PCE Health and Fitness TDS 75 User manual

© PCE Instruments
PCE-TDS 75 Ultrasonic Flow Meter
User Manual
User manuals in various languages (français,
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Last change: 12 November 2021
v1.0
English

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Contents
1Safety notes........................................................................................... 1
2Specifications........................................................................................2
2.1 Technical specifications ................................................................................................... 2
2.2 Delivery scope.................................................................................................................. 2
3System description............................................................................... 3
3.1 Device.............................................................................................................................. 3
4Preparation ............................................................................................ 4
4.1 Wiring............................................................................................................................... 4
4.2 Switchon.......................................................................................................................... 5
4.3 Functions of membrane keypad ....................................................................................... 5
5Quick start .............................................................................................6
5.1 Basic settings................................................................................................................... 6
6Sensor installation................................................................................ 8
6.1 Selection of the measuring location.................................................................................. 8
6.2 Mounting the sensors....................................................................................................... 9
7Operation .............................................................................................13
7.1 Normal operation.............................................................................................................13
7.2 Limit value for lowest flow rate.........................................................................................13
7.3 Zero setting.....................................................................................................................13
7.4 Scaling factor..................................................................................................................14
7.5 System lock.....................................................................................................................14
7.6 Current loop output .........................................................................................................14
7.7 Frequency output............................................................................................................14
7.8 Totalizer pulse output......................................................................................................15
7.9 Alarm programming.........................................................................................................16
7.10 4-20 mA analogue output calibration...............................................................................16
7.11 ESN................................................................................................................................16
8Explanation of the menu windows....................................................17
8.1 Display overview.............................................................................................................17
8.2 Menu window explanation...............................................................................................18

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9Troubleshooting..................................................................................34
9.1 Error codes during operation...........................................................................................34
9.2 Frequently asked questions.............................................................................................35
10 Appendix - Use and communication protocol of serial interface
network ........................................................................................................36
10.1 Overview.........................................................................................................................36
10.2 Definitions of the serial port.............................................................................................36
10.3 Direct connection to the host device via RS232...............................................................37
10.4 Communication protocols and their use...........................................................................37
11 Flow application data..........................................................................44
11.1 Sound velocities for different commonly used materials ..................................................44
11.2 Sound velocity in water (1atm = 1 bar) at different temperatures.....................................45
12 Warranty...............................................................................................46
13 Disposal ...............................................................................................46

© PCE Instruments
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1 Safety notes
Please read this manual carefully and completely before you use the device for the first time. The
device may only be used by qualified personnel and repaired by PCE Instruments personnel.
Damage or injuries caused by non-observance of the manual are excluded from our liability and
not covered by our warranty.
•The device must only be used as described inthis instructionmanual. If used otherwise,
this can cause dangerous situations for the user and damage to the meter.
•The instrument may only be used if the environmental conditions (temperature, relative
humidity, …) are within the ranges stated in the technical specifications. Do not expose
the device to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, extreme humidity or moisture.
•Do not expose the device to shocks or strong vibrations.
•The case should only be opened by qualified PCE Instruments personnel.
•Never use the instrument when your hands are wet.
•You must not make any technical changes to the device.
•The appliance should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. Use only pH-neutral cleaner,
no abrasives or solvents.
•The device must only be used with accessories from PCE Instruments or equivalent.
•Before each use, inspect the case for visible damage. If any damage is visible, do not
use the device.
•Do not use the instrument in explosive atmospheres.
•The measurement range as stated in the specifications must not be exceeded under
any circumstances.
•Non-observance of the safety notes can cause damage to the device and injuries to
the user.
We do not assume liability for printing errors or any other mistakes in this manual.
We expressly point to our general guarantee terms which can be found in our general terms of
business.
If you have any questions please contact PCE Instruments. The contact details can be found at
the end of this manual.

