Microx User Manual

User Instruction Manual

Issue Number: 1.14

Issue Date: 25/07/2013
 Microx User Manual

1 Introduction ................................................................................ 1
1.1 MICROX MODULE ................................................................ 1
1.2 OPERATION ......................................................................... 1
1.3 SENSOR INPUTS .................................................................. 1
1.3.1 %Vol Sensor .................................................................. 2
1.3.2 PPM Sensor ................................................................... 2
2 Specification............................................................................... 3

3 MICROX Module ......................................................................... 4

3.1 MOUNTING OPTIONS ............................................................ 4
3.2 FUSES ................................................................................ 5
3.3 FIELD CONNECTIONS ........................................................... 6
3.3 RECOMMENDED SAMPLING SYSTEM PIPING ......................... 9
3.3 RS232 CONNECTIONS ....................................................... 10
3.3 ANALOGUE OUTPUT ......................................................... 10
4 Software Features .................................................................... 11
4.1 PASSWORD ....................................................................... 11
4.2 MENU OPTIONS .................................................................. 12
4.1.1 Menu 1 – Calibrate sensor ....................................... 13
4.1.2 Menu 2 – Analogue output FSD............................... 14
4.1.3 Menu 3 – Set 4 mA output ........................................ 14
4.1.4 Menu 4 – Set 20 mA output ...................................... 15
4.1.5 Menu 5 – Analogue Output Simulation................... 15
4.1.6 Menu 6 – Sensor selection....................................... 16
4.1.7 Menu 7........................................................................ 17
4.1.8 Menu 8 - Diagnostics ................................................ 18
4.1.9 Menu 9 - Restore ....................................................... 18
4.1.10 Menu 10 – Zero offset ............................................... 19
4.1.11 Menu 11 – PPM sensor Gain .................................... 20
4.1.12 Menu 12 – % vol sensor gain ................................... 21
4.1.13 Menu 13 – Sensor damping ..................................... 22
4.1.14 Menu 14 – New sensor data ..................................... 22
4.1.15 Menu 15 – Electronics zero...................................... 23
4.1.16 Menu 16 – Noise Rejection....................................... 24
4.1.17 Menu 17 – Relay ........................................................ 25
4.1.18 Menu 18 – Alarm levels ............................................ 26
4.1.19 Menu 19 – Alarm hysteresis..................................... 26
 Microx User Manual

5 Communications Protocol ...................................................... 27

5.1 CONTROL BYTE CONSTANTS ............................................. 27
5.2 FRAME STRUCTURE ........................................................... 27
5.3 VARIABLES ....................................................................... 28
5.4 READING A VARIABLE ........................................................ 29
5.4.1 Read example - read live data ................................. 30
5.4.2 Read example - read Dac Fsd .................................. 30
5.4.3 Read example - read Zero Offset............................. 31
5.5 WRITING A VARIABLE ........................................................ 32
5.5.1 Write example – zero sensor ................................... 33
5.5.2 Write example – span sensor .................................. 33
5.5.3 Write example – Dac Fsd.......................................... 34
5.5.4 Write example – Zero Offset .................................... 34
5.6 DATA STRUCTURES ........................................................... 35
5.6.1 configuration data..................................................... 36
5.6.2 live data...................................................................... 37
5.6.3 Calibration gas .......................................................... 37
5.6.4 Dac FSD ..................................................................... 37
5.6.5 Zero Offset ................................................................. 37
6 Routine Maintenance & Servicing .......................................... 38
6.1 ROUTINE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE .......................... 38
 Microx User Manual

1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Microx Module

The MICROX Module has been designed to allow OEM (Original Equipment
Manufacturers) to use the module within their own equipment.

Key design features are:

" Compact enclosure
" Simple keypad calibration facility (utilising onboard LCD display).
" 4-20mA current source output for gas level indication (10-bit
resolution).
" Input voltage range, 24VDC Nominal (12 – 30VDC)
and 85-264VAC. (Panel and Wall mount versions)
" PCB mounted screw terminals for all connections.
" RS232 output for transmission of live data to a PC.

