Milesight EM500 Series Outdoor Environment Monitoring Sensor User Guide
Applicability
This guide is applicable to EM500 series sensors shown as follows, except where otherwise indicated.
Model | Description |
EM500-CO2 | Carbon Dioxide Sensor |
EM500-LGT | Light Sensor |
EM500-PP | Pipe Pressure Sensor |
EM500-PT100 | PT100 Temperature Sensor |
EM500-SMT | Soil Moisture Sensor |
EM500-SMTC | Soil Moisture, Temperature and Conductivity Sensor |
EM500-SWL | Submersible Level Sensor |
EM500-UDL | Ultrasonic Distance/Level Sensor |
Safety Precautions
Milesight will not shoulder responsibility for any loss or damage resulting from not following the instructions of this operating guide.
- The device must not be disassembled or remodeled in any way.
- In order to protect the security of the device, please change device password when first configuration. The default password is 123456.
- The device is not intended to be used as a reference sensor, and Milesight will not should responsibility for any damage which may result from inaccurate readings.
- Do not place the device close to objects with naked flames.
- Do not place the device where the temperature is below/above the operating range.
- Make sure electronic components do not drop out of the enclosure while opening.
- When installing the battery, please install it accurately, and do not install the reverse or wrong model.
- The device must never be subjected to shocks or impacts.
Declaration of Conformity
EM500 series is in conformity with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of the CE, FCC, and RoHS.
Certifications: CE, FCC, RoHS
Copyright and Contact Information
Copyright © 2011-2023 Milesight. All rights reserved.
All information in this guide is protected by copyright law. No organization or individual shall copy or reproduce the whole or part of this user guide by any means without written authorization from Xiamen Milesight IoT Co., Ltd.
For assistance, please contact Milesight technical support:
- Email: iot.support@milesight.com
- Tel: 86-592-5085280
- Fax: 86-592-5023065
- Address: Building C09, Software Park III, Xiamen 361024, China
Revision History
Date | Doc Version | Description |
Nov. 23, 2020 | V 1.0 | Initial version |
Dec. 7, 2021 | V 1.1 | Content update: 1. EM500-SMT/SMTC supports soil type selection; 2. Add wirings of EM500-PP-G1/2M-4842 and EM500-SWL-4846W; 3. Support RX2 datarate and frequency settings. |
Apr. 11, 2022 | V 1.2 | Update based on hardware v2.x: 1. Add data storage and data transmission feature; 2. Add temperature mutation alarm feature; 3. Add CO2 barometric pressure compensation; 4. Add single-channel mode; 5. Add sensor installation guide. |
May 31, 2023 | V 2.0 | Update based on hardware v2.x: 1. Add data storage and data transmission feature; 2. Add temperature mutation alarm feature; 3. Add CO2 barometric pressure compensation; 4. Add single-channel mode; 5. Add sensor installation guide. |
Contents
This document contains the following sections:
- Product Introduction
- Hardware Introduction
- Device Assembly
- Operation Guide
- Installation
- Milesight IoT Cloud Management
- Device Payload
1. Product Introduction
1.1 Overview
The EM500 series is a sensor designed for outdoor environments, utilizing a wireless LoRaWAN® network. The EM500 device is battery-powered and supports multiple mounting methods. It features NFC (Near Field Communication) for easy configuration via a smartphone or PC software. Sensor data is transmitted in real-time using the standard LoRaWAN® protocol, which enables encrypted, long-distance, low-power transmissions. Users can access sensor data and trends through Milesight IoT Cloud or their own Network Server.
1.2 Features
- Up to 15 km communication range
- Easy configuration via NFC
- Standard LoRaWAN® support
- Milesight IoT Cloud compliant
- Low power consumption with a 19000mAh replaceable battery
2. Hardware Introduction
2.1 Packing List
The package typically includes:
- 1 x EM500 Device (Includes Mounting Bracket)
- 2 x Wall Mounting Kits
- 2 x Fixing Screws
- 4 x Rubber Screw Caps
- 1 x Hose Clamp
- 1 x DIN Rail Kit (Optional)
- 1 x Warranty Card
- 1 x Quick Guide
If any of the above items are missing or damaged, please contact your sales representative.
2.2 Hardware Overview
EM500 series sensors consist of a LoRaWAN® transceiver and a sensor. Ultrasonic and gas sensors are integrated with the LoRaWAN® transceiver.
