R38 Microprocessor Based Digital Electronic Controller

1. Outline Dimensions

The R38 controller has the following outline dimensions:

Overall Dimensions: 75 x 33 mm

Depth: 75.5 mm

Panel Cutout: 71 (-0 ÷ +0.5 mm) x 29 (-0 ÷ +0.5 mm)

Mounting Requirements:

• Intended for permanent installation, indoor use only.
• Mount in an electrical panel enclosing the rear housing, exposed terminals, and wiring.
• Location should be easily accessible with minimum vibrations and no impact.
• Avoid locations with corrosive gases, water, or condensation.
• Ambient temperature: 0 ÷ 50°C (32 ÷ 122°F).
• Relative humidity: 20 ÷ 85% (non-condensing).
• Can be mounted on panels with thickness up to 12 mm (standard) or 29 mm (with optional bracket #2).
• Optional screw-type bracket (#2) is required for IP65 front protection.

2. Connection Diagram

The controller supports different power supply and input types. Wiring must be done carefully, avoiding running input wires with power cables.

Power Supply Options:

• 100/240 Vac
• 24 Vac/dc
• 12 Vdc

Input Types Supported:

• Thermocouple (TC J or K)
• PT100
• PT1000
• PTC/NTC

Output Types:

• Relay (SPDT 8A-AC1 / 6A-AC3 / 250 VAC)
• SSR (Solid State Relay) Output (10 VDC / 20 mA)

General Wiring Notes:

• Do not run input wires parallel to power cables or near noise sources.
• Shielded cables should be connected to earth at one point only.
• Pay attention to line resistance, as high resistance can cause measurement errors.
• For SSR outputs, ensure double or reinforced isolation between the instrument and the external solid-state relay.

Specific Input Notes:

• Thermocouple Input: Use proper compensating, preferably shielded, cable. External resistance should not exceed 100W. Cold junction compensation is automatic.
• PT100 Input: Uses current injection. Line resistance is not compensated.
• PTC/NTC/PT1000 Input: Uses current injection. Line resistance is not compensated.

Output Safety Notes:

• Connect supply cables last to avoid electrical shocks.
• Use 16 AWG or larger wires rated for at least 75°C.
• Use copper conductors only.

3. Technical Characteristics

Case: Self-extinguishing plastic (V-0 according to UL 94).

Front Protection: IP 65 (with optional bracket #2).

Rear Terminals Protection: IP 20.

Installation: Panel mounting.

Terminal Block: 11 screw terminals (M3, for cables 0.25 ÷ 2.5 mm²).

Weight: Approx. 180 g.

Insulation Voltage: 2300 V rms (EN 61010-1).

Display: 3-digit red display, 12 mm height.

Display Updating Time: 500 ms.

Sampling Time: 130 ms.

Resolution: 20000 counts.

Total Accuracy: ±0.5% F.S.V. ±1 digit @ 25°C.

Compliance: EMC directive 2004/108/CE (EN 61326-1), LV directive 2006/95/CE (EN 61010-1).

Installation Category: II.

Pollution Category: 2.

Operating Temperature: 0 ÷ 50°C.

Storage Temperature: -30 ÷ +70°C.

Humidity: 20 ÷ 85% RH (non-condensing).

4. How to Order

The model number is configured by selecting options for power supply, analogue input, and outputs.

Base Model:

• R38: Controller
• R38S: Controller with S-touch keyboard

Configuration Codes:

Example: R38 H A R R (Controller, 100-240 Vac, PT100 input, Relay Out1, Relay Out2)

Note: The screw-type bracket (#2) for IP65 protection and other options can be requested separately.

5. Configuration Procedures

The instrument's behavior is determined by its configuration parameters. These can be accessed and modified through the front panel keys.

5.1 Introduction

The instrument operates based on stored parameter values. A default set is used on first startup. Users are recommended to modify parameters to suit their specific application.

5.2 Instrument Behaviour at Power ON

The instrument can start in:

• Auto Mode: Displays measured value, performs standard loop control.
• Stand-by Mode (St.bY): Displays measured value and 'St.bY' or 'od'. No control is performed; outputs are OFF. Acts as an indicator.

