Permalert PAL-AT Series User manual

Notice
The information contained in this manual, including but not limited to any product specifications, is subject to
change without notice.
PERMALERT ESP, INC. (PERMALERT) PROVIDES NO WARRANTY WITH REGARD TO THIS MANUAL OR
ANY OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE WITH REGARD TO
ANY OF THE FOREGOING. PERMALERT ASSUMES NO LIABILITY FOR ANY DAMAGES INCURRED
DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY FROM ANY TECHNICAL OR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS OR OMISSIONS
CONTAINED HEREIN OR FOR DISCREPANCIES BETWEEN THE PRODUCT AND THE MANUAL. IN NO
EVENT SHALL PERMALERT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL, OR
EXEMPLARY DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON TORT, CONTACT OR OTHERWISE, ARISING OUT OF OR
IN CONNECTION WITH THIS MANUAL OR ANY OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN OR THE USE
THEREOF.
Caution --This manual may not be up-to-date.
Please check the PermAlert website, www.permalert.com, for the latest revision of this manual.
The manual is typically revised at least once a year. The revision date is on the back cover.

PAL-AT Operating Manual
1
Table of Contents
1Introduction............................................................................................... 5
1.1 Theory of Operation..........................................................................................................5
1.2 Power Up..........................................................................................................................5
1.2.1 Initial Display........................................................................................................5
1.2.2 Contrast Adjustment.............................................................................................6
1.2.3 Installation Instructions.........................................................................................6
1.2.4 Manual Updates...................................................................................................6
2Operating PAL-AT ..................................................................................... 7
2.1 Setup ................................................................................................................................7
2.1.1 Multiple Cable System .........................................................................................7
2.1.2 Exit Setup.............................................................................................................7
2.1.3 Baseline Check....................................................................................................8
2.1.4 Hydrocarbon Liquids..........................................................................................10
2.1.5 Sensor String Sections.......................................................................................10
2.1.6 Create Setup Table............................................................................................10
2.1.6.1 Select Cable Type.............................................................................10
2.1.6.2 Enter Cable Distance........................................................................11
2.1.6.3 No End Found...................................................................................11
2.1.6.4 End of Sensor String.........................................................................12
2.1.7 Probes................................................................................................................12
2.2 Reference.......................................................................................................................12
2.2.1 Multiple Cable System .......................................................................................13
2.2.2 Reference Process.............................................................................................13
2.3 Verify...............................................................................................................................14
2.3.1 Multiple Cable System .......................................................................................14
2.3.2 Select the Master Map.......................................................................................14
2.3.3 Verify Process....................................................................................................15
2.3.4 Select to Monitor................................................................................................15

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2.4 Monitor........................................................................................................................... 16
2.4.1 Normal Messages Displayed............................................................................. 16
2.4.2 Fault Messages Displayed................................................................................ 16
2.4.3 Alarm Silence Feature....................................................................................... 17
2.4.4 Failure to Enter Monitor Mode........................................................................... 17
2.5 Display Setup................................................................................................................. 18
2.5.1 Multiple Cable System....................................................................................... 18
2.5.2 Display Setup Data............................................................................................ 19
2.5.3 Last Section ...................................................................................................... 19
2.5.4 Add Sections..................................................................................................... 20
2.5.5 Record the Setup Table .................................................................................... 20
2.6 History............................................................................................................................ 20
2.6.1 History Messages –The First Line.................................................................... 20
2.6.2 History Messages –The Second Line............................................................... 23
2.7 Set Clock........................................................................................................................ 23
2.7.1 Set the Time and Date ...................................................................................... 23
2.8 Passwords ..................................................................................................................... 24
2.8.1 Establish New Passwords................................................................................. 24
2.8.2 Delete Password............................................................................................... 25
2.8.3 Enter Password................................................................................................. 25
2.9 Special Functions........................................................................................................... 26
2.9.1 Set Relay Normal States................................................................................... 26
2.9.2 Display Special Archives................................................................................... 27
2.9.3 Set Special Options........................................................................................... 27
2.9.3.1 Set Alarm Silence Time.................................................................... 27
2.9.3.2 Select Automapping......................................................................... 27
2.9.3.3 Set Averaging Rate.......................................................................... 28
2.9.3.4 Set Noise Factor .............................................................................. 28
2.9.3.5 Power Save Delay............................................................................ 28
2.9.4 Communications Options.................................................................................. 29
2.9.4.1 Set Baud Rate.................................................................................. 29
2.9.4.2 Set System Identification.................................................................. 30
2.9.4.3 Enter Phone Number ....................................................................... 30
2.9.5 Display Cable Data............................................................................................ 30
2.9.5.1 Multiple Cable System ..................................................................... 31
2.9.5.2 Select Function ................................................................................ 31
2.9.5.3 Low / High Locations........................................................................ 31
2.9.5.4 Data Points ...................................................................................... 32

