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Beacon 800 Gas Monitor

Operator’s Manual

Part Number: 71-0037RK


Revision: J
Released: 9/26/22

RKI Instruments, Inc.


www.rkiinstruments.com
Product Warranty
RKI Instruments, Inc. warrants gas alarm equipment sold by us to be free from defects in
materials, workmanship, and performance for a period of one year from date of shipment from
RKI Instruments, Inc. Any parts found defective within that period will be repaired or replaced, at
our option, free of charge. This warranty does not apply to those items, which by their nature, are
subject to deterioration or consumption in normal service, and which must be cleaned, repaired, or
replaced on a routine basis. Examples of such items are as follows:
• Absorbent cartridges
• Fuses
• Pump diaphragms and valves
• Batteries
• Filter elements
Warranty is voided by abuse including mechanical damage, alteration, rough handling, or repair
procedures not in accordance with the operator’s manual. This warranty indicates the full extent
of our liability, and we are not responsible for removal or replacement costs, local repair costs,
transportation costs, or contingent expenses incurred without our prior approval.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES AND
REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ALL OTHER OBLIGATIONS OR
LIABILITIES ON THE PART OF RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC., INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO
EVENT SHALL RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC. BE LIABLE FOR INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND CONNECTED WITH THE USE OF ITS
PRODUCTS OR FAILURE OF ITS PRODUCTS TO FUNCTION OR OPERATE PROPERLY.

This warranty covers instruments and parts sold to users by authorized distributors, dealers, and
representatives as appointed by RKI Instruments, Inc.
We do not assume indemnification for any accident or damage caused by the operation of this gas
monitor, and our warranty is limited to the replacement of parts or our complete goods.

2 • Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual


Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
About the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Chapter 2: Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
External Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Internal Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Chapter 3: Installation & Startup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14


Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Mounting the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Wiring the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Starting Up the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Chapter 4: Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Alarm Indications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Viewing & Resetting Min/Max Readings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Chapter 5: Configuration Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31


Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Enabling or Disabling Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Calibration Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Configure Channel Settings Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Chapter 6: Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Replacing the Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual • 3


Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Heavy Duty Relay Board . . . 41
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Recorder Output Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Heavy Duty Relay Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

4 • Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual


Chapter 1: Introduction

Overview
This chapter briefly describes the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor. This chapter also describes the
Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual (this document). Table 1 at the end of this chapter
lists the specifications for the Beacon 800.

About the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


The Beacon 800 is a fixed-mounted, continuous-monitoring instrument. This multiple channel
gas monitor is capable of detecting gas at up to eight locations. The display screens
simultaneously display the gas readings of all active channels.
The Beacon 800 includes audible and visual alarms that warn you of hazardous gas conditions.
The alarm circuit includes two levels of gas alarms. The fail circuit alerts you to failures in the gas
transmitter(s) or Beacon 800.
The Configuration menu allows you to change channel and calibration settings.

About this Manual


The Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual uses the following conventions for notes,
cautions, and warnings:

NOTE: Describes additional or critical information.

CAUTION: Describes potential damage to equipment.

WARNING: Describes potential danger that can result in injury or death.

Specifications
Table 1 lists specifications for the Beacon 800.
Table 1: Beacon 800 Specifications

Input Power 100 to 240 VAC or 24 VDC

Detector Head Input 2 or 3 wire 4-20mA transmitters


Type
Construction (housing) Fiberglass/polyester with lexan window (NEMA 4X)

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction • 5


Table 1: Beacon 800 Specifications

12.5 in. H x 11.0 in. W x 6.4 in. D


Dimensions
(31.8 cm H x 27.9 cm W x 16.3 cm D)

Weight 10.4 lbs. (without AC line cord)

Operating Temperature -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C)

Storage Temperature -4°F to 158°F (-20°C to 70°C)

Regulatory CSA, NRTL/C

• For indoor or outdoor locations (Type 4X)


• 2000 meter max altitude
Environmental
• Maximum humidity: 80% relative
Conditions
• Pollution Degree 2
• Installation Category II
• Reset switch
User Controls • Program buttons: ESCAPE, UP (YES), DOWN (NO), and
ENTER)

Relays CSA Rated for 3 amps at 240 VAC resistive, Form C

Standard Accessory Operator’s manual (this document)

6 • Chapter 1: Introduction Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Chapter 2: Description

Overview
This chapter describes external and internal components of the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor.

External Description
This section describes the housing and all external components of the Beacon 800. For the
purposes of this description, the housing door is considered the front of the monitor.

Housing
The Beacon 800’s fiberglass housing is weather- and corrosion-resistant. It is suitable for
installation where general purpose equipment is in use. The housing door is hinged on the left side
and is secured by two latches on the right side. The display screens and status lights are visible
through windows in the housing door. Four mounting feet are attached to the back of the housing
(one at each corner). The mounting feet allow you to install the housing to a vertical surface. Four
conduit hubs on the bottom of the housing are for external wiring connections.

CAUTION: Only use the four factory installed conduit hubs on the bottom of the housing for
wire entry into the housing. Do not drill the housing for any reason.

CAUTION: To avoid electrical interference, do not route transmitter and power wiring through
the same conduit hub.

Reset Switch
The reset switch is on the bottom of the housing, in front of the buzzer. The reset switch serves
three functions:
• Resets the alarm circuits for “latched” alarms after an alarm 1 or alarm 2 condition passes.
You can set each channel for latched or self-resetting alarms in the channel setup program.
See Chapter 5, Configuration, for more information.
• Silences the buzzer during an alarm 1 or alarm 2 condition. You cannot silence failure
alarms.
• Displays and resets the minimum and maximum gas concentration values.

Buzzer
The buzzer is on the bottom of the housing, behind the reset switch. The buzzer sounds audible
warnings to warn you of gas alarms and instrument failures.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 2: Description • 7


Internal Description
This section describes the internal components of the Beacon 800.

Main Board Housing (Shown


without Door)
Power Supply

Display Board

Channel Relays
(see Figure 3) Power Switch

Alarm 2 AC Terminal Strip


Terminal Strip
(Channels 1 - 4)

Alarm 1 Controller Terminal


Terminal Strip Strip
(Channels 1 - 4)

Transmitter Alarm 2
Terminal Strip Terminal Strip
(Channels 5 - 8) (Channels 5 - 8)

Transmitter Alarm 1
Terminal Strip Terminal Strip
(Channels 1 - 4) (Channels 5 - 8)
Conduit Hub (x4)
Buzzer (behind switch) Reset Switch Ground Stud

Figure 1: Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Component Location

Display Screens
NOTE: The display screens, status lights, and program buttons are mounted to a secondary
circuit board. This circuit board is mounted to the main circuit board by standoffs.

The display screens simultaneously display the target gas, measuring unit, and current gas reading
of all active channels. The top screen displays channels 1 through 4; the bottom screen displays
channels 5 through 8.
The display screens also display messages, settings, Band other data when you are operating the
configuration menu.

8 • Chapter 2: Description Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Display Screen 1 FAIL Light
(Channels 1 - 4) Thumbscrew
(total of 2)

ESCAPE Button
ALARM 2 Light

ALARM 1 Light UP (YES) Button

DOWN (NO) Button

ENTER Button

PILOT Light

Display Screen 2
(Channels 5 - 8)

Figure 2: Display Board Component Location

Status Lights
The Beacon 800 includes four status lights that indicate the current status of the monitor: the
ALARM 1 light, the ALARM 2 light, the FAIL light, and the PILOT light (see Figure 2).
PILOT Light
The PILOT light is on when the Beacon 800 is receiving incoming power, either AC or DC
power.
FAIL Light
The FAIL light turns on when the Beacon 800 is experiencing a fail condition. A fail condition
can be caused by a failure within the Beacon 800 or transmitter(s) wired to the Beacon 800 (see
“Chapter 6: Maintenance” on page 38).
ALARM 1 Light
The ALARM 1 light is on when the Beacon 800 is experiencing a low-level (alarm 1) or high-
level (alarm 2) gas condition.
ALARM 2 Light
The ALARM 2 light is on when the Beacon 800 is experiencing a high-level (alarm 2) gas
condition.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 2: Description • 9


Program Buttons
The Beacon 800 includes four program button that allow you to enter the Configuration Menu,
navigate through the menu, update instrument and channel settings, and save changes to the
settings. The program buttons, listed in Table 2, are near the right edge of the display board (see
Figure 2).
Table 2: Beacon 800 Program Button Functions

Button Function
ESCAPE • Moves backward through the Configuration Menu
• Cancels changes you make in the Configuration Menu
• Enters the Configuration Menu (press with ENTER button)

UP (YES) • Accepts the displayed setting and proceeds to the next setting
• Changes the displayed setting

DOWN (NO) • Allows you to update the displayed setting


• Changes the displayed setting

ENTER • Saves changes you make in the Configuration Menu


• Enters the Configuration Menu (press with ESCAPE button)

Ground Stud
The ground stud is used for connecting earth ground to the Beacon 800. The ground stud is
factory wired to the GND terminal on the AC terminal strip. The ground stud is located in the
lower right corner of the main board.

Terminal Strips
The Beacon 800 includes four terminal strips for external wiring connections. See “Wiring the
Beacon 800 Gas Monitor” on page 17 for detailed wiring procedures.
Transmitter Terminal Strips
Two transmitter terminal strips are mounted to the bottom left corner of the main circuit board
(see Figure 1). These two 12-point terminal strips facilitate wiring connections to the detector
heads. The bottom terminal strip is for channels 1 through 4; the top terminal strip is for channels
5 through 8.
Alarm Terminal Strips
Four alarm terminal strips are to the right of the transmitter terminal strips (see Figure 1). These
four 12-point terminal strips facilitate wiring connections to external alarm devices (horn, strobe,
etc.). The bottom row of alarm terminals is for alarm 1 connections; the top row of alarm
terminals is for alarm 2 connection.

NOTE: The alarm terminal strips provide external alarm connections controlled by individual
channels. The Beacon 800 also provides common alarm terminals on the controller
terminal strip. The common alarm terminals are controlled by all active channels.

10 • Chapter 2: Description Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Controller Terminal Strip
The 19-point controller terminal strip is to the right of the alarm terminal strips (see Figure 1). The
controller terminal strip facilitates various internal and external wiring connections. Table 3 lists
the function of each terminal.
Table 3: Terminal Assignments for the Controller Terminal Strip

Terminal No. Connects to:


24VDC (BAT-/BAT+) DC power source (you can use DC power as a primary or
backup power source.)1

ALM2 (C, NO, NC) Common alarm 2 (external alarm)2

ALM1 (C, NO, NC) Common alarm 1 (external alarm)3

FAIL (C, NO, NC) Common fail (external alarm)4

+28V Not used

TX Not used

RX Not used

GND Not used

RESET (2) Reset switch (factory-wired)

BUZ-/BUZ+ Internal buzzer (factory-wired)


1 If used as primary power source do not make wiring connections to the AC terminal
strip.
2 Activates if any gas channel recognizes an alarm 2 condition.
3
Activates if any gas channel recognizes an alarm 1 condition.
4 Activates if any gas channel or the Beacon 800 recognizes a fail condition.

AC Terminal Strip
The 3-point AC terminal strip is above the controller terminal strip (see Figure 1). The AC
terminal strip facilitates wiring connections to the AC power source. The GND terminal is factory
wired to the ground stud.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 2: Description • 11


Relays
The Beacon 800 includes 16 channel relays and three common relays. Both sets of relay contacts
are single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) and are rated for 3 amps at 240 VAC (resistive).

NOTE: In the Configuration menu, you can select normally energized, or normally de-energized
relays for each channel relay. This section describes the default setting: normally de-
energized.

NOTE: The alarm 1 and alarm 2 common relays are factory-set as normally de-energized and
the fail common relay is factory-set as normally energized. The normally energized/
normally de-energized setting for the alarm 1, alarm 2, and fail common relays is not
user-adjustable.

Channel Relays
The 16-channel relays are above the alarm terminal strips (see Figure 1). These relays are
dedicated to specific channels and alarm levels.
For example, the channel 1, alarm 1 relay energizes if channel 1 recognizes an alarm 1 condition.
Figure 3 illustrates the allocation of the channel relays.

Alarm 2

Alarm 1

Channel 1 Channel 8

Figure 3: Beacon 800 Channel Relay Allocation


Common Relays
The three common relays are above the AC terminal strip (see Figure 1). These relays are
common for all channels.
For example, the alarm 1 common relay energizes if any channel recognizes an alarm 1 condition.

12 • Chapter 2: Description Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Power Switch
The power switch is to the left of the fuses (see Figure 1). The power switch turns the incoming
power source on and off at the Beacon 800. When the switch is up, the power is on.

Power Supply
The power supply is near the top edge of the main circuit board. The power supply receives the
AC input from the external power source and converts it to a DC voltage that is usable by the
Beacon 800 circuitry.

Fuses
The Beacon 800 includes two AC fuses and one DC fuse. The fuses are housed in extractor-type
fuse holders behind the display board and to the left of the common relays.
• The AC fuses are the two 3A fuses. The AC fuses protect the AC line circuitry from short
circuit or overload.
• The DC fuse is the 6A fuse. The DC fuse protects the DC line circuitry from short circuit
or overload.

NOTE: If your Beacon 800 includes the optional Recorder Output Board or the Heavy Duty
Relay Board, please see “Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Heavy Duty
Relay Board” on page 41 for a complete description of these options.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 2: Description • 13


Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up

Overview
This chapter describes procedures showing how to mount the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor, to make
wiring connections to the monitor, and to start up the monitor.

WARNING: Perform all installation and start-up procedures in a “fresh air” environment of
normal oxygen content, and known to be free of combustible and toxic gas. The
Beacon 800 is not in operation as a gas monitoring system until the start-up
procedure is complete.

Mounting the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Perform the following procedure to install the Beacon 800 at the mounting site.
1. Select the mounting site. When you select the mounting site, consider the following factors:
• Is an AC or DC power source available?
• Is there enough room to open the housing door and make wiring connections through the
conduit hubs at the bottom of the housing?
• Are the display screens and status lights visible?
2. Close and latch the housing door.
3. Position the monitor on a vertical surface at eye level (4 1/2 to 5 feet from the floor).
4. The Beacon 800 is shipped with the mounting feet positioned under the housing. Loosen the
screws that secure the feet to the housing, rotate the feet to their mounting position (as shown
in Figure 4), then tighten the screws.
5. Insert 1/4 in. screws through the slots in the mounting feet at each corner of the housing to
secure the housing to the mounting surface (see Figure 4).

14 • Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


10.5 in (26.7 cm)

8.0 in. (20.3 cm)

12.9 in. (32.8 cm)

NOTE: The housing is


6.5 in (15.9 cm) deep.
12.5 in. (31.8 cm)

13.4 in (34.0 cm)

3/4 in. Conduit Hub


(total of 4 hubs)

Figure 4: Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Outline and Mounting Dimensions

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up • 15
AC Power Wiring
Common Alarm Relay Wiring Line (Hot) 100-240 VAC
Note: Do not connect AC
(typical wiring) Neutral
(factory wired) power if 24 VDC is the
Alarm Device Ground primary power source.
Power
24 VDC
Battery +
Ground
Stud
Alarm
Devices

Not
Used

Reset Switch
(factory wired)
Buzzer
(factory wired)

Figure 5: Common Alarm Relay Wiring and AC Power Wiring Diagram

Transmitter Wiring

FB (4 - 20 mA) 2 wire 4 - 20 mA
Transmitter Terminals
+ 24 VDC (typical)

- (DC Ground)
3 wire 4 - 20 mA
FB (4 - 20 mA) Transmiter Terminals
(typical)
+ 24 VDC

Figure 6: Transmitter Wiring Diagram

16 • Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Individual Alarm Relay Wiring Alarm 1 Terminal Strip for
Channels 1 - 4 (typical wiring)

Contact Rating of 3 Amps


Resistive at 240 VAC for Each
Set of Alarm Relay Contacts.