5.3 Front Panel Description

The front panel features several keys and LEDs for operation and configuration:

• Key P: Accesses programming mode (5s press), confirms values, changes access level (with key), locks/unlocks keyboard (with key, 5s), resets/acknowledges alarms (with key U, 5s).
• Key : Decreases values, selects parameters, visualizes/modifies setpoint (quick press).
• Key : Increases values, selects parameters, exits programming (3s press), changes access level (with key P), unlocks keyboard (with key P, 5s), visualizes output power (quick press).
• Key U: Switches between ON/Stand-by mode, starts Autotuning (if programmed), resets/acknowledges alarms (with key P, 5s).
• LED Set: Indicates programming level. Flashes when a key is pressed. Remains lit in Stand-by mode if ub.F = Sb.o.
• LED Out1: Indicates Out1 status (ON, OFF, or inhibited/flashing).
• LED Out2: Indicates Out2 status.
• LED Tun: Indicates Autotuning in progress.

5.4 Entering the Configuration Parameters

To unlock the keyboard (if locked): Press and hold P, then press . The Set LED flashes. Continue holding until 'LF' is displayed. Release keys.

To enter programming mode (if not locked):

• Without Password: Press and hold P for ~5 seconds. The first parameter code is displayed. Use and keys to select parameters.
• With Password: Press and hold P for >5 seconds. The display shows 'r.P'. Press . Enter the password using and keys, then press P to confirm. If correct, the first parameter code is shown.

Parameter Modification:

1. Select parameter using and keys.
2. Press P. The parameter code and value alternate.
3. Modify value using and keys.
4. Press P to store the new value.
5. Repeat for other parameters.

Parameters not applicable to the hardware configuration are skipped.

Exiting Programming Mode: Wait ~30 seconds without pressing keys, or press for ~5 seconds.

5.5 Parameter Protection through a Password

The PP parameter sets a password for parameter protection. If PP is set to a value other than 'oF', access requires the password. Enter programming mode, press P, then press again. 'r.P' is shown. Enter the password using and keys, then press P.

Forgotten Password: Use password -18 to access and modify the PP parameter.

5.6 Customized Parameters Programming (Levels of Parameters)

Allows specific parameters to be made accessible without the password. After setting the password via PP:

1. Enter programming mode using the password.
2. Select the parameter to modify.
3. Press P and hold, then press . The Set LED state changes: flashing = protected, lit = not protected.

If the password is enabled and some parameters are 'not protected', these will be displayed first, followed by 'r.P' for password entry to access the rest.

5.7 Factory Reset (Load Default Parameters)

To restore factory defaults:

1. Enter configuration mode.
2. If no password is set, set PP to a value other than 0.
3. Exit configuration mode.
4. Press P for >7 seconds. Display shows 'rP'.
5. Release P, press again. Display shows '0'.
6. Set value to -48 using and keys.
7. Press P to confirm. The instrument resets to factory defaults.

5.8 ON/Stand-By Function

The controller can be in ON mode (active control) or Stand-by mode (no control, outputs OFF). The display behavior in Stand-by depends on the 'ub.F' parameter.

Press the U key for 1 second to switch between ON and Stand-by.

Transitioning from Stand-by to ON does not activate Soft-start or Autotuning and hides alarms.

5.9 Configuring All the Parameters

This section details the available parameters. Parameters not relevant to the installed hardware options will be skipped.

6. Error Messages

6.1 Out of Range Signals

The display indicates Over-range or Under-range conditions:

• Over range: Display shows '1.8.8.8' or similar high value indication.
• Under range: Display shows '-1.8.8.8' or similar low value indication.
• Sensor Break: Display shows 'b.rE' or similar error code.

When an out-of-range condition occurs, alarms behave as if the maximum or minimum measurable value is present.

Troubleshooting Out-of-Range:

1. Check the input signal source and connections.
2. Ensure the input signal matches the instrument configuration.
3. If no fault is found, contact the supplier for service.

6.2 List of Possible Errors

• AtE: Auto-tune not finished within 12 hours.
• EPr: Possible instrument memory problem.

These messages disappear automatically. If errors persist, contact the supplier.

7. General Notes

7.1 Proper Use

Any use not described in this manual is considered improper. The instrument complies with EN 61010-1 safety requirements but should not be used as safety equipment. Ascon Tecnologic is not liable for damages resulting from incorrect or improper use.

Plants where a failure could cause dangerous situations must be equipped with additional safety devices.

7.2 Warranty and Repairs

The product is warranted against defects in material and workmanship for 18 months from the date of delivery. Wear parts, misuse, and tampering are not covered. Warranty is limited to repair or replacement.

For faulty instruments, contact the sales department for return authorization. Ship faulty products with a detailed fault description. Ensure the instrument is dry before applying power.

7.3 Disposal

Dispose of the appliance separately in accordance with local waste disposal standards.

8. Parameter Tables

A detailed table of all configurable parameters, their descriptions, ranges, default values, and protection status is provided in the manual.