User Manual

Product Models and Specifications

The RTD300 series offers high-precision USB adapters for Pt100 RTD probes. Below is a list of available models:

HS code: 8471.60.10.50

Compliance Certification

EU Declaration of Conformity

This declaration of conformity is issued under the sole responsibility of the manufacturer:

Dracal Technologies Inc.
A204 - 7900 Taschereau Blvd
Brossard (Quebec)
J4X 1C2 Canada

For the following product(s):

• Model: RTD300
• Type of Equipment: USB sensor
• CE Marking: No

Compliance with Directives

RoHS3 Directive (2011/65/EU, 2015/863)

The USB Sensor Model RTD300 complies with the requirements of the RoHS Directive, restricting the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.

Technical Documentation

Dracal Technologies holds the technical documentation required by the relevant directives. For inquiries, contact compliance@dracal.com. Documentation is available upon request to relevant authorities.

Signed for and on behalf of: Dracal Technologies Inc., January 2024

Ariane Garon
President
Dracal Technologies Inc.

Overview

Dracal Technologies aims to democratize access to precision data for engineers and scientists, facilitating their work and goal achievement. The company believes that precision data should not be compromised by ease of use.

Dracal's measuring instruments connect via a USB port. Units with the VCP (Virtual COM Port) option allow users to integrate sensor data without third-party software. USB units are compatible with DracalView graphical software and command-line interfaces.

Calibratable units feature a 3-point user-calibration mechanism, enabling precise alignment of multiple instruments or accuracy adjustments against a reference. The RTD series are USB adapters for Pt100 RTD probes, Class AA (1/3 DIN) or less, offering outstanding precision in temperature measurement. The RTD300 includes a polarized 3-pin connector for easy probe connection and disconnection, making it a simple and accurate solution for collecting RTD temperature data.

Product Overview and Specifications

Product Overview

The RTD300 is a high-precision USB adapter for 2- or 3-wire 100-ohm Pt100 RTD probes. Featuring a 24-bit data converter, it delivers unmatched precision and resolution for temperature measurements. With a sampling rate of up to 10 samples per second, it enables rapid and precise data capture. The adapter compensates for errors introduced by 3-wire probe cables up to 30 meters and reduces electronic noise with sophisticated digital filters. Sensors connect via a standard 3-pin mini RTD connector. Its compact USB key form factor is ideal for space-constrained applications.

Key Specifications

Miscellaneous

• Pre-wired Pt100 probe available: RTD-PT100-SIL-B.
• Supply: Powered by a USB port or a powered USB HUB.
• Operating temperature range: -20 °C to 60 °C.
• Supported by the SensGate DAQ unit.
• Simultaneous operation of multiple Dracal sensors is supported.*

* Only limited by allowable USB topologies and OS capacity. Fifty simultaneous USB sensors have been tested under Windows 8.

Safety Guidelines and Installation

Safety Guidelines

⚠️ WARNING: Electromagnetic interference (EMI) may decrease the sensor's accuracy. Avoid using this device near EMI sources such as motors, high-voltage transformers, and fluorescent tubes.

⚠️ WARNING: This product should not be used in applications where its failure may cause personal injury.

Installation and Setup

? TIP: As for any precision measurement equipment, powering the unit at least 15 minutes before using it is advised.

Installation

1. Download the DracalView* software at https://www.dracal.com/en/software/
2. Follow the installer's instructions. The whole process should take less than a minute. The setup is now completed.
3. Insert the unit into a free USB port.

* Includes a set of command-line tools.

Usage Guidelines and Applications

Operation – DracalView

It is recommended to launch DracalView to verify the instrument is connected correctly and functions as expected. Here are the main steps of the Getting Started with DracalView guide:

1. Connect an instrument.
2. Launch DracalView.
3. Verify the instrument appears in the Sources tab.
4. Modify units and decimals in the Configuration tab (Optional).
5. Customize the names of channels to record in the Sources tab (Optional).
6. Visualize data on GraphView.

Please refer to the RTD300 page for the complete guide, specifically the "Software & Documentation" tab.

To log data with DracalView, the remaining main steps of the Getting Started guide are:

7. Initiate the logging task in the Logging tab.
8. Keep an eye on data with BigView.

An introductory video is available for a quick overview of setting up and logging data in less than 3 minutes.

Operation – Command-line interface

The command-line tools are available with the DracalView download. In the Getting Started guide, locate them and use the -h (help) argument on Windows, MacOS X, or Linux-based computers.

For complete documentation on using dracal-usb-get or dracal-sens-gate-get, code examples, and integrating sensor data into LabVIEW™, click the relevant link in the same Getting Started guide.

