents ............................................................... 50
Optional Extras ................................................................................... 50
Troubleshooting ..................................................................................51
Checking Power .............................................................................................51
Checking Network ........................................................................................ 51
Checking Communications to Sensor ..................................................51
Checking Siren Functionality .................................................................. 52
Error Messages............................................................................................. 52
Specifications .......................................................Inside Back Cover
Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI Page 3

Page 4 Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI
System Overview
What is it?
The LPI Lightning Warning System is a non-directional lightning detection instrument, designed to
provide indication of nearby lightning strikes and significant changes in the local electrostatic field.
The LPI Lightning Warning System MKIII provides the user with the ability to manage the lightning
risk and to fulfil a duty of care to employees, customers and all related personnel. As occupational
health and safety laws strengthen globally, senior management across a wide variety of industries and
recreational pursuits are now faced with a realisation that they have a duty to warn individuals of the
pending risks associated from lightning. Recent court cases have shown a dramatic change from the
once acceptable “Act of God” defence, to a realisation that management now has a duty to warn.
What does it do?
On detection of a nearby lightning event or significant increase in the electrostatic field, the system
will provide a Warning or Alarm to personnel that an event has occurred or is likely to occur. Detection
and Alarm Indication (via a siren) is performed by the sensor unit, with results being sent wirelessly to
the console for more detailed event Indication and logging.
Whip antenna detects
electric discharges due
to lightning activi
Storm Cell
Corona point
detects increase
in electric field
strength as a
result of:
• approaching storm
• storm cell overhead
LPI
Sensor
Assembly
How the LWS works

Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI Page 5
Console
The LWS MkIII Console provides the user interface to the LWS via its Webserver. It communicates with
the sensor providing the user access to current lightning information.
This information includes details such as the current Lightning Warning Level, and recent lightning
related activity such as Lightning Strikes and Electric Field Levels.
The Console is typically sited in a secure location where it can either be connected directly to a
computer by cross-over Ethernet cable, or by straight-through Ethernet cable to a local network,
allowing the user to access the relevant data and system settings. The Console has relay outputs for
Alarm, Warning and All Clear indications suitable for switching contacts (Note: Only a small amount
of current can be supplied by the Console alarm relay outputs, and therefore a siren or other indicator
cannot be driven directly from the outputs).
LWS Sensor Assembly
The LWS Sensor Assembly (Microprocessor, Sensing Antenna, Alarm/Warning/All Clear Indicator and
Earth Rod) is the integral component of the LWS system, it provides all decision making in regards to
recorded lightning events and subsequent alerts.
The LWS Sensor Assembly is typically mounted at a suitable location at site and the monitoring of all
lightning activity is controlled by an on board microprocessor. This works in conjunction with the sensing
antenna to detect changes in the electric field and approaching lightning discharges. Depending on
the intensity of the electric field or proximity of the lightning, the sensor provides an event indication
via wireless communication to a receiving antenna and console unit which is positioned within 1 km
line of sight of the sensor.
Each sensor also contains an Alarm/Warning/All Clear Indication device. Depending on customer
preference this is provided by a siren, which allows the user to communicate situation events
to all personnel in accordance with site safety policies and procedures. In the event of temporary
communication loss between the Console and Sensor, indication of event detection still occurs at the
sensor despite the communications loss.
Depending on the layout of the site and the area to be monitored, LPI can customize a solution.
LPI can also provide a suitable Mounting Pole (OD 70mm, ID 61.5mm) to mount the LWS Sensor
Assembly to. If the Mounting Pole option is included, suitable locking bolts are also provided to keep
the LWS Sensor Assembly secure.
Event Indication Levels
As the LWS MkIII sensor detects lightning activity or increases in the electric field, event indications
are made at the Sensor and are communicated to the Console for processing. If the event falls within
a predetermined level, the following indications are provided to the user.

Page 6 Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI
LPI
Sensor
Assembly
Established
storm front
• LWS activates warning when
lightning is within 10 -25 km
• Typically 20-30 minutes warning
• External siren can be sounded
if required
10 - 25 km
Warning Status
Warning Indication
A Warning Indication occurs when either a far lightning strike or a low electric field is detected. Far
lightning strikes are defined as lightning events that occur within a radius of approximately 10 to 25km
of the sensor. Low electric-field events are defined as being when the local electric field rises above a
level of 3kV/m. A Warning status provides the user with an indication that a storm is within a relatively
close range and may move towards the area where the sensors are stationed. When a storm is within
25km it may arrive in the area in approximately 20-40 minutes.

Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI Page 7
LPI
Sensor
Assembly
• LWS activates alarm when
lightning is within 8 -10 km
• Storm 10 -15 minutes away
• External alarm (siren) sounds
warning of impending danger
8 -10 km
Alarm Status
Established
storm front
Alarm Indication
An Alarm Indication occurs when a near lightning strike or high electric field is detected. Near lightning
strikes are defined as those being within a radius of approximately 8 to 10km of the sensor and could
be close enough to pose a significant risk within approximately 10-15 minutes. High electric field events
are defined as being when the local electric field rises above 7kV/m. An Alarm status provides to the
user an indication that current activities at site should be suspended and shelter taken in accordance
with established safety procedures.

Page 8 Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI
All Clear Indication
An All Clear Indication is given when no activity (far strikes, near strikes, low electric field or
high electric field) has occurred within 10-30 minutes (programmable). After this period of no activity
it is deemed safe to resume all activities.
*There is also a Quick All Clear version of the LWS, which will behave slightly differently, this will give
an all clear indication after 10-30 minutes with no Near Strikes or High E fields.
Optional Range Extenders
In a standard LWS MkIII system, the Sensor must be within 1km and have direct line of sight to the
Console Communication Antenna. If this is not possible, then important information about settings
and recorded lightning events will not be transmitted.
However it is possible to use one or more Range Extenders to increase the distance between the
Sensor location and the Console, allowing settings and lightning event information to be passed
between the Sensor and Console.
Range Extenders work by being placed in positions that give <1km line of sight to both the Console
Communication Antenna and the Sensor (or to another interim Range Extender).
Range Extenders can also be
configured to act as alarm repeaters,
turning on alarms at the same time
as the Main Sensor and Console.
This allows a greater area to receive
warnings about lightning events.
Range Extenders have no individual
capability for detecting lightning
events.
Up to 10 Range Extenders can be
included as part of a system. These
can be arranged in a mesh or line
configuration. It is possible to have
more than 1 Range Extender within
<1km line of sight of another Range
Extender, Sensor or Console without
interference.
Range Extenders are available in
either Package A (power supply)
or Package B (solar panel)
configuration.

Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI Page 9
Installation
Console Installation
The console should be situated in a secure location close to either the primary computer used to
access the user interface, or to a router/network switch to allow for easy connection. This location
should allow for a co-axial antenna cable to be connected to an “out-door” wireless antenna. The
length of co-axial cable supplied is 2.5m long. The out-door antenna must also have line of sight to a
sensor within a range of 1km. For multiple sensor systems the console antenna only requires line of
sight to the nearest sensor less than 1km away.
A recent web browser, such as Firefox, Chrome or Internet Explorer, must be installed on a
connected computer to view the web based user interface. Elements of the user interface may not
work correctly using an old browser.
The console requires a 6Vdc power supply, the power supply is included and comes with an
Australian 3pin to IEC C7. mains lead.
If required the customer is to supply
an IEC C7 mains lead to suit their local
mains power socket outlet type.
Corona Point Needle
Grub Screw
Upper
Sensor
Antenna
Sensor Installation
The Sensor Assembly will be provided
in three separate parts; the upper
sensor antenna, the sensor housing
and copper earth rod. In an approved
location (see section on Approved
Sensor Locations), the procedure for
Assembly of the Sensor Assembly is
as follows:
i) Insert the Corona Point Needle
into the top of the upper sensor
antenna and secure in place with
the provided grub screw and hex
key.

Page 10 Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI
ii) Screw the upper sensor antenna into the antenna base on the top of the sensor housing.
iii) Ensure cabling for Alarm relay outputs (siren/ LED display), power input (12Vdc plug pack
Solar Panel and Battery) and earth cable have been installed correctly, either up the centre of
the mounting pole or through a hole in the side of the mounting pole.
Cabling for Alarm
Relay Outputs
(Siren/LED Display),
Power Input
(12Vdc plug pack/
Solar Panel,
Battery) and
Earth Rod
Sensor
Housing
To Earth Rod
40 mm ø
minimum
Corona
Point
Needle
Upper
Sensor
Antenna
Antenna
Base
Sensor
Housing
Mounting
Pole

Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI Page 11
iv) Connect Alarm relay plug and socket and power input plug and socket.
Note: Ensure the supplied dust cap remains fitted to the remaining 7 pin plug (if not being used).
7 Pin Socket (Female)
To Alarm
4 Pin Plug (Male)
From Sensor
4 Pin Socket (Female)
From Power Supply
7 Pin Socket (Female)
Warning output from Sensor
(supplied with fitted dust cap)
7 Pin Plug (Male)
Alarm output from Sensor

Page 12 Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI
v) Attach sensor housing to the mounting pole.
LPI Mounting Pole
Securing Bolt
Sensor Housing
Holes are provided in the LPI supplied
Mounting Mast. Fit two securing bolts
to lock the Sensor to the mast.

Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI Page 13
LPI Mounting Pole
Concrete
and gravel fill
Sensor Housing
600 mm
LPI Mounting Mast
600 mm
Minimum Height
2 m
vi) Securely place a mounting pole in the ground (recommended depth of at least 600mm with
concrete and gravel fill).

Page 14 Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI
Earth Wire from
Sensor Assembly
Rod Clamp
LPI Mounting Pole
Earth Rod
Concrete
and gravel fill
vii) Drive the earth rod into the ground beside the Sensor Assembly and clamp the grounding cable
(from the Sensor Assembly or from the 4 pin connector, see “Relay/Alarm Output and Power
Connectors” section for details, page 44) to the rod using the rod clamp provided.

Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI Page 15
LWS Sensor
Mounting Pole
4 Pin Female Plug
from Power Supply
4 Pin Male Plug
from Sensor
110 - 240V AC Mains
Power
Power Supply
Customer
supplied and fitted Mains cable
Weatherproof
Enclosure
viii) Ensure that the selected power supply and Alarm Indication device is connected correctly.
ix) If supplied, mount the solar panel assembly (with battery) on the mounting pole. To achieve
maximum battery charging, the solar panel should be aligned so that it faces towards the sun.
For locations in the Southern hemisphere the panel should face North, in the Northern
hemisphere the panel should face South. Ensure that the solar panel is not in the shadow of
the mast at any time during the day.

Page 16 Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI
7 Pin Male Plug
7 Pin Female Plug
Alarm Siren
Mounting Pole
40 mm ø minimum
Mount Siren to
Mounting Pole

Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI Page 17
Mounting Pole
To Earth
7 Pin Socket
7 Pin Socket with
End Cap
7 Pin Plug
4 Pin Socket4 Pin Plug
Battery Box
mounted to
Mounting Pole
LWS Sensor
LWS Antenna
Solar
Panel
Adjustable bracket
to allow Solar Panel
to face the sun
(seasonal)
Mount Solar Panel
to LWS Mounting Pole
Optional Battery Box Sun
Shade. Not supplied with
LWS. If required, can be
manufactured by customer.
Siren

Page 18 Document 36 II LWS-MKIII, pub V5 © Copyright 2012 LPI
Coaxial Cable
(Max. length 2.5m)
Console
Network
Switch
Ethernet
Cable
PC
Monitor
Antenna
10 mm ø
Hole for
Cable
x) The battery and circuitry in the power supply / battery box should be kept below 43 degrees
Celsius at all times. Direct sun on a hot day will take the power supply box over this level. So If
there is any possibility of this temperature being reached then shade must be provided for the
power supply box. The shade must not restrict airflow around the box. See previous diagram.
For further advice on deployment in difficult conditions please contact LPI.
Once the Sensor Assembly has been configured and both the Alarm Indication device and
power supply are connected, the sensor will run through a “Power-On-Self-Test”. This tests
that the relay outputs are functioning correctly (an Alarm, Warning and All Clear Indication
should be seen/heard briefly when alarm output is enabled). After approximately 30 seconds of
operation without another “Power-On-Self-Test” the sensor is functioning correctly and ready for
operation.
A mounting pole can be supplied by LPI as an optional extra if required. Any mounting pole supplied
by the client must be 2-3m long to provide correct calibration height, and have a minimum internal
diameter of 61.5mm.
Installation of Console / Console Antenna
The Console should be placed within approximately 2m of where the Console Antenna is to be mounted.
The supplied cable length is 2.5m between the Console and the Console Antenna. The console should
also be positioned within a suitable distance to a power point. An Ethernet Cable with a length of up to
50m can be used to connect the Console to a Network Switch or dedicated computer.
Once Console and Antenna have been installed in a suitable location, connect the Coaxial Antenna
Cable to the Coaxial Flying Lead on the Console. The Console Antenna may be mounted inside building
if close to a window and retains line of sight to nearest sensor or Range Extender.