1.2 Operation

When power is first applied to the Microx module an initialisation procedure is

performed as follows:
" All the display segments are displayed
" The software version number is displayed
" The company name is displayed
" The sensor type is displayed
" The display then shows the gas level.

The module is now operational

1.3 Sensor Inputs

The Microx module can accept typically two different types of sensor as
follows:

1) 0 - 25% Vol.
2) 0 - 1000 ppm.

It is not advisable to connect both sensors at the same time as this may result
in some cross-talk between the ranges.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 1

 Microx User Manual

1.3.1 %Vol Sensor

The %Vol sensor input is connected to a variable gain amplifier allowing

linearised oxygen measurements over the range 0-22% Vol. O2. with a
resolution of 0.01% Vol. below 10% and 0.1% Vol. above.

The %Vol sensor can be calibrated between 0-25% to maintain the correlation
between ranges.

1.3.2 PPM Sensor

The PPM sensor input is connected to a fixed and variable gain amplifier. This
allows the module to have effectively three ranges which are transparent to
the user.
The first range is effectively 0 – 200 ppm with a resolution of 0.1 ppm.
The second range is effectively 200 – 1000 ppm with a resolution of 1 ppm.
The third range is effectively 1000 – 10000 ppm with a resolution of 20 ppm.

The processor automatically sets the gain of the electronics to maximize the
resolution of the measured oxygen level.

The PPM sensor range must be calibrated between 90 and 199 ppm oxygen
to maintain the correlation between ranges.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 2

 Microx User Manual

2 SPECIFICATION
Supply
Input Voltage 24V DC nominal (12 – 30V DC) All versions.
Options: 85-264VAC Panel and Wall mount versions only.
140 mA at 24VDC nominal , all relays energised,
Supply current:
20 mA drawn on current loop.
Outputs
Analogue Output: 4-20mA analogue output (10-bit resolution)
Sensor Input
No of Channels: 2
Sensor 1 %Vol oxygen
Sensor 2 PPM oxygen
Relays (Optional)
Single pole change over.
3
Rating 6 Amps 250 v AC
Fuses
500mA anti-surge on board fuse for circuit
Fuse
protection.
Additional Features
Display: 4 Digit, 7 Segment Display.
Keypad: 4-Button Keypad
Software configuration, calibration and data
Software:
logging provided by PC communications.
RS232 Output Communications with PC @ 19200 baud.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 3

 Microx User Manual

3 MICROX MODULE
3.1 Mounting Options

Din Rail Mounting Version.

Overall dimensions:
86mm(H) x 69mm(W) x
58mm(D).

Panel Mounting Version.

Overall dimensions:
96mm(H) x 96mm(W) x
83mm(D).
(including connection Terminals)

Panel cut-out dimensions

91mm(H) x 91mm(W)

Wall Mounting Version

Overall dimensions:
145mm(H) x 110mm(W) x 93mm(D).
(including Cable Glands)

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 4

 Microx User Manual

3.2 Fuses
A 500mA Anti-surge fuse is fitted to the OEM module, which is connected
between the power supply and the OEM module. It is located next to the
power input terminals.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 5

 Microx User Manual

3.3 Field Connections

All connections to the module are provided in the form of screw terminals.
The pin- outs for each Microx version are given below.

Din Rail Mounting version.

Electrical Interface
Terminals/connections as per view
‘A’

View ‘A’

Note:Terminals 1,2 & 3 are for the connection of

Electrochemical % and Zirconia % or ppm Sensors.
Terminals 4 & 5 are for the connection of Electrochemical
ppm Sensors. See Sensor for connection details.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 6

 Microx User Manual

Panel and Wall Mount Versions - DC Supply option.

