Novus LogBox-AA-32k-IP67 User manual

NOVUS AUTOMATION 1/7
LogBox-AA
ELECTRONIC DATA LOGGER - MANUAL V1.1x D
PRESENTATION
LogBox-AA is an electronic data logger with two analog input
channels. Values measured by these channels (data) are stored in
the logger electronic memory (acquisitions) for later download to a
PC for visualization and analysis in the form of tables or graphs. Data
can be easily exported to spreadsheets.
The LogChart-II is the software used to configure the logger,
download and visualize data. The logger configuration allows define
the logger operation mode, including the start/stop time of data
acquisition. Other parameters such as signal input type, Logging
interval, etc., are easily selected through the LogChart-II software.
The LogBox-AA also provides a signal for commanding an external
power supply (battery) of a device connected to the logger. This
feature allows that external devices, such as a transmitter, be
powered only during the measurement sample time, thus extending
the service life of these external batteries.
MEMORY CAPACITY
Two memory storage capacities are offered: 32 K or 64 K records:
32 k Model: Allows up to 32.000 records;
64 k Model: Allows up to 64.000 records.
Memory capacity is always shared between enabled channels. In
case there are two channels enabled, each gets 50 percent of the
memory available. When only a single channel is enabled, it has the
entire memory at its disposal.
Memory capacity is indicated on the identification label placed on the
logger case.
Fig. 1 –Identification label
INPUT SIGNALS
The input channels 1 and 2 measure analog electric signals, which
can be Pt100, Thermocouple (J, K, T, E, N, R, S or B), voltage (0 to
50 mV or 0 to 10 V) or current (0 to 20 mA or 4 to 20 mA), according
to user-defined settings.
Note: Besides configuration performed through the software, the
definition of input signal requires two internal jumpers to be
configured.
DATA ACQUISITION (LOGGING)
Data can be acquired through different modes. The logger can be
configured to perform a single measurement within a time interval
storing the value read or perform ten measurements within the time
interval and store the mean of values measured. Yet, it can store the
minimum or maximum values read in the interval.
OPERATION
The logger operation mode is user-defined in the LogChart-II
software. To access or change this configuration, the IR-LINK3
interface is required.The user must install the LogChart-II software in
a computer and run the logger configuration according to instructions
defined in the LogChart-II installation section of this manual.
After configuration and input electric connections are made, the
device is ready to measure and log input signals. The status indicator
shows the logger current status.
STATUS INDICATORS (LEDS)
The Status Indicators (see Fig. 2) are located in the logger front
panel. They indicate the current working conditions of the unit.
LOG Indicator (Logging): While in stand-by (not logging) or after
a series of acquisitions is ended, it flashes once at every four
seconds. During login it flashes twice at every four seconds.
AL Indicator (alarm): Alerts the user regarding alarm conditions.
Whenever an alarm situation takes place it will flash once at every
four seconds, until a new configuration is applied to the logger.
Fig. 2 –LED Indicators and IR communication
LOGCHART-II
INSTALLING LOGCHART-II
The LogChart II is the software provided with the logger to allow for
configuration and data collection. To install the LogChart II, execute
the LC_II_Setup.exe program provided in the CD. The installation
wizard will then guide you throughout the installation process.