Alarm
Device
Power

Alarm
Devices

Figure 7: Alarm Relay Wiring

Wiring the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


This section describes procedures to connect the AC power source, DC power source, external
alarms, and detector heads. See Figure 5 for a general wiring diagram of all external wiring to the
Beacon 800.

NOTE: All connections to building electrical systems must be installed in accordance with local
requirements and must be installed by qualified personnel.

WARNING: Make all connections to the Beacon 800 before you plug in or turn on the AC or
DC power source. Before you make any wiring adjustments, always verify that all
power sources are not live.

Routing Wiring Into the Beacon 800 Housing


Wiring must be brought into the housing through one of the four factory-installed conduit hubs on
the bottom of the housing.
Do not drill into the Beacon 800 housing for any reason. Drilling the Beacon 200 housing and
routing wiring through holes not factory drilled will void the warranty and could result in:
• Damage to internal components from the drilling process.
• Moisture damage to internal components from poorly sealed holes.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up • 17
• Unpredictable Beacon 800 behavior due to EMI/RFI interference caused by wires routed
across the PCBs.
• Possible shorting of Beacon 800 components due to wires routed across the PCBs.

Accessing the Terminal Strips


Perform the following procedure to gain access to the AC and controller terminal strips, which are
located behind the display board.
1. Turn off or unplug all incoming power to the Beacon 800 at the power source end.
2. Open the housing door, then place the power switch in the OFF position.
3. Loosen the two captive thumbscrews (on the right side of the display board) that secure the
board to the standoffs, until the screws are disengaged from the standoffs.
4. Gently pull the right side of the display board out toward the housing door. (The standoffs
under the left side of the display board are hinged, which allows the display board to move in
this manner.)

Connecting the AC Power Source and Earth Ground


NOTE: If you are using DC power as the primary power source, go to the next section,
“Connecting the DC Power Source.”

Perform the following procedure to connect the AC power source to the Beacon 800.

WARNING: Verify that the power source is unplugged or turned off at the power source end
before you continue with this procedure.

1. Locate the AC terminal strip (see Figure 1 on page 8).


2. Install an appropriately rated cable bushing or conduit in the right-most conduit hub on the
bottom of the Beacon 800 housing.

CAUTION: Only use the four factory installed conduit hubs on the bottom of the
housing for wire entry into the housing. Do not drill the housing for any
reason. See “Routing Wiring Into the Beacon 800 Housing” on page 17
for more information.

3. Guide the AC power cord or wires in conduit through the right-most conduit hub on the
bottom of the Beacon 800 housing.

CAUTION: Do not route power and detector head wiring through the same conduit
hub. The power wiring may disrupt the transmission of the detector
head signal to the monitor.

18 • Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


4. Connect the AC power wires to the AC terminal strip and the earth ground wire to the # 10
ground stud as shown in Figure 6.

Hot
Neutral
GND Factory W ired to Ground Stud

AC Power
Source AC Terminal
Earth Ground Strip

Figure 8: AC Power Wiring

Connecting the DC Power Source


WARNING: Verify that the power source is unplugged or turned off at the power source end
before you continue with this procedure.

DC power may be used as a primary power source. If DC power (connected to the 24 VDC
terminals) is the primary power source, DO NOT connect AC power to the AC terminal strip.
A 24 VDC battery (connected to the 24 VDC terminals) may also be used as a backup power
source if AC power (connected to the AC terminal strip) is the primary power source.

WARNING: The 24 VDC terminals are only intended for connecting a battery or a 24 VDC
supply to the Beacon 800. Do not connect any horns or strobes to the 24 VDC
terminals.

1. Locate the controller terminal strip (see Figure 1 on page 8).


2. Install an appropriately rated cable bushing or conduit in an unused conduit hub on the bottom
of the Beacon 800 housing.

CAUTION: Only use the four factory installed conduit hubs on the bottom of the
housing for wire entry into the housing. Do not drill the housing for any
reason. See “Routing Wiring Into the Beacon 800 Housing” on page 17
for more information.

3. Guide a DC power cord or two wires in conduit through the selected conduit hub on the
bottom of the Beacon 800 housing.

CAUTION: Do not route power and detector head wiring through the same conduit
hub. The power wiring may disrupt the transmission of the detector
head signal to the monitor.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up • 19
4. Connect the DC line to the controller terminal strip as shown in Figure 7.

24VDC
BAT-
BAT+
+
DC Power Controller
Source Terminal Strip

Figure 9: DC Power Wiring

Connecting External Alarms


The relays are rated for 3 amps at 240 VAC (resistive). Perform the following procedure to
connect external alarm devices to the Beacon 800.

NOTE: The alarm terminal strips include terminals that are dedicated to individual channels
and levels of alarm. The controller terminal strip includes terminals for common alarms
(dedicated to all channels).

NOTE: The example used in this procedure describes connecting an external alarm device to the
channel 1, alarm 1 terminals on the alarm terminal strip.

WARNING: Do not connect external alarms to the 24 VDC terminals.

1. Locate the applicable alarm terminal strip (see Figure 1 on page 8).
2. Install an appropriately rated cable bushing or conduit in an unused conduit hub on the bottom
of the Beacon 800.

CAUTION: Only use the four factory installed conduit hubs on the bottom of the
housing for wire entry into the housing. Do not drill the housing for any
reason. See “Routing Wiring Into the Beacon 800 Housing” on page 17
for more information.

3. Guide the wiring of the external alarm device through the selected conduit hub on the bottom
of the Beacon 800 housing.

CAUTION: Do not route the external alarm wiring and detector head wiring
through the same conduit hub. The external alarm wiring may disrupt
the transmission of the detector head signal to the Beacon 800.

20 • Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


4. Connect the leads from the external alarm device to the alarm terminal strip as shown in
Figure 8.
Beacon 800
CH1 Alarm Terminal Strip
C NO NC

(H) + (H) +
External External
Alarm Device Power Source
(N) - (N) -

Figure 10: External Alarm Wiring


5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for additional external alarm devices.

Connecting RKI Detector Heads


Perform the following procedure to connect an RKI detector head to the Beacon 800.
1. Turn off Power to the Beacon 800 at the power source.
2. Open the Beacon 800 door and place the power switch in the off position.
3. See the detector head instruction manual for instructions on how to connect wires to the
detector head.
4. Install an appropriately rated cable bushing or conduit in an unused conduit hub on the bottom
of the Beacon 800 housing.

CAUTION: Only use the four factory installed conduit hubs on the bottom of the
housing for wire entry into the housing. Do not drill the housing for any
reason. See “Routing Wiring Into the Beacon 800 Housing” on page 17
for more information.

5. Route the wires in conduit or shielded cable from the detector head through the selected
conduit hub into the Beacon 800. See Table 4 below for wire size and distance guidelines.
Shielded cable or wires in conduit are recommended for the 2-wire and 3-wire 4 - 20 mA
transmitter detector heads.

NOTE: If using shielded cable, do not connect the cable shield’s drain wire to earth
ground at the detector head. The drain wire is only connected to earth ground
at the Beacon 800.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up • 21
6. Connect the wires from the detector head to the appropriate transmitter terminal strip. See the
detector head instruction manual for controller terminal connections.

CAUTION: Do not route power and detector head wiring through the same conduit
hub. The power wiring may disrupt the transmission of the detector
head’s signal to the Beacon 800.

Table 4: Wire Size Guidelines for RKI Detector Head Wiring

Max Max
Max Distance
Number of Distance to Distance to
Detector Head to Controller
Wires to Controller w/ Controller w/
Type w/18 Gauge
Controller 16 Gauge 14 Gauge
Wire
Wire Wire
2-Wire 4 - 20 mA 2 2,500 ft. 5,000 ft. 8,000 ft.
Transmitter

3-Wire 4 - 20 mA 3 2,500 ft. 5,000 ft. 8,000 ft.


Transmitter

Connecting User-Supplied 4 - 20 mA Transmitters


The Beacon 800 may be used with a user supplied 2-wire or 3-wire 4 - 20 mA transmitter which
runs on 24 VDC nominal (the Beacon 800 supplies 28VDC). When this is done, the Beacon 800
is normally setup at RKI Instruments with the following channel parameters: unit of measure,
item name, and full scale. For example, “PSI AIR” with a full scale of 10 PSI.
Perform the following procedure to connect a 4 - 20 mA transmitter, which you supply, to the
Beacon 800.
1. Turn off power to the Beacon 800 at the power source.
2. Open the Beacon 800 door and turn off the power switch.
3. See the transmitter’s instruction manual for instructions on how to connect wires to the
transmitter.
4. Install an appropriately rated cable bushing or conduit in an unused conduit hub on the bottom
of the Beacon 800 housing.

CAUTION: Only use the four factory installed conduit hubs on the bottom of the
housing for wire entry into the housing. Do not drill the housing for any
reason. See “Routing Wiring Into the Beacon 800 Housing” on page 17
for more information.

5. Route the wires from the transmitter through the selected conduit hub into the Beacon 800.

22 • Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


6. Connect the wires from the transmitter to the appropriate transmitter terminal strip. See the
transmitter instruction manual for controller terminal connections. Figure 9 below illustrates
typical transmitter wiring connections.

CAUTION: Do not route power and transmitter wiring through the same conduit
hub. The power wiring may disrupt the transmission of the transmitter’s
signal to the Beacon 800.

3-Wire Connection 2-Wire Connection

Beacon 800 CH1 CH1 Beacon 800


Transmitter Terminal Strip + S - + S - Transmitter Terminal Strip

(24 VDC) + + (24 VDC)


(4 - 20 mA) FB FB (4 - 20 mA)
(DC Ground) -

Transmitter
Transmitter

Figure 11: Generic 4 to 20 mA Transmitter Output Wiring

NOTE: If your Beacon 800 includes the recorder output board or heavy duty relay board, see
“Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Heavy Duty Relay Board” on page 41
for wiring instructions.

Starting Up the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Perform the following procedure to place the Beacon 800 into normal operation.
1. Complete the mounting and wiring procedures described earlier in this chapter.
2. Complete all installation procedures described in the detector head or user supplied 4 - 20 mA
transmitter instruction manual.
3. Verify that all wiring connections are correct and secure and that the Beacon 800’s power
switch is in the OFF position.
4. Plug in or turn on the incoming power source (AC or DC) at the power source end.
5. Place the Beacon 800’s power switch in the ON position. RKI INSTRUMENTS appears on
the top display and BEACON 800 appears on the bottom display for a few seconds, then
WARMING UP appears for each active channel. The warm-up period will last for one
minute.

NOTE: To prevent unwanted alarms during warm up, the alarm circuits are not
active while the WARMING UP message is displayed.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up • 23
6. Verify that the PILOT light is on. If the PILOT light is not on, see the troubleshooting guide in
Chapter 6, Maintenance.
7. Perform the start-up procedure for each detector head or user supplied 4 - 20 mA transmitter
as described in the detector head or transmitter instruction manual.

NOTE: If your Beacon 800 includes the optional Recorder Output Board or the
Heavy Duty Relay Board, please see “Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output
Board & Heavy Duty Relay Board” on page 41 for a complete description of
these components.

24 • Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Chapter 4: Operation

Overview
This chapter describes the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor in normal operation. This chapter also
describes the Beacon 800 in alarm 1, alarm 2, and fail conditions, and suggests responses to these
conditions.

Normal Operation
Normal operation is defined as follows:
• the start-up procedure is complete.
• the Beacon 800 is not indicating an alarm 1, alarm 2, or fail condition.
• the Beacon 800 is not running the Configuration menu.
During normal operation, the Beacon 800 simultaneously displays the target gas, unit of measure,
and current gas reading for all active channels. The top screen displays channels 1 through 4; the
bottom screen displays channels 5 through 8.

1 : 0 % L E L C H 4
2 : 2 0 . 9 % O X Y
3 : 0 P P M C O
4 : 0 P P M H 2 S

5 : 0 % L E L C H 4
6 : 2 0 . 9 % O X Y
7 : 0 P P M C O
8 : 0 P P M H 2 S
Figure 12: Target Gas Display
The PILOT light is on indicating that the Beacon 800 is receiving incoming power.

Alarm Indications
This section describes the Beacon 800 in alarm 1, alarm 2, and fail conditions, and suggests
responses to these conditions. Table 4 lists the alarm indications for each condition.

NOTE: The Beacon 800 includes alarm on and alarm off delay settings for each channel and
level of gas alarm. The alarm indications described in this section operate according to
the default delay settings. See Chapter 5: Configuration Menu for detailed information
on displaying or changing the alarm on and alarm off delay settings.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 4: Operation • 25


Table 5: Visual and Audible Alarm Indications

Audible
Condition Cause Visual Indication(s)
Indication
Alarm 1 Increasing (decreasing for O2) • ALARM 1 light is on Steady
gas reading at or above the • Gas reading flashes and tone
alarm 1 setpoint alternates with
ALARM-1 message

Alarm 2 Increasing gas reading at or • ALARM 1 and Steady


above the alarm 2 setpoint ALARM 2 lights are tone
on1
• Gas reading flashes and
alternates with
ALARM-1 and
ALARM-2 messages

Fail • Disconnected or • FAIL light is on Steady


misconnected transmitter • FAIL message flashes tone
wiring in place of gas reading
• Display reading below -10% There is a 30 second
of fullscale or lower delay on the fail
• Malfunctioning components condition.

Low Battery2 No AC power and DC power • FAIL light is on None


source (primary or backup) less • Top screen displays
than 21.5 volts. SUPPLY VOLTAGE
IS TOO LOW message
• Bottom screen displays
-LOW POWER
STANDBY- message
and actual voltage of
incoming DC power
1 The ALARM 1 light is not on for oxygen channels.
2
If DC power is used as primary or backup power source.

NOTE: You can set the channel relays to be normally energized or normally de-
energized in the Configuration menu. The following sections describe the
default setting: normally de-energized.

NOTE: Common alarm 1 and alarm 2 relays are factory-set as normally de-
energized, and the common fail relay is factory-set for normally energized.
The common relays are not user adjustable.

26 • Chapter 4: Operation Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Alarm 1 Condition
This section describes the audible and visual indications for an alarm 1 condition and suggests
responses to an alarm 1 condition.
Alarm 1 Condition Indications
When the gas reading of an active channel reaches the alarm 1 setpoint, the Beacon 800 senses an
alarm 1 condition. The Beacon 800 alerts you to an alarm 1 condition as follows:
• the ALARM 1 light turns on;
• the gas reading in alarm 1 condition flashes and alternates with the ALARM-1 message;
• the buzzer sounds a steady tone;
• the common alarm 1 relay energizes;
• the applicable alarm 1 channel relay energizes.
Responding to an Alarm 1 Condition
This section suggests the following responses to an alarm 1 condition:
1. Follow your established procedure for a low-level combustible or toxic gas condition or a
decreasing oxygen condition.
2. Oxygen alarms are factory set as self-resetting and will automatically clear when the oxygen
reading rises above the alarm 1 setpoint.
3. Alarms for all other gas types are factory set as latching. After the gas reading falls below
(rises above for oxygen) the alarm 1 setpoint, press the reset switch to reset the alarm 1 circuit.
Resetting the alarm 1 circuit silences the buzzer, turns off the ALARM 1 light, resets the
channel display, and de-energizes the common and channel alarm 1 relays.

