Rotronic HygroLog HL-NT2 User manual

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code
Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
Instruction Manual
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1of 48
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© 2009-2012; Rotronic AG IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
HygroLog HL-NT Data Logger
Instruction Manual

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code
Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page
2of 48
Document title
© 2009-2012; Rotronic AG IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Table of contents:
1. Overview.................................................................................................................................. 3
1.1 General................................................................................................................................ 3
1.2 Compatibility with previous models of probes and docking stations ................................... 4
2. General description of the HygroLog HL-NT....................................................................... 5
2.1 Models ................................................................................................................................. 5
2.2 Required accessories.......................................................................................................... 5
2.3 HygroLog HL-NT inputs....................................................................................................... 5
2.4 Power supply ....................................................................................................................... 8
2.5 Memory card........................................................................................................................ 9
2.6 LED Indicators ................................................................................................................... 10
2.7 Beeper ............................................................................................................................... 10
2.8 HygroLog HL-NT functions................................................................................................ 10
2.9 HygroClip 2 probe functions .............................................................................................. 13
2.10 Event tracking.................................................................................................................... 14
2.11 Operating limits (electronics only) ..................................................................................... 16
3. Docking stations for the HygroLog HL-NT ........................................................................ 17
3.1 Models ............................................................................................................................... 17
3.2 Installation.......................................................................................................................... 20
3.3 Docking station inputs........................................................................................................ 25
3.4 Relay contacts................................................................................................................... 26
4. Pin-out diagrams.................................................................................................................. 26
5. HW4 software........................................................................................................................ 28
5.1 Computer/Operating System Requirements ..................................................................... 28
5.2 Operating System Compatibility ........................................................................................ 29
5.3 Settings and functions accessible only with HW4 ............................................................. 29
6. ERES regulatory compliance.............................................................................................. 30
7. Getting started...................................................................................................................... 31
8. Stand-alone operation ......................................................................................................... 31
8.1 Operating modes............................................................................................................... 31
8.2 Display and keypad ........................................................................................................... 31
8.3 Display modes................................................................................................................... 33
8.4 Settings and functions accessible from the Keypad.......................................................... 33
8.5 Internal function menu (models with display and keypad)................................................. 34
9. Operation on a network ....................................................................................................... 37
9.1 Baud rate and communications protocol compatibility requirements................................ 37
9.2 Ethernet local area network............................................................................................... 37
9.3 RS-485 multi-drop network................................................................................................ 38
9.4 General wiring guidelines .................................................................................................. 39
9.5 Guidelines for RS-485 wiring............................................................................................. 40
10. HygroClip probe adjustment procedures ..................................................................... 41
10.1 Single Point adjustment..................................................................................................... 41
10.2 Multi-Point adjustment....................................................................................................... 42
11. Warnings and useful tips................................................................................................ 42
12. Communications protocol.............................................................................................. 43
13. Firmware updates............................................................................................................ 43
14. Specifications .................................................................................................................. 44
15. Accessories...................................................................................................................... 47
16. Supporting documents ................................................................................................... 47
17. Document releases.......................................................................................................... 48

