TSI Incorporated Alnor RVD User manual

Model RVD
Rotating Vane Anemometer
OWNER’S MANUAL

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY AND LIABILITY
Seller warrants the goods sold hereunder, under normal use and service as described
in the operator's manual, shall be free from defects in workmanship and material for
twenty-four (24) months, or the length of time specified in the operator's manual, from
the date of shipment to the customer. This warranty period is inclusive of any statutory
warranty. This limited warranty is subject to the following exclusions:
a. Hot-wire or hot-film sensors used with research anemometers, and certain other
components when indicated in specifications, are warranted for 90 days from the
date of shipment.
b. Parts repaired or replaced as a result of repair services are warranted to be free
from defects in workmanship and material, under normal use, for 90 days from the
date of shipment.
c. Seller does not provide any warranty on finished goods manufactured by others or
on any fuses, batteries or other consumable materials. Only the original
manufacturer's warranty applies.
d. Unless specifically authorized in a separate writing by Seller, Seller makes no
warranty with respect to, and shall have no liability in connection with, goods
which are incorporated into other products or equipment, or which are modified by
any person other than Seller.
The foregoing is IN LIEU OF all other warranties and is subject to the LIMITATIONS
stated herein. NO OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR
PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR MERCHANTABILITY IS MADE.
TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE USER
OR BUYER, AND THE LIMIT OF SELLER'S LIABILITY FOR ANY AND ALL LOSSES,
INJURIES, OR DAMAGES CONCERNING THE GOODS (INCLUDING CLAIMS
BASED ON CONTRACT, NEGLIGENCE, TORT, STRICT LIABILITY OR
OTHERWISE) SHALL BE THE RETURN OF GOODS TO SELLER AND THE REFUND
OF THE PURCHASE PRICE, OR, AT THE OPTION OF SELLER, THE REPAIR OR
REPLACEMENT OF THE GOODS. IN NO EVENT SHALL SELLER BE LIABLE FOR
ANY SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES. SELLER SHALL
NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR INSTALLATION, DISMANTLING OR REINSTALLATION
COSTS OR CHARGES. No Action, regardless of form, may be brought against Seller
more than 12 months after a cause of action has accrued. The goods returned under
warranty to Seller's factory shall be at Buyer's risk of loss, and will be returned, if at all,
at Seller's risk of loss.
Buyer and all users are deemed to have accepted this LIMITATION OF WARRANTY
AND LIABILITY, which contains the complete and exclusive limited warranty of Seller.
This LIMITATION OF WARRANTY AND LIABILITY may not be amended, modified or
its terms waived, except by writing signed by an Officer of Seller.
Service Policy
Knowing that inoperative or defective instruments are as detrimental to TSI as they are
to our customers, our service policy is designed to give prompt attention to any
problems. If any malfunction is discovered, please contact your nearest sales office or
representative, or call Customer Service at [phone] (USA) and (1) 651-490-
2811 (International).

1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapters
1 Unpacking and Parts Identification ...........................................3
Parts Identification.........................................................................4
2 Setting-Up ....................................................................................5
Supplying Power to the RVD.........................................................5
Installing the Batteries............................................................. 5
Using the Optional AC Adapter............................................... 5
Auto Power Off Feature ..........................................................5
Selecting the Display Units............................................................ 6
The Rotating Vane Head...............................................................6
Attaching the Handle...............................................................6
Using the Articulating Extension ............................................. 6
Using the Optional Small Vane Head .....................................6
Start Up Sequence ........................................................................7
Changing the Baud Rate ...............................................................7
Setting the Real-Time Clock.......................................................... 7
Time Constant ............................................................................... 7
3 Operation...................................................................................... 9
Keypad Functions..........................................................................9
ON/OFF Key..................................................................................9
Arrow Keys (▲▼) ..........................................................................9
ENTER Key ...................................................................................9
VEL Key.........................................................................................9
TEMP Key ................................................................................... 10
VOL Key ......................................................................................10
Entering Shape and Size ......................................................10
READ Key ...................................................................................10
Single Point Storage to Memory ........................................... 10
Sweep Mode .........................................................................11
DEL Key ...................................................................................... 11
NEXT TEST Key.......................................................................... 11
TIME LOG Key ............................................................................11
Continuous Data Storage (Datalogging)...............................12
To Change Time Constant Value .........................................12
Changing Time Constant Value............................................12
RECALL Key ...............................................................................13
To View Statistics On Current Test ID Number .................... 13
To Review Data Stored in Memory.......................................13

