SupplyNet Prophet 4000 Series User manual

Prophet™
Wireless Remote Tank Unit
Document Version 1.00
Document No. 910-07703
February 2006

Page 2
Table of Contents
FCC Statement...................................................................................................................... 3
1 4000 Series Introduction................................................................................................... 3
1.1 Overview................................................................................................................... 3
1.2 For Your Safety......................................................................................................... 3
2 Theory of Operation.......................................................................................................... 4
2.1 Transfer of Data........................................................................................................ 5
2.2 Product Highlights.................................................................................................... 5
3 Installation......................................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Safety Precautions..................................................................................................... 6
3.2 Initial Inspection ....................................................................................................... 6
3.3 Stainless Steel Tank Preparation............................................................................... 7
3.4 Installation into a Vent Line ..................................................................................... 7
3.5 Poly Tank Preparation............................................................................................... 8
3.6 Installing a Plastic Bung Kit..................................................................................... 8
3.7 Mounting an Ultrasonic Unit.................................................................................... 9
3.8 Ultrasonic Prophet Bung Distance.......................................................................... 10
3.9 Ultrasonic Prophet Installations.............................................................................. 10
3.10 Mounting a Differential Pressure Unit.................................................................... 11
3.11 Tank Measurements................................................................................................ 13
3.12 Uplink Unit Providing Current Loop Power........................................................... 15
3.13 Uplink Unit Placed in Series with Existing Current Loop...................................... 15
3.14 Uplink Unit Placed in Series with Existing Current Loop...................................... 16
4 Unit Activation................................................................................................................ 17
4.1 Verifying GSM Signal Strength.............................................................................. 17
4.2 Amplifying a Weak Carrier Signal......................................................................... 17
4.3 Setting the Number of Callouts per Day................................................................. 18
4.4 Establishing Communication.................................................................................. 19
4.5 Normal Operation ................................................................................................... 20
5 Accessing the TankLink Web site .................................................................................. 21
6 Prophet Specifications .................................................................................................... 22
6.1 Antenna Connector ................................................................................................. 22
7 Servicing and Troubleshooting....................................................................................... 23
7.1 Error Codes............................................................................................................. 23
7.2 Jumper Settings....................................................................................................... 24
7.3 Battery Replacement............................................................................................... 25
7.4 Troubleshooting...................................................................................................... 26
7.5 Obtaining Technical Support.................................................................................. 27
8 Replacement Parts........................................................................................................... 28
9 Ordering Information...................................................................................................... 29
10 Terms and Conditions of Service................................................................................ 30
11 Product Warranty and Notices.................................................................................... 32

Page 3
FCC Statement
The radiated output power of this wireless radio is below the FCC radio frequency exposure
limits. Nevertheless, the wireless radio shall be used in such a manner that the Antenna is 20
cm or further from the human body.
The level of energy emitted is less than the electromagnetic energy emitted by wireless
devices such as mobile phones. However, the use of wireless radios may be restricted in
some situations or environments, such as aboard airplanes. If you are unsure of restrictions,
you are encouraged to ask for authorization before turning on the wireless radio.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
(1) This device must not be allowed to cause harmful interference
(2) This device must accept any interference that may cause undesired operation
14000 Series Introduction
1.1 Overview
The SupplyNet Communications Prophet™4000 Series is a wireless communication
device that provides quick and easy access to remote information such as storage tank
inventory. Intended for supplier-managed inventory programs, the Prophet™utilizes the
latest internet and cellular technology to provide instant access to inventory information
around the globe. Coupled with the TankLink®information web site, the Prophet™can
provide a tremendous advantage over conventional systems for inventory management,
asset control, or information exchange.
1.2 For Your Safety
This equipment contains a cellular radio which transmits at several times the power of a
hand-held cellular phone. While it has been tested to comply with applicable FCC
regulations and is approved for use in non-residential applications, it may still interfere
with other electronic equipment. Therefore its use in certain situations is restricted.
Read these installation and operation instructions carefully. Failure to follow these
instructions may be dangerous or illegal.
Only qualified service personnel must install or repair this equipment.