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3Response to Alarms................................................................................ 33
3.1 Decisions........................................................................................................................33
3.1.1 Locations............................................................................................................33
3.2 Alarm Conditions.............................................................................................................33
3.2.1 Fault...................................................................................................................33
3.2.2 Break Alarm.......................................................................................................33
3.2.3 Leak Alarm.........................................................................................................33
3.3 Leak Analysis..................................................................................................................33
3.3.1 First Leak...........................................................................................................34
3.3.2 Repeated Leaks.................................................................................................34
4Recommended Inspection...................................................................... 35
4.1 Alarm Test ......................................................................................................................35
4.2 Cable Test ......................................................................................................................35
4.3 Processor Card and Battery Test....................................................................................35
4.3.1 Optional Internal Modem....................................................................................36
5Installation & Troubleshooting............................................................... 37
5.1 Initial Power-Up Checks..................................................................................................37
5.2 Cable Connector Tests...................................................................................................37
5.3 Cable Card Sensitivity Adjustment..................................................................................38
5.4 Cable Card Connector Tests ..........................................................................................39
5.5 Cable Expansion Module................................................................................................39
5.6 FCC ................................................................................................................................39
5.7 U.L., C-U.L. & FMRC......................................................................................................40
5.8 Troubleshooting Guide....................................................................................................40
5.9 Restrictions & Limitations................................................................................................41
5.9.1 Alarm Panels......................................................................................................41
5.9.2 Sensor Cables ...................................................................................................42
5.9.3 Probes................................................................................................................42
6Output Relay System .............................................................................. 43
6.1 Installation of Output Relay System................................................................................43
6.2 Relay Module Configuration............................................................................................45
6.3 Internal Diagnostic Indicators..........................................................................................46
6.4 Control Relays ................................................................................................................46
6.5 RS-232 Port Interface Cable Installation.........................................................................47
6.6 PAL-AT Control of Output Relay System........................................................................47

PAL-AT Operating Manual
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6.6.1 Sensing Cable and Probe Requirements.......................................................... 47
6.6.2 Assign Output Relays........................................................................................ 47
6.6.3 Display Output Relay Assignments................................................................... 47
6.6.4 Change Output Relay Assignments .................................................................. 48
7PAL-AT Setup Record..............................................................................49
8Warranty Registration..............................................................................51

PAL-AT Operating Manual
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PAL-AT LEAK DETECTION SYSTEM, VX.XX
PERMALERT ESP INC. “TIME” “DATE”
1 Introduction
1.1 Theory of Operation
PAL-AT uses a pulsed cable-radar technology to detect leaks. PAL-AT sends low voltage pulses on a
cable and monitors reflections received at the panel. PAL-AT electronically divides the cable into short
increments and measures the reflections from each. It stores the measured values in memory during the
reference procedure in a permanent record called the “master” map. When in monitor mode, PAL-AT
compares the current condition with the master map. Significant changes from the master, for instance
when the cable gets wet, cause PAL-AT to enter the alarm mode.
This method of comparing the current condition with a baseline map allows PAL-AT to monitor a system
with minor installation inconsistencies and small amounts of wet cable. This capability enables PAL-AT
to accept initial field conditions that would force other systems to reduce their sensitivity or be
inoperative. It also allows the system to locate additional leaks that occur past acknowledged leaks.
PAL-AT detects and locates six types of changes:
1. Leak
2. Cable Drying
3. Cable Short
4. Cable Break
5. Probe Activated
6. Probe Reset
Normally, PAL-AT is set to activate alarms for leaks, shorts, breaks, and probes activated but not for a
drying cable or probe reset (see Section 2.9.3.2). The system first checks for a break or short. If none is
found, the cable is checked for the remaining four conditions.
As explained above, PAL-AT will accept and monitor a system that initially has a small amount of wet
cable. This normally occurs only in secondary containment applications. To maintain the long-term
integrity of the containment and insure the proper operation of PAL-AT, you must dry the containment
either before or immediately after the system is on-line.
1.2 Power Up
PAL-AT has a power switch inside the cabinet on the power supply cover. Power should be fed directly
from a dedicated circuit breaker to PAL-AT. If the green power light on PAL-AT is not lit, check the
circuit breaker and the power switch to be sure PAL-AT is getting power. Make sure all cards are
installed properly before you turn on PAL-AT. DO NOT INSTALL OR REMOVE CARDS WHEN THE
POWER IS ON (see Section 5.1).
1.2.1 Initial Display
PAL-AT uses a twelve (12)-digit keypad for menu selection and data entry. A two-line liquid-crystal
display (LCD) shows information about the operation of the system. PAL-AT displays the following
message when it is turned on:
LCD01:
"VX.XX" is the firmware version PAL-AT is using. The "DATE" is displayed with 4 digits for the year in
this initial display. The message is displayed during a 5 minute warm-up period and then PAL-AT
attempts to enter monitor mode. The warm-up delay can be bypassed by pressing the * or # key.