2
Serial Communications................................................................13
Connecting the Optional Model 8522 Portable Printer .........13
Printing Data Using the 8522 Portable Printer......................13
Connecting to a Computer...........................................................14
Downloading Data to A Computer...............................................15
Data Acquisition (Polling) ............................................................15
4 Maintenance ...............................................................................17
Rotating Vane Head ....................................................................17
Recalibration................................................................................17
Cases...........................................................................................17
Storage ........................................................................................17
5 Troubleshooting ........................................................................19
Appendixes
A DIP Switch Settings...................................................................21
B Field Calibration Adjustments..................................................23
Field Calibration Procedure .........................................................23

3
CHAPTER 1
Unpacking and Parts Identification
Carefully unpack the instrument and accessories from the shipping
container. Check the individual parts against the list of components in
Table 1-1. If any are missing or damaged, notify TSI or your local
distributor immediately.
Table 1-1: List of Components
Qt
y
Item Descri
p
tion Part/Model
1 RVD (meter alone) 534-150-222
1 Carrying Case 534-150-600
1 100mm Head 634-150-221
1 Handle 534-593-173
4 AA Alkaline Batteries 459-000-003
1 Operation and Service Manual 116-159-220
1 Calibration Certificate
1 Computer Interface Cable, Downloading
Software
634-858-386
1 Telescopic Extension w/Articulating
Knuckle
634-150-223
1 Optional AC Adapter
115 V, NEMA-5
230 V, European CEE 7/16
230 V, Great Britain
240 V, Australian
002-613-033
002-613-078
000-800-169
002-613-106
1 Optional Small Head 634-250-035
1 Optional 8522 Portable Printer 638-852-200

4
Parts Identification
Figure 1-1: RVD and Accessories
1. Keypad
2. Display
3. Printer Output/ Communications Port
4. Battery Access Cover
5. Rotating Vane Head
6. Rotating Vane Handle
7. Articulating Extension

5
CHAPTER 2
Setting-Up
Supplying Power to the RVD
The RVD can be powered in one of two ways: four size AA batteries or the
optional AC adapter.
Installing the Batteries
Insert four AA batteries as indicated by the diagram located on the inside of
the battery compartment. TSI ships the unit with alkaline batteries. The
RVD is designed to operate with either alkaline or NiCd rechargeable
batteries. Carbon-zinc batteries are not recommended because of the danger
of battery leakage. Typical battery life for alkaline batteries at 20°C is 24
hours. At 15% battery life remaining, the battery icon will indicate the
batteries need to be changed. At this point, you have about 2 hours of useful
battery life remaining.
Using the Optional AC Adapter
The optional AC adapter allows you to power the RVD from a wall outlet.
When using the AC adapter, the batteries (if installed) will be bypassed.
The AC adapter is not a battery charger.
Auto Power Off Feature
The RVD’s auto power off feature will automatically power the instrument
off after a specified time if no measurements are being taken. In velocity
mode, the instrument will power off after 15 minutes provided that the
velocity is zero and no keys have been pressed during this time. In
temperature mode, the instrument will power off after 15 minutes if no keys
have been pressed. No samples stored in memory will be lost when the
meter is automatically powered off.
This feature can be turned off if desired by switching DIP switch #2 to the
ON position. See Appendix A for DIP Switch Settings.

