Vega VEGAPULS 6X User manual

Operating Instructions
Radar sensor for continuous level
measurement of liquids and bulk solids
VEGAPULS 6X
Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
Document ID: 1015559

2
Contents
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
Contents
1 About this document ............................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Function ........................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Target group ..................................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Symbols used................................................................................................................... 4
2 For your safety ......................................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Authorised personnel ....................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Appropriate use................................................................................................................ 5
2.3 Warning about incorrect use............................................................................................. 5
2.4 General safety instructions............................................................................................... 5
2.5 Mode of operation - Radar signal ..................................................................................... 6
2.6 Installation and operation in the USA and Canada ........................................................... 6
3 Product description ................................................................................................................. 7
3.1 Conguration.................................................................................................................... 7
3.2 Principle of operation........................................................................................................ 9
3.3 Adjustment ..................................................................................................................... 10
3.4 Packaging, transport and storage................................................................................... 11
3.5 Accessories.................................................................................................................... 12
4 Setup – the most important steps ........................................................................................ 13
5 Mounting................................................................................................................................. 14
5.1 General instructions ....................................................................................................... 14
5.2 Housing features ............................................................................................................ 14
5.3 Mounting preparations, mounting strap.......................................................................... 17
5.4 Mounting versions, plastic horn antenna ........................................................................ 18
5.5 Mounting instructions ..................................................................................................... 20
5.6 Measuring rigs - bypass ................................................................................................. 39
5.7 Measurement setup - Flow............................................................................................. 41
6 Connecting to power supply................................................................................................. 44
6.1 Preparing the connection ............................................................................................... 44
6.2 Connecting..................................................................................................................... 45
6.3 Wiring plan, double chamber housing ............................................................................ 46
6.4 Switch-on phase............................................................................................................. 47
7 Access protection, IT security.............................................................................................. 48
7.1 Bluetooth radio interface ................................................................................................ 48
7.2 Protection of the parameterization.................................................................................. 48
7.3 Storing the codes in myVEGA........................................................................................ 49
8 Set up with PC/notebook ...................................................................................................... 50
8.1 Preparations (Bluetooth) ................................................................................................ 50
8.2 Connecting (Bluetooth) .................................................................................................. 50
8.3 Connect the PC.............................................................................................................. 51
8.4 Parameterization ............................................................................................................ 53
8.5 Save parameter adjustment data.................................................................................... 54
9 Diagnosis, asset management and service ........................................................................ 55
9.1 Maintenance .................................................................................................................. 55
9.2 Measured value and event memory ............................................................................... 55
9.3 Asset Management function........................................................................................... 56
9.4 Echo curve ..................................................................................................................... 60

3
Contents
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
9.5 Rectify faults................................................................................................................... 66
9.6 Exchanging the electronics module................................................................................ 70
9.7 Software update ............................................................................................................. 70
9.8 How to proceed if a repair is necessary.......................................................................... 71
10 Dismount................................................................................................................................. 72
10.1 Dismounting steps.......................................................................................................... 72
10.2 Disposal ......................................................................................................................... 72
11 Certicates,approvalsandcertications ........................................................................... 73
11.1 Radio licenses................................................................................................................ 73
11.2 Approvals for Ex areas ................................................................................................... 73
11.3 Approvalsasoverllprotection....................................................................................... 73
11.4 Foodandpharmaceuticalcerticates............................................................................. 73
11.5 Conformity...................................................................................................................... 73
11.6 NAMUR recommendations ............................................................................................ 73
11.7 Materialandtestcercates........................................................................................... 74
11.8 Environment management system ................................................................................. 74
12 Supplement ............................................................................................................................ 75
12.1 Technical data ................................................................................................................ 75
12.2 Radio astronomy stations............................................................................................... 96
12.3 Device communication Modbus ..................................................................................... 97
12.4 Modbus register ............................................................................................................. 97
12.5 Modbus RTU commands ............................................................................................. 100
12.6 Levelmaster commands ............................................................................................... 102
12.7 CongurationoftypicalModbushosts ......................................................................... 105
12.8 Dimensions .................................................................................................................. 106
12.9 Industrial property rights............................................................................................... 124
12.10 Licensing information for open source software ........................................................... 124
12.11 Trademark .................................................................................................................... 124
Safety instructions for Ex areas:
TakenoteoftheExspecicsafetyinstructionsforExapplications.
These instructions are attached as documents to each instrument
with Ex approval and are part of the operating instructions.
Editing status: 2023-05-16

