motortronics VMX-18-BP Datasheet

MOTORTRONICS
Solid State AC Motor Control
Document #VMX-QSG604132MN
Firmware Revision 3.01
VMX Series
Digital
Solid State Soft Starter
18 – 1000A
Basic Installation and
Quick Startup Guide

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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Table of Contents
VMX Series
Digital Solid State Soft Starter
18 – 1000A
Quick Start “Minimum Settings” Guide 5
Chapter 1: Introduction
General Description, Sizes and Ratings ……… 6
Dimensions ……………………………………..… 7
Chapter 2 - Installation
Receiving, Unpacking and Inspection ………….. 8
SERVICE WARNING! ……………………...……. 8
Mounting Clearances and Cleaning ………….... 9
Power Connection and Terminations .……….… 10
Control Power Requirements …………………… 12
Control Connections …………………………….. 12
Chapter 3 – Sequence of Operation
Starting and Stopping …………………………... 16
18
Chapter 4 – Programming
Introduction …………………………………..…... 17
Digital Interface …………………………………… 17
Display and Program Modes ………… ………. 18
Program Function List …………………...………. 20
Fault Mode ………………………………………… 24
Chapter 5 - Motor Overload Protection
Solid State Overload Protection ………………… 25
Overload Class Trip Curves …………………..... 27

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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Quick Startup “Minimum Settings” Guide
Your new VMX Series Soft Starter is factory preset for a wide variety of applications and often can be used with
minimal adjustment.
Try these initial factory presets first and then adjust or enable the more advanced features to meet your
specific starting needs.
Three Step Process:
1. Connect L1, L2, L3 to power lines and T1, T2, T3 to motor (see page 10)
2. Connect control wires and control power (see pages 12-13)
3. Program motor FLA (see page 18).
Your VMX unit is ready to start!
Start-up Check List
Supply voltage matches the rated supply voltage of the unit.
Horsepower and current ratings of the motor and unit match or the unit is higher rating.
Initial ramp time and torque adjustments have been checked.
Power lines are attached to the unit input terminals marked L1, L2 and L3 (R, S, T).
Motor leads are connected to the lower terminals marked T1, T2, and T3 (U, V, W).
Appropriate control power is applied
Control connections have been made.
“Power on” light located on the front of the unit turns on when control power is applied.
Four seven-segment LED readouts are visible.
The motor’s FLA has been programmed in function F001.
The thermal overload is properly set. (Use F003 and F004 to set OL Class.)
The motor area and equipment are clear of people and parts before start-up.
This list provides only the bare minimum settings necessary to make your motor run,
and provides basic levels of motor protection. Safety precautions, listed further on in
this manual, must always be followed. Ramp setting adjustments and additional
protection features may be necessary. Please read further for additional details.
MOTOR FLA (F001)
must be programmed
for unit to operate!

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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Chapter 1 - Introduction
General Description
The VMX Series is a digitally programmable solid state reduced voltage soft starter using a six SCR design. It
features a voltage/current ramp for smooth load acceleration. The SCRs are sized to withstand starting currents
of 350% for 30 seconds and up to 600% for 10 seconds for applications typical to NEMA / UL Class 10 overload
trip curves. The VMX Series features smooth stepless ramp control, which reduces motor inrush current and
excessive wear on the mechanical drive train components. The VMX Series includes a programmable keypad
for setting operating parameters for the ideal starting cycle and protection features, plus easy to understand
diagnostic LEDs. Starting torque, ramp time, current limit, dual ramp, and Decel control are standard features
on the VMX Series.The VMX Series includes solid state electronic overload protection in addition to numerous
other protective features. It requires 120VAC (220VAC optional) control power and uses dry contact inputs for
Start / Stop control. Programmable auxiliary contacts and provisions for interlocking are also included.
Sizes and Ratings The Motortronics VMX Series starters are current rated controllers. Max. Amp
ratings are for continuous duty and must not be exceeded. Always check the
motor nameplate FLA and Service Factor (if used) to ensure proper sizing.
Each size has an adjustable range of current from 50% to 100% of the Max Amp
rating. Table 1 below shows the Current Ratings available.
Units without Bypass
For NEMA 1 ventilated applications, or for OEM purposes where a bypass
contactor will be added by others, VMX-210 models and above can be selected
without the integral Bypass by substituting the -BP suffix with a -P suffix.
See the Product Selection Guide for ordering details.
Examples:
•VMX-210-BP = open unit with integral bypass contactor for NEMA 12 / 4
end-user installations
•VMX-210-P = open unit with cooling fans and without bypass contactor,
for use in NEMA 1 vented enclosures or OEM packages where a bypass
contactor is installed by others
Model
Number Current
Range
Min.- Max.
VMX-18-BP 9 - 18
VMX-28-BP 14 - 28
VMX-39-BP 19 - 39
VMX-48-BP 24 - 48
VMX-62-BP 36 - 62
VMX-78-BP 39 - 78
VMX-92-BP 46 - 92
VMX-112-BP 56 - 112
VMX-150-BP 75 - 150
VMX-160-BP 80 - 160
VMX-210-BP or -P 105 - 210
VMX-276-BP or -P 138 - 276
VMX-360-BP or -P 180 - 360
VMX-450-BP or -P 225 - 450
VMX-550-BP or -P 275 - 550
VMX-718-BP or -P 359 - 718
VMX-900-BP or -P 450 - 900
VMX-1000-BP or -P 500 - 1000
Table 1: VMX Series selection