6
Selecting the Display Units
The RVD is capable of displaying the measured values in several different
measurement units, as shown in Table 2-1.
Table 2-1: Choices of Measurement Units
Velocity Temperature Flow Rate
ft/min °F ft3/min
m/s °C m3/h
l/s
If you wish to change the display units on your RVD, see Appendix A.
The Rotating Vane Head
The rotating vane head of the RVD contains the velocity and temperature
sensors along with stored calibration data. When using the rotating vane head,
make sure the blades are free to move and the flow arrow points along the air
flow path.
WARNING! Be sure to turn the meter off before connecting or
disconnecting rotating vane heads. Do not expose the
vane head to excessive heat; it can damage the vane
head.
Attaching the Handle
To attach the handle, screw the handle into the bottom of the rotating vane
head until secure.
Using the Articulating Extension
The articulating extension allows you to secure the vane head at nearly any
angle. Once you have attached the articulating extension to the vane head
and handle, you can then unscrew the angle adjustment bolt and adjust the
angle of the elbow. You can also adjust the rotation of the head by partially
unscrewing the head from the handle and tightening it with the knurled
knob, located underneath the vane head.
Using the Optional Small Vane Head
The smaller optional rotating vane head is primarily intended for tests with
constricted flow area or those difficult to reach. The small rotating vane
head functions like the large vane head. With the unit turned off, unplug the
large head from the instrument and plug in the small head and then turn the
unit on again.

7
Start Up Sequence
When the instrument is first turned on it goes through a preprogrammed power-
up sequence that includes an internal self-check which illuminates all the LCD
segments. The RVD will then display percentage of battery life remaining
(accurate for alkaline batteries only), baud rate, percentage of memory log
remaining, time, time constant value, and current test ID. At this point, the RVD
will start measuring in velocity mode.
Changing the Baud Rate
The RVD has a variable baud rate that is used when downloading or printing
data from the instrument. By increasing the baud rate, the data will download
faster.
The instrument baud rate is displayed during the initial power up sequence. To
change the baud rate, press and hold the ▲or ▼key during power-up sequence
while baud rate is displayed. Release the key when the RVD beeps twice. Use
▲or ▼keys to scroll through the available values of 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600
and 19200. Press ENTER key to accept your choice.
Setting the Real-Time Clock
The RVD has an internal clock that keeps track of the time (the format is
HH.MM where HH is the hour in 24-hour format, and MM is minutes) and the
date. It is very important to set the time and date correctly, otherwise, date and
time stamping of recorded data will not be correct.
To set the time and date, press and hold the ▲or ▼key during the power-up
sequence when the time is displayed. Release the key when the RVD beeps
twice. You can now view and/or change the hours, minutes, year, month and
day in sequence. Use ▲or ▼key to change any settings. Use the ENTER key
to store each setting and advance to the next one.
Time Constant
The time constant is an averaging period. The RVD display is updated every
second. However, the reading displayed is the average reading over the last time
constant period. For example, if the current time constant is set to 10 seconds,
the display will show readings averaged over the previous 10 seconds, updated
every second. This is also called a 10 second “moving average” when in normal
display mode.

9
CHAPTER 3
Operation
Keypad Functions
When pressing the keys on the front panel, the RVD will beep to confirm the
function. If you press a key and the RVD does not beep, then the RVD does not
allow that function during the current mode.
The RVD has the ability to data log, determine statistics and recall individual
data points. When the READ key is pressed, the samples being taken are added
to the memory. The RECALL key is used to view statistics or individual sample
points. The NEXT TEST key is used to advance to the next test ID number. The
RVD retains data even when it is turned off.
ON/OFF Key
Press the ON/OFF key to turn the RVD on and off. When the instrument is first
turned on it goes through a preprogrammed power-up sequence that includes an
internal self-check which illuminates all the LCD segments. The RVD will then
display percentage of battery life remaining (accurate for alkaline batteries
only), baud rate, percentage of memory log remaining, time, time constant
value, and current test ID. At this point, the RVD will start measuring in
velocity mode.
Note: To skip the start-up displays, press ENTER at any time during the
power-up sequence.
Arrow Keys (▲▼)
The two arrow keys are used to scroll through and select values as needed for
RVD functions. Pressing and holding either arrow key during the start-up
sequence will allow you to change the baud rate, time and date, and time
constant value.
ENTER Key
Press the ENTER key to accept a value or condition. In start-up mode, you can
also press the ENTER key to skip the start-up sequence.
VEL Key
Press the VEL key to display velocity measurements. The velocity will be
displayed in ft/min or m/s depending on the DIP switch settings (refer to
Appendix A). The RVD will automatically start in velocity mode.