1 Introduction
6
1# TO SETUP CABLE, 2# TO TAKE REFERENCE
* TO EXIT, # FOR NEXT MENU
If the * key is pressed, PAL-AT goes immediately to the Main Menu and displays the message:
LCD02:
If the # key is pressed, PAL-AT goes directly to Monitor mode if any cables are setup for monitoring.
1.2.2 Contrast Adjustment
The contrast of the LCD can be adjusted by turning the adjustment screw on the processor card (see
Figures 2.1.3A, 2.1.3B or 2.1.3C). This may be necessary to get the best viewing angle, depending on
the mounting height of the PAL-AT panel.
1.2.3 Installation Instructions
Detailed Installation Instructions are provided in the PAL-AT Installation Manual (PA 1000).
1.2.4 Manual Updates
Refer to the PermAlert (Perma-Pipe) web site, www.permalert.com, for the latest version of this manual.
The leak detection information can be found by selecting: Product Catalog---Industry Applications---Leak
Detection.
** ALL APPLICABLE MANUALS MUST BE REVIEWED AND UNDERSTOOD PRIOR TO
INSTALLATION **

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ENTER CABLE NUMBER [1-?], THEN #:
FOR SETUP * TO EXIT
ALL CALIBRATION AND MAPS WILL BE LOST
* TO ABORT, # TO CONFIRM SETUP DESIRED
2 Operating PAL-AT
PAL-AT lists the primary functions in the Main Menu. The LCD displays two menu functions at a time.
Read the display carefully. PAL-AT prompts for the information it needs. Press the # key to step
through the Main Menu and display the next two menu functions.
PAL-AT has a password system to prevent unauthorized access. Password access time is very short,
ranging from 2 minutes to 60 minutes for selected functions. PAL-AT requests a password if: (1) the
current password is not authorized to enter the selected function or (2) the allowable time for the
selected function expires without any keypad input.
This manual uses examples of display messages. In the examples, question marks (?) represent
numbers on the LCD. “TIME” and “DATE” represent a display of a specific time or date.
The Main Menu Functions available in PAL-AT are:
1. Setup 6. History
2. Reference 7. Set Clock
3. Verify 8. Password Entry
4. Monitor 9. Special Functions
5. Display Setup
The normal procedure for setting up a new system is to proceed through functions 1 and 2. Select a
menu function and then answer the questions displayed on the LCD.
2.1 Setup
PAL-AT uses this function to enter sensor cable data into the PAL-AT memory. A level 200 password is
required (see Section 2.8). If an AT-ORC Output Relay Controller panel is installed, refer to Section 6 of
this manual for additional information for setup. To select this function from the Main Menu, press 1 and
#.
2.1.1 Multiple Cable System
If the system is a model AT20K, AT40K or AT80K monitoring more than one cable, the first message is:
LCD03:
Models with a single cable skip this message. When PAL-AT is in the setup function, it is not
monitoring any cables that were previously setup.
2.1.2 Exit Setup
The next message is:
LCD04:
This is a warning that you going to enter new setup data. If you entered the setup function accidentally,
you can exit this function by pressing the “*” key. Warning: Do not press # except to setup a new
system which will erase all previous setup data and reference maps for the selected cable.

