Truth Hardware Sentry II User manual

Sentry II
Sentry IISentry II
Sentry II
TM
-
French and Spanish versions available at www.truth.com/technicalsupport
HS Skylight Motorization System
Installation Instructions
Made in USA
An FKI Industries Company
700 West Bridge Street
Owatonna, MN 55060
www.truth.com
techserv@truth.com
Form 90059 R2

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Danger: To help prevent severe personal injury or death:
•Read and understand instructions completely before beginning
installation.
•
Wiring must be installed by a qualified electrician according to
local and National Electrical Codes (N.E.C.)
•
Disconnect main power before beginning installation! Verify
that power is OFF at the main breaker or fuse panel by testing
with a voltage meter that you know is working correctly.
•
Connect power only after motor connections and settings are
verified.
•This equipment does not provide a method to shut off power,
and should be connected to a dedicated breaker or fused
power circuit capable of providing 1 amp at 120 VAC of power
per skylight unit.
•The screen interlock MUST be correctly installed and is a
required part of the power skylight system. It is intended to
help prevent injury that could result from reaching into the
skylight area during operation. The correct installation of the
screen interlock is the responsibility of the installer. (The
screen interlock is not required on skylights installed more
than 8 feet above the floor.)
•Do not allow children to operate the wall switch push buttons
or remote control transmitter(s).
Additional Safety Guidelines
•When connecting the Sentry II system to accessories, read the
installation instructions supplied with each accessory before
beginning installation.
•
The Sentry II system is intended for indoor use only, with
screens in place.
•This product has been designed to open and close skylights
and awning windows only. Any other use of this product is not
supported by Truth Hardware.
•Save ALL instructions. Additional copies can be downloaded
off of our web site at: truth.com\technicalsupport
•
Installer – please be sure to give ALL instructions to the
homeowner once installation is complete.

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[
What you sho
uld know before starting
..
4
Parts list......................................................5
Planning......................................................6
Main wiring diagram .................................. 7
Motor and controller installation .............. 8
Screen Interlock.........................................11
Normal operation .......................................14
Battery backup...........................................16
Wall mounted switch panel.......................17
Rain sensor.................................................17
HPI...............................................................19
Status feedback..........................................20
Power blind control....................................20
General trouble shooting...........................22
DIP switch settings....................................23
System reset...............................................23
Status light code........................................25
Required maintenance...............................26
Service ........................................................27
Non-synchronous group ...........................28
Synchronous Operation ............................29
Regulatory compliance..............................31
Getting Started
Installation
Troubleshooting
Table of Contents
Operation
Accessories
Additional Info
Preparation

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What You Should Know Before Starting
Languages: This installation booklet is available in French and Spanish on our
web site at www.truth.com/technicalsupport.
Supply Voltage Note: The supply voltage range for the Sentry II power skylight
system is very flexible to accommodate supply voltages available from many
different countries. The input (supply) voltage range is 90 to 264 VAC at a
frequency range of 47 to 440 Hz. For practical purposes, the supply voltage
referenced in this document is 120 volts at 60 Hz commonly used in the United
States.
Operating Environment: The operating temperature range must be maintained
between 140º F (60º C) to -5º F (-20º C).
Single motor vs. multiple (synchronous) motor application: Most
applications of the Sentry II HS system will be a single motor on a single skylight.
However, the Sentry II HS motor system can be used in a number of different
applications depending on the size and weight of your skylight lid. The skylight
lid must weigh less than 160 lbs. (80 lbs. at the chain) for a single motor
installation. If your skylight lid is heavier than 160 lbs., multiple motors (up to 4)
can be used to lift a single skylight lid. The maximum skylight weight for 4
motors is 400lbs. This is called a synchronous motor application. Please refer to
page 29 for the details of this installation.
Multiple motors on separate skylights: There is a way of wiring several
motors on different skylights together so that they all will respond to one wall
switch or one HPI input. Please refer to page 28 for the details of this
installation.
Preparation