10
TEMP Key
Press the TEMP key to display air temperature readings. The RVD will display
temperature readings in either degrees Fahrenheit (°F), or degrees Celsius (°C)
depending on the DIP switch settings (refer to Appendix A).
VOL Key
The RVD can calculate air volume using a known area. The RVD displays the
volumetric flow in ft3/min, m3/h, or l/s, depending on the DIP switch setting
(refer to Appendix A). The RVD calculates the volume flow rate for round,
square or rectangular flow areas. Once initially entered, the shape and size of
the flow area will be retained from the last entered value.
Entering Shape and Size
Press the VOL key to put the RVD in volume mode. If this is the first time
the flowrate function is being used, you will be prompted to enter the shape
and size.
Press ▲or ▼key; the display will flash between the round and square
icons. Press ▲or ▼key again to select the shape of the area, rectangular
(square) or circular, being measured. Each time ▲or ▼key is pressed, the
display will toggle between the circle and rectangle. When the desired
shape appears on the display press the ENTER key. This will enter the
shape and the RVD will then ask for the size.
Use ▲or ▼key to select the size of the air flow area. For a circular flow
shape, the RVD will ask for one size, the diameter of the circular area.
Select the size and press the ENTER key to accept it. For a rectangular area
the RVD will ask for two dimensions. First select the X dimension and
press the ENTER key, then select the Y dimension and press the ENTER
key.
To change the shape or dimensions after they have been entered, press ▲or
▼key. Proceed as above to enter the shape and dimensions.
READ Key
This key has four functions: takes an individual reading and stores it into
memory, is used during sweep mode, initiates the datalogging function when in
log mode, and interrupts the datalogging function anytime during the
datalogging process (see TIME LOG section for more details).
Single Point Storage to Memory
Press and release the READ key to start the sample. The display will flash
“SAMPLE” for the duration of the TIME CONSTANT interval along with
a sample number. Then the sampled value will be displayed. Temperature,
velocity and volume values will be taken and saved into memory.

11
Sweep Mode
This is a way to temporarily bypass the time constant to produce an average
during the entire time the READ key is pressed. Press and hold the READ
key to start the sample. If the READ key is not released within one second,
the instrument is in sweep mode. The display will flash “sample” while you
are sampling. The instrument will continue sampling until the READ key is
released, and then the average value and units of measure will be displayed
once the sample is taken. To separate data obtained by “sweep,” use
different test numbers.
Note: If the word “LOG” appears, you are in continuous logging mode,
and cannot use sweep mode.
DEL Key
To delete the last recorded value, press and hold the DEL key. A count down
from 3 to 0 will start. Release the key anytime before 0 is shown.
Note: Only the last sample recorded can be cleared without clearing the
entire memory.
To clear all samples in the sample buffer, press and hold the DEL key. A count
down from 3 to 0 will start, while 0 is displayed, release the DEL key.
Note: No samples will be cleared if the DEL key is released after 0 is
displayed.
NEXT TEST Key
Press NEXT TEST to advance to the next test number. If the current test
number does not have anything stored, it will not advance to the next test
number. All readings are stored in test numbers. You may store up to 999
samples in 285 separate test numbers.
The RVD will automatically increment the test ID number under the following
conditions:
• turning off the RVD (if there is stored data)
• taking a sample with a different duct size or shape than the last stored
sample
• taking a continuous data logging sample
• taking discrete samples after taking a continuous sample
TIME LOG Key
This key serves two purposes: to perform continuous data storage (datalogging)
or to change the time constant value.