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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Dimensions
Overall Mounting
Enclosure Model Number A B C D E F
VMX -18-BP
through
VMX -48-BP 8.00 8.00 6.68 7.63 6.75 0.22
VMX -62-BP
through
VMX -112-BP 13.50 8.00 6.68 12.75 6.75 0.38
VMX -150-BP and
VMX -160-BP 18.71 8.00 6.68 17.75 6.75 0.38
VMX -210-BP
through
VMX -450-BP 17.11 15.15 11.23 11.00 0.40
VMX-550-BP CF CF CF CF CF CF
VMX-718-BP
through
VMX-900-BP CF CF CF CF CF CF
Panel (open) with
integral bypass
contactor
VMX-1000-BP CF CF CF CF CF CF
Under 210A, use –BP version as shown above
Panel (open), fan
cooled, without
bypass contactor VMX-210-P
through
VMX-1000-P 20.00 12.50 9.05 19.00 11.00 0.40
Table 2: VMX Dimensions ( subject to change)
Figure 1: VMX Dimensions
Note: CF = Consult factory
Fdia.
D
E
B
A
C
~ ~
~

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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Chapter 2 - Installation
Receiving and Unpacking
Upon receipt of the product, you should immediately do the following:
Carefully unpack the unit from the shipping carton and inspect it for shipping damage (if damaged, notify the
freight carrier and file a claim within 15 days of receipt).
Verify that the model number on the unit matches your purchase order.
Confirm that the ratings sticker on the unit matches or is greater than the motor’s nameplate Full Load Current
(FLC or FLA) rating and Service Factor (if used).
Choosing a Location
Proper location of the VMX Series is necessary to achieve specified performance and normal operation lifetime.
The VMX Series should always be installed in an area where the following conditions exist:
Ambient operating temperature:
Panel (open chassis) unit: 0 to 50°C (32 to 122°F)
Enclosed unit: 0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F)
Protected from rain, moisture and dust. Enclosed units should not be exposed to direct sun.
Humidity: 5 to 95% non-condensing
Free from metallic particles, conductive dust and corrosive gas
Free from excessive vibration (below 0.5G)
Open panel units must be mounted in the appropriate type of enclosure. Enclosure size and type must be
suitable to dissipate heat generated by the soft starter and any other components mounted inside with it.
Units with –BP Bypass Contactors produce less heat than units without. Throughout all sizes, maximum heat
dissipation of the VMX…-BP Series electronics, contactor coils and fans is less than 50W.
Units without the –BP Bypass Contactor (optional on 210A and above), must have ventilation adequate to
account for heat dissipation of the SCRs. This must be estimated at 4.5 watts per running load amp. For
example, on a 200HP 460V motor with 240FLA, the maximum heat dissipation of a starter w/o bypass will
be 240 x 4.5, or 1080 watts of heat. Enclosure ventilation (or air conditioning) must be capable of dispersing
this amount of heat.
Care should always be taken to maximize the available space inside of the enclosure. See “Clearances” below
or contact factory for assistance in sizing enclosures.
Initial Unit Inspection
Make a complete visual check of the unit for damage that may have occurred during shipping and handling. Do
not attempt to continue installation or start up the unit if it is damaged.
Check for loose mechanical assemblies or broken wires which may have occurred during transportation or
handling. Loose electrical connections will increase resistance and cause the unit to function improperly.
Mounting and Cleaning
When drilling or punching holes in the enclosure, cover the electrical assembly to prevent metal filings from
becoming lodged in areas which can cause clearance reduction or actually short out electronics. After work is
complete, thoroughly clean, vacuum the area, and re-inspect the unit for foreign material.
SERVICE WARNING!
Do not service equipment with voltage applied! The unit can be
the source of fatal electrical shocks! To avoid shock hazard,
disconnect main power and control power before working on the
unit. Warning labels must be attached to terminals, enclosure and
control panel to meet local codes. Use Lock Out tags such as the
one shown when servicing equipment.