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Item Part Number
1. Motor Cover 12481.XX (not part of kit)
2. Base Plate Not sold separately
3. Chain Liner Not sold separately
4. Control Unit 13027
5. Motor Unit 12473.92
6. Chain 11533
7. Sprocket 30654
8. Terminal block
9. Strain Relief Items 8 thru 9 are part of
10. Screen Interlock hardware kit # 12482
11. Rain sensor
12. Screws
(4) Size A – (#12-24 X 5/8”, TF, Ph FH, self threading machine screws)
(2) Size B (#6-32 X 3/8” T23, Ph PH machine screws)
(2) Size C (#10 X 3/4” Ph PH sheet metal screws)
(2) Size D (#10 X 3/4” Ph PH sheet metal screws)
Note:
•No wire is included. See wiring diagram on page 28 for wire requirements.
•To replace lost or broken parts, please go to www.truth.com to locate distributor
Getting Started

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Planning
Important: If you are not the homeowner, it is important to contact the
homeowner and discuss how they want to control a group of skylights. It may be
very difficult to change the installation to meet the homeowner’s desires once
installation is complete.
Please consider:
•In case of a power outage the Sentry II power skylight system does not
have manual override. If it is important to be able to close the skylights
without power, consider installing a battery back-up system.
•There are a number of other control options available:
oRemote Control Has Built-in Thermostat for those applications
where it is desirable to open and close skylights based on
temperature. Just set the temperature and place the remote in the
area where you want the temperature controlled. Every Sentry II
HS unit is remote control enabled.
oA Rain Sensor comes standard with each unit. If you choose to
install the rain sensor, each control unit needs a separate rain
sensor. Consult main wiring diagram for wiring requirements.
oPower mini blinds -The Sentry II control unit is capable of
controlling power mini blinds (supplied by others). See page 20 for
additional information. Consult main wiring diagram for wiring
requirements.
oSkylight position feedback -The Sentry II control unit is capable
of providing skylight position feedback (open or closed). See page
20 for additional information. Consult main wiring diagram for
wiring requirements.
oIntegrated control with other control systems - The Sentry II
power skylight system can be integrated with other automated
control systems. Some examples are home automation systems,
thermostats and security systems. See the HPI section on page 18
for additional information. Consult main wiring diagram for wiring
requirements if used.
•Plan your circuits based on 1 amp of power at 120 VAC per motor unit.
•The primary means of skylight control is the remote control. An optional
wall mounted switch panel is available if required.
oIf installing a wall mounted switch panel – See main wiring diagram
for wiring details. Plan your wiring routes carefully. Low voltage
wires must not be run parallel to high voltage wires.

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Main wiring diagram

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Motor Installation
Please Note: If the chain base and motor unit are pre-installed on the skylight,
skip to step 7.
1. Verify Skylight Weight
Important Skylight Information:
•The skylight lid weight must not exceed 80 lbs. (36 kg) at the chain.
•If over 80 lbs. or wider than 40” refer to the Synchronous Motor
section of the manual.
2. Install Chain Base
•Remove existing manual operator and/or chain base if present.
•Install the chain base included with the kit (even if the current unit appears
to be the same).
•Secure chain base to skylight frame with #10 screws (not supplied) in the
locations shown. Where possible, reuse the fasteners used by the
skylight manufacturer.
•Secure vent bracket to skylight vent.
Important: Check chain, vent bracket and lid alignment to ensure smooth
operation. Adjust mounting positions as needed.
Chain carries ½ of total lid weight
80 lbs. max

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3. Install the Control Box
DANGER: 120 VAC supply power must be off until instructed to turn it on.
•Remove high voltage protection cover.
•Install Hit-Loc strain relief as shown.
•Route 120 VAC supply wiring through the rear inlet and strain relief on
control box.
•Install the motor control box by aligning the tabs on the box with the
notches on the chain base.
•Use (2) #10 X ¾ Phillips Pan Head Machine screws in the locations
shown.
Strain Relief
Hook tabs over
edge of base.