NOTE: To silence the buzzer while in an alarm 1 condition, press the reset switch.
You cannot de-energize the alarm 1 relays until the gas reading falls below
(rises above for oxygen) the alarm 1 setpoint.

Alarm 2 Condition
This section describes the audible and visual indications for an alarm 2 condition and suggests
responses to an alarm 2 condition.
Alarm 2 Condition Indications
When the gas reading of an active channel reaches the alarm 2 setpoint, the Beacon 800 senses an
alarm 2 condition. The Beacon 800 alerts you to an alarm 2 condition as follows:
• the ALARM 2 light turns on;
• the gas reading during an alarm 2 condition continues to flash and alternates with the
ALARM-1 and ALARM-2 messages;
• the buzzer sounds a steady tone;
• the common alarm 2 relay energizes;
• the applicable alarm 2 channel relay energizes.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 4: Operation • 27


Responding to an Alarm 2 Condition
This section suggests responses to an alarm 2 condition.
1. Follow your established procedure for a high-level combustible or toxic gas condition, or an
increasing oxygen condition.
2. Oxygen alarms are factory set as self-resetting and will automatically clear when the oxygen
reading rises above the alarm 2 setpoint.
3. Alarms for all other gas types are factory set as latching. After the gas reading falls below the
alarm 2 setpoint, press the reset switch to reset the alarm circuit. Resetting the alarm circuit
turns off the ALARM 2 light, and de-energizes the common and channel alarm 2 relays.

NOTE: To silence the buzzer while in an alarm 2 condition, press the reset switch.
You cannot de-energize the alarm 2 relays until the gas reading falls below
the alarm 2 setpoint.

Fail Condition
This section describes the audible and visual indications for a fail condition and suggests
responses to a fail condition.
Fail Condition Indications
The Beacon 800 senses a fail condition for any of the following:
• the transmitter wiring is disconnected or incorrectly connected;
• the display reading is -10% of full scale or lower;
• the Beacon 800 or transmitter is malfunctioning.
When the Beacon 800 senses a fail condition, it alerts you as follows:
• the FAIL light turns on;
• the gas reading for the failing channel is replaced by the FAIL message;
• the buzzer sounds a steady tone;
• the common fail relay de-energizes.

NOTE: The fail alarm has a 30 second delay.

NOTE: If you elected to use the channel’s alarm 2 relay as an individual fail relay in the
Configuration menu, the relay de-energizes in a fail condition. See Chapter 5:
Configuration Menu.

28 • Chapter 4: Operation Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Responding to a Fail Condition
This section suggests responses to a fail condition.
1. Verify that the transmitter wiring is correctly and securely connected.
2. See the troubleshooting guide in Chapter 6, Maintenance.

Low Battery Condition


This section describes the audible and visual indications for a low battery condition and suggests
responses to a low battery condition. This condition only applies when DC power is used as a
primary or backup power source.

NOTE: When a 24 VDC battery is used as a backup power source, the Beacon 800 keeps the
battery charged by providing a trickle charge from the AC power source. If AC power is
interrupted, the Beacon 800 will operate from the DC backup battery until the battery
voltage drops to 21.5 volts or less.

Low Battery Condition Indications


The Beacon 800 senses a low battery condition when:
• AC power is disconnected, misconnected, or interrupted
AND
• the DC power source is 21.5 volts or less.
When the Beacon 800 senses a low battery condition, it alerts you as follows:
• the FAIL light turns on;
• the top screen displays the SUPPLY VOLTAGE IS TOO LOW message;
• the bottom screen displays the -LOW POWER STANDBY- message and actual voltage
of incoming DC power.
Responding to a Low Battery Condition
This section suggests responses to a low battery condition.
• If DC power is the primary power source:
a. For a temporary DC power source, disconnect primary DC power at the Beacon 800, then
connect a 24 VDC backup battery;
b. Determine and correct the cause of primary DC power loss.
When the DC power source rises above 22.0 volts, the Beacon 800 begins the warm up
process.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 4: Operation • 29


• If DC power is the backup power source:
a. Replace or recharge the 24 VDC backup battery to resume backup power capability;
b. Determine and correct the cause of primary AC power loss.
When backup DC or primary AC power is restored, the Beacon 800 begins the warm up
process. When AC power is restored, the Beacon 800 charges the battery until it is fully
recharged. Charge time varies depending on the battery size and how much the battery
was depleted. Once the battery is fully charged, the Beacon 800 reverts to a trickle charge
to maintain the battery charge.

Viewing & Resetting Min/Max Readings


The Reset switch may be used to view and reset the minimum and maximum gas readings for all
active channels.
1. While the Beacon 800 is in normal operation, press and hold the Reset switch button for 3
seconds.
2. The display will indicate MIN / MAX Display on the top display and the bottom display will
indicate Press RESET when done viewing . . . for 5 seconds before displaying the minimum
and maximum readings for all active channels. The minimum reading is on the left and the
maximum is on the right side of the display for each channel.
3. Press and release the Reset switch button to exit the min/max screen. The top display will
indicate To RESET Min/MAX Values and the bottom display will indicate Press and
HOLD RESET Button for 10 seconds and then return to normal operation.
• To return to normal operation without resetting the minimum and maximum readings, do
not press the Reset switch button and allow the unit to return to normal operation.
• To reset the minimum and maximum readings, before the unit returns to normal operation
press and hold the Reset switch button until the display indicates Min/Max Values Have
Been Reset. Release the Reset switch button. The unit will then return to normal
operation.

30 • Chapter 4: Operation Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Chapter 5: Configuration Menu

Overview
This section describes how to use the Beacon 800s Configuration menu.
With the Configuration menu, you can:
• enable/disable channels
• enter calibration mode to calibrate a detector head
• set channel parameters
• program the heavy duty relay relays (optional feature)

NOTE: Channels included with the original shipment of the Beacon 800 are set up at the
factory. If you are adding a channel to an existing Beacon 800, the channel must be
configured as described in this section before it can be an active monitoring channel.

The Configuration menu consists of four sub menus as described in Table 6. If the heavy duty
relay board option is not installed, then the Configure Power Relays menu does not appear.

NOTE: See “Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Heavy Duty Relay Board” on
page 41 for a description of the Configure Power Relays menu.

Table 6: Configuration Menu Functions

Submenu Function

Enable/Disable Channel(s) Configures channels as enabled, dis-


abled, or not used

Calibration Mode Disables alarms so calibration


can be performed without
unwanted alarms

Configure Channel Settings Configures units, gas type, fullscale,


and alarm settings for each channel

Configure Power Relays (optional) Programs the heavy duty relays


NOTE: This menu item only appears if
the optional heavy duty relay board is
installed.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: Configuration Menu • 31


Enabling or Disabling Channels
1. To enter the Configuration menu, simultaneously press and hold the ESCAPE and ENTER
buttons for approximately 5 seconds. Release the buttons when the You Have Entered the
Configuration Menu... message appears on the top display screen.

NOTE: The Configuration menu includes a 5-minute time-out feature. If you do not
perform an action within 5 minutes of the previous action, the Beacon 800
automatically returns to normal operation.

2. Press the UP (YES) button to continue.


3. Press the UP (YES) or DOWN (NO) button until the 1) Enable/Disable Channel(s) message
appears on the bottom display screen, then press the ENTER button.
4. Use the UP (YES) and DOWN (NO) buttons to select the channel (or all channels) you want
to enable or disable, then press the ENTER button.
5. Press the DOWN (NO) button. The CHANNEL USAGE setting displays on the bottom
display screen.
6. Use the UP (YES) and DOWN (NO) buttons to display the setting you want, then press the
ENTER button to select the setting. Table 6 describes the three available settings.
Table 7: Beacon 800 Channel Usage Settings
Setting Description
The Beacon 800 displays gas readings and initiates gas and
CHANNEL channel failure alarms when appropriate.
ENABLED Use this setting for normal operation when the channel has a
transmitter wired to it.

The Beacon 800 displays DISABLED for the channel and the
channel’s alarm circuit is not active.
CHANNEL DIS- Use this setting when the channel has a transmitter wired to it,
ABLED but gas readings and alarms are not required for the channel (for
example if the transmitter requires maintenance or is malfunc-
tioning).

The Beacon 800 leaves the channel blank on the display screen.
CHANNEL NOT
Use this setting when the channel does not have a transmitter
USED
wired to it.

7. Press the ESCAPE button, then press the DOWN/NO button to return to normal operation.

32 • Chapter 5: Configuration Menu Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Calibration Mode
This section describes how to use calibration mode to calibrate a detector head.

WARNING: The Beacon 800 is not an active gas monitoring device during the calibration
procedure.

Entering Calibration Mode


1. Assemble the calibration kit(s). See the instruction manual for each detector head for
procedures specific to that detector head.
2. Open the Beacon 800’s housing door, and locate the program buttons to the right of the
display screens.
3. Simultaneously press and hold the ESCAPE and ENTER buttons for approximately 5 seconds
to enter the Configuration menu. Release the buttons when the You Have Entered the
Configuration Menu... message displays.

NOTE: The Configuration menu includes a 5-minute time-out feature. If you do not
perform an action within 5 minutes of the previous action, the Beacon 800
automatically returns to normal operation.

4. Press the UP (YES) button to continue.


5. Press the UP (YES) or DOWN (NO) button until the 2) Enter Calibration Mode message appears
on the bottom display screen, then press the ENTER button. The calibration time-out setting
displays. If necessary, adjust this setting using the UP/YES and DOWN/NO buttons.

NOTE: Once you enter Calibration mode, the alarm lights, buzzer, and relays are
disabled for the amount of time indicated by this setting or until you exit
Calibration mode.

NOTE: The Beacon 800 automatically exits Calibration mode if you do not exit
before the calibration time-out expires. If necessary, adjust the setting from
this screen.

6. Press the ENTER button to enter Calibration mode. The gas readings will alternate with a
message showing that the unit is in Calibration mode.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: Configuration Menu • 33


Calibrating the Detector Head(s)
NOTE: All calibration adjustments must be made at the detector head.

1. Verify that the detector head is in a fresh-air environment. (If necessary, use a zero-emission
air cylinder, also known as zero air, to introduce a fresh-air sample when adjusting the zero
reading below.)
2. Adjust the detector head’s zero (fresh air reading for oxygen) reading. See the detector head’s
instruction manual for instructions on how to adjust the zero reading (fresh air reading for
oxygen).
3. Apply calibration gas to the detector head’s detector and adjust the detector head’s span
reading (zero reading for oxygen). See the detector head’s instruction manual for instructions
on how to adjust the span (zero reading for oxygen) reading.
4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 for each detector head you wish to calibrate.

NOTE: Allow all the gas readings to decrease below the alarm points (increase
above for oxygen) before returning to normal operation to avoid unwanted
alarms.

5. Press the ESCAPE button to return to normal operation.

Configure Channel Settings Menu


This section describes how to view and change channel parameters for the installed gas channels.
1. To enter the Configuration menu, simultaneously press and hold the ESCAPE and ENTER
buttons for approximately 5 seconds to enter the Configuration menu. Release the buttons
when the You Have Entered the Configuration Menu... message appears on the top display
screen.
NOTE: The Configuration menu includes a 5-minute time-out feature. If you do not
perform an action within 5 minutes of the previous action, the Beacon 800
automatically returns to normal operation.

2. Press the UP (YES) button to continue.


3. Press the UP (YES) or DOWN (NO) button until the 3) Configure Channel Setting(s) message
appears on the bottom display screen, then press the ENTER button.
4. Use the UP (YES) and DOWN (NO) buttons to select the channel (or all channels) for which
you want to set parameters, then press the ENTER button.

34 • Chapter 5: Configuration Menu Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


5. Press the UP (YES) button until the parameter you want to set appears on the top display
screen. The bottom screen will ask if the current setting is O.K. Table 7 lists the parameters
you can set for a channel, and the factory set value for each parameter.

NOTE: Use the ESCAPE button to go backwards in the menu.

6. Press the DOWN (NO) button to display the parameter on the bottom screen.
(The parameter is adjustable when it is displayed on the bottom screen.)
7. Use the UP (YES) or DOWN (NO) button to update the parameter, then press the ENTER
button to continue.
8. Repeat steps 5 through 7 to set any other channel parameters.
9. Press the UP (YES) button until the following message appears on the top display screen.

C o n f i g u r a t i o n f o r
C H A N NE L 1
h a s b e e n c o m p l e t e d
S a v e T h e s e S e t t i n g s ?

P r e s s Y E S t o S A V E
O r NO t o A BOR T

Figure 13: Save/Abort Selection


10. Press the UP (YES) button to save the Configuration, then press the DOWN (NO) button to
return to normal operation.
Table 8: Channel Setting Parameters

Parameter
Description
(Factory-Set Value)
UNITS and GAS TYPE The unit of measure and target gas. Select from a list of set-
(Factory setting depends on tings. You can also create your own setting by selecting
Detector Head.) User Will Specify.
Contact RKI before creating your own setting.

FULL SCALE The maximum gas reading displayed for this channel.
(Factory setting depends on Select from a list of settings. Select User Will Specify to
Detector Head.) select a full scale not in the list.
Contact RKI before updating this parameter.

ALARM-1 Level The gas reading at which the Beacon 800 initiates an alarm
(See the Beacon 800 Detec- 1 condition for this channel.
tor Head Specification sheet
for the detector head
installed on this channel.)

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: Configuration Menu • 35


Table 8: Channel Setting Parameters (Continued)

Parameter
Description
(Factory-Set Value)
ALARM-1 ON DELAY The amount of time the Beacon 800 delays activation of
(1 sec) the alarm 1 circuit once an alarm 1 condition is initiated.

ALARM-1 OFF DELAY The amount of time the Beacon 800 delays turning off the
(0 sec) alarm 1 circuit once an alarm 1 condition passes.

ALARM-1 (activation) Indicates if the alarm 1 circuit is activated by gas readings


(DECREASING for oxygen, INCREASING or DECREASING to the ALARM-1
INCREASING for all other Level.
channel types)

ALARM-1 Relay (action) If set as NORMALLY DE-ENERGIZED, the channel’s


(NORMALLY DE-ENER- alarm 1 relay is de-energized in normal operation and ener-
GIZED) gizes when an alarm 1 condition is initiated.
If set as NORMALLY ENERGIZED, the channel’s alarm
1 relay is energized in normal operation and de-energizes
when an alarm 1 condition is initiated.

ALARM-1 Relay (reset) If set as LATCHING, you must press the RESET button to
(SELF RESETTING for reset the alarm 1 circuit after the alarm 1 condition passes.
oxygen, LATCHING for all If set as SELF RESETTING, the Beacon 800 automati-
other channel types) cally resets the alarm 1 circuit after the alarm 1 condition
passes.