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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VMX Series
Starter
1" minimum (25 mm)
1" minimum (25 mm)
4" minimum (100 mm)
4" minimum (100 mm)
Clearances
When mounting into an enclosure, make sure there is sufficient clearance all around the unit for cooling, wiring
and maintenance purposes. To conserve panel space, the VMX Series –BP models were designed for close
horizontal clearances of only 1 inch (25mm) on either side. A minimum vertical clearance of 4” (100 mm) on the
top and bottom is necessary to maximize effective airflow and cooling, and the unit must be installed with its
heat sink ribs oriented vertically and running parallel to the mounting surface. Keep in mind that these are
minimums. Wiring may require more clearance, particularly on the bottom.
Figure 2: VMX minimum mounting clearances
Cleaning:
WARNING!
Remove all sources of power before cleaning the unit.
In dirty or contaminated atmospheres, the unit should be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure proper cooling.
Do not use any chemicals to clean the unit. To remove surface dust use clean, dry compressed air only, 80 to
100 psi. A three inch, high quality, dry paintbrush is helpful to loosen up the dust prior to using compressed air
on the unit. Do not use wire brushes or other conductive cleaning materials

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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Figure 3:
VMX Power Connections
Integral
Bypass
Contactor*
VMX Starter.
Disconnect
or
Circuit
Breaker
Solid State.
Over Load.
MTR
G
R /
L1 T /
L3
S /
L2
U /
T1 W /
T3
V /
T2
Electrical connections
Power Terminations
All line and load power terminations are to be made to plated copper Bus Tabs located on each unit. Bus tabs
are pre-drilled to accept industry standard bolts.
The following power schematic provides the termination points as they are labeled on the unit. This is
diagrammatic only. All power terminations are physically located on the bottom of each unit. Refer to local code
standards for wire sizing and length.
Connect appropriately sized power conductors to the unit input terminals marked L1, L2, L3 (R, S, T for IEC
users). Avoid routing power wires over the control board or display. Note: If control power is present, but line
power is disconnected from L1, L2, L3, the display will show [n3PH]
indicating “no 3 Phase”.
Connect the motor leads to the unit load terminals marked T1, T2, T3
(U, V, W for IEC users). Soft Starters such as the VMX Series cannot
operate without a load, even for testing. The VMX Series will trip on
“Phase Loss” if any or all of the conductors are disconnected from the
load terminals. Contact the Factory for assistance in no-load testing.
Caution! Never interchange input and output connections to the
unit. This could cause excessive voltage in the control
logic circuit and may damage the unit.
Bypass Contactor
*Bypass Contactors are integral (built-in) on all VMX…-BP (panel
mount), and all VMX…–E (NEMA 12 enclosed) versions.
Power Factor Correction Capacitors
Power factor correction capacitors can be connected to motors
controlled by VMX Series starters, however they must be off-line during
ramping. Connect PFC capacitors to the Line side of the starter with a
separate capacitor control contactor.
WARNING!
Never connect power factor correction capacitors on
the load side of the unit. The SCRs will be seriously
damaged if capacitors are located on the load side.
Grounding / Earthing
Connect the ground cable (PE) to the ground terminal as labeled “G” on the unit. Refer to the National Electrical
Code or your local code for the proper ground wire sizing and be sure that the ground connector is connected to
earth ground. In ungrounded systems, it is not necessary to connect a ground to the unit however local codes
should always be consulted.

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
Page 11 of 27
Power Terminals:
Line and Load terminals are bus tabs with pre-drilled holes (see Table 3). Use of appropriate compression or
mechanical lugs for wire connection to these bus tabs is required or highly recommended. For convenience
only, some sizes (as indicated below) come with saddle clamps that can be used directly on stranded wire
without additional lugs, but may not be suitable if larger conductors are needed for voltage drop reduction.
Suggested wire sizes and tightening torques shown in the chart below are for reference when using 75°C rated
conductors. Always consult local codes and industry standard practices for proper wires sizes to accommodate
voltage drop and ambient conditions.
.
Model
Number
Current
Range
Min.- Max.
Suggested
Wire Size
AWG
Tightening
Torque
in.-lbs.
Screw / Bolt
Size
Tightening
Torque
Nm
Suggested
Wire Size
ISOmm2
VMX-18-BP 9 - 18 12 6
VMX-28-BP 14 - 28 10 10
VMX-39-BP 19 - 39 8 16
VMX-48-BP 24 - 48 6
35
0.22” hole
(5.58mm) for
#10 (or M5)
screw / nut /
lock washer
(not included)
4
16
VMX-62-BP 36 - 62 4 25
VMX-78-BP 39 - 78 3 35
VMX-92-BP 46 - 92 2 35
VMX-112-BP 56 - 112 2
45 1 x M8
(included) 5
50
VMX-150-BP 75 - 150 0 70
VMX-160-BP 80 - 160 2/0 80 1 x M8
(included) 9 70
VMX-210-BP or -P 105 - 210 4/0 120
VMX-276-BP or -P 138 - 276 300 kCMIL 150
VMX-360-BP or -P 180 - 360 500 kCMIL 300
VMX-450-BP or -P 225 - 450 2 x 250 kCMIL 2 x 150
VMX-550-BP or -P 275 - 550 2 x 250 kCMIL
200
1 x 0.38" hole
(M10)
for User
supplied
lugs
22.6
2 x 150
VMX-718-BP or -P 356 – 718 CF CF CF CF CF
VMX-900-BP or -P 450 – 900 CF CF CF CF CF
VMX-1000-BP or -P 50 - 1000 CF CF CF CF CF
Table 3: VMX Series Wire Ranges and Torque Specifications CF = Consult Factory