- Front View of EM500: Features the LoRaWAN® Antenna (Internal), NFC Area, and a Water-proof Connector.
- Front View of EM500-CO2: Features the LoRaWAN® Antenna (Internal), NFC Area, and a Vent Tube.
- Front View of EM500-UDL: Features the LoRaWAN® Antenna (Internal), NFC Area, and an Ultrasonic Horn.
- Back View: Shows the Battery (Internal), Wall Mounting Holes, and Pole Mounting Holes.
2.3 Dimensions(mm)
Diagrams illustrating the dimensions for EM500, EM500-CO2, and EM500-UDL models are provided, showing height, width, and depth measurements.
2.4 Power Button
The LED indicator and power button are located inside the device. Power on/off and reset functions can also be managed via NFC.
Function | Action | LED Indication |
Turn On | Press and hold the button for more than 3 seconds. | Off → On |
Turn Off | Press and hold the button for more than 3 seconds. | On → Off |
Reset | Press and hold the button for more than 10 seconds. | Blink 3 times. |
Check On/Off Status | Quickly press the power button. | Light On: Device is on. Light Off: Device is off. |
2.5 Pinouts
To connect sensor parts to the EM500 transceiver, refer to the pinout labels on the motherboard or the following table:
PIN | LGT | PP-4780/S WL | PP-4842/SW L-4846W | PT100 | SMT | SMTC |
1 | Black/GN D (Red/GND) | White/GN D (White/GND) | Black/G ND | Black/GN D | ||
2 | --- | --- | White/GND | Yellow/A IN | --- | --- |
3 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
4 | Blue/B | White/B | --- | Red/PT1 | --- | White/B |
5 | Green/A | Yellow/A | --- | Red/PT2 | --- | Yellow/A |
6 | Red/VOU T | Black/VOU T | Black/VOUT | Brown/V OUT | Red/VOU T |
Notes:
1) For EM500-SMT sensor, VOUT=2.5 V; for other sensors, VOUT=12V.
2) For EM500-SMTC sensor, it has a green cable which does not need to connect to EM500 transceiver; please cut it off or insulate it.
3) For EM500-PP-4842 sensor, connect any one of two red cables to the motherboard and leave the other blank.
3. Device Assembly
To assemble the device for operation, connect the sensor to the EM500 transceiver:
- Remove the mounting bracket from the transceiver, then remove the screws, rubber seal, and cover from the bottom of the device.
- Lock the sensor wires to the block according to the motherboard label or chapter 2.5. Pass the sensor cable through the cap, rubber seal, and cover.
- Replace the motherboard and restore all components to their original positions. Ensure the arrow on the cover faces the front of the transceiver when reattaching it.
Note: The rubber seal and rubber screw caps must be installed correctly to prevent water ingress.
4. Operation Guide
4.1 Log in the ToolBox
The EM500 series can be monitored and configured using the ToolBox App or ToolBox software. Before configuration, ensure the insulating sheet inside the device has been pulled out and the battery is correctly installed.
4.1.1 NFC Configuration
- Download and install the Milesight ToolBox App from Google Play or Apple App Store.
- Enable NFC on your smartphone and launch the Milesight ToolBox App.
- Attach your smartphone to the device's NFC area. Tap the 'NFC Read' button to read device information. You can then read and configure the device by tapping 'Read/Write device' on the App. For security, change the default password (123456) during the first configuration.
Notes:
4) Ensure your smartphone's NFC area is correctly positioned. It is recommended to remove the phone case.
5) If the smartphone fails to read/write configurations via NFC, move the phone away and try again.
6) EM500 series can also be configured using a dedicated NFC reader available from Milesight IoT.
4.1.2 USB Configuration
- Download the ToolBox software from the Milesight official website.
- Remove the enclosure of the EM500 transceiver and connect the device to a computer via a Type-C port.
- Open the ToolBox software, select 'General' as the type, and enter the password (default: 123456) to log in.
- After logging in, you can turn devices on/off and modify other settings. The software displays device status, serial number, firmware version, and sensor readings like Temperature, Humidity, and Battery level.
