Plura RUBIDIUM Series User guide

TIMING SOLUTIONS
Rubidium Series
RUBIDIUM SERIES
Universal Video Data Processor
Installation & Systems Manual
Version: 5.3
December 3, 2020

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES Page 3
CONTENTS
A1 REVISION HISTORY
A2 COPYRIGHT
A3 WARRANTY
A4 UNPACKING/SHIPPING/REPACKAGING INFORMATION
A5 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
A6 EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
1INTRODUCING THE RUBIDIUM SERIES 16
1.1 OVERVIEW 16
1.2 CONFIGURATION OF THE MODULES: THE PC CONNECTOR 17
1.3 SYSTEM EXTENSIONS: THE RLC CONNECTOR AND FURTHER INTERFACES
18
1.3.1 The “TC_link” Interface 18
1.3.2 The FAIL Signals: Error Detecting 19
1.3.3 24 VDC 19
1.3.4 Ethernet: The Gate to a Local Area Network 19
1.3.5 Local Serial Interfaces 19
1.4 MODULE AND SYSTEM CONFIGURATION 20
1.4.1 Overview 20
1.4.2 Unique Identification of a Module and a Frame 20
1.4.3 Installation of a Module 21
1.4.4 Update 21
2THE RUBIDIUM FRAMES 22
2.1 RUBIDIUM SERIES 1 22
2.1.1 The “RUB1 S1” and “RUB1 T1” Chassis 22
2.1.2 The “RUB1 H1” Frame 24
2.1.3 The “RUB1 D1” Frame 25
2.1.4 Plug-In a Module 27
2.1.5 Remove a Module 28
2.1.6 The Fan Module: Fan, Frame Address, TC_link Termination 29
2.2 RUBIDIUM SERIES 3 30
2.2.1 The “RUB3 H3” Frame 30
2.2.2 Plug-In a Module 31
2.2.3 Remove a Module 32
2.2.4 The RC Module: Fan Control, Frame Address, TC_link Termination 33
2.2.5 Exchange a Fan 33

Page 4 Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
3MODULES OF THE SYSTEM 34
3.1 PS: 60 W POWER SUPPLY OF RUBIDIUM SERIES 1 34
3.2 PT: 60 W POWER SUPPLY OF RUBIDIUM SERIES 3 35
3.3 PM: 60 W POWER SUPPLY WITH ETHERNET + OPTIONS 36
3.4 AT: ANALOGUE VIDEO TIME CODE 37
3.5 AV: ANALOGUE VIDEO 38
3.6 AT/AV STANDARD OPTIONS 39
3.7 AI: ANALOGUE VIDEO FOR SPECIAL APPLICATIONS 40
3.8 XT: 3G/HD/SD VIDEO DATA AND TIME CODE 41
3.9 XV: 3G/HD/SD VIDEO DATA 42
3.10 XT/XV STANDARD OPTIONS 43
3.11 XI: DIGITAL VIDEO FOR SPECIAL APPLICATIONS 44
3.12 GT: MASTER TIME CODE GENERATOR 45
3.13 GI: MASTER IRIG-B GENERATOR 46
3.14 GT/GI: STANDARD OPTIONS 47
3.15 GW: MASTER WORD CLOCK GENERATOR 48
3.16 GB: MASTER BLACK BURST GENERATOR 49
3.17 VD: DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIER 50
3.18 VI: LTC OR IRIG DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIER 51
3.19 VM: CONTINUOUS WAVE DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIER 52
3.20 VL: LTC DISTRIBUTION AND CONVERTER MODULE 53
3.21 IE: INTERFACE ETHERNET 54
3.22 GNS 10 MHZ: GPS SATELLITE RECEIVER 55
3.23 SL: LTC MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER UNIT 56
3.24 SR: REFERENCE MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER UNIT 57
3.25 SI: IRIG MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER UNIT 58
3.26 SW: WORD CLOCK MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER UNIT 59
3.27 SB: ANALOGUE VIDEO MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER 60
4SOFTWARE TOOLS FOR RUBIDIUM SERIES 61
4.1 THE “RUBIDIUM CONFIG” PC PROGRAM 61
4.1.1 Overview 61
4.1.2 Installation 61
4.1.3 Connection to RUBIDIUM SERIES Chassis 62
4.1.4 Starting the Program 63
4.1.5 Configuration of Modules 64
4.1.5.1 Tabs and Functions 64
4.1.5.2 Store a Set-Up to a File, Load and Update the Set-Up of a Module 65
4.1.5.3 The “Profile” Tab: Store and Load a Complete Set-Up on the Module 66
4.1.5.4 The “System” Tab: Name and Reset of a Module, SNMP and Fan Control 67
4.2 THE RUBIDIUM SERIES HTTP SERVER 69
4.2.1 Overview, Connecting the RUB Ethernet Module 69