ALARM-2 Relay (used for) If set as ALARM-2 Condition, the channel’s alarm 2 relay
(ALARM-2 Condition) activates when an alarm 2 condition is initiated for the
channel.
If set as FAIL Condition, the channel’s alarm 2 relay acti-
vates when a fail condition is initiated for the channel.

ALARM-2 Level The gas reading at which the Beacon 800 initiates an alarm
(See the Beacon 800 Detec- 2 condition for this channel.
tor Head Specification sheet
for the detector head
installed on this channel.)

ALARM-2 ON DELAY The amount of time the Beacon 800 delays activation of
(2 min for oxygen, 1 sec for the alarm 2 circuit once an alarm 2 condition is initiated.
all other channel types)

ALARM-2 OFF DELAY The amount of time the Beacon 800 delays turning off the
(0 sec) alarm 2 circuit once an alarm 2 condition passes.

ALARM-2 (activation) Indicates if the alarm 2 circuit is activated by gas readings


(INCREASING) INCREASING or DECRESING to the ALARM-2 Level.

36 • Chapter 5: Configuration Menu Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Table 8: Channel Setting Parameters (Continued)

Parameter
Description
(Factory-Set Value)
ALARM-2 Relay (action) If set as NORMALLY DE-ENERGIZED, the channel’s
(NORMALLY DE-ENER- alarm 2 relay is de-energized in normal operation and ener-
GIZED) gizes when an alarm 2 condition is initiated.
If set as NORMALLY ENERGIZED, the channel’s alarm
2 relay is energized in normal operation and de-energizes
when an alarm 2 condition is initiated.

ALARM-2 Relay (reset) If set as LATCHING, you must press the RESET button to
(SELF RESETTING for reset the alarm 2 circuit after the alarm 2 condition passes.
oxygen, LATCHING for all If set as SELF RESETTING, the Beacon 800 automati-
other channel types) cally resets the alarm 2 circuit after the alarm 2 condition
passes.

NOISE FILTER (2) The noise filter feature helps “smooth out” jumpy or noisy
signals from the detector head. You can set the noise filter
from 1 to 8.
A setting of 8 produces the greatest amount of smoothing
but also responds slowest to changes in the response read-
ing.
A setting of 1 responds fastest to changes in the response
reading but produces the least amount of smoothing.

ZERO SUPPRESSION The zero suppression feature helps prevent “jumpy” read-
(0.0% of the detection ings near the normal reading.
range in terms of the detec- For example, if the zero suppression setting is 1.0% of full
tion units for carbon diox- scale, the Beacon 800 will display a reading of 0% LEL for
ide channel types; 0.5% gas readings from -1% LEL to 1% LEL.
oxygen for oxygen chan-
nels; 2.0% of the detection NOTE: The zero suppression for oxygen channels is
range in terms of the detec- defined in % oxygen. For all other types of channels, it is
tion units for all other chan- defined in % of full scale.
nel types.) NOTE: The MPSTM sensor has a built-in zero suppression
of 3% LEL for methane (CH4) and 5% LEL for all other
gases. Even if the Beacon 800's zero suppression is set to
2% LEL for an MPS channel, a reading will not be
displayed until it has exceeded the MPS sensor's internal
zero suppression.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: Configuration Menu • 37


Chapter 6: Maintenance

Overview
This chapter describes corrective maintenance procedures for the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor. The
chapter includes a troubleshooting guide for problems you may encounter with the Beacon 800.
Procedures to replace components of the Beacon 800 are at the end of this chapter.

Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance of the Beacon 800 consists of daily, monthly, and quarterly procedures to
ensure that the detector heads remain on zero (20.9 for oxygen) in fresh air and are responsive to
the target gas. See the detector head instruction manual(s).

Troubleshooting
Table 8 describes symptoms, probable causes, and recommended actions for the most common
problems you may encounter with the Beacon 800.

NOTE: This troubleshooting guide describes controller problems only. See the detector head
instruction manual(s) for preventive maintenance procedures that apply to the detector
head(s) supplied with your Beacon 800.

Table 9: Troubleshooting the Beacon 800

Condition Symptom(s) Probable Causes Recommended Action

No Power • The PILOT light is • The power wiring is 1. Verify that the wiring to the power
off. disconnected or source is correct and secure.
• The display screens misconnected. 2. At the Beacon 800, verify that the
are blank. • The AC or DC fuse is wiring to the AC terminal strip is
blown. correct and secure.
• The display cable is 3. Check the continuity of the
disconnected or applicable (AC or DC) fuse.
misconnected. 4. Verify that the display cable is
connected.
The display (ribbon) cable plugs into
connectors on the top left corner of
the display board (labeled J1) and on
the left edge of the main circuit
board (labeled Front Panel/Power
Relay).
5. If the power difficulties continue,
contact RKI for further instruction.

38 • Chapter 6: Maintenance Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Table 9: Troubleshooting the Beacon 800 (Continued)

Condition Symptom(s) Probable Causes Recommended Action

Frequent or • The Beacon 800 • The Beacon 800 is 1. Verify that the transmitter wiring is
Suspect alerts you to frequent experiencing false properly shielded.
Alarms or suspect alarms. readings due to RFI or 2. Verify that the transmitter wiring is
• The transmitter’s EMI. correct and secure.
fresh air readings • The transmitter wiring 3. Verify that power and transmitter
remain on zero is disconnected, wiring is routed through separate
(20.9 for oxygen). misconnected, or conduit hubs on the bottom of the
intermittent. Beacon 800 housing.
4. Increase the alarm on delay setting
in the Configuration menu.
5. If the frequent or suspect alarm
difficulties continue, contact RKI for
further instruction.

Flickering • The display readings • The Beacon 800 is 1. Verify that the transmitter wiring is
Display flicker often. experiencing false properly shielded.
readings due to RFI or 2. Verify that the transmitter wiring is
EMI. correct and secure.
• The noise filter setting 3. Verify that power and transmitter
is too low. wiring is routed through separate
• The zero suppression conduit hubs on the bottom of the
setting is too low. Beacon 800 housing.
• The display screen is 4. Increase the noise filter setting in the
malfunctioning. Configuration menu.
5. Increase the zero suppression setting
in the Configuration menu.
6. If the display difficulties continue,
contact RKI for further instruction.

Buzzer not • The buzzer does not • The buzzer is 1. Verify that the wiring to the BUZ-
Working sound an audible disconnected or and BUZ+ terminals of the
alarm during alarm misconnected. controller terminal strip is correct
conditions. • The buzzer is and secure.
• The buzzer sounds malfunctioning. 2. If the buzzer difficulties continue,
weak or broken. contact RKI for further instruction.

Reset Switch • The buzzer does not • The reset switch is 1. Verify that the wiring to the RESET
not Working silence when you disconnected or (2) terminals of the controller
press the reset switch. misconnected. terminal strip is correct and secure.
• The applicable alarm • The reset switch is 2. If the reset switch difficulties
circuit does not reset malfunctioning. continue, contact RKI for further
when you press the instruction.
reset switch after an
alarm condition
passes.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 6: Maintenance • 39


Replacing the Fuses
The Beacon 800 includes up to three fuses. This section applies to all three fuses. To replace other
components of the Beacon 800, contact RKI Instruments, Inc. for further information.
1. Turn off or unplug all incoming power to the Beacon 800 at the power source end.
2. Open the housing door of the Beacon 800, then place the power switch in the OFF position.
Loosen the two captive thumbscrews on the right side of the display board, until the
thumbscrews are disengaged from the standoffs.
3. Pull the right side of the display board out toward the housing door. (The standoffs under the
left side of the display board are hinged, which allow the display board to move in this
manner.)
4. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to rotate the applicable fuse holder 1/4 turn counter clockwise.
The fuse holder releases from the socket.
5. Remove the fuse holder from the socket, then remove the fuse from the fuse holder.

CAUTION: Verify that the replacement fuse is the same type and rating as the fuse
you are replacing.

6. Install the appropriate replacement fuse in the fuse holder, then place the fuse holder in the
socket.
7. Push the fuse holder into the socket, then turn the holder 1/4 turn clockwise to secure it in the
socket.
8. Place the display board in its original position, then secure the board to the standoffs with the
two screws you loosened in Step 2.
9. Plug in or turn on all incoming power to the Beacon 800 at the power source end.
10. Place the Beacon 800’s power switch in the ON position, then verify that the PILOT light is
on.
11. Close and secure the housing door.

40 • Chapter 6: Maintenance Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board
& Heavy Duty Relay Board

Overview
This chapter describes the optional Recorder Output Board and the optional Heavy Duty Relay
Board. It also includes procedures for wiring to the boards and instructions on programming the
heavy duty relay board’s relays. Either board may be installed alone or both may be installed
together. Figure 12 below shows both boards installed. The boards are not field installable and
must be specified at the time a Beacon 800 is ordered so that they may be factory installed.

NOTE: Display Board Not Shown

Heavy Duty Relay Board

Recorder Output Board

Figure 14: Beacon 800 with Recorder Output and Heavy Duty Relay Board

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Heavy Duty
Recorder Output Board

NOTE: Display Board Not Shown

Recorder Output Board

J1

TB3

J2

Recorder Output
Terminal Strip, 8X

Figure 15: Beacon 800 with Recorder Output Board

42 • Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Beacon 800 Gas Monitor
Description
When installed, the recorder output board is located below the display board and extends out from
under it so the terminal strips are accessible for wiring. When it is installed along with a heavy
duty relay board, the heavy duty relay board is installed below the display board and the recorder
output board is below the heavy duty relay board (see Figure 12). The recorder output board
connects to the main board with two cables. One 34 position ribbon cable runs from the connector
labeled J2 in the lower left of the recorder output board to the analog expansion connector on the
left side of the main board just above the transmitter terminal strips. The other cable has a three
position connector on each end, but one position is unused. This two wire cable runs from J1 in
the upper right of the recorder output board to TB3 on the main board below the power supply. If
the heavy duty relay board is also installed, this cable has an additional section which connects to
TB5 on the heavy duty relay board.
The recorder output board provides a two linear analog signal outputs for each active channel,
giving the reading for the channel. They are a current output and a voltage output: 4-20 mA
(milliamps) and 1-5 V (volts). Either one or both may be monitored by a chart recorder or any
other appropriate device. A current monitoring device must have have 500 ohms resistance
maximum and a voltage monitoring device must have 500 ohms resistance minimum.

Wiring
Perform the following procedure to connect a recording device to the recorder output board.
1. Turn off Power to the Beacon 800 at the power source.
2. Open the Beacon 800 door and place the power switch in the off position.
3. Install an appropriately rated cable bushing or conduit in an unused conduit hub on the bottom
of the Beacon 800 housing.
4. Route wires in conduit or shielded cable from the recording device through the selected
conduit hub into the Beacon 800.
When wiring to the 4 - 20 mA output, keep in mind that the maximum allowable
resistance including the current monitoring device and wiring can be no greater than 500
ohms.
When wiring to the 1 - 5 V output, keep in mind that the minimum allowable resistance of
the voltage monitoring device and wiring is 500 ohms.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Heavy Duty
5. Connect the wires to the recorder output board as illustrated in Figure 14. See the monitoring
device’s instruction manual for connections at the monitoring device.

J2
Recorder Output Board
(Installed in Beacon 800)

Voltage Current Voltage Current


Monitoring Monitoring Monitoring Monitoring
Device Device Device Device

Typical Wiring Optional Wiring for Simultaneous Monitoring of


Current and Voltage Output

Figure 16: Recorder Output Board Wiring


6. Start up the Beacon 800 as described in “Chapter 3: Installation and Start Up” on page 14.
When the Beacon 800 start up is complete, the recorder output board will be generating the
analog output signals for all active channels.

Operation
The output of the board for a channel directly mirrors the signal from the detector head installed
on that channel at all times regardless of whether the Beacon 800 is in normal operation or in the
configuration menu. 4 mA and 1 V correspond to a gas concentration of 0; 20 mA and 5 V
correspond to a full scale reading. In the case of an oxygen channel, a normal concentration of
oxygen, 20.9%, corresponds to 17.38 mA and 4.34 V. The output at terminals for any inactive or
uninstalled channels is 0 mA and 0 V.

44 • Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Beacon 800 Gas Monitor
Heavy Duty Relay Board

NOTE: Display Board Not Shown


Heavy Duty Relay Terminal Strip, 4X
J1
Energized Relay Indication LED, 4X
Heavy Duty Relay Board
TB5

TB3

Figure 17: Beacon 800 with Heavy Duty Relay Board

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Heavy Duty
Description
When installed, the heavy duty relay board is located below the display board. The terminals are
not accessible unless the display board, which is hinged on its left side, is swung open. If the
heavy duty relay board is installed with a recorder output board, it is located below the display
board and above the recorder output board (see Figure 12). The heavy duty relay board connects
to the main board with two cables. One 34 position ribbon cable runs from the connector labeled
J1 in the upper left of the heavy duty relay board to the analog front panel/power relay connector
on the left side of the main board and to J1 on the upper left of the display board. The other cable
has a three position connector on each end, but one position is unused. This two wire cable runs
from TB5 in the upper right of the heavy duty relay board to TB3 on the main board below the
power supply. If the recorder output board is also installed, this cable has an additional section
which connects to J1 on the recorder output board.
The heavy duty relay board provides four extra sets of relay contacts which can be used to control
devices drawing too much current to use the Beacon 800’s standard relay contacts. The four relay
contact terminal strips are located along the bottom of the heavy duty relay board. An LED is
located just to the right of each terminal strip which indicates when that relay is energized. The
relay contacts are rated 30 A at 240 VAC, and 30 A at 125 VAC. A typical use for the heavy duty
relay board is controlling ventilation fans in a parking garage.

Wiring
Perform the following procedure to connect external devices to the heavy duty relay board.
1. Turn off Power to the Beacon 800 at the power source.
2. Open the Beacon 800 door and place the power switch in the off position.
3. Install an appropriately rated cable bushing or conduit in an unused conduit hub on the bottom
of the Beacon 800 housing.
4. Loosen the two captive thumbscrews (on the right side of the display board) that secure the
board to the standoffs, until the screws are disengaged from the standoffs.
5. Flip the right side of the display board out toward the housing door. (The standoffs under the
left side of the display board are hinged, which allows the display board to move in this
manner.)
6. Route wires in conduit or cable from a device through the selected conduit hub into the
Beacon 800.

CAUTION: Use wire or cable that is appropriately rated for the voltage and current
draw of the device(s) being used.

7. Connect the wires to the heavy duty relay board, a power source, and the device as illustrated
in Figure 16.

46 • Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Beacon 800 Gas Monitor
Heavy Duty Relay Board TB5
(Installed in Beacon 800)

1 2 3 4

Alarm Device
Power

Alarm Devices

Figure 18: Wiring the Heavy Duty Relay Board


8. Rotate the display board back to its original position and secure it to the standoffs with the two
thumbscrews.
9. Start up the Beacon 800 as described in Chapter 3.

Operation
Unlike the Beacon 800’s standard relay contacts which are form C (common, normally open, and
normally closed contacts) the heavy duty relays are form A (common and normally open). Form
A contacts are open when the relay is de-energized.
The alarm conditions under which the heavy duty relays activate are programmed in the
Configuration Menu (see below). When an alarm condition occurs which has been defined to
cause a particular relay to activate, the relay contacts will change condition. They will either open
or close depending on how the relay is programmed.