© PCE Instruments
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2 Specifications
2.1 Technical specifications
Model
PCE-TDS 75
Measurement range
±0.03 ... ±5 m/s (±0.09 ... ±16 ft/s)
Measurement accuracy
±1 % of measured value
Repeatability
0.2 %
Pipe diameter
25 ... 1200 mm (1 ... 48 ")
Analogue output
0/4 ... 20 mA (maximum load 750 Ω)
Pulse output
0 ... 9999 Hz OCT
(frequency limits are adjustable)
Relay output
1 A at 125 VAC, 2 A at 30 VDC
maximum frequency 1 Hz
Communication interface
RS232 & RS485
Power supply
10 ... 36 VDC
Power consumption
1 A
Display
LCD, 256 x 128 pixels, with backlight
Ambient conditions base
-40 ... 60 °C ( -40 ... 140 °F),
0 ... 99 % RH, non-condensing
Ambient conditions sensor
-40 ... 80 °C (-40 ... 176 °F),
0 ... 99 % RH, non-condensing
Housing material base
PC/ABS
Protection class base
IP 65
Protection class sensor
IP 68
Cable length
9 m, 30 ft
Dimensions
16 x 23 x 28 cm / 6.3 x 9.1 x 11"
Weight
3.2 kg / 7.1 lbs
2.2 Delivery scope
1 x ultrasonic flow meter PCE-TDS 75
2 x flow sensor (9 m cable length)
2 x pipe clamp
1 x ultrasound contact gel
1 x mounting plate
1 x user manual
1 x factory calibration certificate

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3 System description
3.1 Device
Front
Bottom
1 Display
2 Membrane keypad
3 Sensor
4 Wiring channels / sensor port

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4 Preparation
4.1 Wiring
Open the device by loosening the four screws on the front to gain access to the ports for the
power supply, for the sensors, etc. First, lead the cables for the power supply through the cable
gland provided forthis purpose and establishthe power supply via the DC+ and DC- connections.
Ensure correct polarity. Then connect the inlet sensor and the outlet sensor to the corresponding
ports. For more information on the connection labels, refer to the following chart. When
connecting, make absolutely sure that there is no voltage.
Character
Description
DC+
Direct current DC 10 … 36 V+
DC-
Direct current DC 10 … 36 V
Grounding
RL OUT+
Relay output
RL OUT-
OCT OUT+
OCT output
OCT OUT
GND
Inlet sensor ground (black)
UP+
Inlet sensor + (brown)
UP-
Inlet sensor - (blue)
GND
Outlet sensor ground (black)
DN+
Outlet sensor + (brown)
DN-
Outlet sensor - (blue)
I OUT+
4 … 20 mA output
I OUT-
TX
RS232 output
RX
GND
A
RS485 output
B
Attention! Only wire the PCE-TDS 75 when it is switched off. The unit must be reliably grounded
before installation and use. Use either AC or DC power. Do not connect both at the
same time.

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4.2 Switchon
As soon as the PCE-TDS 75 is connected to a power source, it starts automatically and the
system runs automatically according to the parameters last entered. After *R is displayed in the
upper right corner, the instrument will automatically start measuring.
If this is the first use or installation at a new location, you must enter the parameters of the new
installation location. All parameters set by the user are permanently saved until changed. The
flow meter will continue to measure continuously regardless of the menu that is open.
4.3 Functions of membrane keypad
Comma
Back key / return to previous menu
Open the next menu / decrease a number
Return to previous menu / increase a number
Open menu
Confirm / edit

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5 Quick start
5.1 Basic settings
This example assumes a 4 mm thick PVC pipe without coating with a diameter of 200 mm. The
medium flowing through the pipe is water.
These parameters should be adopted as follows:
Step 1 Pipe dimensions
Open M10 (menu 10) by pressing the menu
key and then entering the number 10. Now
enter the diameter and thickness of the pipe
and confirm with the ENTER key.
Step 2. Pipe material
Press the "↓" key to select the pipe material.
Select PVC and confirm your entry with the
ENTER key.
Step 3 Water temperature
Open M12 and enter the water temperature.
The temperature should be within the range of
0 ... 80 °C.
Press ENTER to confirm your entry.
Step 4 Sensor type
Open M13 and select the sensor type. Here,
you can select the first sensor type, i. e. Clamp-
On-D. Confirm your entry with ENTER.

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Step 5. Mounting method
Press "↓" to switch to the next submenu. Here,
you select 0.V, for example. Press ENTER to
confirm your selection.
Step 6. Sensor spacing
Open M14 and mount the sensors according to
the indicated distance and the selected
method.
Step 7 Display measured value
Open menu 01 to display the flow rate in m³/h.
Attention!
Always press the ENTER key first if you want to change a parameter. If "Change" is
still not possible after pressing the ENTER key, this means that the system is locked
by a password. To unlock, select "Unlock" in window M54 and enter the password
you have previously specified.

