In Vehicle Loop Detector
Instruction Manual 
ULT-PLGTM
Plug-In Vehicle Loop Detector
Instruction Manual
The ULT-PLG plug-in style vehicle loop detector senses metallic objects near an induction loop. This vehicle detector may be used in the center, reverse, and exit loop positions. The ULTRAMETERTM display allows for easy set-up by displaying the optimum sensitivity setting for detecting a vehicle near the loop while ignoring interference. Ten sensitivity settings allow for fine adjustment of the detection level. The ULT-PLG features a user-configurable Output B for fail-safe/secure, pulse on entry/exit, presence or EMX exclusive, Detect-on-StopTM (DOS®). Four frequency settings provide flexibility in preventing crosstalk in multi-loop applications.
Cautions and Warnings
This product is an accessory or part of a system. Install the ULT-PLG according to instructions from the gate or door operator manufacturer. Comply with all applicable codes and safety regulations.
Specifications
| Power | 12-24 VDC |
| Draw Current | 15 mA |
| Loop Frequency | 4 settings (low, med-low, med-hi, high) |
| Loop Inductance Range | 20-2000 µH (Q factor ≥ 5) |
| Surge Protection | Loop circuitry protected by surge suppressors |
| Operating Temperature | -40º to 180ºF (-40º to 82ºC) 0 to 95% relative humidity |
| Connector | 10 pin female |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 3.0” (76 mm) x 0.9” (22 mm) x 2.75” (70 mm) |
Ordering Information
- ULT-PLG…………………… Plug-in vehicle loop detector (included)
- PR-XX………………………. Lite preformed loop (XX specify size)
- TSTL………………….. Test loop, troubleshooting tool
Wiring Connections
10 Pin Female Connector
| Connector Pin | Description |
| 1 | Loop Connection |
| 2 | Loop Connection |
| 3 | Power + (12-24 VDC) |
| 4 | No Connection |
| 5 | No Connection |
| 6 | Output B |
| 7 | Output B Inverted |
| 8 | Presence Output |
| 9 | Power + (12-24 VDC) |
| 10 | Ground |
Settings & Display
1. DIP Switch
The DIP switch settings are explained on the next page.
2. Sensitivity Setting
The 10-position rotary switch allows for adjustment of the detection threshold.
The sensitivity threshold increases from position 0 (lowest setting) through 9 (highest setting). Typical applications require a setting of 3 or 4. The rotary adjustment must be set to a specific/whole number. There are no half settings.
3. Power / Loop Fault Indicator (Green LED)
| Normal Operation | on |
| Shorted or Open Loop | fast flash |
| Previous Loop Fault | flashes fast twice intermittently |
4. Detect / Frequency Count (Red LED)
| Presence Detected | on |
| No Presence | off |
| Frequency Count | flashing |
5. ULTRAMETERTM Display
The display shows the sensitivity setting required to detect a vehicle near the loop. To use this feature, observe the display while a vehicle is moving into position near the loop, note the number displayed, then adjust the sensitivity setting to the displayed position. The display will adjust from 9 for a weak signal to 0 for a very strong signal. During normal operation, when a vehicle is not on or near the loop, the display is blank. The effects of cross-traffic interference can be observed on the display when the sensing area is vacant.
6. Frequency Count / Reset Button
Press and release the frequency count button and count the number of flashes on the red LED. Each flash represents 10 kHz. Following a frequency count cycle, the detector re-initializes.
Automatic Sensitivity Boost
| DIP Switch 8 | |
| ASB Enabled | on |
| ASB Disabled | off |
The Automatic Sensitivity Boost causes the sensitivity to increase following initial detection. This feature is useful to prevent dropout when detecting high-bed vehicles. The sensitivity returns to its normal setting after the vehicle exits the loop. The decimal point on the ULTRAMETER™ display indicates ASB is on.