NOTE: The LED to the right of each contact terminal strip indicates when the relay is energized
and the contacts are closed, not when an alarm condition has occurred. If a relay is
programmed to be normally energized, then the LED for that relay will be on during
normal non-alarm operation and turn off if the appropriate alarm condition occurs to
activate that relay.

If a relay is programmed to be NDE (normally de-energized), the contacts are open and the LED
for that relay is off during non-alarm operation. If the appropriate alarm condition occurs, the
contacts are closed and the LED is on.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Heavy Duty
If a relay is programmed to be NE (normally energized), the contacts are closed and the LED for
that relay is on during non-alarm operation. If the appropriate alarm condition occurs, the contacts
are open and the LED is off.

Programming the Heavy Duty Relays


The heavy duty relays are programmed in the Configuration menu. The following relay
conditions may be programmed:
• enabled or disabled
• normally de-energized (NDE) or normally energized (NE)
• conditions under which a relay activates
The Configure Power Relays menu item is displayed in the Configuration menu only if the heavy
duty relay board is installed in the Beacon 800.
Entering the Configuration Menu
1. To enter the Configuration menu, simultaneously press and hold the ESCAPE and ENTER
buttons for approximately 5 seconds. Release the buttons when the You Have Entered the
Configuration Menu... message appears on the top display screen.

NOTE: The Configuration menu includes a 5-minute time-out feature. If you do not
perform an action within 5 minutes of the previous action, the Beacon 800
automatically returns to normal operation.

2. Press the UP (YES) button to continue.


3. Press the UP (YES) or DOWN (NO) button until the 4) Configure Power Relays message
appears on the bottom display screen, then press the ENTER button to continue.
Programming the Relays
1. The top screen will prompt you to select a relay to program.Select a relay to program using the
UP (YES) and DOWN (NO) buttons. You may select from four relays. After selecting the
relay, press ENTER.
2. The top screen will display whether the selected relay is currently ENABLED or DISABLED.
If the relay is set to ENABLED, it will operated as programmed. If it is set to DISABLED, it
will not operate and the relay contacts for the selected relay will always be open. If the current
setting is OK, press UP (YES) to continue.
If you want to change the current setting, press DOWN (NO). Use the UP (YES) and
DOWN (NO) buttons to change the setting. After selecting the setting, press ENTER to
continue.
3. The top screen will display whether the relay is currently set to be NORMALLY
ENERGIZED or NORMALLY DE-ENERGIZED. If the current setting is OK, press UP
(YES) to continue.
If you want to change the current setting, press DOWN (NO). Use the UP (YES) and
DOWN (NO) buttons to change the setting. After selecting the setting, press ENTER to
continue.

48 • Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Beacon 800 Gas Monitor
4. The bottom screen will indicate the conditions under which the relay is currently programmed
to activate.
A grid on the lower screen will define the alarm conditions under which the relay will
activate. The grid’s rows indicate which alarm condition will cause the relay to activate:
FAIL, ALARM-1, or ALARM-2. The grid’s columns indicate on which channel(s) the
alarm level(s) must occur for the relay to activate.

C h a n n e l - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
A L A R M - 2 : - - - - - - - +
A L A R M - 1 : - - - + - - - -
F A I L : + - - - - - - -
Figure 19: Heavy Duty Relay Programming Grid
A minus sign (-) in a grid position indicates that the condition on that channel will not
cause this relay to activate. A plus sign (+) in a grid position indicates that the condition on
that channel will cause the relay to activate. If one or more conditions marked with a (+)
occur during normal operation, the relay will activate. Figure 17 above shows a typical
relay programming grid. In the example shown, the selected relay will activate if any or all
of the following conditions occurs:
• Channel 1 experiences a Fail condition.
• Channel 4 experiences an Alarm 1 condition.
• Channel 8 experiences an Alarm 2 condition.
If the relay activation settings are OK, press the UP (YES) button, then press UP (YES) to
save all the relay settings or DOWN (NO) to abort any setting changes. Skip to step 5.
If you want to change the activation conditions, press the DOWN (NO) button and a
flashing cursor will appear in the ALARM-2/Channel 1 grid position (row 1/column 1).
a. Use the ENTER and ESCAPE buttons to move the flashing cursor to the grid position(s)
you want to change.
b. Use the UP (YES) button to insert a + in a grid position and the DOWN (NO) button to
insert a - in a grid position.
c. When you are done changing the settings, press the ENTER button until the flashing
cursor is on the FAIL/Channel 8 grid position, then press the ENTER button again.
d. If the settings are OK, press UP (YES) to save them. The top display screen will indicate
that the setting are being saved.
If the settings are not OK, press DOWN (NO).
5. The top screen prompts you to select another relay to program. To program another relay,
select the relay and repeat steps 1 through 4. If you are done programming relays, press
ESCAPE twice and then DOWN (NO) to return to normal operation.

Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Chapter 7: Optional Recorder Output Board & Heavy Duty Relay
Chapter 8: Parts List
Table 10 lists the part numbers and descriptions for replacement parts and accessories offered for
the Beacon 800 Gas Monitor.
Table 10: Parts List, Beacon 800 Gas Monitor

Part No. Description


18-0107RK Conduit Hub (3/4 in.)

43-0440RK Reset Switch

43-4165RK AC Fuse (3A)

43-4170RK DC Fuse (6A)

52-1016RK Buzzer

71-0037RK Beacon 800 Gas Monitor Operator’s Manual (this document)

50 • Chapter 8: Parts List Beacon 800 Gas Monitor


65-2321RK
Oxygen Transmitter
Operator’s Manual

Part Number: 71-0175RK


Revision: A
Released: 7/3/14

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WARNING

Read and understand this instruction manual before operating


transmitter. Improper use of the transmitter could result in bodily
harm or death.

Periodic calibration and maintenance of the transmitter is essen-


tial for proper operation and correct readings. Please calibrate
and maintain this transmitter regularly! Frequency of calibration
depends upon the type of use you have and the sensor types.
Typical calibration frequencies for most applications are between
3 and 6 months, but can be required more often or less often
based on your usage.

65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter

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Product Warranty
RKI Instruments, Inc. warrants gas alarm equipment sold by us to be free from defects in
materials, workmanship, and performance for a period of one year from date of shipment
from RKI Instruments, Inc. Any parts found defective within that period will be repaired
or replaced, at our option, free of charge. This warranty does not apply to those items
which by their nature are subject to deterioration or consumption in normal service, and
which must be cleaned, repaired, or replaced on a routine basis. Examples of such items
are:

a) Absorbent cartridges d) Batteries


b) Pump diaphragms and valves e) Filter elements

c) Fuses

Warranty is voided by abuse including mechanical damage, alteration, rough handling, or


repair procedures not in accordance with the operator’s manual. This warranty indicates
the full extent of our liability, and we are not responsible for removal or replacement costs,
local repair costs, transportation costs, or contingent expenses incurred without our prior
approval.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES AND REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED,
AND ALL OTHER OBLIGATIONS OR LIABILITIES ON THE PART OF
RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC. INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE
WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL RKI INSTRUMENTS,
INC. BE LIABLE FOR INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND CONNECTED WITH THE USE OF
ITS PRODUCTS OR FAILURE OF ITS PRODUCTS TO FUNCTION OR
OPERATE PROPERLY.
This warranty covers instruments and parts sold to users by authorized distributors,
dealers, and representatives as appointed by RKI Instruments, Inc.
We do not assume indemnification for any accident or damage caused by the operation of
this gas monitor, and our warranty is limited to the replacement of parts or our complete
goods.

65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter

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Table of Contents
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Oxygen Detector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Amplifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Junction Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Mounting the Oxygen Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Wiring the Oxygen Transmitter to a Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Startup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Introducing Incoming Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Verifying/Setting the Fresh Air Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Replacing Components of the Oxygen Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Calibration Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Preparing for Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Setting the Fresh Air Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Setting the Zero Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Returning to Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter

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Overview
This instruction manual describes the 65-2321RK capillary type oxygen transmitter. This
manual also describes how to install, start up, configure, maintain, and calibrate the
transmitter when using it with a gas monitoring controller. A parts list at the end of this
manual lists replacement parts and accessories for the oxygen transmitter. See the
controller operator’s manual for information specific to the controller.

Specifications
Table 1 lists specifications for the oxygen transmitter.

Table 1: Specifications

Target Gas Oxygen

Sampling Method Diffusion

Detection Range 0 to 25%


Accuracy ± 0.5% O2

Signal Output 4 to 20 mA

Response Time 90% in 30 seconds

WARNING: When using the 65-2321RK, you must follow the instructions and warnings
in this manual to assure proper and safe operation of the 65-2321RK and to
minimize the risk of personal injury. Be sure to maintain and periodically
calibrate the 65-2321RK as described in this manual.

65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter • 1

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Description
This section describes the components of the oxygen transmitter. The oxygen transmitter
is a 4 - 20 mA type detector head. It consists of the oxygen detector, amplifier, and junction
box.

Controller Terminal Strip


Factory Adjust Pot

Span Pot

Zero Pot Amplifier

SIG/PWR
ZERO

SPAN

S
OXY
TOXIC

+ Test Point (Red) Detector Terminal Strip


100mV-500mV
Range
- Test Point (Black)

J-Box

Oxygen Detector

Figure 1: Oxygen Transmitter Component Location

2 • 65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter

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Oxygen Detector
The oxygen detector consists of the detector housing body, detector housing cap, cap
gasket, and the plug-in sensor.

Housing Body

Cap Gasket

Plug-In Oxygen Sensor


Detector
Housing Cap

Hydrophobic
Membrane

Figure 2: Oxygen Detector Component Location


Detector Housing Body
The detector housing body protects the electronic components within the housing. Use the
mounting threads at the top of the housing to screw the oxygen detector into the 3/4”
NPT hub on the bottom of the junction box. Two wires extend from the top of the detector
housing body. Use these wires to connect the oxygen detector to the amplifier. One of the
wires is white and one of the wires is green.
The housing includes two sockets installed on a circuit board. These sockets accept the
plug-in sensor’s two pins to provide electrical connection for the sensor. The circuit board
with the sockets conditions the sensor’s signal before the signal reaches the amplifier.
Housing Cap & Cap Gasket
The housing cap screws onto the detector housing. It retains the plug-in sensor and
protects it from damage. A foam gasket is installed inside the housing cap that seals
against the sensor face. A hydrophobic membrane on the outside of the cap face keeps
water and particulates away from the sensor face behind the cap. Unscrew the detector
cap to access the plug-in sensor for maintenance or replacement. A cap gasket seals the
interface between the housing and cap.
Plug-in Oxygen Sensor
The plug-in sensor is secured in the detector assembly by the housing cap. Through a
series of chemical and electrical reactions, the sensor produces a millivolt output that
corresponds to the detection range of the transmitter.

65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter • 3

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Amplifier
The amplifier converts the electrical output from the detector to a 4 to 20 mA signal that
corresponds to the detection range and transmits the signal to a gas monitoring controller.
A foam gasket that orients the amplifier and keeps it from rotating is installed on the
bottom of the amplifier. The amplifier includes the controller terminal strip, detector
terminal strip, zero pot, span pot, and test points (see Figure 1).
Controller Terminal Strip
The controller terminal strip is a two position plug-in style terminal strip located at the
top edge of the amplifier. Use the controller terminal strip to wire the amplifier to a
controller.
Detector Terminal Strip
The detector terminal strip is a four position plug-in style terminal strip located below the
controller terminal strip. Two of the positions are for use with an toxic gas detector and are
not used in the oxygen transmitter. Use the two detector terminal strip positions that are
labelled “OXY” to connect the detector to the amplifier.

NOTE: The detector is factory-wired to the detector terminal strip. See “Wiring the
Oxygen Transmitter to a Controller” on page 6 for all wiring procedures related
to the transmitter.

Zero Pot
The zero pot is located in the upper left corner of the amplifier (see Figure 1). Use a small
flat blade screwdriver to turn the zero pot’s adjustment screw and adjust the amplifier’s
zero (oxygen free) output during the calibration procedure. Turn the adjustment screw
clockwise to increase the zero output and counterclockwise to decrease the zero output.
Span Pot
The span pot is located to the right of the zero pot (see Figure 1). Use a small flat blade
screwdriver to turn the span pot’s adjustment screw and adjust the amplifier’s fresh air
output during the start up and calibration procedure. Turn the adjustment screw
clockwise to increase the fresh air output and counterclockwise to decrease the fresh air
output.

CAUTION: The amplifier includes an additional potentiometer. It is factory-set. Do not adjust it.

Test points
The test points are on the left side of the amplifier (see Figure 1). The test points produce a
100 mV to 500 mV output that corresponds to the transmitter’s 4 to 20 mA output. Use the
test points and a voltmeter to measure the amplifier’s output during the start-up and
calibration procedures. The black test point in the lower left corner is the negative (-) test
point and the red test point below the zero pot is the positive (+) test point.
Junction Box
Use the junction box to install the transmitter at a mounting site that is remote from the
controller. The junction box protects the amplifier and wiring connections made to the
amplifier. Use the top 3/4’’ conduit hub to connect wiring from the amplifier to the
controller. Use the cover on the front of the junction box to access the interior of the
junction box. The detector and amplifier are factory installed in the junction box. Three
spacers installed on the back of the junction box control the distance of the junction box

4 • 65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter

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from a mounting surface and insure that there is enough room to install a calibration cup
on the detector during calibration.

Installation
This section describes procedures to mount the oxygen transmitter in the monitoring
environment and wire the transmitter to a controller.
Mounting the Oxygen Transmitter
1. Select a mounting site that is representative of the monitoring environment. Consider
the following when you select the mounting site.
• Select a site where the transmitter is not likely to be bumped or disturbed. Make
sure there is sufficient room to perform start-up, maintenance, and calibration
procedures.
• Select a site that is at normal breathing level.

3.10
3/4 NPT
Female .75
.38

3.65

6.8 Max

Rubber Spacers 3X

J-Box

Oxygen
Detector

1-1/2 - 20 Thread for Calibration Cup

Figure 3: Mounting the Oxygen Transmitter

2. At the monitoring site you select, hang or mount the junction box with the detector
facing down (see Figure 3).

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Wiring the Oxygen Transmitter to a Controller

WARNING: Always verify that power to the controller is off before you make wiring
connections.

1. Turn off the controller.


2. Turn off power to the controller.
3. Remove the junction box cover.
4. The detector leads are factory wired. Verify that the detector leads are wired to the
amplifier’s detector terminal strip as shown in Figure 4.
5. To gain access to a plug-in terminal strip for wiring, pull it out of its socket by
grasping the terminal strip and pulling. The detector terminal strip is keyed so that
the controller and detector terminal strips cannot be reversed inadvertently.
6. Guide either a two-conductor, shielded cable, or two wires in conduit through the top
conduit hub of the junction box.
7. Pull out the controller terminal strip, and connect the two wires to the terminal strip
as follows (see Figure 4).
• Connect the positive wire to the SIG/PWR “+” terminal.
• Connect the signal wire to the SIG/PWR “S” terminal.

CAUTION: If shielded cable is used, leave the cable shield’s drain wire disconnected and
insulated at the transmitter. You will connect the opposite end of the cable’s drain
wire to the controller’s chassis (earth) ground.