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1 About this document
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
1 About this document
1.1 Function
This instruction provides all the information you need for mounting,
connection and setup as well as important instructions for mainte-
nance,faultrectication,theexchangeofpartsandthesafetyofthe
user. Please read this information before putting the instrument into
operation and keep this manual accessible in the immediate vicinity
of the device.
1.2 Target group
This operating instructions manual is directed to trained personnel.
Thecontentsofthismanualmustbemadeavailabletothequalied
personnel and implemented.
1.3 Symbols used
Document ID
This symbol on the front page of this instruction refers to the Docu-
ment ID. By entering the Document ID on www.vega.com you will
reach the document download.
Information, note, tip: This symbol indicates helpful additional infor-
mation and tips for successful work.
Note: This symbol indicates notes to prevent failures, malfunctions,
damage to devices or plants.
Caution: Non-observance of the information marked with this symbol
may result in personal injury.
Warning: Non-observance of the information marked with this symbol
may result in serious or fatal personal injury.
Danger: Non-observance of the information marked with this symbol
results in serious or fatal personal injury.
Ex applications
This symbol indicates special instructions for Ex applications.
• List
The dot set in front indicates a list with no implied sequence.
1 Sequence of actions
Numbers set in front indicate successive steps in a procedure.
Disposal
This symbol indicates special instructions for disposal.

5
2 For your safety
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
2 For your safety
2.1 Authorised personnel
All operations described in this documentation must be carried out
onlybytrained,qualiedpersonnelauthorisedbytheplantoperator.
During work on and with the device, the required personal protective
equipment must always be worn.
2.2 Appropriate use
VEGAPULS 6X is a sensor for continuous level measurement.
Youcannddetailedinformationabouttheareaofapplicationin
chapter " Product description".
Operational reliability is ensured only if the instrument is properly
usedaccordingtothespecicationsintheoperatinginstructions
manual as well as possible supplementary instructions.
2.3 Warning about incorrect use
Inappropriate or incorrect use of this product can give rise to applica-
tion-specichazards,e.g.vesseloverllthroughincorrectmounting
or adjustment. Damage to property and persons or environmental
contamination can result. Also, the protective characteristics of the
instrument can be impaired.
2.4 General safety instructions
This is a state-of-the-art instrument complying with all prevailing
regulations and directives.The instrument must only be operated in a
technicallyawlessandreliablecondition.Theoperatorisresponsi-
ble for the trouble-free operation of the instrument. When measuring
aggressive or corrosive media that can cause a dangerous situation
if the instrument malfunctions, the operator has to implement suitable
measures to make sure the instrument is functioning properly.
The safety instructions in this operating instructions manual, the na-
tional installation standards as well as the valid safety regulations and
accident prevention rules must be observed by the user.
For safety and warranty reasons, any invasive work on the device
beyond that described in the operating instructions manual may be
carried out only by personnel authorised by the manufacturer. Arbi-
traryconversionsormodicationsareexplicitlyforbidden.Forsafety
reasons,onlytheaccessoryspeciedbythemanufacturermustbe
used.
To avoid any danger, the safety approval markings and safety tips on
the device must also be observed.
The low transmitting power of the radar sensor is far below the inter-
nationally approved limits. No health impairments are to be expected
with intended use.The band range of the measuring frequency can
be found in chapter " Technical data".