Presence
| DIP Switch 7 | |
| Normal | on |
| Infinite | off |
Infinite presence mode causes the output to remain in detection as long as the vehicle remains in the loop. Normal presence mode causes the output to reset after 5 minutes. Do not use Normal presence mode for reversing loop applications.
Detect-On-Stop™
| DIP Switch 6 | |
| DOS® On | on |
| DOS® Off | off |
The Detect-On-Stop™ (DOS® ) feature requires that a vehicle must come to a complete stop over the loop for a minimum of 1-2 seconds before Output B activates. DOS®
will not function if in Loop Fault mode. Do not use the DOS® feature for reversing loop applications.
Output B
| DIP Switch | ||
| Mode | 5 | 4 |
| Pulse on Entry | on | on |
| Pulse on Exit | on | off |
| B same as A | off | on |
| Loop Fault | off | off |
Output B is configurable for four possible modes. In Pulse on Entry/Exit mode, Output B will be activated for approximately 500ms when a vehicle is entering or exiting the detection zone. In B same as A, relay B has the same output as relay A. In Loop Fault mode, the relay will trigger if a loop fault occurs.
Fail-Safe/Secure
| DIP Switch 3 | |
| Fail-Safe | on |
| Fail Secure | off |
The Fail Safe setting causes the ULT-PLG to activate the presence output in the event of a loop failure. The Fail Secure setting will cause the ULT-PLG not to activate the presence output in the event of a loop failure. Do not use Fail Secure for reversing loop applications.
Frequency Settings
| DIP Switch | ||
| 2 | 1 | |
| Low | on | on |
| Medium Low | on | off |
| Medium High | off | on |
| High | off | off |
DIP switches 2 and 1 are used to assign the loop operation frequency. The primary purpose of the Frequency Setting is to allow the installer the ability to set different operating
frequencies for multi-loop installations and is recommended to prevent crosstalk/interference from multiple loops.
Loop Installation
NEW SLAB POUR
Ty-wrap 1-1/4″ PVC pipe to the top of the rebar in the size and configuration of the loop (ex. 4′ x 8′). Then ty-wrap the loop to the top of the PVC frame. This stabilizes the loop during the pour and separates it from the rebar.
SAW CUT EXISTING SURFACE
Cut 1″ deep into the existing surface, place a 45° cut at the corners to prevent sharp edges from damaging the loop wire. Notch out for the “T” connection where the lead wire connects to the loop. Remove all debris from the finished cut with compressed air. Place the loop into the saw cut. Place backer material into the saw cut over the loop wire and pack tightly. Place a high-quality sealer over the saw cut to seal the surface.
RESURFACE ASPHALT
Saw cut the existing surface ¾” deep and place a 45° cut at the corners to prevent sharp edges from damaging the loop wire. Remove all debris from the finished cut with compressed air. Place sand over the loop wire to the surface and pack tightly. Lay new asphalt.
GRAVEL OR SOIL INSTALLATION
While this is not a recommended installation for most loops, it has been used successfully with proper preparation. Remove gravel or top soil until reaching a stable base. Dig ~ 6-8″ deep by ~ 6-8″ wide. Fill halfway with sand and pack tightly. Place the loop into the trench and finish filling to level with sand. Pack tightly and replace gravel or soil over top.
GENERAL INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
- Use EMX lite preformed loops for quick, reliable installations.
- It is not recommended to install a loop near power lines (overhead or underground) or low voltage lighting. If necessary near these power sources, place at a 45° angle. Make the loop shape a diamond, not a square.
- Never install a loop near inductive heaters.
- If using a non-preformed loop, lead-in wire (wire from loop to detector) must be twisted a minimum of 6 turns per foot to avoid the effects of noise or other interference.
- Detection height is approximately 70% of the shortest side of the loop. For example: detection height for a 4′ x 8′ loop = 48″ x .7 = 33.6″ 4/6
Installation
- Plug the ULT-PLG into the operator according to instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Configure the DIP switches according to preferences. Refer to Settings & Display for more information.