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4. Install Motor Drive onto Chain Base
•Install the motor drive onto the chain base, being sure to align the hex
drive with the hole in the 5 pointed drive sprocket. Once the motor is fully
engaged with the chain base the control box is effectively locked into the
chain base/motor drive assembly.
•
Secure with (4) #12-24 X 5/8” Ph FH Machine Screws in the locations
shown.
5. Install Motor Drive Cable
Connect motor drive cable to the control unit as shown in the diagram.
Important: The female connector on the end of the wire harness must be
properly oriented with the male connector on the control unit or the motor
system will not work.
Connect
motor drive
cable to
control unit

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6. Install Screen Interlock!
DANGER: The screen interlock must be correctly installed on all skylights
less than 8 feet (2.4 meters) above the floor. It is intended to prevent
personal injury and/or skylight damage during operation. The correct
installation of the screen interlock is the responsibility of the installer.
Screen interlock installation:
•Install screen interlock to the screen frame as shown below using #6-
32 X 3/8” Phillips PH, Self Threading, Machine Screw.
•Refer to wiring diagram on page 28 for wire connections.
•Remove the jumper installed in the Grey terminals on terminal block
“10”. Connect screen interlock leads to the same terminals. If this is
a Follower motor leave jumper in place and only connect interlock to
the Leader.
Note: Wire orientation or polarity does not matter for this connection.
Screen Interlock
#6-32 X 3/8” Phillips PH,
Self Threading, Machine Screw

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7. Connect Control Wires
Note: See “Optional Accessories” section for information on additional
control methods.
•Complete wiring diagram can be found on page 26.
•Available Accessories include:
oRain Sensor, See page 17
oHPI Inputs, See page 19
oStatus Feedback, See page 20
oWall Switch Panel, See page 17
oPower Shades/Blinds, See page 20
•Route low voltage wires through wire pass-through location and into
control board opening.
•Connect low voltage wires to the control panel as outlined for each
accessory.
•
Accessories and other control options are wired to the motor
designated as the “Leader” only for Synchronous Motor Operation.
8. Connect Power Wires
•Connect high voltage wires (120 VAC) to the wire harness and terminal
block as shown.
DANGER: no power should be present at this time. Power to this
equipment should be shut off at the main breaker or fuse panel until
installation is complete.
•Connector locks onto tabs in box once the wires are connected.
•Verify wire connections then re-install high voltage protection cover.
Low voltage wire
pass
-
through
Connect:
White to White,
Black to Black,
Green to Ground.
Tabs for
connector
Re-install
wire cover

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9. Install Cover
•Remove the center trim button from the cover (Sentry II) and locate the
mounting screw beneath.
•Slip the motor cover over the drive motor and control box. Start with the
notched edge of cover hooked behind the motor/control box closest to the
glass. Be sure that the lens in the side of the cover aligns with the notch
in the control box before pushing the motor cover down. Then swing the
front edge of the cover down into the flat position.
•Fasten the motor cover using the pan head screw found under trim button
(#6-32 X 3/8” Phillips PH, Self Threading, Machine Screw).
•WARNING: Use of a longer screw will damage motor. (If needed, a
spare screw is supplied in the hardware pack.)
10. Power Up and Initialization
Important notice: To help insure a successful power up be sure that the
following steps have been completed:
•Check that the end of the operator chain is connected to the skylight.
(See Step 2)
•Verify the screen interlock is installed and connected OR, that there is
a jumper installed across the two gray terminals on terminal block 10.
(See Step 6)
•Units that have Followers need to be powered up at the same time.
Power up
•Apply 120 VAC power to the control unit
Note: Upon power-up the skylight will automatically close. (If skylight
is already closed, the motor will momentarily start and stop verifying
the skylight is closed.)
Lens for Status LED
LED Notch
Center trim button &
Mounting screw

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Initialization
The power skylight system is now ready to be initialized. Initialization occurs
automatically when the motor unit receives its first “Open” command.
•Upon receiving an “Open” command for the very first time after original
power up, the unit will automatically run through an initialization cycle.
Initialization consists of one full open and closed cycle.
•The “Open” command can be given from any of three control devices:
oRemote Control (Note: The remote must first be
programmed – see step 11)
oWall switch
oHPI Input
•During initialization the LED on the motor cover (and on the switch face
plate if installed) will display a “Red” LED.
Note: This cycle is necessary for the unit to establish its operating
parameters which will be stored in permanent memory. Once
permanent memory is established it is unaffected by loss of power of
any duration.
11. Program Remote Control
If a remote control is part of the installation it should now be programmed to
the control unit. Refer to set-up instructions included with the remote control
for proper set-up.
Skip this step if the installation does not include a remote control.
Normal Operation
From the remote control:
To open the skylight:
•Select “Unit” number (or “all”) for the skylight you want to control.
•Press “Open” button.
Note: The full open position varies with operating hardware and
curb height of the skylight. The typical stop position is approx. 90%
of full open.
To close the skylight:
•Select “Unit” number (or “all”) for the skylight you want to control.
•Press “Close” button.
For an intermediate open position,
•Press the “opposite” function while the motor is running - the motor
will stop in that position.
Further information on using the remote control can be found in the
instructions packaged with the remote.

