Dracal DXC220 USB Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Sensor User Manual

Product Overview

The Dracal DXC220 is a USB-connected carbon dioxide (CO2) gas sensor designed for monitoring and data acquisition. It utilizes a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor for accuracy and stability. The sensor automatically compensates CO2 readings for ambient temperature variations using its built-in temperature sensor. An optional external water-resistant temperature and humidity sensor probe is available, featuring a waterproof M8 connector for field replacement and custom cable lengths.

Key Specifications

• CO2 Detection Range: 0 to 20%
• Accuracy (at 23°C and 101.5 kPa): ±(70 ppm + 5%)
• Error due to pressure (per 0.133 kPa): 0.13%

Miscellaneous

• Supply: Powered by a USB port or a powered USB HUB.
• Operating Temperature Range: 0°C to 45°C. Exposure above 45°C may cause permanent damage.
• Compatibility: Supported by the SensGate DAQ unit. Multiple Dracal sensors can operate simultaneously, limited by USB topology and OS capacity (tested up to fifty simultaneous USB sensors under Windows 8).

Installation Tip: For optimal performance, install the sensor vertically on a wall with the USB cable facing downwards.

Note: The CO2 sensor is factory-calibrated. Temperature/humidity and pressure sensors are calibrated by their manufacturers.

Compliance Certification

EU Declaration of Conformity

Issued by Dracal Technologies Inc., A204 - 7900 Taschereau Blvd, Brossard (Quebec), J4X 1C2 Canada, for the following product:

• Model: DXC220
• Type of Equipment: USB sensor
• CE Marking: No
• RoHS3 Compliance: No
• REACH Compliance: No

Technical documentation is held by Dracal Technologies and available upon request at compliance@dracal.com. Signed by Ariane Garon, President, Dracal Technologies Inc., January 2024.

Safety Guidelines

• Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): Avoid using the device near EMI sources (motors, high-voltage transformers, fluorescent tubes) as it may decrease accuracy.
• Application Safety: This product should not be used in applications where its failure could cause personal injury.

Installation and Setup

Recommendation: Power the unit for at least 15 minutes before use for optimal precision.

1. Download the DracalView software from https://www.dracal.com/en/software/.
2. Follow the installer's instructions.
3. Insert the unit into a free USB port.

DracalView includes command-line tools.

Usage Guidelines and Applications

Operation - DracalView

Use DracalView to verify instrument connection and functionality:

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

For a complete guide, refer to the DXC220 page, specifically the "Software & Documentation" tab.

Logging Data with DracalView

1. Initiate the logging task in the Logging tab.
2. Monitor data with BigView.

An introductory video offers a quick overview of setup and data logging.

Operation - Command-line Interface

Command-line tools are available with DracalView. Use the -h (help) argument for instructions on Windows, MacOS X, or Linux. For detailed documentation on dracal-usb-get or dracal-sens-gate-get, code examples, and LabVIEW™ integration, refer to the Getting Started guide.

To log data to a file, use the command: dracal-usb-get -s [serial number] -i [chosen channels] -L [location]. Redirect output to stdout using -L " - ".

Operation - COM Protocol

Products with a "VCP-" prefix support the virtual COM port (VCP) option, convertible between USB and VCP modes (default is USB).

• To convert to VCP mode: Open a command-line terminal, run dracal-usb-set -f set_protocol VCP, and disconnect the product.
• To revert to USB mode: Send the command PROTOCOL USB and disconnect the product.

Note: Under Windows, VCP-converted instruments are not recognized by DracalView or command-line tools. Further information is available via the Software & Documentation link.

Calibration

Products with a "-CAL" suffix feature a 3-point user-calibration mechanism.

Calibration Summary:

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

A video tutorial on best practices for calibrating instruments with DracalView is available. The Getting Started guide provides additional tips and documentation for successful calibration.

Care, Storage, and Recalibration

Care

Use the product within the specifications detailed in the DXC220 datasheet. This product is not waterproof; protect it from water contact.

Storage

Store the sensor within the housing temperature and humidity ranges specified in the DXC220 datasheet.

Recalibration

Dracal instruments are factory-calibrated. Calibration certificates traceable to the SI can be purchased, performed by an ISO17025-accredited laboratory. Instruments with the "-CAL" suffix can be adjusted for accuracy. The DXC220 exhibits minimal long-term drift.

Troubleshooting Guide and Support

Troubleshooting

Tip: Avoid installing the sensor where strong vibrations may occur, as this can cause slight reading inaccuracies. For additional information, consult the Resources section on the Dracal website, including FAQs and articles on common challenges.

Support

For support, contact Dracal Technologies at support@dracal.com. Responses are typically provided within 24 hours.

Return Process and Warranty Information

Return Process

If you experience issues with a Dracal sensor, contact support@dracal.com. Many issues can be resolved remotely. For faulty instruments under warranty, Dracal Technologies will evaluate the situation and arrange a replacement, providing instructions via email.

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 the full Dracal Technologies DAQ solution, download the software onto a computer with a USB port. Dracal Technologies also offers the SensGate, a remote data logging station that functions as a Wi-Fi/Ethernet gateway for Dracal sensors and a data logger for remote precision data acquisition needs.

Disassembly and Environmental Considerations

Disassembly Instructions

1. Power Off: Disconnect the USB sensor from any USB port.
2. Remove Connections: Unplug all cables.
3. Identify Fasteners: Locate and identify screws or fasteners.
4. Separate Casing: Gently separate the casing, checking for overlooked screws if resistance is met.
5. Document Positions: Before further disassembly, document the positions of internal components.
6. Handle Components: Handle internal components with care, using an ESD mat or wrist strap if available to prevent damage.
7. Reassembly: Follow disassembly steps in reverse order, ensuring correct component positioning.

Environmental Considerations

• Recycling: Dispose of components and packaging according to local e-waste regulations.
• Reuse: Consider reusing components or donating functional parts.
• Energy Consumption: Disconnect or power down the sensor when not in use.

Document Revision History

Version: 1.0

Date: 2024-02-08

Description: Creation of the User Manual.