- If using multiple loops or suspect crosstalk/interference from the environment, perform a frequency count on each detector to confirm that the operating frequencies are different.
· Press the FREQUENCY COUNT / RESET button and count the number of flashes of the red LED. Each flash represents 10kHZ. Counts from 3 to 13 confirm that the detector is tuned to a loop.
· If multiple loops and detectors are utilizing the same or very similar frequency, configure DIP switches 7 and 8 on one of the devices. For example: Move one ULT-PLG to the low-frequency setting and the second ULT-PLG to the high-frequency setting. - Press the FREQUENCY COUNT / RESET button to re-initialize the detector and program the DIP switch settings.
- Adjust the sensitivity setting to the desired level to assure detection of all vehicle traffic.
· To test the sensitivity, without moving the sensing loop, drive a vehicle near the loop.
TIP: When the vehicle is first detected by the loop, “9” will be displayed on the ULTRAMETERTM display. Position the vehicle over the loop where the detection point is desired, take note of the number displayed on the ULTRAMETERTM and change the sensitivity setting (10-position rotary switch) to match that number.
· Move the test vehicle away from the loop to remove it from the detection zone (ULTRAMETERTM display should be blank).
· Press the FREQUENCY COUNT / RESET button on the ULT-PLG.
· Retest the product by moving the vehicle into and out of the detection zone to make sure the set-up and location are working as intended. - Press the FREQUENCY COUNT BUTTON / RESET button to calibrate the ULT-PLG to the loop.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
| Green LED not on | No power | Check the power supplied to the ULT-PLG on pins 9 and 10. Voltage should read between 12-24 VDC. |
| Green LED fast flash | Loop wire shorted or open | 1. Check the loop resistance with a multimeter to confirm a reading between 0.5 ohms and 5 ohms. If the reading is outside of this range, replace the loop. The reading should be steady. 2. Check loop connections to terminals. 3. Press the FREQUENCY COUNT / RESET button. |
| Green LED flashes fast twice intermittently | Loop wire was previously shorted or open | 1. Check the loop resistance with a multimeter to confirm a reading between 0.5 ohms and 5 ohms. If reading is outside of this range, replace the loop. The reading should be steady. 2. Check loop connections to terminals. 3. Press the FREQUENCY COUNT / RESET button. |
| Red LED on constantly (stuck in detection mode) | Faulty loop Poorly crimped connection or lose connection | Perform a megger test from loop lead to ground, it should be more than 100 megaohms. Check loop connections to terminals. Verify splices are properly soldered and sealed against moisture. Observe ULTRAMETER’s” display. The level indicated on the display indicates residual frequency shift from vacant loop to vehicle presence. Press the FREQUENCY COUNT / RESET button to re-initialize the detector. |
| Detector detects intermittently when no vehicle is on the loop | Faulty loop Poorly crimped connection or lose connection Cross-talk between multiple loop detectors Loop is not securely installed to prevent movement of the loop in the pavement. |
Perform a megger test from loop lead to ground, it should be more than 100 megaohms. Check loop connections to terminals. Verify splices are properly soldered and sealed against moisture. Set multiple loops to different frequencies. Verify that loop is securely installed in pavement and that site is in good condition preventing movement of loop wires. |
| No detection | Loop wire shorted or open Loop sensitivity set too low | 1. Check loop resistance with a multimeter to confirm a reading between 0.5 ohms and 5 ohms. If the reading is outside of this range, replace the loop. The reading should be steady. 2. With the vehicle on loop, observe ULTRAMETER’s” display. Set sensitivity level to the level indicated on the display. |
Warranty
EMX Industries, Inc. products have a warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two years from the date of sale to our customer.
Documents / Resources
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EMX ULT-PLG Plug-In Vehicle Loop Detector [pdf] Instruction Manual ULT-PLG Plug-In Vehicle Loop Detector, ULT-PLG, Plug-In Vehicle Loop Detector, Vehicle Loop Detector, Loop Detector, Detector, Vehicle Detector |