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES Page 5
4.2.2 Network Set–Up 70
4.2.3 The RUBIDIUM Homepage 71
4.2.4 Accessing a Configurable Module 72
4.2.4.1 The First Steps 72
4.2.4.2 Enable and Disable Functions: The “Functions” Page 74
4.2.4.3 Store and Load Set-Ups: The “Profile” Page 75
4.2.4.4 Name and Reset of a Module, SNMP and Fan Control: The “System” Page 76
4.3 THE STATUS MONITOR 77
4.3.1 Status Monitor via Network Browser 77
4.3.2 Status Monitor by PC Program 78
4.3.3 Status of Fans and Power Supplies 79

Page 6 Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
A1 Revision History
No.
Date
Subject
2.0
January 12, 2005
New title and new arrangement of the document: old title “Installation & Operation Manual”
changed to “Installation & Systems Manual”. Modules description will be found in separate
documents.
2.1
January 27, 2005
Extended and revised.
2.2
February 09, 2005
Description of RUBIDIUM SERIES 3.
Description of module GPS 10MHz.
2.3
June 02, 2005
Extended and revised.
3.0
July 28, 2005
New revision of RUB H1 frame.
3.1
November 08, 2005
New modules VI, VM, GI, SI.
3.2
December 23, 2005
S1 frame.
3.3
June 16, 2006
New modules: PQ, VL, HT, HV.
T1 chassis.
Chapter “Software Tools for RUBIDIUM SERIES” revised.
3.4
November 22, 2006
Chapter 2.1.5 (fan module), 4.1.8 and 4.2.6 (system) revised.
3.5
April 16, 2007
- “TC-link” instead of RS485.
- Remove a module: maintain the air flow.
- RUB1 fan module: revised.
- RUB3 RC module: new.
3.6
June 25, 2007
Revised.
3.7
November 20, 2007
Revised.
3.8
April 24, 2008
Extended and revised.
3.9
August 26, 2010
Revised.
New modules: GW, SW, GB.
3.A
May 20, 2011
RUB H3 PC connector: USB.
4.0
July 06, 2012
D1: revised.
HT/HV: discontinued.
IRIG-B 03: removed.
New: Q1, XT/XV, GLS 10 MHz, SB.
Completely revised.
4.1
September 26, 2012
New chapter: RUBIDIUM SERIES 3 –Exchange a Fan.
New hardware version DT/DV: version 3.
New LTC output gain specifications.
5.0
April 10, 2014
DT/DV: discontinued.
New module: PM.
5.1
June 12, 2014
Revised.
New GUI of our RUBIDIUM web browser.
5.2
September 25, 2019
Changed address of Plura Europe GmbH.
Removed obsolete modules.
5.3
November 30, 2020
Re-formatted in new design.
Due to constant product development hardware and software are subject to change. The
current document basically refers to the latest hardware and software versions of the
RUBIDIUM components.
You can download the latest software and manual for each RUBIDIUM module from:
https://www.plurainc.com.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES Page 7
A2 Copyright
Copyright © Plura Europe GmbH 2002-2019. All rights reserved. No part of this publication
may be reproduced, translated into another language, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or
otherwise without the prior written consent of Plura Europe GmbH.
Printed in Germany.
Technical changes are reserved.
All brand and product names mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only and
are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
Information in this publication replaces all previously published information. Plura Europe
GmbH assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for
damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.
For further information please contact your local dealer or:
Plura Europe GmbH
Binger Weg 12
D- 55437 Ockenheim
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Internet: http://www.plurainc.com