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Status Light Indicator
During operation the status light located on the skylight motor cover
will be steady green to indicate normal operation. (See “Status
Codes” on page 25 for more information.)
From the optional wall switch control:
To open the skylight:
•Press skylight “Open” button.
Note: The full open position varies with operating hardware and
curb height of the skylight. The typical stop position is approx. 90%
of full open.
To close the skylight:
•Press skylight “Close” button.
For an intermediate open position,
•Press the “opposite” function while the motor is running - the motor
will stop in that position.
Status Light Indicator
During operation the status light located in the skylight motor and on
the switch face plate will be steady green to indicate normal operation.
(See “Status Codes” on page 25 for more information.)
Note: Any time there is a power outage, the skylights will automatically
close when power is restored. The system is programmed this way
because the system will not recognize any attempts to open or close
the skylight while the power is off including attempts by the rain sensor
(if installed) to close. Therefore, the safest position for the skylight to
be in when power is restored is closed. All controls will return to
normal function once power is restored.
Buttons located on wall switch:
Status
Light
Open
Skylight
Close
Skylight
Open
Blind Close
Blind

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Accessories
Battery Backup
Battery backup should be used to supply emergency power when operation
of the power skylight system must be maintained in the event of a power
outage. (Please note: A battery back-up is not required to provide memory
back-up for the Sentry II system.)
Truth recommends the use of a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) as a
battery backup. They are widely available through a variety of retail and
commercial outlets and are primarily used to supply emergency backup for
computer equipment. (Truth Hardware is not a supplier of battery back-up
systems.)
To determine the proper VA rating for a UPS, take 50 watts and multiply by
the number of skylights to be backed up by a given UPS. Below is a list of
the manufacturers who produce uninterruptible power supplies which Truth
Hardware has approved as compatible with our power skylight systems.
Powerware
Forum III
8609 Six Forks Road
Raleigh, NC 27615
(800) 554-3448
(919) 872-3020
www.powerware.com
American Power Conversion
132 Fairgrounds Road
West Kingston, RI 02892
(800) 788-2208
(401) 789-5735
www.apcc.com
Tripp Lite
1111 West 35th Street
Chicago, IL 60609
(773) 869-1111
www.tripplite.com
Minuteman (brand)
1455 LeMay Drive
Carrollton, TX 75007
(800) 238-7272
(972) 446-7363
www.minuteman-ups.com

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Wall Mounted Switch Panel (Optional)
An optional wall mounted switch panel can be ordered to control a skylight (or
skylights) from a wall mounted switch panel. The switch panel can be used in
conjunction with a remote control or by itself.
Installation – See installation instructions supplied with Switch Panel. For
multiple units the switch is connected to the Leader.
Important: It is not recommended to connect other input devices in place of
the membrane switches on the wall switch panel.
Helpful Hint: The cover plate is only available in one configuration and color.
The cover plate can however, be painted or wall paper can be applied to
change its appearance.
Rain Sensor (included)
The sensor will close the skylight when “beading” moisture is present on the
surface of the rain sensor grid. It will also cause the green LED on the motor unit
to blink (indicating moisture is present) while the skylight is closing. Once the
rain sensor grid is dry, normal operation will resume.
Warning: Do not install the rain sensor if the skylight is being controlled as a
smoke vent to vent smoke in case of a fire. The rain sensor overrides all other
inputs. (see HPI, page 19).
Note: Rain sensor installation is optional.
Installation of Rain Sensor
•Locate the desired mounting location for the rain sensor. It should be
as horizontal as possible to accumulate rain.
•Route rain sensor wires into control unit housing.
Note: Do not route rain sensor wire through the operator chain port,
damage to rain sensor wire will be a likely result.