Page 4
©Copyright 2007 SupplyNet Communications Inc.
No part of this document may be copied, reproduced, or translated without the prior written consent of
SupplyNet Communications. No part of this document may be stored or transmitted in any electronic form
without the prior written consent of SupplyNet Communications.
SupplyNet Communications has made every effort to ensure the accuracy and completeness of this
document. However, as we are continually making improvements to our products, we cannot guarantee the
accuracy of this document. We will not be liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or future changes.
TankLink and the TankLink logo are registered trademarks of SupplyNet Communications Inc. All
other trademarks referenced herein are the properties of their respective organizations.
2Theory of Operation
Monitor "reports" data
using digital cellular
technology
SmarTank central
processing center
receives the data
E-mail and/or Cell-Mail
can be automatically
sent for level alarms
Data is available 24/7/
365 thru any standard
internet browser
Logistics guesswork is now
eliminated; product is
replenished when it needs
to be filled
Figure 1

Page 5
2.1 Transfer of Data
The Prophet™communicates to the TankLink®data center using a wireless cellular
technology called GSM Short Message Service. This technology allows the unit to
transmit digital data to the TankLink®data center using the existing network of GSM
cellular towers deployed throughout North America. In order to transmit a data packet,
the local GSM cellular carrier must provide SMS (Short Message Service). Fortunately,
nearly all areas in the United States have at least one GSM SMS enabled carrier. Many
regions have two GSM SMS carriers. In these areas, our GSM modem selects the
strongest signal automatically. No user selectable carrier is available in this unit. There is
no difference in cost using one carrier over the other, unlike cellular telephone rate plans
from competing companies. Once the data is at the TankLink®data center, it may be
viewed over the internet using a standard web browser (i.e. Microsoft Internet Explorer
or Netscape Navigator), downloaded to applications such as Microsoft Excel, or it may
be used to trigger events such as an e-mail or page to a local sales or service
representative. To access the data provided by the Prophet™unit, a current monitoring
service agreement with SupplyNet Communications is required. For help with accessing
the TankLink®web site, see Chapter 5. Since the Prophet™is a wireless device, care
must be taken when installing the unit to minimize interference from nearby equipment
or structures. For installation guidelines, please refer to Chapter 2.
2.2 Product Highlights
¾No telephone line is required for communication.
¾No external power source is required.
¾Fast, simple installation.
¾Flexible sensing technology.
¾Fixed monitoring costs.
¾Readily available replacement batteries.
¾Unlimited applications.

Page 6
3Installation
3.1 Safety Precautions
The Prophet™uses Radio Frequency (RF) waves for communication to the nearest
cellular tower and can transmit at several times the power of a hand-held cellular phone.
In general, if you can place a cellular telephone call in the location where you wish to
install the unit, then the Prophet should be able to communicate properly. However,
because of the inherent characteristics of RF communications, there are certain guidelines
that should be followed when positioning the unit.
WARNING!
•Do not use the Prophet™in hospitals or near medical equipment.
•Do not install the Prophet™where hazardous vapors are present.
•Do not use the Prophet™where blasting is in progress.
•Electrostatic discharge can damage sensitive electronic components. Be sure to
discharge yourself by touching a grounded metal object before opening the unit.
•The unit should be installed in an area free from overhanging metal structures, large
obstructions, or equipment which could generate RF or electrical interference.
•Do not install the unit below ground level unless provisions are made for an external
antenna.
•Service may be limited in areas that do not have GSM cellular coverage and support
SMS (Short Message Service).
•If the unit is installed in an area with poor signal strength, an external antenna may be
required for reliable performance. If you have doubt about the suitability of a
particular location for the Prophet™, or are having difficulty transmitting, please see
Sections 3-2 and 3-3. If an external antenna is required, several optional antennas are
available. Please contact SupplyNet Customer Service to determine your exact needs.
3.2 Initial Inspection
When you receive the Prophet™unit, thoroughly inspect it for any damage which may
have occurred during shipping. If there is any damage to the Prophet™, contact the
shipping company as soon as possible. Locate the packing checklist in the shipping
container. Check for any missing items before you begin installation of the Prophet™.
Note: The Prophet™is shipped with the antenna disconnected. It is located in a
separate area within the shipping carton. Verify that the antenna is present
before proceeding.
Tools Required for Installation:
3/16” Flat screwdriver
Large adjustable wrench