Page 8 Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
A3 Warranty
Plura warrants that their products will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a
period of two years from the date of shipment. If this product proves defective during the
warranty period, Plura, at its option, will repair or replace the defective product without
charge, provided this product are returned to Plura freight prepaid.
In order to obtain service under this warranty, Customer must notify Plura of the defect before
expiration of the warranty period and make suitable arrangements for the performance of
service. Customer shall be responsible for packaging and shipping the defective product to
Plura, please notice the Shipping Information given below.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by abuse, misuse,
improper use, negligence, accident, modification, alteration, or improper or inadequate
maintenance and care.
This warranty is given by Plura with respect to this product in lieu of any other warranties,
express or implied. Plura and its vendors disclaim any implied warranties of merchantability or
fitness for a particular purpose. Plura’s responsibility to repair or replace defective products is
the sole and exclusive remedy provided to the customer for breach of this warranty. Plura and
its vendors will not be liable for any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages
irrespective of whether Plura or the vendor has advance notice of the possibility of such
damages.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES Page 9
A4 Unpacking/Shipping/Repackaging Information
This product has been carefully inspected, tested and calibrated before shipment to ensure
years of stable and trouble-free service.
The shipping carton and pads provide protection for the product during transit. Retain the
shipping cartons in case subsequent shipment becomes necessary.
Carefully unpack the product from its transit material and carefully check the product for signs
of damage. In the event that the product has been damaged during transit, contact the carrier
and your Plura dealer.
Please confirm that all items listed on the packing list have been received. Check the items
against your original order to ensure that you have received the correct parts. If any item is
missing, please contact your Plura dealer.
Ensure that all packaging material is removed from the product and its associated
components before installing the unit.
Products returned to Plura for servicing or repair should have a tag attached showing:
•Name and complete address of the owner and the name of the person that can be
contacted.
•Unit’s serial number and a description of the service required, or failure detected.
Products returned should be shipped prepaid in the original packaging material if possible. If
the original packaging is not available or is unfit for use, supply an adequate packaging
which should meet the following criteria:
•Packaging must be able to withstand the product weight.
•Product must be held rigid within the packaging.
•Allow at least two inches of space between the product and the container.
•The corners of the product must be protected.
•Seal the carton with shipping tape or an industrial stapler.
If the product is still within the warranty period, the product will be returned by prepaid
shipment after servicing.

Page 10 Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
A5 Safety Instructions
The general safety information in this part is for both operating and service personnel. Plura
products are only to be used as directed. Specific warnings and cautions will be found
throughout the manual where they apply.
Review the following safety instructions to avoid injury and prevent damage to this product or
any products connected to it.
•Read these instructions.
•Keep these instructions.
•Heed all warnings.
•Follow all instructions.
Safety Terms and Symbols
Terms and Symbols in this manual:
WARNING: Warning statements identify conditions or practices that could result
in injury or loss of life.
CAUTION: Caution statements identify conditions or practices that could result in
damage to this product or other property.
Terms and Symbols which may be found on the product:
DANGER: High Voltage.
ATTENTION: Refer to the manual.
Protective Ground (Earth) Terminal.
Disconnect the power cord if Power Supply module is removed from the frame.
Off (power entry switch ‘off’).
On (power entry switch ‘on’).
Observe precautions for handling electrostatic-sensitive devices.
Signal Ground.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES Page 11
Injury Precautions
One or more Power Supply module(s) may be present within this product’s frame, in that case
observe the following precautions:
WARNING: To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or
moisture.
RISK OF ELECTRICSHOCK
DONOTOPEN
WARNING: Potentially lethal voltages are present within this product’s Power
Supply module during normal operation. The power cord of the Power Supply
module must be disconnected before the module is removed from the frame.
Power should not be applied to the frame without covers or panels installed,
unless properly trained personnel are servicing the unit.
POWER SOURCE
This product is intended to operate from a power source that will not apply more
than 264 Vrms between the supply conductors or between either supply or ground.
A protective ground connection by way of the grounding conductor in the power
cord is essential for safe operation.
GROUNDING THE PRODUCT
This product is grounded through the grounding conductor of the power module
power cord. To avoid electric shock, plug the power cord into a properly wired
receptacle before connecting the product input or output terminals. A protective
ground connection by way of the grounding conductor in the power cord is
essential for safe operation. Upon loss of the protective ground connection, all
accessible conducting parts can render an electric shock.
USE PROPER POWER CORD
To avoid fire hazard, use only the power cord specified for the power module.
Do not use an extension cord.
USE PROPER FUSE
To avoid fire hazard, use only the fuse of the correct type, voltage rating, and
current rating as specified for the power module.