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6 Sensor installation
6.1 Selection of the measuring location
The installation of the PCE-TDS 75 is very simple. You only need a suitable measuring location,
then attach the sensors to the pipe and start the measurement. The following must be observed
when selecting a suitable installation location:
•Select a pipe section that is always filled with liquid, e. g. a vertical pipe with flow
upwards or a full horizontal pipe.
•Ensure a sufficiently straight pipe length for the installation of the upstream and
downstream sensors.
•In the case of a horizontal pipe, the sensors should be mounted on the side to prevent
air bubbles at the top or deposits at the bottom from falsifying the measurement result.
•Make sure that the temperature of the measuring location is below the temperature
limits of the sensors.
•The inside of the pipe should also be in good condition. If possible, choose a section of
pipe where the interior is free from corrosion.
•The section must be sound-conducting.

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6.2 Mounting the sensors
Make sure that the pipe surface where the sensors are to be mountedis clean and smooth. There
should also be no rust or loose paint on it. Select a suitable section and do not forget to apply the
coupling gel. Apply the coupling gel to the centre of each sensor’s front surface and to the pipe
surface. Ensure that there are no air bubbles between the sensors and the pipe wall, then attach
the sensors to the pipe using the pipe clamps provided and tighten them securely.
Note:
The two sensors should be mounted laterally and centrally on horizontal pipes. Make sure that
the mounting direction of the sensors is parallel to the flow. If the sensors cannot be mounted
horizontally symmetrically due tolimited local installation conditions, it may benecessary to mount
the sensors at a location where the pipe is always filled with liquid.
6.2.1 Sensor spacing
The distance between the ends of the two sensors can be looked up in M14 (menu 14). After
entering the required parameters, check the data displayed in window M14 and adjust the spacing
between the sensors according to the data.

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6.2.2 Selection of the measuring method
There are two mounting methods you can use depending on the measurement environment: the
V method (reflect method) and the Z method (direct method). The V method is easy to install and
suitable for most ultrasonic environments, the Z method has a stronger signal and works better
in complicated measurement environments.
V method
The V method is considered the standard method. It is practical to use. Nevertheless, it must be
ensured that the pipe is mounted correctly (see 6.2 ff.).

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Z method
If the pipe diameter is too large or the lining is too thick, it is recommended to use the Z method.
The signal transmitted after a Z-method installation has less attenuation than a signal transmitted
using the V method. This is because the Z method uses a directly transmitted (rather than
reflected) signal that passes through the medium only once. With the Z method,you can measure
on pipe diameters ranging from 100 to 5000 mm (4 ... 200 in.). Therefore, we recommend the Z
method for pipe diameters over 300 mm (12 in.).
6.2.3 Inspection
Verify that the sensors are properly installed and that there is an accurate and strong ultrasonic
signal that ensures proper operation and high reliability of the sensors. This can be confirmed by
checking the detected signal strength, the total transit time, the delta time as well as the transit
time ratio. The following inspections must be made to ensure high reliability of the measurement
and long-term operation of the device.
Signal strength
The signal strength can be checked in window M04. Here, you can see the strength of the signal
of both sensors. The signal strength is indicated by numbers from 00.0 to 99.9. 00.0 stands for
no detected signal, while 99.9 stands for the maximum signal strength. The stronger the detected
signal strength, the longer the device works reliably and the more stable the obtained measured
value will be. Positionthe sensorsoptimally and check whethersufficient couplinggel was applied
during installation to obtain the maximum signal strength. The system requires a signal strength
of more than 75.0 for both sensors. If the determined signal strength is too low, the position of the
sensors and the spacing should be re-adjusted and the pipe re-inspected. You can also change
the mounting method to rectify this problem.