2 Operating PAL-AT
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STANDARD RESOLUTION, BASELINE = ??
ENTER * FOR MENU, # TO CONTINUE
2.1.3 Baseline Check
The next message is:
LCD05:
The baseline is a number between 25 and 35. If the unit displays a value outside this range it shows a
hardware failure. A value of zero may mean the cable card or pulse card is not properly installed. If so,
turn off the power and carefully seat the cards firmly in their slots (see Section 5.1). Press # to move to
the next item or press * to cancel setup and return to the Main Menu.
Figure 2.1.3A: AT40K and AT80K Component Layout

PAL-AT Operating Manual
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Figure 2.1.3B: AT20C and AT50C Component Layout
Figure 2.1.3C: AT20K Component Layout

2 Operating PAL-AT
10
CABLE ? MONITORING HYDROCARBONS? (FUELS)
ENTER # FOR YES, * FOR NO
ENTER SECTION ?? CABLE TYPE, THEN #
0=END, 1=ATP, 2=AGW, 3=JMP, # FOR MORE
2.1.4 Hydrocarbon Liquids
Next PAL-AT displays the message:
LCD06:
Press # if any section of the sensor cable (not probes) is monitoring for hydrocarbon liquids (gas, oil,
fuel, solvents, etc.). This will increase the sensitivity of PAL-AT. The sensitivity jumper on the cable
card should be set to “H” or “High” for maximum sensitivity when monitoring for hydrocarbons.
2.1.5 Sensor String Sections
The sensor string is a combination of lengths of jumper cable, sensor cable, and probes connected in
series to PAL-AT and monitored for leaks, breaks, etc. During the setup function, the sensor string is
broken into several sections. The end of each section is called a calibration point. Two rules are used to
find the required number of sections or calibration points.
The first rule is there must be a new section or calibration point at every change in cable type.
For example, a sensor string consisting of 50 feet of jumper cable, 400 feet of AGW-Gold cable, and
then 20 feet of jumper cable should be set up as 3 sections. There may be several cable connectors
within one section. The 400 feet of AGW-Gold may consist of 10 lengths of cable, each 40 feet long, but
they should be connected and entered as 1 section.
An exception to this rule is if the length of a cable is 15 feet or less. For example, one area of a sensor
string has 200 feet of AGW-Gold, then 15 feet of jumper going through a manhole, and finally 200 feet of
AGW-Gold. These lengths of cable can be setup as 1 section of AGW-Gold cable 415 feet long instead
of 3 sections.
The second rule for locating sections or calibration points concerns long lengths of 1 type of
cable. Make additional calibration points at cable connectors approximately every 500 feet. Consider a
sensor string consisting of 50 feet of jumper, 700 feet of AGW-Gold, and 20 feet of jumper. Instead of
setting this up in 3 sections, make an additional calibration point in the 700 feet of AGW-Gold to improve
the accuracy of the system. In this example, the 700 feet of AGW-Gold should be 2 sections,
approximately 500 feet and 200 feet long.
The setup procedure requires the sequential addition of sections to the sensor string. This procedure
should be carefully planned to assure an accurate calibration.
2.1.6 Create Setup Table
The next message asks for data about each section of the sensor string. PAL-AT uses it to create a
setup table in its memory. Two pieces of data are necessary for each cable section: (1) the type of
cable and (2) the cumulative distance to the end of the section.
2.1.6.1 Select Cable Type
There are several types of sensor cables and jumper cables. PAL-AT displays a message requesting
the cable type.
LCD07:
PAL-AT lists several types of cable at a time. Press #, if needed, to display additional cable choices.
Currently the choices are: 0=End, 1=ATP, 2=AGW, 3=JMP, JMP-U or JMP-UD, 4=FGH, 5=TFH, 7=AGT,
8=JPL-U or JPL-UD, 9=JPP, 10=Probe, 11=Special, 13=AGW-Gold, 14=AGT-Gold and 15=TFH-Gold.
Additional choices may be added as new cables are developed and some choices may be discontinued.
Earlier firmware may not list ATP as type 1. For those systems, enter type 14. Press a number to select
the appropriate cable type, and then press # for PAL-AT to accept that number.
The first section connected to PAL-AT is always a jumper cable at least 50 feet long. It is