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code
Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page
3of 48
Document title
© 2009-2012; Rotronic AG IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Applicability:
This manual is valid for instruments with firmware version 2.0x (see MENU - Instrument or check
using the ROTRONIC HW4 software, Device Manager). Examples: 2.0a, 2.0b. Changes in the
last character of the version number reflect minor changes in the internal software of the
instrument that do not affect the manner in which the instrument should be operated.
1. Overview
1.1 General
HygroLog HL-NT is a series of networkable data loggers primarily designed for use with the
HygroClip 2 digital humidity-temperature probes.
Depending on the model and options, the HygroLog HL-NT main features are as follows:
oInternal probe input: allows installing a HC2-S humidity-temperature probe internally to
prevent unauthorized removal. This input can also be connected to an external probe by
means of an extension cable.
oInputs for up to 6 additional external probes, including analog probes and 4-wire passive
RTD probes.
oMonitoring of up to two external contacts (relay output, door, etc.).
oLarge recording capacity with removable flash memory card. Up to 750,000 values can
be recorded with the standard 16 MB card. Cards with a capacity of up to 1 GB are
available.
oDisplay with backlight and keypad. This allows the HygroLog HL-NT to operate as a
stand-alone unit after initial configuration with the HW4 software.
oCompliance with FDA 21 CFR Part II and GAMP regulations regarding electronic records
and electronic signatures (ERES).
oCompatible with Ethernet networks (TCP / IP protocol –LAN or WLAN).
oDedicated RS-485 network of up to 64 HygroLog HL-NT per communication port
oSimultaneous data recording and data display either locally or on a PC.
Internal power for both the HygroLog HL-NT and probes is provided by a 9V battery (factory
standard) or by a 9V rechargeable battery (user supplied).
The HygroLog HL-NT requires a docking station to (a) to power the HygroLog HL-NT with an
external AC adapter, (b) to configure the HygroLog HL-NT and communicate with a PC, (c) to
connect the HygroLog HL-NT to a network and (d) to mount the HygroLog HL-NT to a wall or to
place the HygroLog HL-NT on the optional desk-top stand.
The most basic model of docking station simply provides a means of mounting the HygroLog HL-
NT to a wall and of powering the HygroLog HL-NT with an external AC adapter. All other models
offer the same functionality as the basic model and also provide a communication port (RS232,
USB or RJ45 / Ethernet) as well as additional inputs for probes and external contacts. Docking
stations with an RS232 or USB port are used to connect the HygroLog HL-NT directly to a PC.
Docking stations with an RJ45 connector are used to connect the HygroLog HL-NT to an Ethernet
LAN. In both cases, the docking station features an RS485 port that can be used to connect up to
64 HygroLog HL-NT in a multi-dropped arrangement (dedicated RS-485 network). This is useful
when the PC does not have an Ethernet network interface card or when the number of available

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code
Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
Instruction Manual
Document Type
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Document title
© 2009-2012; Rotronic AG IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Ethernet ports is limited. Direct connection to an Ethernet LAN allows, in principle, an unlimited
number of HygroLog HL-NT to be put on a network monitored by the HW4 software. HW4 allows
any combination of RS-232, USB, Ethernet and RS-485 connections.
When equipped with a docking station, the HygroLog HL-NT can be used together with the
ROTRONIC HW4 software for Windows based PCs (version 2.3.0 or higher). In addition to
providing for the networking of large quantities of data loggers and other instruments, the main
functions of HW4 include:
oConfiguration of the HygroLog HL-NT and docking station
oProgramming of the HygroLog HL-NT logging function
oManual or automatic downloading of the data recorded by the HygroLog HL-NT
oOn-line data monitoring and direct data recording by the PC
oAutomatic generation of graphs and data tables
oMonitoring of the networked instruments and data for alarm conditions
oAlarm reporting
oMaintenance of audit trails
oCalibration and adjustment of the HygroClip 2 probes
oGeneration of protocols, electronic signatures, etc.
A high level of protection against network failures can be achieved by logging data directly on the
PC while also recording the data locally on the HygroLog HL-NT with automatic download to the
PC at regular interval of times.
Note: Instructions for using the HW4 software are not included in this manual. These instructions
are shipped separately on the software CD ROM.
1.2 Compatibility with previous models of probes and docking
stations
oThe HygroLog HL-NT is designed for use with the HygroClip 2 probes (UART interface)
and is not compatible with the previous generation of HygroClip probes (DIO interface).
oDocking stations designed for the previous generation of HygroClip probes (such as DS-
U1, DS-U4, etc.) are not compatible with the HygroLog HL-NT.
oRS-485 drop-down networks: the HygroLog HL-NT is compatible with previous versions
of the HygroLog NT and with other legacy products. The HygroLog HL-NT cannot be
used in the same RS-485 drop-down as a HF4 or HF5 transmitters or any product that
rely on the RO-ASCII communications protocol.
oUnlike previous versions, The HygroLog HL-NT does not have a remote mode