Page 7
3.3 Stainless Steel Tank Preparation
Please check the following before installation of the Prophet:
•A 2-inch diameter threaded opening is required for the installation of a Prophet.
Stainless Steel tanks are typically built with one or more 2-inch threaded “bung”
opening. The tank’s vent line can be modified to provide both tank venting and access
for the Prophet, if the vent is the only 2-inch threaded opening available. Refer to the
procedure below for the installation into a vent line.
•For Differential Pressure Prophet installations, verify that there is no mechanical
agitation device within the tank which could damage the sensor.
•For Ultrasonic Prophet installations, verify that there are no obstructions within the
tank which could alter the ultrasonic readings.
NOTE: The following procedure can only be used with a Differential Pressure
Prophet. Ultrasonic Prophet’s must be installed directly into a bung
opening.
3.4 Installation into a Vent Line
The following tools are required to complete this procedure:
•Two Pipe Wrenches
•2-inch Vent Kit consisting of either non-metallic or Stainless Steel material
•one 2-inch Tee
•one 2-inch 90 Elbow
•two 2-inch Close Nipple
1) Using the two pipe
wrenches, remove the
existing vent assembly
from the top of the tank.
2) Assemble the Vent Kit
items in the manner
shown in Figure 2.
3) Install the existing vent
assembly onto the 90
Elbow as shown in Figure
2.
4) Install the Differential
Pressure Prophet onto the
top of the Tee as shown
in Figure 2.
Differential
Pressure
Prophet
Vent
Kit
Existing
Vent
Assembly
Figure 2
Vent Kit Installation

Page 8
3.5 Poly Tank Preparation
Please check the following before installation of the Prophet:
•A 2 inch diameter threaded opening is required for the installation of a Prophet. If the
tank does not have a threaded opening available, a hole must be cut into the top of the
tank. Refer to the procedure below for the installing a plastic bung kit.
•For Differential Pressure Prophet installations, verify if a mechanical agitation device
exists within the tank, which could damage the sensor.
•For Ultrasonic Prophet installations, verify no obstructions exist within the tank which
could alter the ultrasonic readings.
3.6 Installing a Plastic Bung Kit
The following tools are required to complete this procedure:
Plastic bag for catching debris
Duct tape
Drill with a 3-inch holesaw bit
2 inch Plastic Bung Kit
1) Open the manway at the top of the tank.
2) Open the plastic bag and secure the opening to the approximate center where the hole
will be drilled. The bag will catch any debris created by the holesaw while drilling
the bunghole.
3) Using the drill and 3-inch holesaw bit, drill thru the plastic tank.
4) Once the hole is cut, remove the garbage bag. Use care in removing the bag and duct
tape off the inside surface of the tank.
5) The 2 inch Plastic Bung Kit may now be installed. The Bung need only be tightened
by hand. Refer to Figure 3 for proper assembly.
Tank Bung
(typically left hand threads)
Poly Tank with 3 inch hole cut thru
Rubber Gasket
Plastic Washer
Plastic Bung Nut
Figure 3
Plastic Bung Kit Installation

Page 9
3.7 Mounting an Ultrasonic Unit
Ultrasonic Prophets operate using sound wave technology, which pulses sound waves
from the bottom of the Prophet downward into the tank. A microprocessor measures
how long it takes for the sound wave takes to bounce off the liquid level in the tank and
return to the Prophet.
The transmitting and receiving of the sound waves take place from the bottom of the
Prophet. Therefore, the location of the Prophet bottom in relation to the opening of the
tank is critical.
CAUTION:
The bung opening must be plumb in reference to the overall tank.
The distance from the top of the bung opening to the inside surface of the tank can be
no greater than 1.0 inch. Refer to Figure 4.
The bung opening must be at least 1/3 the overall tank diameter away from the tank
edge. For example, if the tank diameter is 90 inches, the bung opening must be at
least 30 inches from the tank edge. Refer to dimension 1 of Figure 5.
The distance from the top of the bung opening to the very bottom of the tank can be
no greater than 144 inches. Refer to dimension 2 of Figure 5.
Maximum
Distance =
1.0 inches
Figure 4