PAL-AT Operating Manual
11
END FOUND AT ???? INSTEAD OF ????
* TO REENTER, # TO ACCEPT
END FOUND AT ????
* TO REENTER, # TO ACCEPT
ENTER DISTANCE TO SECTION ?? END:
* TO CLEAR, 0 FOR AUTOEND, # TO START
LOCATING END OF SECTION ????, PLEASE WAIT
PROBABLE SHORT FOUND IN CABLE ? AT ????
* OR # TO REENTER
ENTRY OF ???? IS INVALID - * TO REENTER
MUST BE BEYOND SECTION ?? END AT ????
important to include this piece of jumper cable in the sensor string, even if the first location to be
monitored may be less than 50 feet from PAL-AT. For the first section, press 3 and #, if type JMP-U
jumper cable is used. If the first section is JPP jumper cable, type 9, it should be at least 65 feet long.
2.1.6.2 Enter Cable Distance
The next message asks for the distance to the end of the section:
LCD08:
The distance to the end of the section is the cumulative length of the previously entered sections plus the
length of the new section. It is not the length of the new section only. For example: if you are setting up
section 2, which is 500 feet of type AGW-Gold cable, and section 1, is 50 feet of jumper cable, the
distance to the end of section 2 is 550 feet. There are two methods to enter the distance: (1) use
Autoend or (2) enter the estimated distance. Select Autoend by pressing 0 and #, or just #, and PAL-AT
finds the distance to the end of the section automatically. Otherwise enter the distance and press #. In
either case, PAL-AT displays:
LCD09:
If you select Autoend, the next display is:
LCD10:
Press # to accept the distance determined by PAL-AT. If an estimated distance is entered for a section,
PALAT finds the end of the section and checks if the measured section length is within tolerance of the
estimated distance. If it is, PAL-AT accepts the entry and repeats message LCD07 for the next section.
If the estimated distance is incorrect, then the following message is displayed:
LCD11:
Press # to accept or * to reenter the distance determined by PAL-AT. The most likely reason for
displaying this message is you entered the wrong information (cable type or length).
LCD12:
There are two reasons for displaying message LCD12. Either the next section was not connected to the
cable as intended or the connector on the new section was not installed correctly. Enter * and reenter
the data after the problem is corrected.
2.1.6.3 No End Found
If PAL-AT cannot find the end of the cable, one of the following messages is displayed:
LCD13:
This message shows a short in the cable. Check the cable connectors at the displayed distance. When
the cable is disconnected from PAL-AT an ohmmeter should show an open circuit between the center

2 Operating PAL-AT
12
NO END FOUND IN CABLE ? IN ???? FEET
* OR # TO REENTER
pin of the cable connector and the housing of the connector. A short in the cable must be repaired
before PAL-AT can monitor the sensor string. Refer to Section 5.2 for cable connector tests.
OR
LCD14:
This message is displayed if: (1) the actual end of the section is more than 100 feet longer than the
estimated distance entered, (2) the end is longer than the maximum length of the system, or (3) the
sensor string is disconnected from the panel. Recheck all connectors and the resistance of the cable as
described in Section 5.2.
2.1.6.4 End of Sensor String
PAL-AT repeats messages LCD07 through LCD12 for each new cable segment or probe. Each setup
table has the capacity for over 50 sensor string sections.
The last section of each sensor string must be jumper cable. A system shorter than 2,500 feet uses at
least 20 feet for JMP-U or JPL. However, if the previous section is a probe and the system is over 1,500
feet long, then the last section should be 30 feet long (35 feet for JPP) in addition to the 50 feet that
comes with the probe.
Cable runs longer than 2,500 feet require a longer length of jumper cable for the last section. Those
between 2,500 and 5,000 feet require 50 feet (65 ft. for JPP) and cables 5,000 - 7,500 feet require 100
feet (130 for JPP). Consult PermAlert for systems over 7,500 feet long.
If the length of the last section of jumper cable is determined by the PAL-AT to be shorter than the
required lengths listed above, add additional jumper cable to the last section. This happens occasionally
when matching the impedance of the last sensor cable section to the end jumper cable section. The end
jumper cable lengths listed are the areas at the end of the cable used for system calibration and are not
monitored for leaks.
After the last cable section data is entered, end the setup table by entering cable type zero (0) then # at
message LCD07. The end of the last cable section must have a connector attached. Install the
threaded plastic cap, supplied with PAL-AT, over the connector.
2.1.7 Probes
Probes are a special case. Probes can be connected to a PAL-AT sensor string anywhere along its
length. PermAlert ESP supplies probes with 10 feet of jumper cable attached to the input and 50 feet to
the output of the probe integrator. The probe section length is 60 feet for calculating the distance to the
end of the section. PAL-AT automatically assigns an identification number (1-40) to each probe.
2.2 Reference
After a cable is setup, a reference, or "master", map must be taken before PAL-AT can begin monitoring.
A master map is an electronic "snapshot" of the condition of the cable stored in memory. PAL-AT
detects any change in the condition of the cable compared to the master map. PAL-AT models AT20C,
AT50C and AT40K have memory space for five (5) maps and models AT20K and AT80K have eight (8)
maps. If a leak is detected on a sensor string, a new master map may be taken so PAL-AT can continue
to monitor the entire system during the current leak. Press 2 and # from the Main Menu to take a
reference map. A level 100 password is required (see Section 2.8).