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code
Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
Instruction Manual
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Document title
© 2009-2012; Rotronic AG IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
2. General description of the HygroLog HL-NT
2.1 Models
Basic models without display and keypad
oHygroLog HL-NT2: logger for plug-in HygroClip 2 probe (probe is not included and must
be ordered separately). Probe model HC2-S can be mounted either internally or in the
extended position. Other probe models are external and require an extension cable.
oHygroLog HL-NT3: same as HL-NT2 with 2 additional connectors suitable for a
HygroClip 2 digital probe.
Models with display and keypad
oHygroLog HL-NT2-D: same probe as HygroLog HL-NT2
oHygroLog HL-NT3-D: same probe / probe inputs as HygroLog HL-NT3
Models with internal HC2-S probe pre-installed
oModels HL-NT2-P, HL-NT2-DP, HL-NT3-P and HL-NT3-DP are supplied with an internal
HC2-S probe pre-installed.
2.2 Required accessories
●Models without display/keypad:
The following accessories are required in order to be able to use the logger:
- Any model of docking station (except model DS-NT1)
- Connecting cable docking station to PC
- PC with the ROTRONIC HW4 software installed (version 2.3.0 or higher)
●Models with display/keypad:
In principle, these models can be used without any accessory. However, accessing all of the
product functions and changing some important settings such as the date and time requires the
same accessories as for the models without display.
2.3 HygroLog HL-NT inputs
2.3.1 Probe input 1
HygroLog HL-NT2-P, HL-NT2-DP, HL-NT3-P and HL-NT3-DP: these models are supplied with
an internal HC2-S plug-in probe. This probe can be either retracted or extended. The probe can
also be separated from the logger with an extension cable, and in this case the HC2-S probe may
be replaced with another model of HygroClip 2 probe so as to meet specific application

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
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Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
Instruction Manual
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requirements (see document E-M-HC2 Probes-V1). Open the housing of the HygroLog to
change the position of the probe or to install a probe extension cable.
To extend the probe, lift the HygroClip S probe from its position and remove the slotted cap from
the HygroLog. To extend the probe, place on the probe the ring supplied with the HygroLog.
Insert the ring into the slot in the instrument housing where the slotted cap was. Relocate the
probe connector up by one or two ribs. Close the instrument housing. Proceed in a similar
manner to install a probe extension cable.
HygroClip S
extended position
Extension cable used to
separate the probe from
the HygroLog.
Ring
(replaces the slotted cap)
To open the housing of the
HygroLog, remove the five
screws, as indicated by the
arrows.
The far right drawing shows
the HygroClip S probe in the
retracted position. The base
of the probe is plugged into
a connector that is
separated from the main
board by a length of wire.
Probe
connector
The shorter screw
goes here

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code
Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
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Notes:
oFor maximum protection against vandalism, use the HC2-S probe in the retracted
position. For a faster response, use the probe in the extended position.
oFor additional information on the HygroClip 2 probes see document
E-M-HC2 Probes-V1.
2.3.2 Probe inputs 2 and 3 (HygroLog HL-NT3)
The HygroLog HL-NT3 can be used with up to 2 additional HygroClip 2 probes. For further
information on the HygroClip 2 probes, see document E-M-HC2 Probes-V1.
2.3.3 Connector identification
Input 1 (HygroClip 2 probe)
Input 2 (HygroClip 2 probe)
Input 3 (HygroClip 2 probe)
Input 1 (HygroClip 2 probe)
HL-NT2
HL-NT3

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
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Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
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2.4 Power supply
The HygroLog HL-NT ships with a regular 9V battery which must be inserted first (see battery
replacement).
To conserve battery power, models with the LC display and keypad are shipped with the Display
Sleep function enabled (see Software Functions). When the keypad has not been used for some
time, this function automatically turns off the display off. The display can be temporarily activated
by pressing on any key of the keypad.
When connected to a docking station, the HygroLog HL-NT can be powered with an external AC
adapter.
Note: most models of docking station require the use of an external AC adapter due to the current
consumption of the docking station internal electronics.
After reconfiguring the HygroLog HL-NT with the ROTRONIC HW4.software, a rechargeable
battery (accumulator) can be used instead of a regular battery. Recharging the battery require a
docking station and an external AC adapter.
WARNING: Trying to recharge a regular battery is potentially dangerous. Whenever a
regular battery is being used, the logger should be configured with the internal battery
charge function disabled.
2.4.1 Battery lifetime
The battery lifetime depends on the manner in which the HygroLog HL-NT is being used. The
HygroLog HL-NT has a battery lifetime of one year when just one HygroClip probe is being used
(standard 500 mAh alkaline battery), when no docking station with internal electronics is
connected to the HygroLog HL-NT and when the logger is configured / programmed as follows:
●Display Sleep function enabled (models with display)
●No docking station with internal electronics
●LED and beeper functions disabled
●Log interval set to 15 minutes
Additional examples of battery lifetime (LED turned off, Logging active): in the following table,
LCD means that the LC display is permanently on (Display Sleep function disabled). No docking
station with internal electronics is connected to the HygroLog HL-NT.
Lifetime in days
Rechargeable
Battery
120mAh
Rechargeable
Battery
150mAh
Regular
Battery
500mAh
Regular
Battery
1000mAh
1 Probe / 5s Interval
2.7
3.4
11
22
1 Probe / 5s Interval / LCD
2.1
2.6
8.9
17
1 Probe / 1min Interval
14
17
59
118
1 Probe / 1min Interval / LCD
5.8
7.3
24
48
1 Probe / 15min Interval
89
111
372
744
1 Probe / 15min Interval / LCD
8.9
11
37
74