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
Page 12 of 27
Control Connections
Control connections on the VMX Series starter are divided into 2 groups. With the unit oriented vertically, TB1 is
a 12 point DC terminal block (on the left), and TB2 is a 10 point AC terminal block (on the right side). These are
removable terminal blocks for ease of connection and servicing, and are provided with different spacing (pitch)
between the header pins so they are not interchangeable. Following are descriptions of control connection
points.
Figure 4: Control Terminal Blocks
Note:
Terminal numbers are shown on the side of the first and last terminal of each block. An
additional 3 point terminal on the far left side is for serial communication connections.
AC Control Power Supply Connection
Separate AC Control Power supply is required to power the electronics of the VMX Series starter. 120VAC is
standard, order 240 VAC (optional) if necessary for your line power supply configuration. The control voltage
must be connected to terminals marked A1 and A2 of TB-2 as shown
in figure 5 (these are also Terminal #s 21 and 22). This control
voltage must be customer supplied, unless an optional control power
transformer (see table below) has been supplied with the unit.
Control Power Requirements
When sizing a control power transformer for the VMX…-BP Series
starter use the chart below for minimum sizes or supply capacity. Any
additional control devices powered by the same CPT must be added
to the above to ensure proper operation of the Bypass Contactor.
AC Control Power VA Requirements
VMX …-BP
Model PC
Boards Fans -BP: Bypass
Contactor
Inrush
-BP: Bypass
Contactor
Sealed
Recommended
minimum
CPT
Rating
VMX-18 to 48 48 (inc. in PCB) 95 9 100
VMX-62 to 112 48 (inc. in PCB) 220 17 250
VMX-150 to 160 48 (inc. in PCB) 298 12.3 500
VMX- 210 to 276* 48 100 380 11.6 500
VMX-360 to 450* 48 150 571 14 750
VMX-550* 48 200 1000 29 1000
Table 4: VMX Series Control Power Requirements
Note: * -P versions (w/o bypass) still require PCB and fans, plus user supplied bypass (if any).
N C
JOG
RAM P2 PTC OPTO
24VDC from internal supply 240VAC max. from
customer source
TB1: 12 terminals, #1-12 TB2: 10 Terminals, #13-22
Opto-Isolated Triac Switch
10-250VAC/DC 50mA max.
1 2 3 ............................................... 11 12 13 14 ...........................19 20
1
NC NO.C
1
A1 A2
2
NC NO.C
3
NO.C
= Factoryinstalled jumpers
120VAC Control Power
(or 240VAC if ordered)
120VAC
Supply
Figure 5:
Control Power Supply Connection
TB-2
1
NC NO.C
1
A1 A2
2
NC NO.C
3
NO.C