Page 12 Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
Observe the following general precautions irrespective of the number or kind of modules
plugged to the frame:
DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT COVERS
To avoid electrical shock or fire hazard, do not operate this product with covers
or panels removed.
DO NOT OPERATE IN WET/DAMP CONDITIONS
To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain
or moisture.
DO NOT OPERATE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE
To avoid injury or fire hazard, do not operate this product in an explosive
atmosphere.
Product Damage Precautions
PREVENT OVERHEATING
To prevent product overheating, position the unit only where sufficient air circu-
lation can be maintained. Good air circulation is essential to prevent internal
heat build-up, do not block any ventilation openings. Do not expose the unit to
direct sun light or any other strong lights. Keep the unit away from heat sources.
Install the unit in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
PROVIDE PROPER ENVIRONMENT
Dust, humidity, shocks and strong electromagnetic fields must be avoided. Do
not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing water. Ensure that no objects
filled with liquid are placed on the apparatus.
UNPLUG DURING LIGHTNING STORMS
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods
of time. Alternative: Use a UPS or power surge suppressor.
OBSERVE EMC REGULATIONS
The EMC regulations are observed only under the following condition: Use high
quality shielded cables at data inputs and outputs.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES Page 13
SUSPECTED FAILURES
Whenever it is likely that safe operation is impaired, the apparatus must be made
inoperative and secured against unintended operation. The appropriate service
authority must then be informed. Do not operate with suspected failures.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as
power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE: CLEANING
Qualified Service Personnel Only: The apparatus should be cleaned often
enough to prevent dust or dirt from accumulating. Dust accumulating in the
apparatus acts as an insulating blanket, preventing proper cooling, and possibly
causing overheating and component breakdown. Under high humidity
conditions, accumulated dust can also provide an electrical conduction path.
Remove accumulated dust with a soft cloth or small paint brush. Remove
hardened dirt with a soft cloth, dampened in a mild detergent and water
solution. Do not use polish or abrasive cleaners or any other chemical cleaning
agents.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE: VISUAL INSPECTION
Qualified Service Personnel Only: Visually inspect the apparatus for signs of
damage, scorched components, and loose or disconnected pin connectors. If you
discover heat damaged parts, try to determine the cause of the overheating
before replacing the damaged parts; otherwise, the damage may repeat.
ATTENTION:
Observe precautions for handling electrostatic-sensitive devices. See “Electrostatic
Discharge (ESD) Precautions” below for details.

Page 14 Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions
All semiconductor devices are sensitive to ESD. To prevent any damage or
degradation on components of the product caused by ESD, observe these
precautions when directed to do so (installing, removing sensitive components):
1. Use a Ground Strap. Wear a grounded anti-static wrist or heel strap to discharge the
static voltage from your body.
2. Use a Safe Work Area. Avoid handling components in areas that have a floor or work
surface covering capable of generating a static charge. Also, nothing capable of
generating or holding a static charge should be allowed in the work area.
3. Handle ESD sensitive components carefully. Do not slide components over any surface.
Do not touch exposed connector pins. Pick-up components by the body, never by the
leads.
4. Transport and store sensitive components or assemblies in a static-protected bag or
container.
Battery Use Warnings
CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly placed. Replace only with
the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used
batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES Page 15
A6 EC Declaration of Conformity