LogBox-AA Datalogger
NOVUS AUTOMATION 2/7
RUNNING LOGCHART-II
Start the program. The main window will appear on the screen, as in
Fig. 3.
Fig. 3 –LogChart-II main window
The LogChart II requires a communication port to talk to the logger.
Select one and connect the corresponding wand IR-LINK3 to it. Click
on the menu Port. Clicking on the menu Port, all free communication
ports available in the computer will be listed. The chosen port will be
remembered next times the LogChart II is initiated.
When the selected port is successfully opened, the LogChart II initial
screen is opened, enabling the buttons below:
Fig. 4 –Buttons enabled when the communication port of choice is valid
In case the user wants to stop the process while data logging is
running, the button “Stop” must be pressed:
OPTIC INTERFACE IR-LINK3
Configuring, monitoring or downloading data from the logger through
LogChart-II requires that the IR-LINK3 communication interface be
connected to your PC. This interface is sold separately.
The IR-LINK3 interface sends and receives data to/from the logger
through infrared signals.
Plugging this USB interface to the PC, the Windows wizard for new
USB devices pops-up automatically. Select then the IRLink driver
provided in d:\IRLink_Driver. (d: is the driver used in the
installation). After installation is completed, the IR-LINK3 interface is
recognized whenever it is connected to the PC.
After the USB driver installation, the LogChart II must be opened
again. In the “Port” menu, choose the same port selected for the
optical interface communication using the menu Port.
CONFIGURING THE LOGGER
Make sure the IR-LINK3 wand is connected to the PC port selected.
The interface must be pointed towards the logger communication
window (see Figure below) at a distance of about 15 cm.
Fig. 5 –Infrared interface position
Click the button to start the communication between the logger
and the software; the Parameters Configuration window is then
displayed (Fig. 6), showing the current configuration and information
about the logger. New configuration parameters defining the
operation mode for a new application can be entered. The user can
also obtain general information about the device.
The fields of the configuration window are described below.
Fig. 6 –Configuration window
GENERAL INFORMATION FIELD
General information on the top of the screen informs the model, serial
number, logger current date/time, PC date/time, firmware version
(logger model version), memory capacity and used memory. This
information is displayed in the upper part of the LogChart-II
configuration screen.
The time is constantly updated in this screen, provided that the
logger and the PC are communicating.
ACQUISITIONS FIELD
Interval: It determines the interval between readings in the hh:mm:ss
format. New data is stored in the logger memory after each time
interval.
In the Instantaneous reading mode, the value of the interval
between acquisitions is the same as the time interval between
measurements. For Average, Minimum and Maximum readings,
the logger executes 10 readings within this interval.
External Battery Switch time: Defines the time when the logger
turns on the power supply, before proceeding with any reading. This
time is limited to 10 seconds and must be less than half of the
interval between readings.
Estimated time: It informs the estimated time for the
accomplishment of programmed readings based on the logging
“Interval” and on the number of programmed readings.
Daily Repetition: Allows loggings to be repeated every day, for
example, recording data from 8 AM to 5 PM day after day. The start
and stop times are defined in the fields “Start time” and “Stop time.”
START LOGGINGS FIELD
Immediately: The logger starts logging as soon as the configuration
is applied. Not valid when the option ‘Daily Repetition’ is selected.
Day / Hour: Logging starts at a defined date and time. The date
defined is used for the Daily Repetitions option as well.
Through Start Button Starts and stops logging by pressing the Star
button for two seconds.
Digital Input: Starts readings when the digital input is activated
(closed) and stops readings when the digital input is deactivated
(open).
STOP LOGGINGS
At Full Memory: Loggings can be stored up to the full memory
capacity is reached.
Wrap around: Logging never stops. The LogBox-AA will keep on
recording the readings and when the memory is full it will overwrite
the oldest record in a circular or wrap around manner.

LogBox-AA Datalogger
NOVUS AUTOMATION 3/7
After a defined number of readings: The logger will stop logging after
the number of readings here defined is reached. Not valid when the
option ‘Daily Repetition’ is selected.
Day / Hour: The LogBox-AA will stop logging at the user-defined
date and time. Not valid when the option ‘Daily Repetition’ is
selected.
CHANNELS FIELD
By selecting the “Channels” option, the user is able to choose the
individual settings for each input channel, as Fig. 7 shows.
Fig. 7 –Parameters for Input Channels Configuration
Such parameters are:
Tag: Defines a name (up to 8 characters) for identifying the variable
to be measured.
Inputs: The signal applied to the logger second input is defined here.
The list shows all the input options available. The selected option
must be in accordance with the internal configuration of the jumper,
as Table 1 shows.
Unit: Defines the variable unit.
Scale: Defines the range, in engineering units, for representing the
input variable measured.
Adjustable from –32000 to +32000 for 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-50 mV
and 0-10 inputs, for the remaining input times the scale is fixed.
Offset: Allows fine offset corrections on the measured value.
Value: Defines readings recording mode:
Instantaneous: The instant value read at the logging time.
Average: Ten readings at each reading interval. The average
value of readings is the value recorded.
Minimum: Ten readings at each reading interval. The lowest
value found is recorded.
Maximum: Ten readings at each reading interval. The
highest value found is recorded.
Alarm: defines a limit range of variables measured that, once
exceeded, trigger the alarm.
Once activated, the alarm LED indicator stays so even after the
alarm-triggering situation has ceased.
LOW defines the minimum value under which the alarm is triggered;
HIGH defines the maximum value above which the alarm sensor is
triggered.
After filling all the fields, send the configuration to the logger by
clicking on the button
New settings and PC current date/time are then sent to the logger.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
Only the input connections and the External Battery Switch (when
used) are needed. The logger is exclusively powered by its internal
battery.
In the IP65 models, the inputs and the signal for activating the
external power supply are located inside the logger case, which must
be opened for accomplishing the connections.
In the IP67 model, proper connectors are provided for this purpose,
as shown in Fig. 9.
IP65 MODEL
Open the logger’s cover to get access to the block terminals and the
configuration jumpers. Connection cables must pass through the
compress fitting located at the bottom of the case. Fig. 8 shows the
internal terminals distribution.
Channel 1:
CN1 connector –Terminals 1, 2 and 3
Channel 2:
CN1 connector –Terminals 4, 5 and 6
External Battery Switch
CN2 connector –Terminals 7, 8 and 9
Digital Input
CN2 connector –Terminals 7, 10 and 9
Fig. 8 –IP65 connections internal view
Note: Make sure that the compress fitting is perfectly tightening the
cables, thus assuring proper IP65 protection: (totally dust-tight and
protected against water jets).
IP67 MODEL
In the IP67 version, an M8 connector is provided for signal input. Two
connectors provide external access to the input channels, as shown
in Fig. 9. The cables are supplied with the logger.
Note: The case cover should not be opened unless battery
replacement is required. If this is the case, the cover must be
properly tightened back in its place such as to assure the IP67
protection.
IP67 - Totally dust-tight and protected from temporary immersion
in water.
Fig. 9 –IP67 external connectors