To log data to a file, use the following command line:

To redirect the output, use the argument -L with the parameter "-" for stdout output.

Operation – COM Protocol

The "VCP-" prefix indicates the product is equipped with the virtual COM port (VCP) option, allowing free conversion between USB and VCP modes. The product is delivered in USB mode.

To convert the product from USB to VCP mode:

1. Open a command-line terminal.
2. Call "dracal-usb-set -f set_protocol VCP” and disconnect the product.

To reverse the product back to USB mode:

Send the "PROTOCOL USB" command and disconnect the product.

ℹ️ NOTE: Under Windows, once an instrument is converted to VCP, it is not recognizable by DracalView and the command-line tools.

For additional information, click the relevant link in the Software & Documentation section of the RTD300 page.

Calibration

The "-CAL" suffix indicates the product is equipped with a 3-point user-calibration mechanism.

The Getting Started guide for calibration is summarized as follows:

1. Determine the calibration points.
2. Perform the calibration using DracalView or dracal-usb-cal.

A comprehensive video tutorial on best practices for calibrating instruments using DracalView can be found here.

The Getting Started guide for successful calibration provides many tips and complementary documentation.

Care, Storage, and Recalibration

Care

Use within the specifications available in the RTD300 datasheet.

ℹ️ NOTE: This product is not waterproof and requires protection if contact with water is possible.

Storage

Store within the housing temperature and humidity ranges specified in the RTD300 datasheet.

Recalibration

Dracal's measuring instruments are factory-calibrated. A calibration certificate traceable to the SI can be purchased with the instrument. Calibration is performed by an ISO17025-accredited laboratory.

If the instrument has a "-CAL" suffix, it can be adjusted for accuracy during calibration.

The long-term drift of the RTD300 is ±0.008 °C per year. Depending on the user's application, more frequent adjustments may be required.

Troubleshooting Guide and Support

Troubleshooting

? TIP: Avoid installing the sensor in a location where strong vibration is likely to occur. Strong vibrations may cause slight inaccuracies in the reading.

Browse the website's Resources section for supplementary information. Interesting articles include:

• Most frequent questions about Dracal
• Top challenges and their solutions
• FAQs about calibration

Support

Dracal Technologies has a dedicated email address for support: support@dracal.com.

Customer satisfaction is a priority; a response is typically provided within 24 hours.

Return Process and Warranty Information

Return Process

If a customer experiences issues with a Dracal sensor, contact support@dracal.com to explain the problem. In most cases, an easy solution is available.

In the rare event of a faulty instrument under warranty, Dracal Technologies will proceed to a replacement upon evaluating the situation. The procedure will be explained via email after contacting support@dracal.com.

Warranty

The complete warranty details are available on the Dracal Technologies website. Dracal Technologies warrants the product to the original purchaser for 36 months (3 years) from the delivery date.

Accessories and Peripherals

To utilize Dracal Technologies' complete DAQ solution, download the software on a computer with a USB port. In addition to sensors, Dracal Technologies offers the SensGate, a remote data logging station. This Wi-Fi/Ethernet gateway for Dracal's sensors functions as a data logger, fulfilling needs for remote precision data acquisition.

Disassembly and Environmental Considerations

Disassembly Instructions

1. Turn Off Power: Before disassembling the USB sensor, ensure it is disconnected from any USB port.
2. Remove External Connections: Unplug any cables connected to the USB sensor.
3. Identify Screws and Fasteners: Locate and identify any screws or fasteners securing the casing of the USB sensor.
4. Separate Casing: Gently separate the casing, being careful not to damage internal components. If resistance is encountered, recheck for any overlooked screws.
5. Document Component Positions: Before further disassembly, document the positions of internal components for ease of reassembly.
6. Handle Components with Care: Handle internal components carefully to avoid electrostatic discharge and damage. Use an ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) mat or wrist strap if available.
7. Follow Reverse Order for Reassembly: When reassembling the USB sensor, follow the disassembly steps in reverse order, ensuring components are correctly positioned and secured.

Environmental Considerations

1. Recycling Recommendations: Dispose of components and packaging materials in accordance with local recycling regulations. Check with local authorities for proper e-waste disposal facilities.
2. Reuse Opportunities: Consider reusing components or donating functional parts to minimize environmental impact.
3. Minimize Energy Consumption: Power down or disconnect the USB sensor when not in use to minimize energy consumption.

Compliance and Revision History

RoHS Compliance

Our USB sensors adhere to RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directives, ensuring they are free from harmful substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium.

REACH Compliance

These USB sensors comply with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations, meeting European safety and environmental impact standards.

Document Revision History

• Version: 1.0
• Date: 2024-02-08
• Description: Creation of the User Manual.