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
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Control Fusing
Output relays in TB2 must be protected from currents in excess of 5A, either with a fuse or with other suitable
current protection devices.
A dedicated fault output for use in PLC or interposing relay control is available on TB1. This opto-isolated triac
switch is rated for 50mA max., 10-250V AC/DC. Any circuit connected to it must be fused accordingly.
Three-Wire Control Connection
For standard 3-wire control, connect dry (voltage free) contacts of the Stop / Start buttons as shown on the
diagram directly above the terminal strip. Connect the NO contact of the Start button to Terminal #1 (far left
terminal), the common point between the Stop and Start to Terminal
#2 (2nd from left) and the NC from the Stop button to Terminal #3 (3rd
from left).
Seal In Contact
The VMX Series uses an internally pre-wired “seal-in” contact
around the Start button (Terminals 1 and 2). No external relay or
auxiliary output connection is necessary.
Two Wire Control: Relay / PLC Connection
An alternate connection for automated or unattended operation replaces start/stop push buttons by connecting
a dry (voltage free) maintained contact closure between terminals 1 and 3 as shown in Figure 4.2.3. When this
contact is closed, the VMX Series starter will start and run. When it is
opened, it is the same as a Stop command.
Note:
When a maintained contact is used for start/stop it is
advisable to set the overload relay to the manual reset
position. This will prevent the motor from restarting if
the thermal overload trips and then cools off.
CAUTION! Control Terminals 1-10 of TB1 are a 24VDC circuit from an internal power supply of the VMX
Series. Use dry (voltage free) contact closures only. Applying any voltage to these terminals will
result in damage to the control board. If existing 120VAC or other powered control circuit must be
interfaced, use interposing relays or control the VMX Series with 2 wire control as shown above.
Interlock Connection:
TB1 provides a connection point for an external N.C. (Normally Closed) interlock device between terminals 4
and 5. A factory installed jumper is provided which allows the unit to operate if external interlocks are not used.
If this jumper is removed and an interlock is not used, the unit will
not function.
N C
JOG
RAMP2 PTC OPTO
Connect 3 wire
control here
as shown
Figure 6:
3 Wire Control Connection
TB-1
1 2 3
N C
JOG
RAMP2 PTC OPTO
Connect 2 wire
control / PLC
output here
Figure 7:
2 Wire Control Connection
TB-1
1 2 3
N C
JOG
RAMP2 PTC OPTO
Remove factory jumper
and connect external
interlock device here
Figure 8:
External Interlock Connection
TB-1
4 5

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
Page 14 of 27
PTC Thermistor Input
The VMX Series starter is provided with input terminals for connecting a PTC (Positive Temperature
Coefficient) Thermistor that may be imbedded in the motor. These are specialized resistors imbedded in some
motor windings that increase resistance as the temperature
increases. When the VMX Series detects that the PTC input
resistance is too high, it initiates a PTC trip, and displays it on the
readout as [ PTc]. This is independent of the Thermal Register
overload current protection and provides supplemental protection
for high motor ambient temperature applications. Terminals for this
input are provided with a factory jumper that must be removed if the
PTC input is used. These terminals are located on TB1, Terminals 9
and 10.
Resistance must be less than or equal to 750 Ωat 25ºC. If multiple
resistors are used in the motor, the sum of all resistors in series
must equal or be under this value.
Fault Signal
An optically isolated Triac output is dedicated as a fault indicator on TB1, terminals 11 and 12. The output Triac
switch is rated for 10 - 250 VAC/DC, 50 mA (maximum). If the three programmable Output Auxiliary Relays are
being used for other functions, this output can easily be hooked up
to a PLC or small external relay to provide a Fault signal. This Fault
Output operation is permanently fixed at “Any Trip”, duplicating the
Relay setting #16 as shown in Table 5.6.10.
This output is permanently set to this function and is not
programmable.
Dual Ramp and Jog Features
TB1 includes provisions for enabling the Dual Ramp and Jog functions by using external contact closures. Both
features use a common +24VDC from Terminal # 7, however they can be used independently of each other or
together. See sections 5.6.2 and 5.6.3 of the Advanced Installation,
Operation and Programming Manual for full function descriptions and
setup.
+
N C
JOG
RAM P2 PTC OPTO
Figure 9:
PTC Resistor Connection
TB-1
PTC Resistor in Motor
9 10
**
** Remove factory jumper
from Terminals 9 and 10
N C
JOG
RAM P2 PTC OPTO
Figure 10:
Fault Output Opto-Triac Connection
TB-1
11 12
External Fault Relay
or PLC Input
R
Control Power or PLC Source
N C
JOG
RAM P2 PTC OPTO
Figure 11:
Dual Ramp / Jog Connections
TB-1
RAMP 1 RAMP 2
RUN JOG
6 7 8