PAL-AT Operating Manual
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ENTER CABLE NUMBER (1-?), THEN # :
FOR REFERENCE * TO EXIT
CABLE ? NO FAULT - REFERENCE NOT ALLOWED
ENTER # OR * TO RETURN TO MAIN MENU
CABLE ? BREAK - REFERENCE NOT ALLOWED
ENTER # OR * TO RETURN TO MAIN MENU
CABLE ? SHORT - REFERENCE NOT ALLOWED
ENTER # OR * TO RETURN TO MAIN MENU
REFERENCE READING ON CABLE ? IN PROGRESS
CABLE ? NO END - REFERENCE NOT ALLOWED
ENTER # OR * TO RETURN TO MAIN MENU
LEAK AT ???? BUT CABLE ? LOOKS ????
SHORTER DUE TO 2ND PROBLEM # TO CONTINUE
2.2.1 Multiple Cable System
If the system has multiple cable cards, the first message is:
LCD15:
Other models skip this message.
2.2.2 Reference Process
If there is no fault on the cable, PAL-AT does not allow taking a map, except map 1, and displays:
LCD16:
Also if there is a break or short in the cable, or if the end of the cable is not found, PAL-AT does not allow
taking a new reference map. In these cases the problem on the cable must be corrected before a new
reference is allowed. The messages are:
LCD17:
OR
LCD18:
OR
LCD19:
Otherwise, PAL-AT displays:
LCD20:
The reference process for most cables takes less than 20 seconds. Then, PAL-AT automatically
performs the verify function and monitors the cable. If any problems such as leaks or breaks are found
during verify or monitor, refer to the appropriate sections of this manual, 2.3 or 2.4. When a reference
map is taken after an alarm, PAL-AT checks the length of the cable. If a leak is detected on the cable
but the cable appears shorter to the PAL-AT, the following warning message is displayed:
LCD21:
Press the # key for the next message:

2 Operating PAL-AT
14
CHECK CONTINUITY TO END OF CABLE ?
* TO RETURN TO MENU, # CONTINUITY OK
CHECK CONTINUITY TO END OF CABLE ?
* TO RETURN TO MENU, # CONTINUITY OK
ENTER CABLE NUMBER (1-?), THEN # :
FOR VERIFY * TO EXIT
MONITORING USES MAP ?
ENTER # TO USE MAP ? , * FOR ANOTHER
ENTER MAP TO VERIFY (1-?)
DRYING AT ???? BUT CABLE ? LOOKS ????
LONGER DUE TO 2ND PROBLEM # TO CONTINUE
LCD22:
First check the continuity to the end of the cable to make sure all cable is connected and a length of
cable was not removed for drying and then not replaced (see Section 5.2).
If the continuity is correct, the cable may appear shorter due to the cable drying past the current leak. In
this case continue with reference mapping by pressing the # key.
Similar messages appear if a drying cable appears longer:
LCD23:
Press the key for the next message:
LCD24:
Again, check continuity of the cable to make sure extra cable was not added to the system. If the
continuity is correct, the cable may appear longer due to a leak past the current drying area. In this
case, continue with reference mapping by pressing the # key to get the cable back on line. PAL-AT can
then alarm if more cable gets wet.
2.3 Verify
The verify function checks if the cable matches a reference map and locates the end of the cable. Verify
is also used to select a cable for automatic monitoring. Select the verify function from the Main Menu by
pressing 3 and #. A level 200 password is required (see Section 2.8).
2.3.1 Multiple Cable System
If the system has multiple cable cards, the first message is:
LCD25:
Other models skip this message:
2.3.2 Select the Master Map
PAL-AT asks for the map number to verify. This is useful to see if the current condition of the cable
matches any of the previous maps (see Section 3 for further details). The display shows the current
master map number. This is the map used during monitoring. The next message is:
LCD26:
If * is pressed, PAL-AT displays:
LCD27:
Press the number of the map to compare to the current cable condition. Then press #.