6
2 For your safety
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
2.5 Mode of operation - Radar signal
Countryspecicsettingsfortheradarsignalsaredeterminedviathe
mode.The operating mode must be set in the operating menu via the
respective operating tool at the beginning of the setup.
Caution:
Operating the device without selecting the relevant mode constitutes
a violation of the regulations of the radio approvals of the respective
country.
2.6 Installation and operation in the USA and
Canada
This information is only valid for USA and Canada. Hence the follow-
ing text is only available in the English language.
Installations in the US shall comply with the relevant requirements of
the National Electrical Code (ANSI/NFPA 70).
Installations in Canada shall comply with the relevant requirements of
the Canadian Electrical Code
A Class 2 power supply unit has to be used for the installation in the
USA and Canada.

7
3 Product description
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
3 Product description
3.1 Conguration
The scope of delivery encompasses:
• Radar sensor, possibly with accessories
– Discsprings(angeversionwithencapsulatedantennasys-
tem) 1)
– Hexagon socket wrench (for instruments with swivel holder)
– Optional accessory
• Information sheet " PINs and Codes" (with SIL, IT security,
Bluetooth versions) with:
– Bluetooth access code
– Device code
• Information sheet " Access protection" (with SIL, IT security,
Bluetooth versions) with:
– Bluetooth access code
– Emergency Bluetooth unlock code
– Device code
– Emergency device code
• Documentation
– Quick setup guide VEGAPULS 6X
– Instructions for optional instrument components
– Ex-specic"Safety instructions" (with Ex versions)
– Safety Manual (with SIL version)
– Radio licenses
– Ifnecessary,furthercerticates
Information:
Optional instrument features are also described in this operating
instructions manual.The respective scope of delivery results from the
orderspecication.
This operating instructions manual applies to the following instrument
versions:
• Hardware version from 1.1.1
• Software version from 1.2.0
Thetypelabelcontainsthemostimportantdataforidenticationand
use of the instrument:
Scope of delivery
Scope of this operating
instructions
Type label
1) Use see chapter "Mounting instructions, sealing to the process"

8
3 Product description
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
5
4
3
2
16
Fig. 1: Layout of the type label (example)
1 Device type, order code, radar frequency
2 Field for approvals, product code
3 Technical data
4 QR-code for VEGA Tools app
5 Reminder to observe the instrument documentation
6 Field for conformity logos
The type label contains also the serial number of the instrument. With
ityoucanndthefollowinginstrumentdataonourhomepage:
• Product information
• Deviceconguration
• Related documentation
• Further documents
Move to " www.vega.com"andenterinthesearcheldtheserial
number of your instrument.
Alternatively, you can access the data via your smartphone:
• Download the VEGA Tools app from the " Apple App Store" or the
" Google Play Store"
• Scan the QR-code on the type label of the device or
• Enter the serial number manually in the app
Theinstrumentcontainstwodierentelectronicsinitshousingcham-
bers:
• The Modbus electronics for power supply and communication with
the Modbus-RTU
• The sensor electronics for the actual measuring tasks
Serial number - Instru-
ment search
Electronics design

9
3 Product description
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
2
1
Fig. 2: Position of Modbus and sensor electronics
1 Modbus electronics
2 Sensor electronics
3.2 Principle of operation
The VEGAPULS 6X is a radar sensor for continuous level measure-
mentofliquidsaswellasbulksolidsunderdierentprocesscondi-
tions.
Theinstrumentisavailablewithdierentantennasystems:
1 2 3
4 5 6
Fig. 3: Antenna systems VEGAPULS 6X
1 Plastic horn antenna
2 Thread with integrated antenna system
3 Flange with encapsulated antenna system
4 Hygienictting
5 Horn antenna
6 Flange with lens antenna
Application area
Antenna systems