(Terminals located at the rear of the Module, identified as below

as viewed)

Electrical Interface
Terminals/connections as per
view ‘A’

View ‘A’

Note:Terminals 1,2 & 3 are for the connection of

Electrochemical % and Zirconia % or ppm Sensors.
Terminals 4 & 5 are for the connection of Electrochemical
ppm Sensors. See Sensor for connection details.
ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 7
 Microx User Manual

Panel and Wall Mount Versions - AC Supply option.

(Terminals located at the rear of the Module, identified as below

as viewed)

Electrical Interface
Terminals/connections as per
view ‘A’

Mains Input Terminals

85-264VAC

View ‘A’

Note:Terminals 1,2 & 3 are for the connection of

Electrochemical % and Zirconia % or ppm Sensors.
Terminals 4 & 5 are for the connection of Electrochemical
ppm Sensors. See Sensor for connection details.
ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 8
 Microx User Manual

3.3 Recommended Sampling System Piping

Optional Isolation
Valve for PPM
Sensors, Hand or
Solenoid operated Connect Sensor
here

Optional
Isolation Valve
for PPM
Sensors, Hand
or Solenoid
Sample operated
Exhaust
For Electrochemical &
Zirconia Sensors, set
Flow Restrictor to
Flow achieve a flow rate of
Restrictor 250ml/m.

Regulator set to 5
PSIG Max.

Sample Input

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 9

 Microx User Manual

3.3 RS232 connections

Microx PC Connections
Function Function 9-way ‘D’ 25-way ‘D’
TxD RxD 2 3
RxD TxD 3 2
0V 0V 5 9

3.3 Analogue Output

The analogue output provides a means of indicating to external equipment

(e.g. data loggers, remote displays) the gas levels currently being detected by
the system. The output is that of a Current Source (4-20mA), where 4mA
represents zero gas and 20mA represents gas at the sensor FSD.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 10

 Microx User Manual

4 SOFTWARE FEATURES
The menu system featured within the Microx module allows all calibration and
configuration activities to be performed.

Note: It is important that that the Microx module is correctly configured

for the sensor in use, prior to performing any feature available in
the menu system.

20.9

A B C D
The keypad has the following functionality:
Button Function Alternate Function
A Menu Open/Close
B Enter
C Next (Increment)
D Previous (Decrement)

4.1 Password

The Microx module uses a password system to restrict the end user from
carrying out certain changes that may compromise the use of the equipment.

The menu system is split into two areas, user and engineer. The user has
access to menu options E:1 to E:10 (ppm configured module) and E:1 to E:9
(%Vol configured modules), while the engineer has access to menu options
E:1 to E:19.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 11

 Microx User Manual

4.2 Menu options

Menu
Function
option
E:1 Calibrate Sensor
E:2 Analogue output FSD
E:3 Set 4 mA
E:4 Set 20 mA
E:5 Sensor simulation
E:6 Set sensor type
E:7 Low ppm sensor calibration
E:8 Diagnostics
E:9 Restore
E:10 Zero Offset
E:11 PPM Sensor Gain
E:12 % Vol Sensor Gain
E:13 Sensor Damping
E:14 New Sensor Data
E:15 Electronic Zero
E:16 Noise Rejection
E:17 Relay
E:18 Alarm Levels
E:19 Alarm Hysteresis

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 12

 Microx User Manual

4.1.1 Menu 1 – Calibrate sensor

" Press the MENU button to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons select menu option:
E:1
" Press ENTER.
" Apply a known concentration of gas (applicable to sensor type)
at a flow rate of between 100 to 500 ml/m. Allow time for the
sensor to respond. (see diagram on page 8)
" Using the INC and DEC buttons set the reading to that of the
calibration gas level.
" Press ENTER to span the sensor, ‘– – – –‘will be displayed to
confirm the sensor span has been performed.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER
button exits the span feature without performing the
calibration.
Wait until the reading is stable, if not press the ENTER
button to span the sensor.
" Press the MENU button to close the menu system.
Note: The sensor span setting will be displayed ( as a
percentage value) on exit while the MENU key is pressed.
Note that this value is a percentage of the initial calibration
value set via “New Sensor Data” in menu E:14. See note
below.
" Turn off and disconnect the calibration gas.