4.2 LoRaWAN Settings
Configure transmission parameters for the LoRaWAN® network:
Parameters | Description |
Device EUI | Unique ID of the device, also found on the label. |
App EUI | Default App EUI is 24E124C0002A0001. |
Application Port | Port for sending and receiving data; default is 85. |
Join Type | OTAA and ABP modes are available. |
LoRaWAN Version | V1.0.2, V1.0.3 are available. |
Work Mode | Fixed as Class A. |
Application Key | Appkey for OTAA mode; default is 5572404C696E6B4C6F52613230313823. |
Device Address | DevAddr for ABP mode; default is the 5th to 12th digits of SN. |
Network Session Key | Nwkskey for ABP mode; default is 5572404C696E6B4C6F52613230313823. |
Application Session Key | Appskey for ABP mode; default is 5572404C696E6B4C6F52613230313823. |
RX2 Data Rate | RX2 data rate for receiving downlinks. |
RX2 Frequency | RX2 frequency for receiving downlinks (Unit: Hz). |
Channel Mode | Select Standard-Channel mode or Single-Channel mode. When Single-Channel mode is enabled, only one channel can be selected for uplinks. Enable Single-Channel mode if connecting to DS7610. |
Channel: Enable or disable frequencies for sending uplinks. For frequencies like CN470/AU915/US915, enter channel indices separated by commas (e.g., '1, 40' for channels 1 and 40; '1-40' for channels 1 to 40; 'All' for all channels; 'Null' to disable all channels).
Spread Factor: If ADR is disabled, the device uses this spread factor for data transmission.
Confirmed Mode: If the device does not receive an ACK packet from the network server, it will resend data once.
Rejoin Mode: For reporting intervals ≤ 35 mins, the device sends LinkCheckReq MAC packets to validate connectivity. If no response, it rejoins the network. For intervals > 35 mins, it sends packets every reporting interval or 2*reporting interval. When rejoin mode is enabled, set the number of LinkCheckReq packets sent (actual number is packets sent + 1).
ADR Mode: Allows the network server to adjust the device's datarate.
Tx Power: Transmit power of the device.
Notes:
1) Contact sales for a device EUI list if you have multiple units.
2) Contact sales if you need random App keys.
3) Select OTAA mode for managing devices with Milesight IoT cloud.
4) Only OTAA mode supports rejoin mode.
4.3 Basic Settings
Access 'Device Settings > Basic' in ToolBox software or 'Device > Settings > General Settings' in ToolBox App to configure settings like reporting interval.
Parameters | Description |
Reporting Interval | Interval for transmitting data to the network server. Default: 10 mins, Range: 1-1080 mins. |
Temperature Unit (EM500-CO2/SMTC/PT100) | Change the temperature unit displayed in ToolBox. Note: The temperature unit in the reporting package is fixed as °C. Modify threshold settings if the unit is changed. |
Pressure Unit (EM500-PP) | Change the pressure unit displayed in ToolBox. Note: The pressure unit in the reporting package is fixed as kPa. Modify threshold settings if the unit is changed. |
Soil Type (EM500-SMT/SMTC) | Change the suitable soil type. Works with hardware V2.0 and above. SMT: Mineral soil, potting soil, rockwool. SMTC: Mineral soil, sandy soil, clay, organic soil. |
Data Storage | Enable or disable local data storage (see section 4.4.4). |
Data Retransmission | Enable or disable data retransmission (see section 4.4.5). |
Change Password | Change the password for ToolBox App or software access. |
4.4 Advanced Settings
4.4.1 Data Collection Settings
Enable or disable data collection and upload for EM500-CO2 and EM500-SMTC sensors. Options include CO2, Barometric Pressure, Temperature, and Humidity.
4.4.2 Calibration Settings
Numerical Calibration: ToolBox supports numerical calibration for all items. Navigate to 'Device Settings > Basic' or 'Device > Settings > Calibration Settings' to input calibration values.
CO2 Calibration: For EM500-CO2, additional methods are available:
- Barometric Pressure Calibration: Works only when the barometric sensor is enabled.
- Manual Calibration: Place the device outdoors for 10 minutes and click the button to calibrate the CO2 value.
- Factory Calibration Restored: Resets manual calibration to factory settings.
Abnormal Value Prevention: For EM500-PT100/SWL/UDL, this feature helps ensure accurate results by discarding and remeasuring values outside a defined range (e.g., ±20% of the previous value).
4.4.3 Threshold Settings
Enable threshold settings to trigger alarms when collected values exceed preset thresholds. The device sends an alarm when a value crosses the threshold and returns to normal.