10
3 Product description
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
The instrument emits a continuous, frequency-modulated radar signal
throughitsantenna.Theemittedsignalisreectedbythemedium
andreceivedbytheantennaasanechowithmodiedfrequency.The
frequency change is proportional to the distance and is converted into
the level.
3.3 Adjustment
On-site adjustment of the device is carried out via the integrated
display and adjustment unit.
Note:
The housing with display and adjustment unit can be rotated by 360°
for optimum readability and operability.
Devices with integrated Bluetooth module can be adjusted wirelessly
via standard adjustment tools:
• Smartphone/tablet (iOS or Android operating system)
• PC/notebook (Windows operating system)
13
2
Fig. 4: Wireless connection to standard operating devices with integrated
Bluetooth LE
1 Sensor
2 Smartphone/Tablet
3 PC/Notebook
The adjustment via the signal cable is carried out via an RS 485/USB
interface adapter and a PC/notebook using DTM/PACTware.
Functional principle
Local adjustment
Wireless adjustment
Adjustment via the signal
cable

11
3 Product description
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
RS485
USB
1
2
3
4
5
Fig. 5: Connection of the PC via the interface adapter to the RS 485 cable
1 Interface adapter RS 485/USB
2 USB cable to the PC
3 RS 485 cable
4 Sensor
5 Voltage supply
3.4 Packaging, transport and storage
Your instrument was protected by packaging during transport. Its
capacity to handle normal loads during transport is assured by a test
based on ISO 4180.
The packaging consists of environment-friendly, recyclable card-
board. For special versions, PE foam or PE foil is also used. Dispose
of the packaging material via specialised recycling companies.
Transport must be carried out in due consideration of the notes on the
transport packaging. Nonobservance of these instructions can cause
damage to the device.
The delivery must be checked for completeness and possible transit
damage immediately at receipt. Ascertained transit damage or con-
cealed defects must be appropriately dealt with.
Up to the time of installation, the packages must be left closed and
stored according to the orientation and storage markings on the
outside.
Unless otherwise indicated, the packages must be stored only under
the following conditions:
• Not in the open
• Dry and dust free
• Not exposed to corrosive media
• Protected against solar radiation
• Avoiding mechanical shock and vibration
• Storage and transport temperature see chapter " Supplement -
Technical data - Ambient conditions"
• Relative moisture 20 … 85 %
With instrument weights of more than 18 kg (39.68 lbs) suitable and
approved equipment must be used for lifting and carrying.
Packaging
Transport
Transport inspection
Storage
Storage and transport
temperature
Lifting and carrying

12
3 Product description
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
3.5 Accessories
The instructions for the listed accessories can be found in the down-
load area on our homepage.
The display and adjustment module is used for measured value indi-
cation, adjustment and diagnosis.
The integrated Bluetooth module (optional) enables wireless adjust-
ment via standard adjustment devices.
The interface adapter VEGACONNECT enables the connection of
communication-capable instruments to the USB interface of a PC.
The VEGADIS 81 is an external display and adjustment unit for VEGA
plics®sensors.
Welded sockets are used to connect the devices to the process.
Threaded and hygienic adapters enable simple adaptation of devices
withstandardthreadedttingstoprocess-sidehygieneconnections.
Screwedangesareavailableindierentversionsaccordingtothe
following standards: DIN 2501, EN 1092-1, BS 10, ASME B 16.5,
JIS B 2210-1984, GOST 12821-80.
Display and adjustment
module
VEGACONNECT
VEGADIS 81
Welded socket, threaded
and hygienic adapter
Flanges

13
4 Setup – the most important steps
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
4 Setup – the most important steps
What? How?
Identify sensor Scan QR code on type label, check
sensor data
Liquids Bulk solids
> 200 mm
(7.87 ")
200 mm
(7.87
")
Connection technology Wiring plan
5678
4...20mA Display
12
+ ( ) (-)
2
1
4
3
Display and adjustment module VEGA Tools app 2)
Liquids Bulk solids
Enter medium type, application, vessel height, adjustment and mode
100%
0%
0,5 m
(19.68
")
5 m
(196.9
")
100%
0%
1 m
(39.37
")
35 m
(1378
")
Indicators Output
Prepare
Mount and connect sen-
sor
Select adjustment
Parameterize sensor
Check measured value
2) Download via Apple App Store, Google Play Store, Baidu Store