Page 16 Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
1 Introducing the RUBIDIUM SERIES
1.1 Overview
RUBIDIUM SERIES is a modular system which offers flexibility to its users. Various rack mount
frames are available.
On principle, a distinction is made between 1 RU (RUB1) and 3 RU (RUB3).
•One RUB1 module can be plugged to “RUB1 T1” as tabletop unit or for special mounting
and to “RUB1 S1” for 19”/1 RU mounting.
•Two RUB1 modules can be plugged to “RUB1 D1” or “RUB1 Q1”. Both chassis are
19”/1 RU units and include a display. “RUB1 D1” additionally has an integrated power
supply and offers an XLR/DSUB/RJ45 adapter for LTC signals at the rear.
•“RUB1 H1” houses up to four RUB1 modules in 19”/1 RU space.
•“RUB3 H3” chassis provides capacity for 21 slots in 19”/3 RU space. It accepts RUB3
modules. Some modules require two slots, other only one slot.
Hot swapping of the rear loading modules is possible. The connectors for inputs and outputs
are a standard part of the module.
Quantity and type of the modules depend on application. In a typical application, the frame
will be equipped with a power supply module (PS) and one or more time code modules (XT,
AT, GT, ...). The RLC connector at the rear of the frame has a 24 V pin (not for “RUB1 D1”)
which enables operation without a power supply module by using external power supply. It is
also possible to supply power from one internal power supply module in one frame to another
frame, via this RLC connector (not for “RUB1 D1”).
The slots within a frame only differ by their individual, hard wired address. Modules which
have an individual configuration (e.g. the time code and video modules, but not the power
supply modules), can be located by their addresses. The PC connector of the frame provides
an interface for the configuration of the modules. Each module can operate as a stand-alone
unit or as an interconnected complete system. The front bus of the frame distributes the
internal “TC_link” interface and the supply voltage.
The “TC_link” interface is connected to the RLC connector at the rear of the frame, too. This
offers a link to modules located in other frames. “FAIL” signals can be used for error detec-
tion: If a total failure occurs in any module in one frame the “FAIL” contacts of this frame’s
relay will close.
R UB I D I UM SERIES 1
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
ADR= 4
ADR= 3
ADR= 2
ADR= 1
PC
RLC
KEY KEY KEY KEYID KEY KEY KEY KEYID KEY KEY KEY KEYID KEY KEY KEY KEYID
TC_link/FAIL/24V
USB/RS232
The “RUB1 H1” frame: Connectors RLC and PC, internal signal distribution

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES Page 17
ADR = 20
ADR = 1
ADR = 2
ADR = 21
1
PC
1
RLC
(at the rear)
till May 2011
DSUB9F
PC
sinceMay 2011
USB 5-pin mini B
The “RUB3 H3” frame (front view): Connectors RLC and PC, slots
1.2 Configuration of the Modules: The PC Connector
R U BI D I U M SERIES 1
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
ADR = 4
ADR = 3
ADR = 2
ADR = 1
USB
RS232
PC
RLC
The slots of the frame only differ by their individual, hard wired address. Modules which can
be individually configured (e.g. the time code and video modules, but not power supply
modules), can be located by their addresses. The PC connector at the frame provides the
interface for the configuration of a module. With the aid of our configuration software each
module can be addressed and can receive a user selectable configuration. Chapter The
“Rubidium Config” PC Program” gives a short overview of the wide range of options to set up
a module. Details to the features of a single module are given in the description of the
individual module.
The PC interface can be of RS232 (obsolete) or USB standard:
RS232 (obsolete)
USB
Use a straight (1:1) cable to the standard RS232 interface of a PC.
Parameter of the RS232 interface: 38400/8/E/1.
Pin assignment of the 9-pins DSUB female PC connector:
Pin
Description
2
TxD, Transmit Data, output
3
RxD, Receive Data, input
5
GND, signal ground
Minimal requirement for
your PC: USB 1.1.
H1/S1/T1/D1/Q1:
Use a common “Type A
to Type B” cable.
H3:
USB A to 5-pin mini B
as standard accessory.