EM500-PT100/CO2/SMTC sensors support alarms for temperature mutation reaching threshold values.
4.4.4 Data Storage
EM500 series can store up to 1000 data records locally and export them via ToolBox App or software, even without network connectivity.
- Sync device time via 'Status' in ToolBox software or 'Device > Status' in ToolBox App.
- Enable the data storage feature.
- Go to 'Maintenance > Backup and Reset' (software) or 'Device > Maintenance' (app), click 'Export', select the date range, and click 'Save'.
Note: ToolBox App can export up to 14 days of data. Use ToolBox software for longer data exports.
Click 'Data Cleaning' to clear stored data if necessary.
4.4.5 Data Retransmission
EM500 series supports data retransmission to ensure data integrity even during network outages. Two methods exist:
- Network server sends downlink commands to request historical data for a specific time range (refer to EM500 Series Communication Protocol).
- When the network is down and no response is received from LinkCheckReq MAC packets, the device records the disconnection time and re-transmits lost data upon reconnection.
Steps for data retransmission:
- Enable data storage and data retransmission features.
- Enable rejoin mode and set the number of packets sent. The device will send LinkCheckReq MAC packets to check network connectivity. If no response after 8+1 attempts, the join status changes to de-active, and a data lost time point is recorded.
- After network reconnection, the device sends lost data according to the reporting interval.
Notes:
1) If the device is rebooted during retransmission, all data will be resent after reconnection.
2) If the network disconnects again during retransmission, only the latest disconnection data is sent.
3) Retransmission data format starts with "20ce"; refer to EM500 Series Communication Protocol.
4) Data retransmission increases uplinks and reduces battery life.
4.5 Maintenance
4.5.1 Upgrade
ToolBox Software:
- Download firmware from the Milesight official website to your PC.
- Navigate to 'Maintenance > Upgrade', click 'Browse' to select the firmware file, and upgrade the device.
ToolBox App:
- Download firmware from the Milesight official website to your smartphone.
- Open the ToolBox App, click 'Browse' to select the firmware file, and upgrade the device.
Notes:
1) Operations on ToolBox are not supported during the upgrade.
2) Only the Android version of ToolBox supports the upgrade feature.
4.5.2 Backup
EM500 devices support configuration backup for bulk configuration. Backup is restricted to devices of the same model and LoRaWAN® frequency band.
- On the App, go to the 'Template' page and save current settings as a template. Template files can also be edited.
- Select a saved template file and click 'Write', then attach it to another device to apply the configuration.
Note: Slide template items left to edit or delete. Click a template to edit its configurations.
4.5.3 Reset to Factory Default
Choose one of the following methods to reset the device:
- Via Hardware: Hold the power button (internal) for more than 10 seconds.
- Via ToolBox Software: Go to 'Maintenance > Backup and Reset' and click 'Reset'.
- Via ToolBox App: Go to 'Device > Maintenance', click 'Reset', then attach your smartphone with NFC to the device to complete the reset.
5. Installation
5.1 EM500 Transceiver Installation
The EM500 transceiver supports wall, pole, and DIN rail mounting. Ensure the mounting bracket is securely attached to the device via screws before installation.
Wall Mounting:
- Drill two holes on the wall according to the mounting bracket's position and insert wall plugs.
- Fix the mounting bracket to the wall using screws.
- Mount the device onto the bracket and secure it with two fixing screws.
Pole Mounting:
Straighten the hose clamp, slide it through the rectangular holes in the mounting bracket, wrap it around the pole, and tighten the locking mechanism clockwise with a screwdriver.
DIN Rail Mounting:
Use two M3 x 6 flat head Phillips screws to fix the mount clip to the bracket, then hang the device onto the DIN rail. The DIN rail width is 3.5 cm.
5.2 EM500-CO2 Sensor Installation
Follow these guidelines for proper EM500-CO2 installation:
- Mount the CO2 sensor 12-18 inches above the floor, as CO2 is heavier than air and will settle downwards.
- Consider the room layout for installation. Enclosed or varied spaces may benefit from installing an additional sensor.
5.3 EM500-LGT Sensor Installation
The light sensor can be mounted on a wall or flat surface. Ensure the sensor's round area is always on top and oriented towards the sun for accurate readings.