8. Reinstall the controller terminal strip into its socket.


9. Secure the junction box cover to the junction box.
10. Route the cable or wires leading from the oxygen transmitter through one of the
conduit hubs at the controller housing.

CAUTION: Do not route power and transmitter wiring through the same controller conduit hub.
The power cable may disrupt the transmission of the transmitter signal to the
controller.

11. Connect the wires to the applicable detector/transmitter terminal strip at the
controller as shown in Figure 4.

6 • 65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter

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Controller D etector/Tran smitter S
Terminals, Typical Design ations
+

Cable Shield

Controller Housing

SIG/ PWR
SP AN
Z ERO

S
OXY
TOXIC
J-Box

Green

White
Oxygen Detector

Figure 4: Wiring the Oxygen Transmitter to a Controller

12. If shielded cable is used, connect the cable’s drain wire to an available chassis (earth)
ground at the controller. RKI controllers typically have a ground stud that can be used
to ground the cable’s drain wire.

65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter • 7

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Start Up
This section describes procedures to start up the oxygen transmitter and place the
transmitter into normal operation.
Introducing Incoming Power
1. Complete the installation procedures described earlier in this manual.
2. Verify that the power wiring to the controller is correct and secure. Refer to the
controller operator’s manual.
3. Turn on power to the controller.
4. Turn on the controller.
5. Verify that the controller is on and operating properly. Refer to the controller
operator’s manual.

CAUTION: Allow the transmitter to warm up for 5 minutes before you continue with the next
section, “Verifying/Setting the Fresh Air Reading”.

Verifying/Setting the Fresh Air Reading

NOTE: If you can verify that the detector is in a fresh air environment (environment
known to be of normal oxygen content and free of toxic and combustible gases),
it is not necessary to apply zero air when verifying or setting the fresh air
reading.

The procedure below describes applying zero emission air, usually called zero air, using a
calibration kit that includes a calibration cup, calibration gas, sample tubing, and a fixed
flow regulator with an on/off knob. RKI Instruments, Inc. recommends using a 0.5 LPM
(liters per minute) fixed flow regulator.
1. Unscrew and remove the junction box cover from the junction box.
2. Set a voltmeter to measure in the millivolt (mV) range.
3. Plug the voltmeter leads into the test points on the amplifier. Plug the positive lead
into the red + test point; plug the negative lead into the black - test point.
4. Screw the calibration cup onto the bottom of the oxygen detector.
5. Screw the regulator into the zero air calibration cylinder.
6. Use the sample tubing to connect the regulator to the calibration cup.
7. Turn the regulator’s on/off knob counterclockwise to open it. Gas will begin to flow.
8. Allow the gas to flow for two minutes.
9. Verify a voltmeter reading of 434 mV (±2 mV).
10. If necessary, use a small flat-blade screwdriver to adjust the span pot until the
voltmeter reading is 434 mV (±2 mV).
11. Turn the regulator’s on/off knob clockwise to close it.
12. Unscrew the calibration cup from the detector.
13. Unscrew the regulator from the zero air calibration cylinder. For convenience, leave
the sample tubing connected to the regulator and the calibration cup.

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14. Store the components of the calibration kit in a safe and convenient place.
15. Remove the voltmeter leads from the test points.
16. Secure the junction box cover to the junction box.

Maintenance
This section describes maintenance procedures. It includes preventive maintenance,
troubleshooting, and component replacement procedures.
Preventive Maintenance
This section describes a preventive maintenance schedule to ensure the optimum
performance of the oxygen transmitter. It includes daily, monthly, and quarterly
procedures.
Daily
Verify a display reading of 20.9% oxygen at the controller. Investigate significant changes
in the display reading.
Monthly
This procedure describes a test to verify that the oxygen transmitter responds properly to
oxygen deficiency.

NOTE: Performing a response test on the oxygen transmitter may cause alarms. Be sure
to put the controller into its calibration mode or disable external alarms before
performing this test.

Preparing for the response test


1. Place the controller into its calibration mode or disable external alarms.
2. Verify that the controller display reading for the channel you are testing is 20.9%
oxygen.
If the display reading is not 20.9% oxygen, set the fresh air reading of the transmitter
as described in “Start Up” on page 8, then continue this procedure.
3. Unscrew and remove the junction box cover.
4. Set a voltmeter to read in the millivolt (mV) range.
5. Plug the voltmeter leads into the test points on the amplifier. Plug the positive lead
into the red + test point; plug the negative lead into the black - test point.
Performing the response test
1. Exhale into the bottom of the oxygen detector for a few seconds.
2. Stop exhaling into the bottom of the detector, then verify that the reading on the
voltmeter decreased from the normal reading, 434 mV.

NOTE: If the reading does not decrease, calibrate the detector as described in
“Calibration” on page 13.

3. Remove the voltmeter leads from the amplifier test points, then secure the junction
box cover to the junction box.

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4. When the display reading rises above the decreasing alarm setpoint, return the
controller to normal operation.
Quarterly
Calibrate the oxygen transmitter as described in “Calibration” on page 13 of this manual.
See the calibration frequency discussion in “Calibration Frequency” on page 13 to
determine if a quarterly calibration schedule fits your needs.
Troubleshooting
The troubleshooting guide describes symptoms, probable causes, and recommended
action for problems you may encounter with the oxygen transmitter.

NOTE: This troubleshooting guide describes transmitter problems only. See the
controller operator’s manual for problems you may encounter with the
controller.

Table 2:Troubleshooting the Oxygen Transmitter

Condition Symptom(s) Probable Causes Recommended Action

Fail Condition • Controller indicates a • The transmitter wiring 1. Verify that the transmitter wiring is
fail condition. is disconnected or correct and secure.
misconnected. 2. Confirm that the plug-in sensor is
• The plug-in sensor is installed properly.
not properly plugged 3. Perform a fresh air adjustment. A full
into the sockets in the calibration is recommended.
detector housing body.
4. If the fail condition continues, replace
• The transmitter’s zero the plug-in sensor as described later
reading is low enough in this section.
to cause a fail
condition. 5. If the fail condition continues, contact
RKI for further instruction.
• The transmitter is
malfunctioning.

Slow or No • Transmitter responds • The calibration cylinder 1. Verify that the calibration cylinder
Response/ slowly or does not is low, out-dated, or contains an adequate supply of a
Difficult or respond to response defective. fresh test sample.
Unable to test. • The calibration gas is 2. Check the sensor face for dirt. Clean
Calibrate • Unable to accurately not an appropriate if necessary.
set the fresh air or concentration. 3. Verify that the calibration gas
zero reading during • The transmitter is concentration is appropriate for the
calibration. malfunctioning. transmitter. Zero emission air (20.9%
• Transmitter requires oxygen) is normally used for a fresh
frequent calibration. air adjustment if the environment is
suspect and 100% nitrogen (0%
Note: Under “normal” oxygen) is normally used for a zero
circumstances, the adjustment.
transmitter requires
calibration once every 3 4. If the calibration/response difficulties
months. continue, replace the plug-in sensor
Some applications as described later in this section.
may require a more 5. If the calibration/response difficulties
frequent calibration continue, contact RKI for further
schedule. instruction.

10 • 65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter

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Replacing Components of the Oxygen Transmitter
This section includes a procedure to replace the plug-in oxygen sensor, a procedure to
replace the entire oxygen detector assembly, and one to replace the amplifier. In most
cases, it is not necessary to replace the entire detector assembly.
Replacing The Plug-in Oxygen Sensor

CAUTION: The plug-in sensor contains electrolyte that is an irritant. Do not disassemble the
sensor when replacing it with a new one. If electrolyte comes in contact with your
skin, wash affected area thoroughly with soap and water.

1. Turn off the controller.


2. Turn off or unplug power to the controller.
3. Unscrew the detector housing cap from the detector housing body. Make sure not to
lose the cap gasket.
4. Unplug and remove the oxygen sensor.
5. Carefully plug the replacement sensor into the socket pattern that is located in the
detector housing.
6. Make sure the cap gasket is in place and screw the detector housing cap back onto the
detector housing body.
7. Turn on power to the controller.
8. Turn on the controller and place into normal operation.

CAUTION: Allow the replacement sensor to warm up for 5 minutes before you continue with the
next step.

9. Calibrate the detector as described in “Calibration” on page 13.


Replacing the Oxygen Detector

NOTE: In most cases, it is only necessary to replace the plug-in sensor.

1. Turn off the controller.


2. Turn off or unplug power to the controller.
3. Remove the junction box cover.
4. Remove the detector terminal strip from its socket.
5. Disconnect the detector leads from the detector terminal strip. Note the position of the
color-coded leads as you remove them.
6. Unscrew the detector from the junction box conduit hub.
7. Guide the detector leads of the replacement detector through the bottom conduit hub
of the junction box, then screw the mounting threads of the detector into the conduit
hub. If necessary for environmental conditions, apply thread sealant or teflon tape to
the hub and/or detector threads to seal them.

65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter • 11

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8. Connect the detector leads to the appropriate detector terminal strip terminals.
Connect the white wire to the terminal labelled Oxy + and the green wire to the
terminal labelled Oxy -. See Figure 4 on page 7 for the detector wiring connections to
the amplifier.
9. Reinstall the detector terminal strip into its socket.
10. Reinstall the junction box cover.
11. Turn on or plug in power to the controller.
12. Turn on the controller and place it into normal operation.

CAUTION: Allow the replacement detector to warm up for 5 minutes before you continue with
the next step.

13. Calibrate the replacement detector as described in “Calibration” on page 13.


Replacing the Amplifier
1. Turn off the controller.
2. Turn off or unplug power to the controller.
3. Remove the junction box cover.
4. Unplug the detector terminal strip and controller terminal strip from their sockets.
You may leave the wires connected to the terminal strips.
5. Unscrew and remove the screw with the flat and lock washers that secures the
amplifier to the junction box.
6. Remove the old amplifier.
7. Install the new amplifier into the junction box with the screw, lock washer, and flat
washer you removed in Step 5 above. A foam gasket that orients the amplifier and
keeps it from rotating is installed on the bottom of the amplifier. Make sure the
amplifier is seated flat in the junction box.
8. Install the detector and controller terminals strips into their sockets on the new
amplifier as shown in Figure 4 on page 7. If controller leads or detector leads were
removed during this procedure, refer to Figure 4 on page 7 for the detector and
amplifier connections.

NOTE: When a transmitter is first powered up with a new amplifier, the initial output
may be either high or below zero depending on the setting of the zero pot. Be
sure to make arrangements so that this does not cause unwanted alarms.

9. Turn on power to the controller.


10. Turn on the controller and place it into normal operation.
11. Allow the transmitter to warm-up for 5 minutes.
12. Calibrate the transmitter as described in “Calibration” on page 13 of this manual.

12 • 65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter

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Calibration Frequency
Although there is no particular calibration frequency that is correct for all applications, a
calibration frequency of every 3 months is adequate for most oxygen transmitter
applications. Unless experience in a particular application dictates otherwise, RKI
Instruments, Inc. recommends a calibration frequency of every 3 months for the oxygen
transmitter.
If an application is not very demanding, for example detection in a clean, temperature
controlled environment, and calibration adjustments are minimal at calibration, then a
calibration frequency of every 6 months is adequate.
If an application is very demanding, for example if the environment is not well controlled,
then more frequent calibration than every 3 months may be necessary.

Calibration
This section describes how to calibrate the oxygen transmitter. It includes procedures to
prepare for calibration, set the fresh air reading, set the zero reading, and return to normal
operation. It describes calibration using a calibration kit that includes a calibration cup,
calibration gas, sample tubing, and a fixed flow regulator with an on/off knob. RKI
Instruments, Inc. recommends using a 0.5 LPM (liters per minute) fixed flow regulator
Preparing for Calibration
1. Place the controller into its calibration mode or disable external alarms.
2. Unscrew and remove the junction box cover.
3. Set a voltmeter to measure in the millivolt (mV) range.
4. Plug the voltmeter leads into the test points on the amplifier. Plug the positive lead
into the red + test point; plug the negative lead into the black - test point.
5. Use the following formula to determine the correct test points output for the
calibrating sample.
Output (mV) = (calibrating sample/fullscale) X 400 + 100
The concentration of oxygen in the atmosphere is 20.9%, so when setting the fresh air
reading, you will set the test points output to 434 mV (±2 mV).
434(mV) = (20.9/25) X 400 +100

NOTE: Calibrating the oxygen transmitter may cause alarms. Be sure to put the
controller into its calibration program or disable external alarms before
continuing.

6. Screw the calibration cup onto the detector housing cap.


Setting the Fresh Air Reading

NOTE: If you can verify that the oxygen transmitter is in a fresh air environment, you do
not need to apply zero air to the detector before adjusting the fresh air reading.

1. Screw the regulator into the zero air calibration cylinder.


2. Use the sample tubing to connect the regulator to the calibration cup.

65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter • 13

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3. Turn the regulator knob counterclockwise to open the regulator.
4. Allow the gas to flow for two minutes and verify a reading of 434 mV (±2 mV). If
necessary, use the span pot on the amplifier to adjust the reading to the correct value.
5. Turn the regulator knob clockwise to close the regulator.
6. Unscrew the regulator from the zero air calibration cylinder. Leave the sample tubing
connected to the regulator and the calibration cup.

NOTE: Depending on the size of your zero air cylinder, it is possible that you will have a
different regulator for the zero air cylinder and the 100% nitrogen cylinder. If
necessary to fit the nitrogen cylinder, change the regulator.

Setting the Zero Reading


1. Screw the regulator into the 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder.
2. Turn the regulator knob counterclockwise to open the regulator.
3. Allow the calibration gas to flow for two minutes and verify a reading of 100 mV (±2
mV). If necessary, use the zero pot on the amplifier to adjust the reading to match the
correct response reading.
4. Turn the regulator knob clockwise to close the regulator.
5. Unscrew the regulator from the calibration cylinder.
6. Unscrew the calibration cup from the detector housing cap.

NOTE: For convenience, leave the regulator and calibration cup connected by the
sample tubing.

Returning to Normal Operation


1. Remove the voltmeter leads from the amplifier test points.
2. Secure the junction box cover to the junction box.
3. When the controller display reading rises above the decreasing alarm setpoint, return
the controller to normal operation.

NOTE: If you do not allow the gas reading to increase above the decreasing alarm point,
then unwanted alarms may occur.

4. Verify that the controller display reading increases and stabilizes at 20.9% volume.
5. Store the components of the calibration kit in a safe and convenient place.

14 • 65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter

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Parts List
Table 3 lists replacement parts and accessories for the oxygen transmitter.