Page 18 Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
1.3 System Extensions: The RLC Connector and
Further Interfaces
R U B I D I U M SERIES 1
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
ADR = 4
ADR = 3
ADR = 2
ADR = 1
RLC SERIAL
(RS232/RS422)
10/100base-T
R U B I D I U M SERIES 1
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
ADR = 4
ADR = 3
ADR = 2
ADR = 1
RLC
TC_link (RS485 Bus)
Hub
Ethernet
Network
Local RemoteControl /
Real Time Data Request
Frame 1
Frame 2
Pin assignment of the 9-pins DSUB female connector RLC:
Pin
Description
1
FAIL_A
2
TC_link (RS485, TR-)
3
TC_link (RS485, TR+)
4
FAIL_B
5, 6, 7
GND, signal ground
8, 9
Nominal 24 VDC, 3 A maximum.
Not connected at “RUB1 D1”.
1.3.1 The “TC_link” Interface
The “TC_link” interface enables a communication between modules, even between modules
located in different frames. Electrically, it is based on an RS485 interface with a baud rate of
115,000. 256 modules at maximum are allowed to share one TC_link. External cables should
not exceed an overall length of 4000 feet (1200 m). Termination is provided at the fan module
(H1 or Q1 frame) and at the RC module (H3 frame), please refer to the related chapters.
The communication protocol depends on the module and application.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES Page 19
1.3.2 The FAIL Signals: Error Detecting
The FAIL signals can be used for error detection. The signals FAIL_A and FAIL_B are relay
based contacts. The normally open contacts close if a breakdown of any module in this frame
occurs. Each module is equipped with its own relay. The contacts are normally open during
operation, but close if power fails. The relays of all modules are in parallel and connected to
the FAIL_A and FAIL_B pins. So, in the event of a breakdown of a module, FAIL_A and FAIL_B
pins are interconnected via a relay.
Specification of FAIL_A and FAIL_B:
Maximum switching power
10 W
Maximum switching voltage
48 V
Maximum switching current
0.5 A
Maximum transportable current
1.0 A
1.3.3 24 VDC
This pin can be a voltage supply input or output.
If you have a frame without a power supply module, this pin serves as the voltage input.
Having a frame with at least one power supply module, this pin can be used to supply voltage
to another frame. In this case no external voltage output of a Non-Rubidium power supply
should be connected at this pin. See specifications of the power supply module if this pin is
used as a voltage supply output.
Rated current: Maximum 3 A.
This is a non-fused terminal. For any use it is necessary to verify that the specifi-
cations of the power supply (output power, output current, output voltage) are in
accordance with the needs of all the connected loads (overall load, overall
current, rated voltage).
1.3.4 Ethernet: The Gate to a Local Area Network
Any RUBIDIUM Ethernet module (RUB IE or RUB PM) provides access to the “TC_link” interface
of the RUBIDIUM system, thus having access to each module integrated in this system.
➢More information →document “Functional Description and Specifications RUB Ethernet“,
downloadable from https://www.plurainc.com.
1.3.5 Local Serial Interfaces
Some modules provide a local serial interface, selectable as RS232 or RS422 or RS485. A
controlling device can use this interface to remote control this module and/or to exchange
data in real time.

Page 20 Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
1.4 Module and System Configuration
1.4.1 Overview
The software determines the functionality of the modules. The broadcast data has a nearly
unlimited range of applications. The modular concept of RUBIDIUM SERIES and the pro-
grammable parts of the modules enhances the flexibility of our system. For example, two
basically identical modules could be used in completely different applications. This can be
achieved either, with the same software but with different configurations (e.g. one module
serves as time code reader, other module as time code generator), or with different program-
ming of the firmware - including programming of logic electronic parts.
Moreover the RUBIDIUM SERIES concept allows users to combine various modules to
enhance functionality. A module in such a system needs a unique identification.
So “configuration” has the following tasks:
1. Unique identification: Address and access a module in a frame and in a more complex
system.
2. Installation of a module: Select the operating mode, adjust parameters, program the
function keys, request and display status data, etc.
3. Update: Transfer a new software/firmware to the flash memory, program the logic
devices, change data records (e.g. character fonts), etc.
The included PC program “Rubidium Config“handles these tasks.
1.4.2 Unique Identification of a Module and a Frame
An individual hard-wired address is assigned to the module by the position within the frame:
Address 1 = unit 1 = position most left (looking at the front side of the frame, see chapter
“Overview”). The “Rubidium Config“program for PC’s or the RUBIDIUM SERIES HTTP Server
requires this address before communication to the module can be established.
The hard-wired address alone is not sufficient to uniquely identify a module in a system
consisting of more than one frame. The RUBIDIUM SERIES HTTP Server additionally offers to
identify a frame by a number (1 to 31). A module than can be accessed having the right frame
and the right place within the frame selected. In this case each module which is addressable
must have stored the number of the frame in its non-volatile memory. The “Rubidium Config“
program for PC’s enables you to enter and store this number, utilising the “System”tab.
In case of servicing - for whatever reason - is required it may be necessary to identify a
module within the meaning of sales. Each module can be uniquely identified by its serial
number, which is human readable and located on the bottom side of the lower circuit board
of each module. Sometimes it is sufficient to know the reference to the project or the order.
Easy access to this information is given by the serial number of the frame, located near the
front at the outside right-handed (looking toward front of the frame). You can easily read this
serial number if you pull the frame a little out of the mounting rack.