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
Page 15 of 27
Output (Auxiliary) Relay Contacts
Dry relay output contacts from three programmable auxiliary relays are available on TB2. Outputs #1 and #2 are
Form C (SPDT), with a Common, N.O. and N.C. Output #3 is a Form A, (SPST), N.O. contact. Motortronics
recommends fusing all contacts with external fuses.
The relays are rated for 240 VAC, 5 A and 1200 VA.
Factory default settings for these relays are as follows:
AUX 1 – Run / Stop (see F060) This contact changes state upon a
Start command, returns to normal on Stop (or Begin Decel if active).
AUX 2 – At-Speed / Stop (see F061) This contact changes state upon
the VMX Series detecting At-Speed, and returns to normal on Stop.
At-Speed is determined by the VMX Series detecting the current
dropping after reaching End-of-Ramp, or a maximum of 30 seconds
after Start.
AUX 3 – Any Trip (see F062) This contact closes when any trip
condition # 5 – 15 (as defined in Table 8) occurs.
All relays can be reprogrammed for a wide variety of functions.
See Section 8 for additional relay programming details.
Note:
It is not necessary to use the programmable output auxiliary relays in the Start / Stop circuit. An
internal seal-in relay is provided elsewhere (see “Three Wire Control Connections” above).
Bypass Contactor Control
On VMX…-BP version (and NEMA 12 enclosed) starters, an internal dedicated connection is used at the factory
for automatically controlling the Bypass Contactor. Field wiring for Bypass Contactor operation is not required.
On units 210A and above ordered without a Bypass Contactor (-P version), the dedicated bypass control
terminals are available for customer use, or any of the above Aux. Relays can be programmed for “At-Speed”
operation.
Independent control of the bypass contactor is available for emergency use. See section 4.2.9.a of the
Advanced Installation, Operation and Programming Manual for details about how to use this feature.
K3
Internal Connections
Figure 12:
Auxiliary Relay Connections
TB-2
AUX.
RELAY #1 AUX.
RELAY #3
AUX.
RELAY #2
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
1
NC NO.C
1
A1 A2
2
NC NO.C
3
NO.C
K5K4
Bypass Control
Terminals:
210 – 1000A without
integral bypass
Bypass Control
Terminals
18 - 160A Units

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
Page 16 of 27
Chapter 3 - Sequence of Operation
Starting:
1. Apply three phase power to the unit. The motor should not run until a Start command is applied.
2. Apply control power and check that the “Power On” LED comes on.
3. Status Display should read [0000.] showing no current in Phase A (minor flickering of the first digit is
common).
4. Apply the Start (Run) command. The motor should begin to accelerate. Status display will read Phase A
Amps at an increasing rate.
5. When the motor reaches full speed, the “At Speed” LED comes on and the Bypass Contactor will close.
Status display should show a sharp decrease in Phase A Amps.
6. If the motor does not fully accelerate, decelerates, or stops during the acceleration period, hit the Stop
button immediately and open the disconnect line.
Stopping:
If Pump-Flex Decel is Disabled (factory default) in F024:
7. Remove the Run Command (or hit the Stop button).
8. At-Speed LED will go out and Bypass Contactor will open. Status display should read [0000.] indicating
no current on Phase A.
9. Motor will coast to a stop according to load inertia and friction.
If Pump-Flex Decel is Enabled in F024:
7. Remove the Run Command (or hit the Stop button).
8. At-Speed LED will go out and Bypass Contactor will open. Status display should briefly read Phase A
Amps increasing as motor begins to decelerate.
9. Motor should begin to slow down. Status display should begin to show decreasing motor amps.
10. When motor reaches Stop Level, VMX should turn off. Status display will again show [0000.]
If the unit does not follow this operational sequence please contact the factory refer to the VMX Series
Troubleshooting Guide.

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
Page 17 of 27
Chapter 4 - Programming
It is best to operate the motor at its full load starting conditions to achieve the proper time, torque and ramp
settings. Initial factory settings are set to accommodate general motor applications and provide basic motor
protection. Advanced features must be enabled via programming. The only parameter that MUST be set by the
user is motor FLA (F001).
Digital Interface
The VMX Series Soft Starter includes an intuitive, digital keypad with eight LEDs, seven command keys, and an
LED display with four alphanumeric digits.
Figure 13: VMX Operator Interface
Reset Clears the Trip indication and releases the Trip Relay.
Fn Enters or exits the Program Mode.
Up and
Down
Arrows
Navigates through the Status Display Mode, scrolls up
and down through the Function List, increases or
decreases the value of the active (flashing) digit and
scrolls through the fault history. When entering values,
holding the key down for more than 2 seconds will
activate Auto-step, which increases it’s rate the longer
the key is held down.
Keys
Right
and Left
Arrows
Each keypress shifts the active (flashing) digit to the
right or left by one position, allowing you to change
higher values of functions without waiting to Auto-step
though large numbers.
Power
On Control power is available at A1 and A2
Green
LEDs At
Speed
The motor is at full power and the Bypass Contactor
has been commanded to pull in.
The SCRs are at full conduction and current has
dropped.
Shunt
Trip
Two or more SCRs in opposing phases have shorted,
and power is flowing to the motor in the Off mode. See
section 8 for additional concerns.
Shorted
SCR
There is no voltage drop across at least one SCR
phase assembly, indicating that at least one SCR is
shorted. See section 8 for additional concerns
Over
Current
Overcurrent LED lights for three sets of fault conditions:
1) During start, the unit saw current exceed the
normal rate of increase in the first 250ms.
2) During Run, current exceeded either the OC
setting in F042 for the delay set in F043. This
LED will be accompanied by oCA, oCC or
oCd on the display.
3) The unit has seen a Short Circuit exceeding
10x FLA for 12.5ms. This LED will be
accompanied by SCA, SCC or SCD display.
Phase
Loss One or more of the phase currents dropped below the
threshold during starting or running.
Over
Temp Starter has tripped due to excess heat sink
temperature. This will automatically reset.
Yellow
LEDs
Over
Load
Starter has tripped due to the Thermal Register
reaching 0000. The Overload must reset before this
fault can be cleared.
Display 8888. 4 digit 7 segment display with a decimal point on the
right side indicating Phase A.
Table 5: VMX Series Display Features