PAL-AT Operating Manual
15
LEAK DETECTED IN CABLE ? AT ???? FEET
ENTER # OR * TO RETURN TO MAIN MENU
CABLE ? MATCHES MAP ? , END AT ???? FEET
MONITOR CABLE ? # FOR YES, * FOR NO
VERIFYING CABLE ?
BREAK DETECTED IN CABLE ? AT ???? FEET
BUT SETUP AS ???? FEET. # OR * FOR MENU
CABLE ? MATCHES MAP 1, NO END DETECTED
BUT SETUP AS ???? FEET. # OR * FOR MENU
CABLE ? MATCHES MAP ?, END AT ???? FEET
MONITOR CABLE ? # FOR YES * FOR NO
LEAK DETECTED IN CABLE 1 AT 600 FEET
MONITOR CABLE ? # FOR YES, * FOR NO
2.3.3 Verify Process
The next message PAL-AT displays is:
LCD28:
When the process is completed, PAL-AT displays the following message if the current system matches
the selected map:
LCD29:
This means the cable is in the same condition now as when the reference map was made. If so, go to
Section 2.3.4 for the next step.
If the sensor string does not match the selected map, one of several messages is displayed. The first
line of the message shows the location and type of problem: leak, drying, short, break, probe activated,
probe reset, etc. The second line asks to return to the Main Menu if the map number selected in LCD27
is not the one being monitored. A few examples are:
LCD30:
This message is displayed if a leak is detected.
LCD31:
If the distance in the first line is shorter than the distance in the second line, there is a break. If the first
distance is longer than the second distance, then the end of the cable is now longer than originally setup.
This means an additional section of cable is attached to the end of the system. If a sensor string is
extended, the additional cable must be added using the Display Setup function (see Section 2.5).
LCD32:
This message is displayed when the cable is more than 500 feet longer than setup, or disconnected
completely from PAL-AT.
2.3.4 Select to Monitor
If the map selected in Section 2.3.2 matches the cable or is the current one set for monitoring, the
second line of the message asks if the cable should be monitored. Example messages are:
LCD33:
LCD34:
Enter # to monitor the cable automatically or * to take it off monitor and return to the menu. In a multi-
cable PAL-AT, a cable may be removed from monitoring when a slow leak or construction in the area of

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16
RECHECKING CABLE “A”, USING MAP “B”
* TO RETURN TO MENU “TIME” “DATE”
NO CABLES SET FOR CONTINUOUS MONITORING
ENTER # OR * TO RETURN TO MAIN MENU
CABLE “A” OK
* TO RETURN TO MENU “TIME” “DATE”
MONITORING CABLE “A”, USING MAP “B”
* TO RETURN TO MENU “TIME” “DATE”
FAULT IN FIRST 50 FEET OF CABLE ?
# TO SILENCE ALARM “TIME” “DATE”
LEAK DETECTED IN CABLE ? AT ???? FEET
# TO SILENCE ALARM “TIME” “DATE”
a cable is causing repeated alarms. If a cable is put on/off-line for monitoring, the action is recorded in
the archive history of events (see Section 2.6).
2.4 Monitor
Press 4 and # from the Main Menu to put PAL-AT into monitor mode. The display alternates several
messages when PAL-AT is in this mode. It shows the cable number it is checking and if the cable is OK.
The constantly changing display is a self-check by PAL-AT. When the LCD is not changing, or is
blank, it means PAL-AT is not monitoring for leaks. If this occurs, notify appropriate personnel
immediately. The green power LED also flashes when the PAL-AT is in the menu and not monitoring.
The system first checks for a break or short. If none is found, the cable is checked for the remaining five
conditions: leak, drying, probe active, probe reset or cable OK.
2.4.1 Normal Messages Displayed
LCD35:
This message means no cables are selected for automatic monitoring or the initial reference map has
not been taken. Select cables for monitoring with the Verify function (see Section 2.3).
LCD36:
“A” is the cable number being monitored and “B” is the master map it is compared to.
LCD37:
This message is displayed when the cable matches the master map.
LCD38:
PAL-AT displays this message when it first recognizes a fault condition. PAL-AT rechecks the cable
three (3) times during the next few seconds before displaying an actual alarm condition and activating
the alarm relays.
2.4.2 Fault Messages Displayed
One of the following messages is displayed when a fault is detected:
LCD39:
OR
LCD40:
OR