12
Continuous Data Storage (Datalogging)
This option will allow automatic storage of data over a period of time. All
readings are stored in test ID numbers. You may store up to 999 samples in
285 test IDs.
To set up the datalog feature:
Press the TIME LOG key. Use the ▲or ▼arrow keys to select “ON”.
Press the ENTER key to accept your choice. “LOG” will light up on the
display and the logging interval is shown. Use the ▲or ▼arrow keys to
scroll through the log interval choices. The choices are: 1–10, 15, 20, 25,
and 30 seconds, and 1–10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 60 minutes. Press the
ENTER key to accept your choice.
Next, you will choose the number of samples. The choices are “CONT” or
1 to 999. Use the ▲or ▼arrow keys to scroll through the choices, and
press ENTER to accept your choice. The instrument will then return to
measuring mode.
If “CONT” is chosen, the instrument will sample continuously until it is
either stopped manually, runs out of memory, or the batteries run out. If a
number between 1 and 999 is chosen, the instrument will take that number
of samples and then stop storing readings.
To start the logging, press the READ key. Pressing READ again will stop
the datalogging currently in process.
The log mode remains “ON” until you go into TIME LOG and turn this
feature “OFF.” This was done so you can use continuous datalogging in
various locations without resetting the TIME LOG. When “LOG” is on the
display, pressing READ starts the TIME LOG operation.
To Change Time Constant Value
The time constant is an averaging period. The RVD display is updated
every second. However, the reading displayed is the average reading over
the last time constant period. For example, if the current time constant is set
to 10 seconds, the display will show readings averaged over the previous
10 seconds, updated every second. This is also called a 10 second “moving
average” when in normal display mode.
Changing Time Constant Value
To change the time constant value, press and hold the TIME LOG key until
the RVD beeps. The display will show the current time constant value. The
available choices are 1–10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 seconds. Use ▲or ▼key to
change any settings. Use the ENTER key to accept your choice.

13
RECALL Key
The RECALL key has two purposes. One is to view the statistics for the current
test ID number, and the other is to review data for a particular test ID, including
individual sample values.
To View Statistics On Current Test ID Number
Press and release RECALL key. The RVD will beep three times. The
display will show the current test ID. Press ENTER key to view average,
press ▲to scroll through maximum, minimum, number of samples taken,
and then the individual values. Press ▼key to scroll back. Press ENTER to
return to run mode.
To Review Data Stored in Memory
Press and release RECALL key. The RVD will beep three times. Use the ▲
or ▼key to select the desired test ID. Press ENTER to accept the test ID
number. Use ▲or ▼key to view average, maximum, minimum, total
number of samples, and individual sample values for the selected test ID.
The samples will be displayed in the order that they were taken, press
ENTER to return to run mode.
To view a different test ID, press RECALL again to return to test ID
selection. To review data of a different measurement type, press the desired
measurement type button (VEL, VOL, TEMP) while AVG, MAX, MIN,
number of samples, or individual sample is being displayed. If there is no
data for that measurement type, “-----” will be displayed. Press another
measurement type key to view more data or press ENTER to return to
measuring mode.
Serial Communications
Connecting the Optional Model 8522 Portable Printer
To connect the Model 8522 printer to the RVD, locate the Printer Interface
Cable supplied with the optional printer, and connect the 9-pin end labeled
“PRINTER” to the printer and the other end to the data port of the RVD.
The printer must be set to the same baud rate as the RVD. See Baud Rate
section for details on how to change the baud rate. To change the baud rate
of the printer, please refer to the operation and service manual for the
printer to properly set the printer’s DIP switch settings. If the printer prints
question marks (??????), asterisks (******), or random characters, reset it
by turning it off and then on again. If necessary, refer to the Model 8522
Portable Printer Operation and Service Manual.
Printing Data Using the 8522 Portable Printer
Printer should be set with bit length 8, one stop bit, and no parity. To print
all data in memory, press and hold the RECALL key to start a countdown