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Signal quality
The signal quality or Q value is displayed in window M04. It indicates the level of the detected
signal. The Q value is indicated by numbers from 00 to 99. 00 represents the weakest detected
signal whereas 99 represents the maximum. The position of the sensors should be adjusted until
the detected signal quality is as strong as possible.
Total time and delta time
The total transit time and thetotal transit time difference, which are displayed in window M04, are
further factors for the measurement accuracy. The measurement calculations in the flow meter
are based on these two parameters. Therefore, if the total transit time difference varies greatly, it
means that the detected signal quality is too poor. This may be the result of poor pipe installation
conditions, inadequate sensor installation or incorrect parameter entry. In general, the variation
of the total transit time difference should be less than ±20 %. Only if the pipe diameter is too small
or the velocity too low, the variation can be larger.
Transit time ratio
The transit time ratio indicates whether the mounting distance of the sensors is accurate. The
normal transit time ratio should be 100 ±3 % when properly installed. Check this in window M04.
If the transit time ratio exceeds 100 ±3 %, a check is required:
•whether the parameters (pipe outside diameter, wall thickness, pipe material, lining,
etc.) have been entered correctly,
•whether the mounting distance of the sensors corresponds to the display in window
M14,
•whether the sensors are correctly positioned on the pipe,
•whether the shape of the pipe is distorted or deformed.
6.2.4 Warnings
The pipe parameters must be entered accurately or the flow meter will not work properly.
•During installation, apply enough coupling gel to mount the sensors to the pipe wall.
While checking the signal strength and Q value, slowly move the sensors across the
mounting location until the strongest signal and maximum Q value are reached. Note
that the larger the pipe diameter, the more the sensors need to be moved.
•Check that the mounting distance matches the indication in window M14 and that the
sensors are mounted centrally on the pipe on the same pipe size.
•Pay special attention to pipes with seams as such pipes are usually uneven. If the
signal strength is always displayed as 0.00, this means that no signal is detected.
Therefore, it is necessary to check whether the parameters (including all pipe
parameters) have been entered correctly. Check that the sensor mounting method is
correct, the pipe is not worn and the lining is not too thick. Make sure that there is
actually fluid in the pipe or that the sensors are not too close to a valve or manifold
and that there are not too many air bubbles in the fluid, etc. If still no signal is
detected, the measuring location must be changed.

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•Make sure that the PCE-TDS 75 can operate properly and with high reliability. The
stronger the signal strength displayed, the higher the achieved Q value. The longer
the flow meter runs accurately, the higher the reliability of the displayed flow rates. If
there is interference from electromagnetic waves in the environment or the detected
signal is too weak, the displayed flow rate value is not reliable; consequently, reliable
operation is not guaranteed under these circumstances.
7 Operation
7.1 Normal operation
When the letter "*R" appears on the display, this indicates that the system is operating normally.
When the letter "D" is displayed, this indicates that the system is adjusting the signal gain before
measurement. This also means that the system is operating normally. The letter "E" indicates that
no signal is detected. Checkthat the wiring connections of the sensors are correct, firmly installed,
etc. For more information, refer to "Troubleshooting".
7.2 Limit value for lowest flow rate
The value in M21 is the minimum value for the flow rate. If the flow falls below this value, the flow
display will be set to zero. This feature can prevent the flow meter from displaying the flow as "0"
after a pump has been turned off but when there is still fluid movement in the pipe, resulting in a
cumulative error. In general, it is recommended to enter 0.03 m/s as the minimum value for the
lowest flow. The limit value is not related to the measurement results once the velocity increases
above the limit value.
7.3 Zero setting
As soon as a zero flow occurs, a zero point is displayed on the flow meter but the displayed
measured value is not equal to "0", this value only indicates "zero". To any measuring instrument,
it applies that the smaller the zero point is, the better the quality will be. If the zero point is too
high, this means that the quality of the instrument is poor. If the zero set value is not at the true
zero flow, a measurement difference may occur. The smaller the physical measurement capacity,
the greater the measurement difference from the zero point. It is necessary to perform a zero
calibration to improve measurement accuracy at low flow. This can be done via the M22 menu.
Go to the "Cutoff" submenu and select "Yes". The instrument will now start the zero calibration.
The device will indicate when zero calibration is complete.