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Interior Mounting Exterior Mounting
Install Rain Sensor Grid
•Connect the rain sensor wires to the Grey & Green terminals on
Port “5”.
Rain Sensor Guidelines:
•Install the sensor with "grid" exposed to outside elements where the rain
has a clear, unobstructed path to the rain sensor. Consider prevailing
winds.
•If the desired location of the rain sensor exceeds the wire length supplied,
use 22 AWG - 2 conductor shielded, twisted pair 50 ft (15m) maximum
length.
Important: Connect shield to earth ground to reduce interference from
lightning and other electrical devices.
•The sensor can be installed outside (maximum sensitivity) or inside vent
edge (minimum maintenance)
•Recommended maintenance: Regular cleaning of sensor panel with a mild
cleaning agent is recommended. Dirt or debris can cause the vent to stay
closed even when rain is not present.
Note:
•There is a 10 second delay from the time the rain sensor senses moisture
to the time the skylight actually starts to close.
•When the skylight is closed because of rain, it can be forced to open by
holding down the “Open” button even when the sensor is “wet”, however,
the skylight will immediately re-close once the open button is released.

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High Priority Inputs (HPI)
The control unit located at the skylight includes inputs to allow skylight control
from other devices such as thermostats, home automation systems, security
systems, smoke evacuation systems, etc. These inputs are called High Priority
Inputs (HPI). There is an input for “Open” and an input for “Close”. The inputs
are designed to be controlled with low voltage dry contacts (relay).
Note: See main wiring diagram on page 7 for proper hook-up.
Input Function - HPI Close
1. When connected by a continuous contact closure, the skylight will
fully close. All other input devices (except for HPI Open) will be
“locked-out” until the contact closure is re-opened
2. When connected by momentary contact closure, the skylight will
close. There will be a minimum delay of 3 seconds before system
will react.
•A contact closure of 3 seconds is needed to activate a “close”
command.
Input Function - HPI Open
1. When connected by a continuous contact closure, the skylight will
fully open. All other input devices will be “locked-out” until the
contact closure is re-opened. There will be a minimum delay of 3
seconds before system will react.
2. When connected by momentary contact closure, the skylight will
open. There will be a minimum delay of 3 seconds before system
will react.
•A contact closure of 3 seconds is needed to activate an “open”
command.
Intermediate Open position
The skylight can be stopped in an intermediate position with a ½
second momentary contact closure across the contacts for the
direction opposite the skylight travel. For instance, if the skylight is
opening, a momentary contact closure of ½ second across the HPI
“Close” contacts will stop the skylight.
Wiring
18-2 twisted pair is recommended up to 150 feet maximum.
Control Switch Options
•Some home automation companies offer control switches that can
be used to control the Sentry II HS control unit through the HPI
inputs. Consult the Truth Hardware web site for more information.
(www.truth.com/technicalsupport)

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Helpful Information
•Voltage supplied by HPI input is: 12 VDC @ 5mA.
•When multiple input sources are used to control a given set of
skylights consult the Input Command Priority Table on the Truth
Hardware Web site (truth.com) to insure you receive the proper
skylight response to multiple input command sources.
System Status Feedback
The Sentry II control unit is capable of providing feedback regarding whether
the skylight is closed or not closed. (System feedback is not capable of
providing true skylight position.)
Note: See main wiring diagram on page 7 for proper hook-up.
Status output function:
The status output functions as a relay. When the output is closed
(relay contacts closed), the skylight is fully closed. When the output is
open (relay contacts open), the skylight is not fully closed.
Feedback output (contact closure) maximum ratings:
Rated Load: 0.50 A at 125VAC, 1 A at 24VDC
Minimum Load: 1mA, 5VDC
Max. operating voltage: 125 VAC, 60 VDC
Max. operating current: 1A
Max. switching capacity: 62.50 VA, 30W
Power Blind Control
The Sentry II control unit is capable of controlling 24 VDC blinds or shades.
Truth Hardware does not supply power blinds or shades. We only supply a
convenient control method with the same Sentry II control system. Therefore, it
is very important that a blind system be chosen that is compatible with the Sentry
II control system. Please use the following electrical specifications when
selecting a power blind or shade:
•Operating Voltage: 24 VDC
•Maximum current draw: 1 amp (at 24 VDC)
•Power blind system must be range protected with internal limit
switches.
Note: Truth Hardware does not supply the installation instructions for the
installation of the motorized blinds themselves. Please consult instructions
supplied with the blinds for installation. If it is installed on a Synchronous system
the blind would be connected to the Leader only.
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1
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