Note: On each occasion that a new sensor is connected and calibrated the
“New Sensor Data” should be set via the procedure in menu 14. The
setting should only be carried out after the calibration and not before.
This will ensure that subsequent span setting figures displayed on exit
of menu 1 will be valid.

Note: For ppm configured modules that have been fitted with a replacement
sensor the “Zero Offset” (Menu 10) must be entered prior to a
calibration.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 13

 Microx User Manual

4.1.2 Menu 2 – Analogue output FSD

" Press the MENU button to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons select menu option:
E:2
" Press ENTER.
" Using the INCREASE and DECREASE buttons adjust the FSD
to the required level.
" Press ENTER.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER
button exits the sensor FSD feature without any change.
" Press the MENU button to close the menu system.
Note: The Sensor FSD will be displayed on exit while the
MENU key is pressed.

4.1.3 Menu 3 – Set 4 mA output

" Monitor the current sourced from the analogue output of the
OEM module using a multimeter set to read milliamps.
" Press the MENU button to open the menu system.
" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons select menu option:
E:3
" Press ENTER.
" Using the INCREASE and DECREASE buttons adjust the
output to 4mA .
" Press ENTER.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER
button exits the 4 mA feature without performing the
calibration.
" Press the MENU button to close the menu system.
Note: The 4 mA factor will be displayed on exit.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 14

 Microx User Manual

4.1.4 Menu 4 – Set 20 mA output

" Monitor the current sourced from the analogue output of the
OEM module using a multimeter set to read milliamps.
" Press the MENU button to open the menu system.
" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons select menu option:
E:4
" Press ENTER.
" Using the INCREASE and DECREASE buttons adjust the
output to 20 mA.
" Press ENTER.
" Press the MENU button to close the menu system.
Note: The 20 mA factor will be displayed on exit.

4.1.5 Menu 5 – Analogue Output Simulation

The Microx analogue output can be tested for functionality via menu 5.
This option allows the user to simulate the analogue output.

" Press the MENU button to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons select menu option:
E:5.
" Use the UP and DOWN button to increase or decrease the
analogue output. The value displayed on the Microx display will
be equivalent to the analogue output.
" Press the MENU button to close the menu system.
Note: The module will return to the conditions on entry.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 15

 Microx User Manual

4.1.6 Menu 6 – Sensor selection

" Press the MENU button to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons select menu option:
E:6
" Press ENTER.
" Using the INCREASE button select the required sensor type.
" Press ENTER.

Note: The selected sensor must match the actual sensor

fitted to the OEM module. If changing from one sensor type
to the other ensure a sensor calibration is carried out prior
to putting the analyser in to service.

**Note :If the module is configured for a ppm sensor the

“zero offset (section 4.1.10) must be entered in addition and
prior to a calibration.

" Press the MENU button to close the menu system.

Note: The Sensor Type will be displayed on exit while the
MENU key is pressed.

Available sensors:

Display Range
O2-1 0-25% Volume
O2-2 0-1000 ppm
O2-3 0-25% Volume (Non Linearised)
O2-4 0-1000 ppm (Non Linearised)
O2-5 0-100% Volume (Non Linearised)

Warning
The OEM Module is supplied configured for the Sensor type with
which it is to be used.
Customer adjustment of this setting is not recommended. Please
consult Ntron if a change of Sensor type is required.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 16

 Microx User Manual

4.1.7 Menu 7

Warning
Customer adjustment of this setting is not permitted. The module will be
factory set prior to shipment at “0”. Changing this value may limit the
performance and, in extreme cases, the instrument may no longer detect
gas.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 17

 Microx User Manual

4.1.8 Menu 8 - Diagnostics

This feature is a view-only feature. No configuration changes are possible from

within this menu.