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7.4 Scaling factor
The scaling factor describes the relationship between the "actual value" and the "read value". For
example, if the reading is 2.00 and is indicated as 1.98 on the device, the scaling factor is 2/1.98.
This means that the best scaling factor is a constant 1. However, it is difficult to keep the scaling
factor "1" on the instrument, especially for serial measurements. During operation, there are still
possible differences in pipe parameters, etc. The "scaling factor" may be required when the PCE-
TDS 75 is used for different pipes. Therefore, the scaling factor calibration is specifically designed
to calibrate the differences resulting from the application on different pipes. The scaling factor
entered must be the one resulting from the actual flow calibration. The scale factor can be entered
in window M26.
7.5 System lock
The system lock is intended to prevent operating errors due to tampering by unauthorized
personnel. M54 is the system lock menu which you can only unlock with the password you set.
When "Lock" is displayed, enter the correct password. Remember the password or keep it in a
safe place, otherwise the device can no longer be used.
7.6 Current loop output
With a current loop output, the flow meter is programmable and configurable with outputs such
as 4 –20 mA or 0 –20 mA. This can be selected in menu 32. For example, if the flow range is 0
... 1000 m3/h, enter 0 for "Range" and "LowerL" and 1000 for "UpperL". For "Mode", set 4-20 mA.
If the flow is within the range -1000 …2000 m 3/h, select the 20 - 4 - 20 mA output for "Mode".
Enter 1000 for "Range" and "LowerL" and 2000 for "UpperL". If the flow direction is relevant, the
0 - 4 - 20 mA output is available. When the flow direction is indicated as negative, the current
output is within the range of 0 …4 mA, whereas the 4 …20 mA is for the positive direction. The
options for the output mode are displayed in the M32 window under "Mode". Calibration and
testing of the current loop are performed in the M32 window under "Check". Perform the steps as
follows: "check 4mA", "check 8mA", "check 16mA", "check 20mA". Connect an ammeter to test
the current loop output and calculate the difference. Calibration of the 4-20 mA output is possible
in menu M62.
7.7 Frequency output
The PCE-TDS 75 flow meter is equipped with a transmission function with frequency output. The
displayed high or low frequency output indicates the high or low flow rate reading. The user can
set both the frequency output and the flow rate according to their requirements. E. g., if a pipe
flow range is 0 ... 5000 m3/h, the required relative frequency output is 100 ... 1000 Hz. The
configuration is as follows:
•In window M33 "LowerL" (lower limit value of the output flow frequency), select "0";
•Select "5000" for "UpperL" (upper limit of output flow frequency);
•Select "Mode-Frange" and enter "100" and "1000";
•Select "Mode Option" and enter "a. Flow Rate";

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7.8 Totalizer pulse output
Each time the flow meter reaches a consistent flow, it can generate a totalizer pulse. The totalizer
pulse can be transmitted to a remote counter via OCT (Open Collector Transistor) or a relay.
Therefore, it is necessary to configure the OCT and relay accordingly (see windows M33 and
M34). For example, if it is necessary to transmit the positive totalizer pulse via a relay and each
pulse represents a flow of 10 m3, configure as follows:
•Open M41 and select the totalizer flow unit "m 3";
•go to M41-MULT and select the scaling factor "e. x10";
•in M34-Option, select "g. POS Total".
Attention!
Make sure to select a suitable totalizer pulse. If the totalizer pulse is too high, the
output cycle will be too long; if the totalizer pulse is too low, the relay will operate
too fast. You can shorten the life of the relay and skip some pulses. It is
recommended that the totalizer transmits within the range of 1 ... 3 pulses per
second.

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7.9 Alarm programming
The on-off alarm is generated by the OCT or by transmission to an external circuit by opening or
closing a relay. The on-off output signal is activated under the following conditions:
•Signal not detected.
•Bad signal detected.
•The flow meter is not ready for normal measurement.
•The flow is in reverse direction (backflow).
•The analogue outputs exceed the measuring span by 120 %.
•The frequency output exceeds the span by 120 %.
•The flow rate exceeds the configured ranges. Configure the flow ranges using the
software alarm system. There are two software alarms: alarm no. 1 and alarm no. 2.
Example 1: If the flow rate exceeds 300 ... 1000 m3/h, follow these steps to program
the relay output alarm:
(1) In menu 35, set Alarm1 LowL to 300.
(2) In menu 35, set Alarm1 Upper to 1000.
(3) Select d. Alarm1 under Option in Menu 34.
7.10 4-20 mA analogue output calibration
Attention!
Each flow meterhas been calibrated before leavingthe factory. It is not necessary
to perform this step unless the current value (determined during current loop
calibration) displayed in the M32 window is not identical to the actual output
current value.
The hardware detection window must be activated before calibrating the analogue output. To do
this, you must proceed as follows:
Open M62 for 4-20 mA calibration. Use "↑" and "↓" to toggle. Calibrate the 4 mA output of the
current loop. Use an ammeter to measure the current loop output current while adjusting the
numerical values until the ammeter reads 4.00. The 4 mA output value has now been calibrated.
Use "↑" and "↓" to toggle and calibrate the 20 mA output of the current loop. The method is the
same as for the 4 mA calibration. The results are automatically saved to the EEPROM and are
not lost even when the power is turned off.
7.11 ESN
We equip the flow meter with a unique electronic serial number to identify each flow meter for the
benefit of the manufacturer and customers. The ESN, device types and versions can be viewed
in window M50.