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CABLE ? DRYING AT ???? FEET
# TO SILENCE ALARM “TIME” “DATE”
BREAK DETECTED IN CABLE ? AT ???? FEET
# TO SILENCE ALARM “TIME” “DATE”
SHORT DETECTED IN CABLE ? AT ???? FEET
# TO SILENCE ALARM “TIME” “DATE”
PROBE # ? ACTIVATED IN CABLE ?
# TO SILENCE ALARM “TIME” “DATE”
PROBE # ? RESET IN CABLE ?
# TO SILENCE ALARM “TIME” “DATE”
NO END FOUND IN CABLE ? IN ???? FEET
# TO SILENCE ALARM “TIME” “DATE”
LCD41:
OR
LCD42:
OR
LCD43:
OR
LCD44:
OR
LCD45:
OR
LCD46:
A display above is on for 5 seconds and then alternates with display LCD38.
2.4.3 Alarm Silence Feature
When PAL-AT detects a fault condition, it switches two relays. On the AT20K, AT40K or AT80K they are
the alarm relay and the cable relay for the appropriate cable number (see Figures 2.1.3A and 2.1.3C).
The AT20C and AT50C relays are labeled 1A and 1B (see Figure 2.1.3B).
PAL-AT is shipped with the relays configured to operate in a normally energized mode, so they
deenergize in the alarm state (see Section 2.9.1 for setting relay configuration).
When any of the displays in 2.4.2 is shown, the # key can be pressed to switch the alarm relay (AT40K
or AT80K) or relay 1A (AT20C, AT50C or AT20K) to its normal state. An audible alarm is an option
available for PAL-AT. If the PAL-AT is purchased with an audible alarm, it is prewired to the processor
card connector, leaving the relay contact available for additional devices. The cable relay (AT40K or
AT80K) or relay 1B (AT20C, AT50C and AT20K) remains switched until the fault is cleared or a new
reference map is taken and the system is monitoring the cable again. The alarm silence feature resets
after a preset interval (normally 12 hours) if the fault is not corrected and reactivates the alarm (see
Section 2.9.3.1).
2.4.4 Failure to Enter Monitor Mode
PAL-AT requires a master password before it can begin monitoring the first time. The password is
unique. The password is issued when the PAL-AT warranty is registered. See the warranty registration
at the back of this manual. Once the password is entered, it is not needed again. The message is:

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18
MONITORING NOT ENABLED
ENTER # OR * TO RETURN TO MENU
ENTER SECURITY PASSWORD
* TO CLEAR, # TO ACCEPT ENTRY
MONITORING NOT ENABLED
ENTER # TO ENABLE, * TO DISABLE
ENTER CABLE NUMBER (1-?), THEN # :
FOR DISPLAY SETUP * TO EXIT
LCD47:
When the master password is issued, select the security function by pressing 8 and # from the Main
Menu. The display is:
LCD48:
Enter the master password and press #. PAL-AT returns to the Main Menu. Choose the monitor
function by pressing 4 and #. The message is:
LCD49:
Press # and PAL-AT returns to the Main Menu. Again, select the monitor function by pressing 4 and #
and the system begins automatic monitoring.
2.5 Display Setup
This function allows you to inspect the setup data. The inspection feature provides an easy method to
review the types and lengths of cable sections in the setup (calibration) table. This is useful to make
sure they are entered correctly and to see what type of cable is at the location of an alarm. No password
is required to view the setup data. Press 5 and # from the Main Menu.
If an Output Relay Controller panel (AT-ORC) is installed, refer to Section 6 of this manual for additional
information for Display Setup.
This function also allows adding or changing cable sections at any point in the setup table. This provides
for expanding a sensor string in the future without redoing the entire setup procedure. This is also useful
if a system requires more than 1 day to setup. At the end of the first day, end the setup function by
entering cable type 0. The next day, continue by using display setup as explained below to add the rest
of the sections. A password of level 200 must be entered first to change the setup data. To do so:
1) Select function 8 (Password Entry)
2) Enter password
3) Select function 5 (Display Setup)
Once a section is changed, the section data for each section following it must also be entered. This
applies to adding cable in the middle of an existing sensor string. If you decide to change a section, all
the maps will be lost as well. Do not choose to change the setup table unless you are setting up a
new system and are prepared to lose the maps and part of the setup table!
This function is also used to make a new map 1 for an existing system. This is required when the
sensitivity is changed or a cable card is replaced (see Section 2.5.4).
2.5.1 Multiple Cable System
If the system has multiple cable cards, the first message is:
LCD50:
Other models skip this message.