Page 10
3.8 Ultrasonic Prophet Bung Distance
"C"
BAD
"B"
GOOD
"A"
BAD
12
Figure 5
3.9 Ultrasonic Prophet Installations
“A” is NOT a good installation, since the bung opening is less than 1/3 the tank diameter
away from the edge of the tank. In this example, a Differential Pressure Prophet will
have to be used instead of the Ultrasonic Prophet.
“B” is a GOOD installation. The bottom of the Prophet is into the tank, and the Prophet
is mounted plumb and close to the center of the tank.
“C” is NOT a good installation, since the Prophet cannot be mounted plumb. In this type
of installation, the ultrasonic signal will not bounce directly from the product back to the
sensor, but will instead bounce around the inside of the tank, causing inaccurate or even
no reading. In this example, a Differential Pressure Prophet will have to be used instead
of the Ultrasonic Prophet.
NOTE: For installation geometry other than those shown, contact SupplyNet
Communications customer service.

Page 11
Once the bung opening is verified to be a good Ultrasonic installation, ensure the bung
threads have not been compromised. The Ultrasonic Prophet is now ready to be placed
into service.
3.10 Mounting a Differential Pressure Unit
Differential Pressure Prophets operate by measuring the pressure (weight) of the liquid
the sensor is submerged into. This pressure is proportional to the density of the liquid.
The opening on the end of the sensor contains an exposed diaphragm which responds to
changes in liquid pressure as the tank is filled or emptied with product. This measured
pressure is compared against atmospheric pressure, and is converted to a readable signal
by a microprocessor in the Prophet.
Please note that the sensor and sensor cable must be clean when installed, to avoid
contamination of the contents of the tank. These tanks are inspected for product
contamination, and the Prophet installation cannot compromise the product in the tank.
Care must be taken before and during installation to not strike the sensor against any
stationary surface. This can frequently occur during installation of the probe into the
tank. Shock may damage the probe causing it to fail prematurely.
CAUTION:
¾Do not install the sensor in a liquid that is susceptible to freezing or at the
bottom of a tank with water in it that may freeze. If the liquid freezes, it will
damage the probe which will not be covered under warranty.
¾Do not install the sensor in a tank with a mechanical agitator.
¾Do not drop or strike the sensor against a solid object. This may damage the
sensor or cause a shift in the output of the probe.
¾Do not kink the probe cable. This could restrict the breather tube in the cable
and cause fluctuating readings.
¾Do not install the sensor where sludge or sediment can clog the probe
opening. If necessary, suspend the sensor above the maximum level of the
sediment.
¾Do not cut the sensor cable. The length is not user-adjustable and this will
void the warranty.
¾Do not use the Prophet housing to screw the unit into the tank. Use only the
wrench flats on the bottom fitting.
Typically there will be more cable than what is required for the sensor to reach the
bottom of the tank. If this “slack” cable can cause a problem, if should be looped and
secured using plastic or non-metallic ties, so the loop will not come apart. A correct
installation will result in the sensor just slightly resting at the bottom of the tank, with all
excess slack secured in the loop. There should not be enough excess cable for the sensor
to enter into the discharge piping. Refer to Figure 6. Verify that the sensor and cable

Page 12
slack loop can pass thru all plumbing without having to disassemble the plumbing.
Ensure the threads at the Prophet mounting point have not been compromised. The
Differential Pressure Prophet is now ready to be placed into service.
Vent
Three Plastic or non-metalic
Ties are used to secure
excess cable into a loop
Sensor should just rest on
the tank bottom, but not
enough to allow the sensor
into the discharge piping
Figure 6
Pressure Differential Prophet Installation