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
Page 18 of 27
Display Modes:
There are three modes of display: the Status Display Mode, the Program Mode, and the Fault Mode.
Status Display Mode (Default Display)
The Status Display Mode displays seven “screens” of information. Motor Currents (3 phases), Remaining
Thermal Capacity, Ground Current, Remaining Time on the Process Timer, and Time Base of the Time Clock
Controller. This is also the entry screen for going into the Program Mode.
[0000.] The initial display on power up is four digits and the decimal. This indicates the motor current for
Phase A of the motor.
[0000] Scroll UP to display four digits only (no decimal). This indicates the motor current for Phase B. While
viewing Phase B, press the UP arrow again to view Phase C current.
[G000] Scroll UP to display the “G”. This indicates that this value is the current flowing to ground on the motor
leads.
[H000] Scroll UP to display the “H”. This indicates that this value is the remaining thermal capacity percentage
of the motor (i.e. H070 = 70% remaining thermal capacity)
[0000] Scroll UP again to display the Process Batch Timer (described in Section 5.6.7). If this entire screen is
flashing, the Timer is active.
[00.00] Scroll UP to display two pairs of digits separated by a point: This indicates the time base of the Time
Clock Controller (described in section 5.6.7 of the Advanced Installation, Operation and Programming
Manual). If the display shows [00.00], the TCC is not enabled. This follows the time settings in F075 – F080.
Program Mode
The starter must be OFF in order to enter the Program Mode. Changes cannot be made while running.
Use the Program Mode to view or change Function (Fn) settings. To enter the Program Mode, press the [Fn]
key once from the Status Screen as described above. The first time you enter the Program Mode after power
has been cycled to the starter, the initial function [F001] should display with the selected digit flashing. If the
VMX Series starter has been programmed and power to the unit has not been cycled, the readout will display
the last function viewed or changed. To change to a different function, use the arrow keys.
Viewing Function Programming and Values
The programming of each individual Function can be viewed without making changes (values can also be
viewed in the Run Mode, however no changes can be made). Each Function is signified by the letter “F” in
beginning of the data, the 4 digit value of the function follows after hitting the [READ/ENTER] key
[F001] The “F” indicates the programmable Function.
[0000] This is the present setting of the applicable function. This display may include decimals between digits
depending on the function setting’s range and incremental steps.
Pressing the [Fn] key again will return to the Function display without making changes.
Changing a Function’s Set Value
From the instructions above, after hitting the [READ/ENTER] key the display will show the value of that function
with one digit flashing (usually the rightmost digit). Flashing indicates this is the digit to be altered (similar to
cursor position). Use the UP arrow key to increment the value of the flashing digit. Use the DOWN arrow key to
decrement the value of the flashing digit. Use the LEFT or RIGHT arrow to select the next digit to be altered.
Values can only be changed within the Adjustment Range of the function parameter.
Pressing the [READ/ENTER] key again will store the new programming for that Function and return to the
Function display.
If the display shows [Inh] when trying to store the changes, the unit is running and must be Stopped, or a
Password has been set up to prevent access and must be entered first. See section 5.6.12 of the Advanced
Installation, Operation and Programming Manual for details about this feature.
Caution! If the Fn key is pressed or power is lost before the [READ/ENTER] key is pressed,
the VMX Series Starter will not store the new value in memory.