5.3 EM500-PP Sensor Installation
For proper EM500-PP installation, consider the following:
- Select an installation position that reflects the actual pressure situation. Install the sensor in a straight-flowing section of the pipe, avoiding bends, splits, or dead corners where vortices may form.
- Ensure the pressure sensor is not too close to valves or pumps, as their operation can impact the diaphragm and cause damage.
- Install the sensor in an environment with low vibration.
- For high-pressure hydraulic or liquid equipment, install a damper to prevent pressure spikes or surges.
- In freezing conditions, use anti-freezing measures to prevent liquid expansion due to icing, which can damage the sensor.
- When measuring steam or high-temperature gas, use a condenser (e.g., buffer tube/coil) and ensure the operating temperature does not exceed the sensor's limit.
- Do not insert foreign objects into the pressure diaphragm, as this can cause permanent damage.
- Clean the sensor periodically, especially in corrosive or dusty environments.
5.4 EM500-SMT/SMTC Sensor Installation
Follow these guidelines for proper EM500-SMT/SMTC installation:
- Abnormal data may occur if sensor prongs are exposed to air.
- Foreign materials (sticks, bark, roots) stuck between prongs can affect readings. Air gaps or excessive soil compaction around the sensor also influence results.
- Do not install the sensor near large metal objects.
- Be careful when inserting the sensor into dense soil to avoid breaking prongs due to sideways force.
- In lightning-prone areas, ensure proper lightning protection is in place.
- When removing the sensor from soil, do not pull by the cable, as this can damage internal connections and render the sensor unusable.
5.4.1 Horizontal Installation
- Excavate a hole or trench a few centimeters deeper than the desired sensor depth.
- At the installation depth, shave off some soil from the vertical surface to expose undisturbed soil.
- Insert the sensor into the undisturbed soil until fully embedded. The sharpened tips facilitate insertion; handle with care.
- Backfill the trench, packing the soil to its natural bulk density around the sensor body.
Note: If insertion is difficult, loosen or wet the soil.
5.4.2 Vertical Installation
- Drill a hole to the required sensor depth.
- Insert the sensor into the undisturbed soil at the bottom of the hole, using a hand or tool to guide it.
- After insertion, backfill the hole, packing the soil to its natural bulk density without damaging the sensor's overmolding or cable.
5.5 EM500-SWL Sensor Installation
Lower the sensor via cable into tanks or ponds until it is near the bottom. Avoid hitting the bottom hard or touching objects like sand or sludge, which can damage the sensor.
Notes:
Ensure the gas holes of the SWL sensor are not blocked during mounting or use.
To prevent separation of the SWL sensor and transceiver due to water shock or gravity, fix the sensor cable with a bracket or wrap it around the pole.
If used in wells or turbulent environments, install a protective pipe with holes at different heights to allow water flow and remove hydrodynamic pressure. The pipe should not be bent.
5.6 EM500-UDL Sensor Installation
When installing the EM500-UDL, keep the following in mind:
- The device must be positioned vertically on the object, ensuring a clear path to it.
- Place the device more than 30cm away from side-walls and free from internal obstructions that could block the ultrasonic signal (Position 1). Position 2 is ideal.
- Avoid placing the device in the center of arched or circular container tops, as this can cause multiple echoes (Position 3).
- Do not place the device above the container inlet orifice (Position 4).
6. Milesight IoT Cloud Management
The EM500 series can be managed through the Milesight IoT Cloud platform, a comprehensive service for device remote management and data visualization. Register for a Milesight IoT Cloud account before proceeding.
- Ensure your Milesight LoRaWAN® gateway is online in Milesight IoT Cloud. Refer to the gateway's user guide for connection details.
- Navigate to 'My Devices', click '+New Devices', enter the device's SN, and select an associated gateway.
- Once the device is online in Milesight IoT Cloud, check data via the webpage or mobile App and create dashboards.
7. Device Payload
The EM500 Series uses the standard Milesight IoT payload format based on IPSO. For decoders, refer to the EM500 Series Communication Protocol.
Service & Advies (Dutch)
Heeft u vragen of opmerkingen over een sensor? Of zoekt u ondersteuning bij het instellen van de sensor? Onze medewerkers van de afdeling Service staan elke werkdag voor u klaar. U kunt contact opnemen door te bellen of te mailen.
Telefoon: 0345 785 611
E-mail: support@AirTeq.eu
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