Trane Tracer MP501 Controller

Introduction

The Trane Tracer MP501 controller is a versatile, configurable controller designed for direct-digital control of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. It can function as a standalone unit or as part of a Building Automation System (BAS) communicating via a LonTalk Comm5 link.

The controller features a single control loop supporting multiple output types: 2-stage, tri-state modulating, and 0-10 Vdc analog. It can be configured in two primary modes: Space Comfort Controller (SCC) or generic.

SCC Mode Applications:

• Heating control loop
• Cooling control loop
• Two-pipe heat/cool automatic changeover using communicated water loop temperature

In generic mode, the Tracer MP.501 offers flexibility for various applications not strictly following LonMark profiles. It accepts inputs such as temperature, pressure, flow, percentage, or parts per million (ppm).

Generic Mode Applications:

• Fan speed control based on duct static pressure
• Pump speed control based on water differential pressure or flow
• Humidifier control based on space or duct relative humidity

Trademarks mentioned include LonTalk and LonMark (Echelon Corporation), and Rover, Tracer, and Tracer Summit (Trane).

Inputs and Outputs

The Tracer MP.501 controller supports the following inputs and outputs:

Analog Inputs:

• SCC Mode: Zone temperature, zone temperature setpoint
• Generic Mode: 4-20 mA input

Binary Inputs:

• SCC Mode: Occupancy
• Generic Mode: Enable/disable

Outputs:

• 2-stage, tri-state modulation, or 0-10 Vdc analog
• SCC Mode: Fan on/off
• Generic Mode: Interlock device on/off (follows enable/disable binary input)

A generic point is available for use with a Tracer Summit BAS, functioning as a binary input shared with occupancy/enable. Generic inputs provide information to the BAS but do not directly control MP.501 outputs.

Features

Easy Installation

Designed for indoor mounting in various locations, the Tracer MP.501 features clearly labeled screw terminals for quick and accurate wiring. Its compact enclosure design facilitates installation in space-constrained areas.

Flexible Control

Utilizing a single proportional, integral, and derivative (PID) control loop, the controller adjusts its output based on measured input and a setpoint. The output can be configured as 2-stage, tri-state modulating, or a 0-10 Vdc analog signal.

Adjustable PID Loop

The controller offers adjustable PID control parameters, allowing for customized control strategies across diverse applications.

Interoperability

In SCC mode, the Tracer MP.501 adheres to the LonMark SCC profile. In generic mode, it supports standard network variable types (SNVTs) and communicates via the LonTalk protocol. This enables integration with Trane Tracer Summit systems and other LonTalk-compatible BAS.

Occupied and Unoccupied Operation

Exclusive to SCC mode, the occupancy input (from a motion sensor, time clock, or BAS) allows the controller to utilize unoccupied (setback) temperature setpoints.

Control Interlock

Available only in generic mode, an interlock input (via time clock or binary switch) can enable or disable the controller process. When disabled, the output defaults to a configurable 0-100% condition.

Continuous or Cycling Fan Operation

In SCC mode, the fan can be set to run continuously or cycle automatically during occupied periods. It will always cycle in unoccupied mode.

Timed Override

Also in SCC mode, a timed override function allows users to request extended operation for after-hours periods via a button on the zone temperature sensor. The override timer is configurable from 0 to 240 minutes, with a cancel option.

Manual Output Test

A built-in test function allows sequential exercise of all outputs, serving as a valuable troubleshooting tool without requiring a PC.

Peer-to-Peer Communication

The Tracer MP.501 can share data (setpoint, zone temperature, mode) with other LonTalk controllers. This is beneficial for applications with multiple units controlling a large space, preventing simultaneous heating and cooling.

Dimensions

The physical dimensions of the Tracer MP.501 controller are as follows:

• Length: 6 5/16 inches (161 mm)
• Width: 5 3/8 inches (137 mm)
• Height: 2 inches (51 mm)

(Diagram Description: Figure 1 shows the Tracer MP.501 controller with top, side, and front views, indicating dimensions: 6 5/16 in. (161 mm) length, 5 3/8 in. (137 mm) width, and 2 in. (51 mm) height.)

Network Architecture

The Tracer MP.501 can operate within different network configurations:

• Trane Tracer Summit Building Automation System (BAS)
• Peer-to-peer network
• Standalone device

Configuration can be performed using the Rover service tool or other PC-based tools compliant with the EIA/CEA-860 standard, connected via a zone temperature sensor or the LonTalk Comm5 communication link.

(Diagram Description: Figure 2 depicts the Tracer MP.501 integrated into a BAS. It shows a Tracer Summit PC Workstation connected via LAN to a Building Control Unit (BCU), which then links via LonTalk Comm5 to a zone temperature sensor and an MP.501 controller. A second MP.501 is depicted controlling a fan coil unit with a control valve, connected to a building static pressure sensor and a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) for fan pressurization.)

(Diagram Description: Figure 3 shows Tracer MP.501 controllers in a peer-to-peer network. A single zone temperature sensor is connected to multiple MP.501 controllers, each managing a fan coil unit serving a large space. Additional LonTalk devices are also shown.)

Wiring Diagrams

Detailed wiring diagrams are provided for both SCC and generic modes.

SCC Mode Wiring (Figure 4)

(Diagram Description: Figure 4 presents a general wiring diagram for the Tracer MP.501 controller in SCC mode. It details connections for AC power (H, N, 24V, GND), binary outputs (2-stage, fan on/off), analog output (0-10 Vdc), COMM5 communication, and inputs for occupancy or generic use.)

Generic Mode Wiring (Figure 5)

(Diagram Description: Figure 5 shows a general wiring diagram for the Tracer MP.501 controller in generic mode. It details connections for AC power, binary outputs (1st/2nd stage, interlock on/off), analog output (0-10 Vdc), COMM5 communication, and inputs for analog data (4-20 mA) or enable/disable functions.)

Specifications

Power

• Supply: 21-27 Vac (24 Vac nominal) at 50/60 Hz
• Consumption: 10 VA (70 VA at maximum utilization)

Dimensions

• Length: 6 7/8 inches (175 mm)
• Width: 5 3/8 inches (137 mm)
• Height: 2 inches (51 mm)

Operating Environment

• Temperature: 32 to 122°F (0 to 50°C)
• Relative Humidity: 10-90% noncondensing

Storage Environment

• Temperature: -4 to 160°F (-20 to 70°C)
• Relative Humidity: 10-90% noncondensing

Agency Listings/Compliance

• CE - Immunity: EN 50082-1:1997
• CE - Emissions: EN 50081-1:1992 (CISPR 11) Class B, EN 61000-3-2, EN 61000-3-3
• UL and C-UL Listed: Energy management system, UL 94-5V (plenum use), FCC Part 15, Class A