14
from 3 to 0. When 0 is on the display, release the key. If the key is released
at any other time, nothing will be printed.
To print only a selected test ID, press the RECALL key to show the test ID
number. Using the ▲or ▼keys, select the desired test ID that you would
like to print. Then press and hold the RECALL key until the display counts
down to zero. The selected test ID will then print, including the statistics for
all measurement parameters stored as well as the data points for only the
parameter displayed on the large digits.
If the printer is connected to the instrument while taking readings, each time
the ENTER key is pressed, the reading(s) will be printed to the portable
printer. Also, each time a parameter is changed (type of flowrate, time
constant, etc.), the new setting will also be printed.
In flowrate mode, shape and size data is also transmitted when it is entered
or changed. The value of the time constant is transmitted when it is
changed. In logging mode, it prints the same as if you are pressing READ
every logging interval.
Note: In order to print, the baud rate on the RVD must be set to the
same as the printer. The default is 1200.
The data will print in a format such as 12345.67. If you desire, the RVD
can print in a format such as 12345,67 by switching DIP switch #4 ON. See
Appendix A for DIP Switch Settings.
Connecting to a Computer
Use the Computer Interface Cable provided with the RVD to connect the
instrument to a computer for remote polling or for downloading stored data.
Connect the 9-pin end labeled “COMPUTER” to the computer COM port and
the other end to the data port of the RVD. A 9-pin to 25-pin adapter will be
required if your computer has a 25-pin serial port connector.
For more information on how to download stored data see section on
Downloading Data to a Computer. For polling instructions, see the Data
Acquisition (Polling) section.
Caution: The data port of the RVD is not intended for
connection to a public telecommunications network. Connect
the data port only to another RS232 port.

15
Downloading Data to A Computer
“COMPUDAT” is a windows-based program from TSI designed to download
the data stored in the memory of the RVD to a computer. This data includes the
test ID, measurement, unit of measure, flow area, and time constant. This data is
date and time stamped. In addition, the statistics for each test ID are provided.
The file containing the downloaded data is sorted and tab delimited to allow it to
be imported into a spreadsheet for further data analysis.
To load COMPUDAT on your computer, use the following procedure, also
found on the disk:
• For Windows 3.1: Select File, Run, and type “A:\setup.exe”
• For Windows 95/98: Select Start, Run, and type “A:\setup.exe”
Once you open the program, it is self-directing and provides all the necessary
instructions for downloading data.
To download data from the RVD, connect the supplied computer interface cable
to the RVD and to a computer serial port. Any serial port from COM1 to COM4
can be used.
Data Acquisition (Polling)
The RVD is designed to allow you to perform polling through the use of a
computer. To do this, your computer must be connected and in Terminal mode.
The baud rate for the computer and the RVD must be set to the same value. For
details on viewing or changing the baud rate, see Changing the Baud Rate
section in Chapter 2. You must then send an upper case V to the instrument.
You must write your own routine (program) to obtain information at specific
intervals from the RVD. The meter will only send information when the READ
key is pressed or after the computer has sent a “V” command to the RVD.

17
CHAPTER 4
Maintenance
Rotating Vane Head
Periodically inspect the rotating vane head to ensure that it is clean. Dust and
oil deposits on the temperature sensor or rotating blades decrease the
accuracy of the RVD.
Caution: The RVD must be switched off for cleaning. Do not use
high-pressure air or strong solvents to clean the sensor
head; damage to the blades or temperature sensor could
result.
To remove dust, blow it off with a gentle stream of air. To remove a
combination of dust and oil, carefully wipe the blades and blade shield using
a cotton swab soaked with isopropyl alcohol and then blow it off with a
gentle stream of air. Be careful not to bend or deform the blades in any
manner.
Recalibration
To maintain a high degree of accuracy in your measurements, TSI
recommends that you return your instrument for annual recalibration. For a
nominal fee, we will recalibrate the unit and return it to you with a certificate
of traceable to NIST. This “annual checkup” assures you of consistently
accurate readings; it is especially important in applications where strict
calibration records must be maintained.
Cases
If the instrument case or storage case needs cleaning, wipe it off with a soft
cloth and isopropyl alcohol or a mild detergent. Never submerge the RVD.
Storage
When storing the RVD for more than a month, it is recommended to remove
the batteries. This prevents damage due to battery leakage.