Page 13
3.11 Tank Measurements
Accurate tank measurements are required to properly complete the installation process.
The Prophet can easily determine the product level, however, accurate tank dimensions
are required to convert a measured product level into a calculated product volume.
Figure 7 illustrates tank terminology used for the calculation of the capacity of the tank.
Tank capacity is typically the tank volume up to the “Top Tangent Line”. Any dome or
dish on the top of the tank is not included in the capacity determination.
The orientation of the tank below the “Bottom Tangent Line” can greatly affect the
product volume calculation. The distance below the bottom tangent line is measured by
first measuring the distance from the bottom tangent line to the ground, then subtracting
the distance from the ground to the absolute bottom of the tank.
Some tanks have a small cube “Box” at the very bottom of the tank, typically at the
bottom of a cone. This box can be easily measured and depending on the size of the box,
can affect product volume calculation.
Tank
Diameter
Tangent
to
Tangent
Height
Bottom
Cone
Height
Top
Dome
Height
Box
Dimensions
Figure 7
Typical Tank Measurements

Page 14
Mounting an Uplink Unit
The Prophet Uplink Unit comes standard with a 3/4 inch female NPT connection on the
bottom of the housing for direct connection into standard instrumentation. The wiring
will pass thru this 3/4 inch connection to the terminal strip.
Wiring the Current Loop
The wiring for the current loop passes thru the bottom of the housing, thru the hole in the
electronics board, and connects at terminal strip J3. Refer to Figure 8.
Terminal J3
+
J3 J4
3
2
1
4
5
++
---
GND
IN
+12V
Figure 8
Uplink Terminal Strip J3
Uplink units will come from the factory with the wiring connected to IN and GND,
which is correct for applications where there is an existing powered current loop. For
applications where the Uplink will be powering the current loop, the wiring needs to be
moved to +24 and IN. Refer to the three illustrations below for three wiring
configurations.

Page 15
3.12 Uplink Unit Providing Current Loop Power
In this scenario, the Prophet Uplink is providing the power for the sensor thru the current
loop. Typically the Prophet Uplink is mounted directly to the sensor using a 3/4-inch
NPT connection. The Uplink can supply no more than 24 mA to the sensor. Please note
the return wire is connected to JP3 - 2 (IN), and not to GND. The electronics of the
Uplink unit route the return to ground internally.
Existing
Instrumentation
-
+GND IN +24
Prophet Uplink
Module (J3)
3 2 1
Figure 9
Uplink Providing Current Loop Power
3.13 Uplink Unit Placed in Series with Existing Current Loop
(Between +24VDC and existing instrumentation)
In this scenario, the Prophet Uplink is wired into an existing, established current loop on
the positive side (between the current loop source and the instrumentation).
PLC
Termination
(current
loop
source)
+
-
+
-
+
-
GND IN +24
Prophet Uplink
Module (J3)
3 2 1
Figure 10
Uplink Installed in an Existing Current Loop

Page 16
3.14 Uplink Unit Placed in Series with Existing Current Loop
(Between existing instrumentation and return)
In this scenario, the Prophet Uplink is wired into an existing, established current loop on
the return side (between the instrumentation and ground).
PLC
Termination
(current
loop
source)
Existing
Instrumentation
+
-
+
-
-
+
GND IN +24
Prophet Uplink
Module (J3)
3 2 1
Figure 11
Uplink Installed in Existing Current Loop Return

Page 17
4Unit Activation
4.1 Verifying GSM Signal Strength
During installation, you can determine your GSM signal suitability by operating a GSM
cellular phone and confirming its operation capability by placing a call.
4.2 Amplifying a Weak Carrier Signal
If the signal strength is weak as indicated by Error Code 7 in Section 7.1, or if data
transmissions are intermittent, an external antenna can be used as a replacement to the
small antenna supplied with the Prophet. The external antenna connects directly to a
Prophet with no adapter connector necessary, thereby improving the antenna’s
performance. Please contact SupplyNet Customer Service at 1-888-TANKLINK for the
available and supported external antenna options. The following outlines the most
common external antenna installation steps.
1) Position the external antenna at a location within cable reach of the Prophet’s
installation and attach it to the Prophet replacing the small antenna.
2) Holding the external antenna at the same location where the Prophet is installed
(typically the top of the tank).
3) Test unit by initiating a data transmission with the external antenna, and observing
the Error Code output in Section 7.1.
4) If the above test doesn’t produce any Error Codes as defined in Section 7.1, proceed
to the next step. If the Error Code 4, Error Code 7 or Error Code 8 still appears, see
if the external antenna can be moved to a different location, possibly outside the
building or higher into the buildings roof.
5) Secure the external antenna using either the magnetic base, or the clamp base
supplied with the antenna.