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
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Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
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Note: the consumption of the display is negligible when the Display Sleep function is enabled.
With the display always on, power consumption is at its highest when the display refresh rate is
set with HW4 to the minimum of 5 sec.
Because of the requirement to keep track of the date and time, the HygroLog HL-NT does not
have a power on/off switch. Every minute, both the date and time are recorded to the internal
EEPROM. Seconds are not recorded. In the event of a relatively brief interruption of power (such
as when replacing the battery), time may fall behind in increments of one minute. Removing the
battery for an extended period of time will cause the logger to completely lose track of the date
and time.
2.4.2 Battery replacement
2.5 Memory card
The HygroLog HL-NT has a non-volatile 64 kb EEPROM internal memory that is used to save the
logger configuration data, the logger events and to temporarily hold measurement data.
The main memory is a plug-in flash memory card. As a standard, the HygroLog HL-NT ships with
a 16 MB card. This card allows the recording of up to 400,000 values in text file format
(unprotected) or up to 750,000 values in binary file format (protected). Memory cards with a
capacity of up to 1 GB can be purchased from third parties. Regardless of its size, the flash
memory card holds a maximum of 512 files and directories, including one logger-configuration
and one logger-event file.
The measurement data can be saved either to a file with extension XLS or to a file with extension
LOG. Files with XLS extension can be read with Notepad or imported into Microsoft Excel. Files
with extension LOG are encoded in binary format so as to prevent data manipulation and can
only be read with the ROTRONIC HW4 software. Both types of files can co-exist on the memory
card. The memory card can be removed from the logger and transferred to a card reader, a PDA,
etc. The flash memory card can also be read without being removed from the logger.
cover
To access the battery,
remove the screw shown
to the right and open the
rubber cover.
The battery is located at
the bottom of the
instrument.
Probe
input 5
battery

IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code
Unit
HygroLog HL-NT data logger:
instruction manual
Instruction Manual
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© 2009-2012; Rotronic AG IN-E-HL-NT-V2_12
2.6 LED Indicators
The HygroLog HL-NT is equipped with a green and red LED. The logger can be configured with
HW4 to have the green side of the LED flash when logging is active. The red side of the LED can
be made to flash when there is an alarm condition (see note below) and / or when the logger
requires attention (low battery, flash memory card full, etc.)
In the transient alarm mode, the red LED flashes for only as long as the data from a probe
corresponds to an alarm condition. In the durable alarm mode, the red LED stays on even after
the alarm condition has disappeared. When the LED is set to provide a durable alarm, it can be
reset from the keypad or with HW4.
2.7 Beeper
The HygroLog HL-NT is equipped with an internal beeper and can be configured with HW4 to
make a clicking sound when any key is being pressed. The beeper can also be configured to emit
a 5-second non-repeating sound when there is an alarm condition and / or when the logger
requires attention.
2.8 HygroLog HL-NT functions
2.8.1 Calculated parameter
Using the HW4 software, the HygroLog HL-NT can be set to compute for each HygroClip probe
one of the following psychrometric parameters.
oDew point (Dp)
oFrost point (Fp)
oWet bulb temperature (Tw)
oEnthalpy (H)
oVapor concentration (Dv)
oSpecific humidity (Q)
oMixing ratio by weight (R)
oVapor concentration at saturation (Dvs)
oVapor partial pressure (E)
oVapor saturation pressure (Ew)
cover
memory
card
Memory Card:
To access the memory
card, remove the screw
shown to the right and pull
out the rubber cover.
The plug-in flash memory
card is located on top of
the main board.
screw