Table 3: Parts List

Part Number Description

06-1248RK-03 Calibration kit sample tubing, 3 foot length

07-0039RK Detector housing cap gasket

18-0400RK-01 Junction box with rubber spacers

57-1064RK-01 S2 series oxygen amplifier, w/orienting gasket, 0 - 25%

65-1025RK Oxygen plug-in sensor

65-2494RK Oxygen replacement detector assembly, includes plug-in sensor

71-0175RK 65-2321RK Operator’s Manual (this document)

81-0076RK Zero air calibration cylinder, 17 liter steel

81-0076RK-01 Zero air calibration cylinder, 34 liter steel

81-0076RK-03 Zero air calibration cylinder, 103 liter steel

81-0078RK 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder, 17 liter steel

81-0078RK-01 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder, 34 liter steel

81-0078RK-03 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder, 103 liter steel

81-F301RK Calibration kit for oxygen detector head, 103 liter

81-F301RK-LV Calibration kit for oxygen detector head, 34 liter

81-1050RK Regulator with gauge and knob, 0.5 LPM, for 17 liter and 34 liter steel calibration cylinders

81-1051RK Regulator with gauge and knob, 0.5 LPM, for 34AL/58/103 liter calibration cylinders

81-1117RK Calibration cup

65-2321RK Oxygen Transmitter • 15

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65-2397RK
CO2 Transmitter
Operator’s Manual

Part Number: 71-0185RK


Revision: C
Released: 9/1/20

RKI Instruments, Inc.


www.rkiinstruments.com
WARNING

Read and understand this instruction manual before operating


transmitter. Improper use of the transmitter could result in bodily
harm or death.

Periodic calibration and maintenance of the transmitter is essential for


proper operation and correct readings. Please calibrate and maintain
this transmitter regularly! Frequency of calibration depends upon the
type of use you have and the sensor types. Typical calibration
frequencies for most applications are between 6 and 12 months, but
can be required more often or less often based on your usage.

2 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


Product Warranty
RKI Instruments, Inc. warrants gas alarm equipment sold by us to be free from defects in materials,
workmanship, and performance for a period of one year from date of shipment from RKI Instruments,
Inc. Any parts found defective within that period will be repaired or replaced, at our option, free of
charge. This warranty does not apply to those items which by their nature are subject to deterioration
or consumption in normal service, and which must be cleaned, repaired, or replaced on a routine basis.
Examples of such items are:

a) Absorbent cartridges d) Batteries


b) Pump diaphragms and valves e) Filter elements
c) Fuses

Warranty is voided by abuse including mechanical damage, alteration, rough handling, or repair
procedures not in accordance with the operator’s manual. This warranty indicates the full extent of our
liability, and we are not responsible for removal or replacement costs, local repair costs, transportation
costs, or contingent expenses incurred without our prior approval.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES AND REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND
ALL OTHER OBLIGATIONS OR LIABILITIES ON THE PART OF RKI
INSTRUMENTS, INC. INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO
EVENT SHALL RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC. BE LIABLE FOR INDIRECT,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND
CONNECTED WITH THE USE OF ITS PRODUCTS OR FAILURE OF ITS
PRODUCTS TO FUNCTION OR OPERATE PROPERLY.
This warranty covers instruments and parts sold to users by authorized distributors, dealers, and
representatives as appointed by RKI Instruments, Inc.
We do not assume indemnification for any accident or damage caused by the operation of this gas
monitor, and our warranty is limited to the replacement of parts or our complete goods.

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 3


Table of Contents
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
CO2 Detector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Amplifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Junction Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Mounting the CO2 Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Wiring the CO2 Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Startup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Introducing Incoming Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Setting the Zero Signal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Replacing Components of the CO2 Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Calibration Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Preparing for Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Setting the Zero Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Setting the Response Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Returning to Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

4 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


Overview
This manual describes the 65-2397RK CO2 transmitter. This manual also describes how to install, start
up, configure, maintain, and calibrate the transmitter when it is used with a gas monitoring controller.
A parts list at the end of this manual lists replacement parts and accessories for the CO2 transmitter.

Specifications
Table 1 lists specifications for the CO2 transmitter.

Table 1:Specifications

Target Gas Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Sampling Method Diffusion


Signal Output 4 to 20 mA
Detection Range 65-2397RK-01: 0-9,000 ppm
65-2397RK-02: 0-5,000 ppm
65-2397RK-03: 0-5% Volume
65-2397RK-04: 0-20% Volume
65-2397RK-05: 0-50% Volume
65-2397RK-10: 0-100% Volume
Response Time 90% in 45 seconds
Operating Temperature -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C)
Accuracy ± 5% of reading or ± 2% of full scale (whichever is greater)

WARNING: When using the 65-2397RK, you must follow the instructions and warnings in this
manual to assure proper and safe operation of the 65-2397RK and to minimize the
risk of personal injury. Be sure to maintain and periodically calibrate the 65-2397RK
as described in this manual.

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 5


Description
This section describes the components of the CO2 transmitter. The transmitter is a 4 - 20 mA type
detector head. It consists of the CO2 detector, amplifier, and junction box.

Factory Adjust Pot Controller Terminal Strip

Span Pot
Zero Pot Amplifier
Factory Adjust Pot

P WR / SIG
SPAN
ZERO

S
Jumper Pins,
Factory Use Only

G B
LEL
mA
Current
Sensor

W
R

+ Test Point Detector Terminal


Strip
- Test Point

J-Box

IR CO2 Detector

Figure 1: CO2 Transmitter Component Location

6 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


Infrared CO2 Detector
The CO2 detector consists of the detector housing body, detector housing cap, cap gasket, and the plug-
in sensor.

Detector Housing Body

Cap Gasket

Plug-In CO2 Sensor

Sensor Retainer

Detector Housing Cap

Hydrophobic
Membrane

Figure 2: CO2 Detector Component Location

Detector Housing Body


The detector housing body protects the electronic components within the housing. Use the mounting
threads at the top of the housing to screw the CO2 detector into the 3/4 NPT hub on the bottom of the
junction box. Four color coded leads, red, white, green, and black, extend from the other end of the
detector. The leads allow you to connect the detector to the amplifier.
The housing includes three sockets installed on a circuit board. These sockets accept the plug-in
sensor’s three pins to provide an electrical connection for the sensor. The circuit board with the sockets
conditions the sensor’s signal before the signal reaches the amplifier.
Housing Cap & Cap Gasket
The housing cap screws onto the detector housing. It retains the plug-in sensor and protects it from
damage. A foam gasket is installed inside the housing cap that seals against the sensor face. A
hydrophobic membrane on the outside of the cap face keeps water and particulates away from the
sensor face behind the cap. Unscrew the detector cap to access the plug-in sensor for maintenance or
replacement. A cap gasket seals the interface between the housing and cap.
Plug-In CO2 Sensor
The plug-in sensor is secured in the detector assembly by the housing cap. The sensor produces a
millivolt output that corresponds to the detection range of the transmitter.

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 7


Amplifier
The amplifier converts the electrical output from the detector to a 4 to 20 mA signal that corresponds
to the detection range and transmits the signal to a gas monitoring controller. A foam gasket that
orients the amplifier and keeps it from rotating is installed on the bottom of the amplifier. The
amplifier includes the controller terminal strip, detector terminal strip, span pot, zero pot, and test
points (see Figure 1).
Controller Terminal Strip
The controller terminal strip is a three position plug-in style terminal strip located near the top of the
amplifier. Use the controller terminal strip to wire the CO2 transmitter to a controller.
Detector Terminal Strip
The detector terminal strip is a four position plug-in style terminal strip located below the controller
terminal strip. Use the detector terminal strip to connect the CO2 transmitter to the amplifier.

NOTE: The IR CO2 detector is factory-wired to the detector terminal strip. See “Wiring the CO2
Transmitter to a Controller” on page 10 for all wiring procedures related to the transmitter.

Zero Pot
The zero pot is located in the upper left corner of the amplifier (see Figure 1). Use a small flat blade
screwdriver to turn the zero pot’s adjustment screw and adjust the amplifier’s target gas-free output
during the start-up and calibration procedures. Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase the
zero output and counterclockwise to decrease the zero output.
Span Pot
The span pot is located to the right of the zero pot (see Figure 1). Use a small flat blade screwdriver to
turn the span pot’s adjustment screw and adjust the amplifier’s gas response output during the
calibration procedure. Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase the gas response and
counterclockwise to decrease the gas response.

CAUTION: The amplifier includes two additional potentiometers. They are factory-set. Do not adjust
them.

Test Points
The test points are on the left side of the amplifier (see Figure 1). The test points produce a 100 mV to
500 mV output that corresponds to the transmitter’s 4 to 20 mA output. Use the test points and a
voltmeter to measure the amplifier’s output during the start-up and calibration procedures. The black
test point in the lower left corner is the negative (-) test point and the red test point below the zero pot
is the positive (+) test point.
Junction Box
Use the junction box to install the transmitter at a mounting site that is remote from the controller. The
junction box protects the amplifier and wiring connections made to the amplifier. Use the top 3/4 NPT
conduit hub to connect wiring from the amplifier to the controller. Use the cover on the front of the
junction box to access the interior of the junction box. The detector and amplifier are factory installed
in the junction box. Three spacers installed on the back of the junction box control the distance of the
junction box from a mounting surface and ensure that there is enough room to install a calibration cup

8 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


on the detector during calibration.

Installation
This section describes procedures to mount the CO2 transmitter in the monitoring environment and
wire the transmitter to a controller.
Mounting the CO2 Transmitter
1. Select a mounting site that is representative of the monitoring environment. Consider the
following when you select the mounting site.
• Select a site where the transmitter is not likely to be bumped or disturbed. Make sure there is
sufficient room to perform start-up, maintenance, and calibration procedures.
• Mount the transmitter at least six feet from the floor to minimize the possibility of someone
breathing on the unit. The exhaled CO2 may cause an alarm.

3.10
3/4 NPT
Female .75
.38

3.65

6.80 M AX
Rubber
Spacers,
3X

J-Box

IR CO2
Detector

1 1/2-20 Thread for


Calibration Cup
Figure 3: Mounting the CO2 Transmitter

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 9


2. At the monitoring site you select, hang or mount the junction box with the detector facing down
(see Figure 3).
Wiring the CO2 Transmitter to a Controller

WARNING: Always verify that the power to the controller is off before you make wiring
connections.

1. Turn off the controller.


2. Turn off or unplug power to the controller.
3. Remove the junction box cover.
4. The detector leads are factory wired. Verify that the detector leads are wired to the amplifier’s
detector terminal strip as shown in Figure 4.
5. To gain access to a plug-in terminal strip for wiring, pull it out of its socket by grasping the
terminal strip and pulling. The detector strip is keyed so that the controller and detector terminal
strips cannot be reversed inadvertently.
6. Guide a three-conductor, shielded cable, or three wires in conduit through the top conduit hub of
the junction box.
7. Pull out the controller terminal strip, and connect the three wires to the terminal strip as follows
(see Figure 4).
• Connect the positive wire to the PWR/SIG “+” terminal.
• Connect the signal wire to the PWR/SIG “S” terminal.
• Connect the negative wire to the PWR/SIG “-” terminal.

CAUTION: If shielded cable is used, leave the cable shield’s drain wire disconnected and insulated at
the transmitter. You will connect the opposite end of the cable’s drain wire to the
controller’s chassis (earth) ground.

8. Reinstall the controller terminal strip into its socket.


9. Secure the junction box cover to the junction box.
10. Route the cable or wires leading from the CO2 transmitter through one of the conduit hubs at the
controller housing. Use appropriate conduit fittings and construction technique for the
environmental rating of the controller. RKI controllers are typically rated NEMA 4X, are not
explosion-proof, and must be installed in a non-hazardous location.

10 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


CAUTION: Do not route power and transmitter wiring through the same controller conduit hub. The
power cable may disrupt the transmission of the transmitter signal to the controller.

11. Connect the wires to the applicable detector/transmitter terminal strip at the controller as shown in
Figure 4.

+ 24 VDC
4 - 20 mA In (S)

- (DC Ground)

Cable sheild

Controller

Amplifier

Black
Green
S IG / PW R
Z ER O

S PA N

Detector W ires
W hite
B G

Red
LEL
W
R

J-Box

IR CO2 Detector

Figure 4: Wiring the CO2 Transmitter to a Controller

12. If shielded cable is used, connect the cable’s drain wire to an available chassis (earth) ground at the
controller. RKI controllers typically have a ground stud that can be used to ground the cable’s
drain wire.

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 11


Start Up
This section describes procedures to start up the CO2 transmitter and place the transmitter into normal
operation.
Introducing Incoming Power
1. Complete the installation procedures described earlier in this manual.
2. Verify that the power wiring to the controller is correct and secure. Refer to the controller
operator’s manual.
3. Turn on power to the controller.
4. Turn on the controller.
5. Verify that the controller is on and operating properly. Refer to the controller operator’s manual.

NOTE: When first powered up, the transmitter will enter about a one minute period when the 4-20
mA output is stabilizing and may be above the controller alarm points or well below zero
momentarily. RKI controllers have a one minute warmup period when the controller does not
display any gas reading or give any alarm indication. The CO2 transmitter’s 4-20 mA signal
should be stable by the time the controller’s warmup period is over.

CAUTION: Allow the detector to warm up for 5 minutes before you continue with the next section,
“Setting the Zero Signal”.

Setting the Zero Signal


Since there is a background of CO2 in air of typically 300 - 600 ppm (0.03 - 0.06% volume), it is
necessary to use a calibration kit with a 100% nitrogen cylinder to set the zero signal of a CO2
transmitter with a low range detector. Fresh air can be used to zero the transmitter if a 0-20% volume,
0-50% volume, or 0-100% volume detector is being used.

WARNING: Do not remove the junction box cover while the circuits are energized unless the area
is determined to be non-hazardous. Keep the junction box cover tightly closed during
operation.

The procedure below describes applying 100% nitrogen using a calibration kit that includes a
calibration cup, calibration gas, sample tubing, and a fixed flow regulator with an on/off knob. RKI
Instruments, Inc. recommends using a 0.5 LPM (liters per minute) fixed flow regulator.
1. Unscrew and remove the junction box cover from the junction box.
2. Set a voltmeter to measure in the millivolt (mV) range.
3. Plug the voltmeter leads into the test points on the amplifier. Plug the positive lead into the red (+)
test point; plug the negative lead into the black (-) test point.
4. Screw the calibration cup onto the bottom of the IR CO2 detector.
5. Screw the regulator into the 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder.
6. Use the calibration kit sample tubing to connect the regulator to the calibration cup.

12 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


7. Turn the regulator’s on/off knob counterclockwise to open it. Gas will begin to flow.
8. Allow the gas to flow for one minute.
9. Verify a voltmeter reading of 100 mV (±2 mV).
10. If necessary, use a small flat-blade screwdriver to adjust the zero pot until the voltmeter reading is
100 mV (±2 mV).
11. Turn the regulator’s on/off knob clockwise to close it.
12. Unscrew the calibration cup from the detector.
13. Unscrew the regulator from the 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder. For convenience, leave the
sample tubing connected to the regulator and the calibration cup.
14. Store the components of the calibration kit in a safe and convenient place.
15. Remove the voltmeter leads from the test points.
16. Secure the junction box cover to the junction box.

Maintenance
This section describes maintenance procedures. It includes preventive maintenance, troubleshooting,
and component replacement procedures.
Preventive Maintenance
This section describes a preventive maintenance schedule to ensure the optimum performance of the
CO2 transmitter. It includes daily and biannual procedures.
Daily
Verify a display reading at the controller of the background concentration of CO2. Typical background
concentrations of CO2 vary from about 300 to 600 ppm (0.03 to 0.06% volume) depending on
location. The 0-5,000 ppm, 0-9,000 ppm, and 0-5% volume detectors will display a reading in a fresh
air environment because they have low ranges. The 0-20% volume, 0-50% volume, and 0-100%
volume detectors will not display a reading in fresh air because their ranges are too large. Investigate
significant changes in the display reading.
Biannually
Calibrate the CO2 transmitter as described in “Calibration” on page 19 of this manual.