LogBox-AA Datalogger
NOVUS AUTOMATION 4/7
Wire connections:
Channel 1 cable (right)
Connection
Brown
CN1 –3
Blue
CN1 - 2
Black
CN1 -1
Channel 2 cable (left)
Connection
Brown
CN1 -6
Blue
CN1 –5
Black
CN1 –4
INPUT CONNECTIONS
Both models have the same input connections schema:
Fig. 10 –Input signal connections
Before using the logger, the internal jumpers positioning must be set
according to the input type used.
The factory setting of these jumpers is for measurement of Pt100 /
Thermocouple / 0-50mV signals.
Figures below show some positioning for possible input types.
Input signal
CHANNEL 1
J1 position
CHANNEL 2
J2 Position
4-20 mA / 0-20 mA
A
A
Pt100 / Thermocouple / 0-50 mV
B
B
0-10 V
C
C
Table 1 –J1 and J2 positioning
EXTERNAL BATTERY SWITCH
The example in (Fig. 11) below shows the usage of the external
battery switch for commanding the power supply of external devices.
Channel 1 is configured to 4-20mA input signal. A battery is used to
provide power to the 4-20 mA loop. The battery switch “turns on” the
power to the loop a moment (defined in the configuration) before the
measurement is taken, enabling the transmitter (pressure,
temperature, etc) to start up and stabilize the output.
Fig. 11 –Ex. of using the external drive to a channel
Fig. 12 –Ex. of using the external drive for two channels
DIGITAL INPUT (DI)
The Digital Input that can be used to guide the logger readings is
available in terminals 7 (-) and 10 (+) of CN2.
INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS
Signal wires should be installed in grounded conduits and away from
power or contactor wires.
Instruments must be powered only by an exclusive power supply.
System failure should always be taken into account when designing
a control panel to avoid irreversible damage to equipment or people.
Installing RC filters (47 R and 100 nF, serial) is strongly recommended
at contactor coils or any other inductors.
OFFLOADING AND DATA VISUALIZATION
The transference of data to a PC is accomplished by using the
LogChart II software. Data can be collected anytime and saved in
files for future analysis (menu “File Save” or “File Save as”). Help can
be accessed from the LogChart-II software when necessary.
Offloading data: data offload is accomplished by clicking on the
button:
Or using the LogChart-II menu. During data transference, a status
bar indicates remaining data to be transferred. Data offloading time is
proportional to the number of readings logged. At the end of data
transference, the Graph window is displayed.
Graph window
The Graph is a convenient tool for analysis. It enables the logger
acquisitions to be read in the form of a “values x time” graph. As one
moves the mouse in the chart area, the time and the value of the
records of each channel are shown in the field located in the bottom
of the window.
Zooming in and out are implemented. It is possible to select an area
by clicking and dragging the mouse, thus creating a zoom region,
starting at the upper left position of the region of interest.
CN1
Pt100 6
1
2
3
4
5
Pt100
CN1 6
1
2
3
4
5
T/C
T/C
CN1 6
1
2
3
4
5
4-20mA
4-20mA

LogBox-AA Datalogger
NOVUS AUTOMATION 5/7
Fig. 13 - Graph window.
NOTE
The command Offload acquisitions does not interrupt the process
of data logging and reading.
Other two windows can be easily opened: General information
window and Tables window.
General information table
Displays information about the logger that registered data: its
features and configurations, and details about data acquired.
Fig. 14 - General Information window
Acquisitions Table Window
Data acquired by one or both input channels (user-defined) are
displayed in engineering units in a table format. The table displays
register number, date/time and the record values.
Fig. 15 –Screenshot showing the acquisitions table
VISUALIZING THE DATA
Three windows support data visualization: Graph, Acquisitions Table
and General Information windows. Data can be originated from direct
reading from the logger or from a file previously recorded in a
computer.
Once the windows are open, data can be saved in a file (.lch), printed
on a graph or exported to a text file (.txt or .dat).
MONITORING ACQUISITIONS
To visualize current measurements in a graph format, use the
Monitor On-Line (Fig. 16) command by clicking on the button:
while pointing the IR-LINK3 interface to the logger.