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
Page 19 of 27
Display
Press
Key...
Shows... Means...
Phase A
Current
Function #1
Selected
Default Setting
of Function #1
Lowest value
for this unit
Cursor (flashing)
Position Shift
New Value of
Second Digit
0000.
F001
0000
0024
0026
0036
End
Value Accepted
(flashes once)
Return to
Function # Display
Figure 14:
Changing a Function Value
Example 1: Setting the Motor FLA
on a VMX-48 to 36A
F001
READ
ENTER
Fn
READ
ENTER
Lowest value
for this unit
0026
x 2
Returns to Default
Display, Phase A
Current
0000.
Fn
Example 1: Figure 14
Entering a new FLA setting into Funtion 1
[0000.] Indicates Phase A is drawing no current
(unit is in Off mode).
Press the [Fn] key
[F001] Indicates this is Function 001 (Motor FLA).
Press [READ/ENTER] key
to view the F001 value
[0048] Indicates the programmed motor FLA is 0000
Amps, the factory default for a new unit that has
not yet been in service. The farthest left digit (0)
is flashing, indicating that this is the digit that
you will alter (cursor position).
Press the UP Arrow key once
to increase this digit value
[0024] Indicates you have increased the value to 24A,
the lowest setting for a 48A unit, which is 1/2 of
the Max. Amps (see Note).
Press the UP Arrow key twice (2 x)
to increase this digit value
[0026] Indicates you have increased the far left digit
value from 4 to 6,
Press the LEFT Arrow key
to shift left to the next digit
[0026] The second digit from the left is now flashing,
indicating a new cursor position.
Press the UP Arrow key
to increase this digit value
[0036] Indicates you have increased the 2nd to left digit
to a value of 3 (10’s place), indicating a final
setting value of 36A
Press [READ/ENTER] key
to store the new value
[End] The word “End” will flash briefly to indicate that
the new value has been entered and accepted.
After flashing once, the display will revert to
showing the Function number
Press the [Fn] key
[0000.] Returns to the Default Display, indicating Phase
A is drawing no current
Note: When first entering FLA into a new unit, pressing the Up arrow key will jump the readout value
immediately to ½ of the unit Max. Amp rating, and it will never go below that again. Any unit
thought to be new which has a value other than 0000 in F001 upon setup, has been programmed
previously and should be reset to factory defaults before proceeding.

Basic Installation and Operation Guide VMX Series Digital Solid State Soft Starters 18 – 1000A
Page 20 of 27
VMX Series Basic Start-up Parameters and Factory Defaults
Fn # Function Description Adjustment / Display Range Setting
Increments Factory
Setting
F001 Motor Nameplate FLA
FLA must be programmed for
starter to function.
50-100% of Max Amp Rating.
Upper limit of range automatically adjusts downward as Service
factor is increased. 1 amp 0
F002 Motor Nameplate
Service Factor 1.00 - 1.30 (SF) 0.05 1.0 (SF)
F003 Overload Class During Start NEMA / UL Class 5 - 20 5 Class 10
F004 Overload Class During Run NEMA / UL Class 5 - 30 5 Class 10
F005 Overload Reset 0 = Manual
1 = Auto
2 = Disabled Overload 1 0
(Manual)
F006-
F009 Reserved for factory use
F010
Ramp Type Selection:
VR = Voltage Ramp
CR = Current PID Ramp
1 = Ramp 1, 2 = Ramp 2
Setting 1 = VR1 + VR2
Setting 2 = CR1 + CR2
Setting 3 = VR1 + CR2
Setting 4 = CR1 + VR2
1
1
VR1+VR
2
F011 Initial Torque (VR) of Ramp 1 0-100% Line Voltage 1% 60%
F012 Initial Torque (CR) of Ramp 1 0-600% MotorCurrent 1% 200%
F013 Accel Ramp Time of Ramp 1 1-120 seconds 1 second 10
seconds
F014 Max Current Limit of Ramp 1 200 - 600% MotorCurrent 1% 350%
F015 Initial Torque (VR) of Ramp 2 0-100% Line Voltage 1% 60%
F016 Initial Torque (CR) of Ramp 2 0-600% MotorCurrent 1% 200%
F017 Accel Ramp Time of Ramp 2 1-120 seconds 1 second 10
seconds
F018 Max Current Limit of Ramp 2 200 - 600% MotorCurrent 1% 350%
F019
thru
F023 Jog and Kickstart Features These features are disabled from factory. See Advanced
Installation, Operation and Programming Manual, section 5.6.3 for
details.
F024 Pump Flex Control /
Deceleration Ramp
0 = Disabled (coast to stop)
1 = Enabled, except after OL trip
2 = Enabled, continued Decel even
if there is an OL trip
1 0
Disabled
F025 Begin Decel Level (BDL),
Immediate Drop Down Torque 0 - 100 % of Output Voltage 1% 60%
F026 Decel Shut Off Voltage 0 to (BDL minus 1)% Voltage 1% 30%
F027 Decel Ramp Time 1 – 60 Seconds 1 second 10
seconds
F028 Restart Delay Time
(Sequential Start Delay) 0 = Disabled, or
1-999 seconds after a Power Loss (Status can be read in F054) 1 second 0
Disabled
F029 Reserved for Factory Use
This manual suits for next models
25
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