14
5 Mounting
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
5 Mounting
5.1 General instructions
Protect your instrument against moisture ingress through the following
measures:
• Use a suitable connection cable (see chapter " Connecting to
power supply")
• Tighten the cable gland or plug connector
• Lead the connection cable downward in front of the cable entry or
plug connector
This applies mainly to outdoor installations, in areas where high
humidity is expected (e.g. through cleaning processes) and on cooled
or heated vessels.
Note:
Make sure that during installation or maintenance no moisture or dirt
can get inside the instrument.
To maintain the housing protection, make sure that the housing lid is
closed during operation and locked, if necessary.
Note:
For safety reasons, the instrument must only be operated within the
permissibleprocessconditions.Youcannddetailedinformationon
the process conditions in chapter " Technical data" of the operating
instructions or on the type label.
Hence make sure before mounting that all parts of the instrument ex-
posed to the process are suitable for the existing process conditions.
These are mainly:
• Active measuring component
• Processtting
• Process seal
Process conditions in particular are:
• Process pressure
• Process temperature
• Chemical properties of the medium
• Abrasionandmechanicalinuences
As a standard feature, the VEGAPULS 6X is separate from the pro-
cess through its plastic antenna encapsulation.
Optionally, the instrument is available with a Second Line of Defense
(SLOD), a second process separation. It is located as gas-tight
leadthrough between the process component and the electronics.
This means additional safety against penetration of the medium fron
the process into the instrument.
5.2 Housing features
Thelterelementinthehousingisusedforventilationofthehousing.
Protection against mois-
ture
Process conditions
Second Line of Defense
Filter element

15
5 Mounting
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
Foreectiveventilation,thelterelementmustalwaysbefreeof
deposits.Therefore,mountthedevicesothatthelterelementis
protected against deposits.
Note:
Do not use a high-pressure cleaner to clean housings in standard
typesofprotection.Thelterelementcouldbedamagedandmois-
ture could penetrate the housing.
For applications with high-pressure cleaners, the device is available
with the appropriate IP69 housing protection.
2 3 4
1
1
11
1
6
5
Fig.6:Positionofthelterelementdependingonhousing
1 Filter element
2 Plastic single chamber
3 Aluminium single chamber, stainless steel single chamber (precision cast-
ing)
4 Stainless steel single chamber (electropolished)
5 Plastic double chamber
6 Aluminium, stainless steel double chamber housing (precision casting)
Information:
For devices in protection class IP66/IP68 (1 bar), ventilation is pro-
videdbyacapillaryinthexedcable.Inthesedevices,ablindplugis
installedinthehousinginsteadofthelterelement.
The housing of VEGAPULS 6X can be rotated completely by 360°.
This enables optimal reading of the display and easy cable entry. 3)
For housings made of plastic or electropolished stainless steel, this is
done without tools.
For housings made of aluminium or stainless steel (precision cast-
ing), a locking screw must be loosened for turning, see the following
illustration:
Housing orientation
3) No limitation by a rotation stop

16
5 Mounting
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
1
2 3
1
Fig. 7: Position of the locking screw depending on housing
1 Locking screw
2 Aluminium, stainless steel single chamber housing (precision casting)
3 Aluminium, stainless steel double chamber housing (precision casting)
Proceed as follows:
1. Loosen locking screw (hexagon size 2.5)
2. Turn housing into requested position
3. Re-tighten the locking screw (torque see chapter " Technical
data").
Note:
By rotating the housing, polarisation changes. For this reason,
please also observe the notes on polarisation in chapter " Mounting
instructions".
With the aluminium and stainless steel housing (precision casting),
the housing cover can be secured with a screw.This protects the
device against unauthorised opening of the cover.
32
11
Fig. 8: Position of the safety screw depending on housing
1 Safety screw
2 Aluminium, stainless steel single chamber housing (precision casting)
3 Aluminium, stainless steel double chamber housing (precision casting)
Proceed as follows to secure the cover:
1. Screw the housing cover on tightly by hand
2. Unscrew the locking screw from the cover up to the stop using a
size 4 hexagonal spanner
3. Check if the cover can no longer be turned
Cover catch