Page 18
4.3 Setting the Number of Callouts per Day
The Prophet can be jumper set to transmit the current data once every 8 hours, or once
every 24 hours. The first callout is set when the white button is pressed for a forced
transmission.
For instance:
The white button is pressed during commissioning at 9:00 am. For a transmission every
24 hours, an automatic reading will be transmitted every day at 9:00 am. For a
transmission every 8 hours, the reading will be transmitted at 9:00 am, 5:00 pm, and 1:00
am.
CAUTION:
If you set the number of calls to a number greater than the number of calls included in
your service agreement, then an additional fee will be charged for each call above
your allotment.
Jumpers J1 and J2 within the Prophet control the number of callouts. The table below
describes the four possible combinations:
J1
J2
OFF
OFF
One data transmission per 24 hours.
J1
J2
OFF
ON
One data transmission per 24 hours, plus data transmission upon a
3% change in product level based on sensor range.
J1
J2
ON
OFF
Three data transmissions per 24 hours.
J1
J2
ON
ON
One data transmission every hour. (for factory testing only)
Figure 12 illustrates the location of Jumpers J1 and J2.

Page 19
Jumper J1
Jumper J2
+
J3 J4
3
2
1
4
5
++
---
Figure 12
Jumper Locations
4.4 Establishing Communication
Once all tank preparation has been completed, the Prophet is properly mounted to the
tank, the GSM SMS (Short Message Service) is available, signal strength has been
verified and amplified (if necessary), and the number of callouts per day has been
properly set, it is now time to establish communications with the SupplyNet Monitoring
Center.
1) Open the top cover of the Prophet opened by loosening the screw at the front of the
lid using a 3/16” flat screwdriver. Insert the three batteries into the battery holders at
the inside-front of the housing.
2) Verify that the Prophet’s antenna is pointing straight up.
3) Press the white button on the right side of the unit. A green LED will light up at the
inside front of the housing.
4) The green LED will flash fast (half second ON, half second OFF).
5) Once a cellular network is found, the green LED will flash slow (one second ON, one
second OFF).
6) The green LED will go to solid ON for about 60 seconds while the unit is
transmitting data to the TankLink®Monitoring Center.
7) After a successful transmission, the green LED will flash and then go out. The
Prophet is now in sleep mode, and will remain in sleep mode until the next scheduled
transmission time (determined by Jumpers J1 & J2 – Number of Callouts per Day), or
until the white button is pressed again.

Page 20
8) If the data transmission was not successful, a red LED will light and the green LED
will flash an error code. Refer to Section 8-1 of this manual for information on the
error codes.
9) Contact SupplyNet Customer Service at 1-888-TANKLINK to verify a successful
data transmission, and to verify tank information.
10) Secure the top cover. Do not
over tighten the screw.
4.5 Normal Operation
After communication has been
established, and the tank
information has been given to
the SupplyNet Monitoring
Center, the Prophet will continue
to transmit data based upon the
number of callouts per day set.
This tank data can be accessed
thru the internet. Refer to
Chapter 5 of this manual for
information on accessing this data.
The real power behind the TankLink®Inventory management system is the
TankLink.com web site. On this web site, you may view the current level and status of
your devices using a standard web browser (i.e. Microsoft Internet Explorer®or Netscape
Navigator®), download your historical data to applications such as Microsoft Excel®, or
set up alarm levels to automatically trigger events such as an e-mail or page to a local
service or sales representative. On this web site you may also check to see ifGSM SMS
(Short Message Service) is available in your area of the country. The TankLink.com
web site is a secure web site which utilizes the latest in internet encryption technology to
ensure that your data stays confidential. It is constantly being upgraded and new features
are being added periodically. To obtain the latest details on how to use the new features
of the web site, follow the links to the help section of the web site. Additionally, you may
also visit the following Web Sites to verify GSM coverage by Zip Code in your area by
these providers – http://www.cingular.com/coverageviewer and http://www.t-
mobile.com/coverage/ .
Green LED
White Button
Red LED
Jumper J1
Jumper J2
Jumper J3
Jumper J4
+
J3 J4
3
2
1
4
5
++
---