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 13


Troubleshooting
The troubleshooting guide describes symptoms, probable causes, and recommended action for
problems you may encounter with the CO2 transmitter.

NOTE: This troubleshooting guide describes transmitter problems only. See the controller operator’s
manual for problems you may encounter with the controller.

Table 2:Troubleshooting the CO2 Transmitter

Condition Symptom(s) Probable Causes Recommended Action

Fail • Controller • The transmitter 1. Verify that the transmitter wiring


Condition indicates a fail wiring is to the controller is correct and
condition. disconnected or secure.
misconnected. 2. Verify that the wiring from the
• The wiring from the detector to the amplifier is correct
detector to the and secure.
amplifier is 3. Confirm that the plug-in sensor is
disconnected or properly installed.
misconnected.
4. Perform a zero adjustment. A full
• The plug-in sensor is calibration is recommended.
not properly plugged
into the three-socket 5. If the fail condition continues,
pattern in the replace the sensor as described
detector housing later in this section.
body. 6. If the fail condition continues,
• The transmitter’s contact RKI for further
zero reading is low instruction.
enough to cause a
fail condition.
• The transmitter is
malfunctioning.
Slow or No • Unable to • The calibration 1. Verify that the calibration cylinder
Response/ accurately set the cylinder is low, out- contains an adequate supply of a
Difficult or zero or response dated, or defective. fresh test sample.
Unable to reading during • The calibration gas 2. Check the face of the detector
Calibrate calibration. is not an appropriate housing cap and remove any
• Transmitter concentration. particulate contamination from
requires frequent • The membrane on the hydrophobic membrane if
calibration. the detector housing necessary.
Note: Under cap is blocked with 3. Verify that the calibration gas
“normal” dirt or some other concentration is appropriate for
circumstances, the particulate matter. the transmitter.
transmitter requires • The transmitter is 4. If the calibration/response
calibration once malfunctioning. difficulties continue, replace the
every 6 months. sensor as described later in this
Some applications section.
may require a more 5. If the calibration/response
frequent calibration difficulties continue, contact RKI
schedule. for further instruction.

14 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


Replacing Components of the CO2 Transmitter
This section includes a procedure to replace the hydrophobic membrane, a procedure to replace the
plug-in IR CO2 sensor, a procedure to replace the entire CO2 detector assembly, and one to replace the
amplifier. In most cases, it is not necessary to replace the entire detector assembly.
Replacing the Hydrophobic Membrane
1. Turn off the controller.
2. Turn off or unplug incoming power to the controller.
3. Unscrew the detector housing cap from the detector housing body.
4. Gently pry up the edge of the white hydrophobic membrane with a small flat blade screwdriver or
a similar tool.
5. Peel off the hydrophobic membrane. It may be necessary to clean off the detector housing cap face
to remove any residue left from the adhesive backed membrane.
6. Install the new membrane in the recess on the face of the detector housing cap.
7. Make sure the cap gasket is in place and screw the detector housing cap back onto the detector
housing body.
8. Turn on the power to the controller.
9. Turn on the controller and place it into normal operation.

NOTE: When first powered up, the transmitter will enter about a one minute period when the 4-20
mA output is stabilizing and may be above the controller alarm points or well below zero
momentarily. RKI controllers have a one minute warmup period when the controller does not
display any gas reading or give any alarm indication. The combustible gas transmitter’s 4-20
mA signal should be stable by the time the controller’s warmup period is over.

Replacing the Plug-In CO2 Sensor


1. Turn off the controller.
2. Turn off or unplug power to the controller.
3. Unscrew the detector housing cap from the detector housing body. Make sure not to lose the cap
gasket.
4. Unplug and remove the plug-in IR CO2 sensor.
5. Carefully plug the replacement sensor into the socket pattern that is located in the detector
housing.
6. Make sure the cap gasket is in place and screw the detector housing cap back onto the detector
housing body.
7. Turn on power to the controller.
8. Turn on the controller and place it into normal operation.

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 15


NOTE: When first powered up, the transmitter will enter about a one minute period when the 4-20
mA output is stabilizing and may be above the controller alarm points or well below zero
momentarily. RKI controllers have a one minute warmup period when the controller does not
display any gas reading or give any alarm indication. The CO2 transmitter’s 4-20 mA signal
should be stable by the time the controller’s warmup period is over.

CAUTION: Allow the replacement sensor to warm up for 5 minutes before you continue with the next
step.

9. Calibrate the transmitter as described in “Calibration” on page 19.


Replacing the IR CO2 Detector

NOTE: In most cases it is only necessary to replace the IR CO2 plug-in sensor.

1. Turn off the controller.


2. Turn off or unplug power to the controller.
3. Remove the junction box cover.
4. Remove the detector terminal strip from its socket.
5. Disconnect the detector leads from the detector terminal strip. Note the position of the color-coded
leads as you remove them.
6. Unscrew the detector from the junction box.
7. Guide the detector leads of the replacement detector through the bottom conduit hub of the
junction box, then screw the mounting threads of the detector into the conduit hub. If necessary for
environmental conditions, apply thread sealant or Teflon tape to the hub and/or detector threads to
seal them.
8. Connect the detector leads to the detector terminal strip as shown in Table 3 below and Figure 4 on
page 11 of this manual.

Table 3:Reconnecting the CO2 Detector to the Amplifier

Detector Terminal
Detector Lead
Strip

Red LEL “R”


White LEL “W”
Green LEL “G”
Black LEL “B”

9. Reinstall the detector terminal strip into its socket.


10. Reinstall the junction box cover.
11. Turn on or plug in power to the controller.

16 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


12. Turn on the controller and place it into normal operation.

NOTE: When first powered up, the transmitter will enter about a one minute period when the 4-20
mA output is stabilizing and may be above the controller alarm points or well below zero
momentarily. RKI controllers have a one minute warmup period when the controller does not
display any gas reading or give any alarm indication. The CO2 transmitter’s 4-20 mA signal
should be stable by the time the controller’s warmup period is over.

CAUTION: Allow the replacement detector to warm up for 5 minutes before you continue with the
next step.

13. Calibrate the transmitter as described in “Calibration” on page 19 of this manual.


Replacing the Amplifier
1. Turn off the controller.
2. Turn off or unplug power to the controller.
3. Remove the junction box cover.
4. Unplug the detector terminal strip and controller terminal strip from their sockets. You may leave
the wires connected to the terminal strips.
5. Unscrew and remove the screw with the flat and lock washers that secures the amplifier to the
junction box.
6. Remove the old amplifier.
7. Place the new amplifier in the same position as the old amplifier. A foam gasket that orients the
amplifier and keeps it from rotating is installed on the bottom of the amplifier. Make sure the
amplifier is seated flat in the junction box.
8. Install the new amplifier into the junction box with the screw, lock washer, and flat washer you
removed in Step 5 above.
9. Install the detector and controller terminal strips into their sockets on the new amplifier as shown
in Figure 4 on page 11 of this manual. If controller leads or detector leads were removed during
this procedure, refer to Table 4 and Table 5 below.

Table 4:Reconnecting the Amplifier to the Controller

Controller
Amplifier Controller
Transmitter Terminal
Terminal Strip
Strip (typical)

PWR/SIG “-” - (DC -)


PWR/SIG “S” S (4 - 20 mA In)
PWR/SIG “+” + 24V

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 17


Table 5:Reconnecting the CO2 Detector to the Amplifier

Amplifier Detector
Detector Lead
Terminal Strip

DETECTOR “R” RED


DETECTOR “W” WHT
DETECTOR “G” GREEN
DETECTOR “B” BLK

NOTE: When a transmitter is first powered up with a new amplifier, the initial output may be either
high or below zero depending on the setting of the zero pot. Be sure to make arrangements so
that this does not cause unwanted alarms.

10. Turn on power to the controller.


11. Turn on the controller and place it into normal operation.

NOTE: When first powered up, the transmitter will enter about a one minute period when the 4-20
mA output is stabilizing and may be above the controller alarm points or well below zero
momentarily. RKI controllers have a one minute warmup period when the controller does not
display any gas reading or give any alarm indication. The CO2 transmitter’s 4-20 mA signal
should be stable by the time the controller’s warmup period is over.

12. Allow the transmitter to warm-up for 5 minutes.


13. Calibrate the transmitter as described in “Calibration” on page 19 of this manual.

Calibration Frequency
Although there is no particular calibration frequency that is correct for all applications, a calibration
frequency of every 6 months is adequate for most infrared CO2 transmitter applications. Unless
experience in a particular application dictates otherwise, RKI Instruments, Inc. recommends a
calibration frequency of every 6 months.
If an application is not very demanding, for example detection in a clean, temperature controlled
environment where calibration adjustments are minimal at calibration, then a calibration frequency of
every 9 to 12 months is adequate.
If an application is very demanding, for example if the environment is not well controlled, then more
frequent calibration than every 6 months may be necessary.

18 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


Calibration
This section describes how to calibrate the CO2 transmitter. It includes procedures to prepare for
calibration, set the zero reading, set the response reading, and return to normal operation.

WARNING: The controller is not an active gas monitoring device during the calibration
procedure.

NOTE: The following procedure assumes the use of a calibration kit which includes a calibration gas
cylinder, a 100% nitrogen cylinder, a 0.5 LPM fixed flow regulator with an on/off knob, a
calibration cup for the detector, and a short piece of sample tubing to connect the regulator to
the calibration cup.

Preparing for Calibration


1. Unscrew and remove the junction box cover.
2. Set a voltmeter to measure in the millivolt (mV) range.
3. Plug the voltmeter leads into the test points on the amplifier. Plug the positive lead into the red (+)
test point; plug the negative lead into the black (-) test point.
4. Use the following formula to determine the correct test points output for the calibrating sample.
Output (mV) = (calibrating sample/fullscale) X 400 + 100
For example, with a calibrating sample of 2.5 %Vol. and a fullscale setting of 5 %Vol., the correct
output is 300 mV.
300(mV) = (50/100) X 400 +100
5. Screw the calibration cup onto the detector housing.
6. Place the controller into its calibration mode or disable external alarms.

NOTE: Calibrating the CO2 transmitter may cause alarms. Be sure to put the controller into its
calibration mode or disable external alarms before continuing.

Setting the Zero Reading


Since there is a background of CO2 in air of typically 300 - 600 ppm (0.03 - 0.06% volume), it is
necessary to use a calibration kit with a 100% nitrogen cylinder to set the zero signal of a CO2
transmitter with a low range detector. Fresh air can be used to zero the transmitter if a 0-20% volume,
0-50% volume, or 0-100% volume detector is being used.
1. Screw the regulator into the 100% nitrogen calibration cylinder.
2. Use the calibration kit sample tubing to connect the regulator to the calibration cup.
3. Turn the regulator’s on/off knob counterclockwise to open the regulator.
4. Allow the gas to flow for one minute and verify a reading of 100 mV (±2 mV). If necessary, use
the zero pot on the amplifier to adjust the reading to 100 mV (±2 mV).
5. Turn the regulator’s on/off knob clockwise to close the regulator.

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 19


6. Unscrew the regulator from the zero air calibration cylinder.
7. Leave the sample tubing connected to the regulator and the calibration cup.
Setting the Response Reading
1. Screw the regulator into the calibration cylinder. Verify that the calibration gas is representative of
the transmitter’s target gas.
2. Turn the regulator’s on/off knob counterclockwise to open the regulator.
3. Allow the calibration gas to flow for one minute and verify that the reading matches the response
reading (±2 mV) you determined earlier. If necessary, use the span pot on the amplifier to adjust
the reading to match the correct response reading.
4. Turn the regulator’s on/off knob clockwise to close the regulator.
5. Unscrew the regulator from the calibration cylinder.
Returning to Normal Operation
1. Remove the voltmeter leads from the amplifier test points.
2. Unscrew the calibration cup from the detector.

NOTE: For convenience, leave the regulator and calibration cup connected by the sample tubing.

3. Secure the junction box cover to the junction box.


4. When the controller display reading falls below the alarm setpoints, return the controller to normal
operation.
5. Verify that the controller display reading decreases and stabilizes at a typical background CO2
level. The 0-5,000 ppm, 0-9,000 ppm, and 0-5% volume detectors will display a reading in a fresh
air environment because they have low ranges. The 0-20% volume, 0-50% volume, and 0-100%
volume detectors will not display a reading in fresh air because their ranges are too large.
6. Store the components of the calibration kit in a safe and convenient place.

20 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter


Parts List
Table 6 lists replacement parts and accessories for the CO2 transmitter.

Table 6:Parts List

Part Number Description

06-1248RK Sample tubing (3/16 in. x 5/16 in.; specify length when ordering)
07-0039RK Detector housing cap gasket
18-0400RK-01 Junction box with spacers
33-0157RK Hydrophobic disk membrane for detector cap
57-1053RK Amplifier with gasket (specify detector part number when ordering)
61-5040RK-01 CO2 replacement plug-in sensor, 0-9,000 ppm

61-5040RK-02 CO2 replacement plug-in sensor, 0-5,000 ppm

61-5040RK-03 CO2 replacement plug-in sensor, 0-5% Volume

61-5040RK-04 CO2 replacement plug-in sensor, 0-20% Volume

61-5040RK-05 CO2 replacement plug-in sensor, 0-50% Volume

61-5040RK-10 CO2 replacement plug-in sensor, 0-100% Volume

65-2397RK-01 CO2 transmitter, 0-9000 ppm, (includes detector, junction box, and amplifier)

65-2397RK-02 CO2 transmitter, 0-5000 ppm, (includes detector, junction box, and amplifier)

65-2397RK-03 CO2 transmitter, 0-5% Volume, (includes detector, junction box, and amplifier)

65-2397RK-04 CO2 transmitter, 0-20% Volume, (includes detector, junction box, and amplifier)

65-2397RK-05 CO2 transmitter, 0-50% Volume, (includes detector, junction box, and amplifier)

65-2397RK-10 CO2 transmitter, 0-100% Volume, (includes detector, junction box, and amplifier)

71-0185RK 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter Operator’s Manual (this document)

81-0070RK-01 Calibration cylinder, 2000 ppm CO2, 34 liter steel

81-0071RK-01 Calibration cylinder, 5000 ppm CO2, 34 liter steel

81-0071RK-03 Calibration cylinder, 5000 ppm CO2, 34 liter steel

81-0072RK-01 Calibration cylinder, 2.5% CO2, 34 liter steel

81-0073RK-01 Calibration cylinder, 15% CO2, 34 liter steel

81-0078RK-01 Calibration cylinder, 100% nitrogen, 34 liter steel

65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter • 21


Table 6:Parts List

Part Number Description

81-1050RK Regulator, with gauge and knob, 0.5 liter/minute continuous flow, for 17 liter and
34 liter steel calibration cylinders (cylinders with external threads)
81-1051RK Regulator, with gauge and knob, 0.5 liter/minute continuous flow, for 34 liter alu-
minum/58 liter/103 liter calibration cylinders (cylinders with internal threads)
81-1117RK Calibration cup
82-0006RK Pot adjust screwdriver, for calibration

22 • 65-2397RK CO2 Transmitter

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