17
5 Mounting
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
The housing cover is unlocked in the opposite way.
Note:
The locking screw has two holes drilled through the head.Thus it can
also be sealed.
5.3 Mounting preparations, mounting strap
The mounting bracket is supplied loose as an optional accessory for
the plastic horn antenna. It must be screwed onto the sensor with the
three M5 x 10 hexagon socket screws and spring washers before
setup:
• Required tool: Hexagon spanner size 4
• Max. torque: see chapter " Technical data"
Therearetwodierentvariantsofscrewingthestraptothesensor,
see following illustration:
1 2
Fig. 9: Mounting strap for screwing to the sensor
1 Variant 1: Inclination adjustable in steps
2 Variant 2: Inclination steplessly adjustable
Depending on the selected variant, the sensor can be rotated in the
strap:
• Single chamber housing
– Inclination in three steps 0°, 90° and 180°
– Inclination 180° steplessly
• Double chamber housing
– Inclination in two steps 0° and 90°
– Inclination 90° steplessly

18
5 Mounting
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
Fig. 10: Adjustment of the inclination when mounted horizontally on the wall
Fig. 11: Rotate when mounted vertically on the ceiling
5.4 Mounting versions, plastic horn antenna
The optional mounting strap allows simple mounting of the instrument
on a wall, ceiling or boom. Especially in the case of open vessels, this
isasimpleandeectivewaytoalignthesensortothesurfaceofthe
bulk solid material.
The following versions are available:
• Length 300 mm
• Length 170 mm
Note:
For safe operation of the device, stable, permanent mounting on a
load-bearing surface (concrete, wood, steel, etc.) is required.Take
this into account when choosing the installation location and use suit-
able fastening materials (screws, dowels, pipe clamps, etc.).
The instrument is normally mounted vertically with a bracket on the
ceiling.
This allows swivelling the sensor up to 180° for optimal orientation
and rotating for optimal connection.
Mounting strap
Mounting strap - Ceiling
mounting

19
5 Mounting
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
Fig. 12: Ceiling mounting via the mounting strap with length 300 mm
As an alternative the strap mounting is carried out horizontally or
obliquely.
> 200 mm
(7.87")
Fig. 13: Wall mounting horizontally via the mounting strap with length 170 mm
Fig. 14: Wall mounting with inclined wall via the mounting strap with length
300 mm
Two versions are available for mounting the instrument on a nozzle:
Mounting strap - Wall
mounting
Flange

20
5 Mounting
VEGAPULS 6X • Modbus and Levelmaster protocol
1015559-EN-230524
• Combicompressionange
• Adapterange
Combicompressionange:
Thecombicompressionangeissuitablefordierentvesselanges
DN 80, ASME 3" and JIS 80. It comes not sealed against the radar
sensorandcanthusonlybeusedunpressurized.Itcanberetrotted
oninstrumentswithsinglechamberhousing,retrottingtoadouble
chamber housing is not possible.
1
Fig.15:Combicompressionange
1 Combicompressionange
Adapterange:
TheadapterangeisavailablefromDN100,ASME3"andJIS100.It
is permanently connected with the radar sensor and sealed.
3
1
2
Fig.16:Adapterange
1 Connection screw
2 Adapterange
3 Process seal
5.5 Mounting instructions
Radar sensors for level measurement emit electromagnetic waves.
The polarisation is the direction of the electrical share of these waves.
Itisidentiablebyamarkonthehousing,seethefollowingdrawing:
Polarisation