LogBox-AA Datalogger
NOVUS AUTOMATION 6/7
Fig. 16 –Online monitoring graph
OBSERVATIONS
The logger is an electronic device and some basic care is required:
When opening the device for battery replacement or connecting
sensors avoid touching the circuit for not causing damages
resulting from static electricity.
When the device is opened, avoid liquid and/or dust contact.
Use a screwdriver to open the case cover.
Pay attention to batteries polarity: The positive terminal should be
placed directed towards the center of the device.
Worn batteries should not be recharged, dismantled or
incinerated. After use, batteries must be disposed according to
local legal rules or returned to Novus.
After placing batteries back to the logger, make sure the cover is
firmly attached to the socket.
MOST FREQUENTLY PROBLEMS
The LED is not flashing.
The LED flashing light is intentionally weak, and it can be difficult to
see it in illuminated environments. Make sure it is not flashing at all.
Make sure the battery is installed correctly;
Make sure the battery is not discharged;
Communication with the logger fails
Make sure the COMM port is selected correctly and there is no other
program using the same port during communication attempts;
Make sure there is no physical obstacle blocking the infrared signal;
Make sure the cable is well connected to the PC port;
Make sure the port selected does not present any problem;
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
If you have any doubt concerning this or other NOVUS products, e-
mail us at [email protected] or visit our home page:
www.novusautomation.com
SPECIFICATIONS
Inputs:
Thermocouples according to the NBR 12771/99 standard;
Pt100 RTD’s NBR 13773/97.
TYPE
CHARACTERISTICS
J
Range: -50 to 760 °C (-58 to 1400 ºF)
K
Range: -90 to 1370 °C (-130 to 2498 ºF)
T
Range: -100 to 400 °C (-148 to 752 ºF)
N
Range: -90 to 1300 °C (-130 to 2372 ºF)
R
Range: 0 to 1760 °C (32 to 3200 ºF)
S
Range: 0 to 1760 °C (32 to 3200 ºF)
B
Range: 150 to 1820 °C (32 to 3308 ºF)
Pt100
Range: -200.0 to 650.0 °C (-328 to 1202 ºF)
0-50 mV *
Linear. Programmable range of -32768 to 32767
4-20 mA *
Linear. Programmable range of -32768 to 32767
0-20 mA *
Linear. Programmable range of -32768 to 32767
0-10 Vdc *
Linear. Programmable range of -32768 to 32767
(*) Software ranges allowed: 0 to 65535, 65535 to 0, -32768 to
32767, 32767 to -32768.
Input resistance: 0-50 mV, Pt100 and thermocouples: >10 M
0-10 V: > 1 M
0 to 20 mA and 4 to 20 mA: 100 + 2 Vdc
Accuracy: Thermocouple J, K and T: 0.25 % of max. range ±1 °C;
Thermocouple N, R, S, B: 0.25 % of max. range ±3 °C;
Pt100: 0.2 % of the max. range;
mA, mV and V: 0.2 % of the max. range.
Memory capacity: 32.000 k (32 k) loggings.
or 64.000 (64 k) loggings.
Interval between readings: Minimum: 1 second, maximum: 18 hours
External battery switch time: 3.6 V lithium battery (1/2 AA)
Typical battery life: 200 days with one weekly download and 5
minutes measuring interval. Battery life
depends heavily on data retrieval frequency.
Working temperature: From -40 °C to 70 °C.
Protection: IP65 and IP67 models (see lateral label on product)
Material: ABS with polycarbonate film case; Polycarbonate film

LogBox-AA Datalogger
NOVUS AUTOMATION 7/7
Dimensions: 60 x 70 x 35 mm
PACKAGE CONTENTS
Besides this manual, the user must check if the items below
accompany the product.
The electronic logger LogBox-AA;
The LogChart-II software installation disk. The disk includes the
USB.
Two cables for sensor wiring (IP67 model only).
WARRANTY
Warranty conditions are available on our web site
www.novusautomation.com/warranty.