" Press the MENU button to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons select menu option:
E:8
" Press ENTER.
" The display will alternate between the current value and
diagnostic code E:8x: where x is:
0 Sensor signal, A to D counts low ppm range.
1 Sensor signal, A to D counts high ppm range.
2 Sensor signal, A to D counts %vol range.
3 Firmware version.

" The diagnostic code can be selected by pressing the UP button.

" Press MENU to return the instrument to its standard mode of
operation.

4.1.9 Menu 9 - Restore

This option allows the user to restore the configuration data to the factory
default values. The user can restore either or both sensor data.
Warning
A restore will overwrite all previous calibration data for the selected
sensor. To re-calibrate proceed in the following sequence,
Carry out an Electronic Zero, Section 4.1.15
If a ppm configured module enter the Zero Offset, Section 4.1.10
Carry out a Sensor Calibration, Section 4.1.1
Check the Analogue Output FSD is set correctly, Section 4.1.2
Carry out an Analogue Output Calibration, Section 4.1.3

" Press the MENU button to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons select menu option:
E:9
" Press ENTER.
" Press the UP key to select the sensor type.
" Press ENTER to restore the selected sensor data
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER
button exits the restore feature without performing any
change.
" Press the MENU button to close the menu system.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 18

 Microx User Manual

4.1.10 Menu 10 – Zero offset

For ppm configured modules a “Sensor Zero Offset” value will need to
be entered or re-entered each time the ppm sensor is replaced. The
appropriate value will be marked on the ppm sensor and this figure will
need to be programmed in to the module. A zero offset figure allows
accurate calibration of ppm sensors that do not give a zero output for
zero gas.

The zero offset value is expressed in PPM oxgen and takes a value of
between -10.0 and +10.0 ppm.

" Press MENU to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons, select menu option:
E:10
" Press ENTER. The display shows the zero offset.
" Use the UP / DOWN keys to set the level at that marked on the
sensor.
" Press ENTER to store the new value in the memory.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER button
exits without any change.
" Press MENU to close the menu system.

Note: The zero offset must be programmed prior to a menu 1 calibration.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 19

 Microx User Manual

4.1.11 Menu 11 – PPM sensor Gain

This option is used to allow the user to adjust the sensor gain for optimal
performance. Care should be taken when using this option, which is normally
only used when a new sensor is fitted.

Warning
Customer adjustment of this setting is not recommended. The module
will be factory set prior to shipment at a value appropriate to the sensor
type fitted. Otherwise changing this value may limit the performance
and, in extreme cases, the instrument may no longer detect gas.

The display alternates between the sensor signal level, indicated as a number
between 0 and 4095, and the menu number, E:10. The value used should be
about 2500.
The display indicates the gain setting when the Up / DOWN keys are pressed.
The gain is between 0 and 31, a typical value would be 20.

Apply 1.8 mV to the sensor input.

" Press MENU to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons, select menu option:
E:10
" Press ENTER. The display shows the sensor peak output level.
" Use the INCREASE and DECREASE buttons to set the required
signal level.
Note: When the INCREASE and DECREASE buttons are
being operated the display shows the amplifier gain setting
as a number between 0 and 31. The larger the number the
higher the gain, the lower the signal reading.

" Press ENTER to store the new value.

Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER
button exits without any change.

" Press MENU to close the menu system.

Note: The signal gain setting will be displayed on exit while
the MENU key is pressed.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 20

 Microx User Manual

4.1.12 Menu 12 – % vol sensor gain

This option is used to allow the user to adjust the sensor gain for optimal
performance. Care should be taken when using this option, which is normally
only used when a new sensor is fitted.

Warning
Customer adjustment of this setting is not recommended. The module
will be factory set prior to shipment at a value appropriate to the sensor
type fitted. Otherwise changing this value may limit the performance
and, in extreme cases, the instrument may no longer detect gas.

The display alternates between the sensor signal level, indicated as a number
between 0 and 4095, and the menu number, E:11. The value used should be
about 3500.
The display indicates the gain setting when the Up / DOWN keys are pressed.
The gain is between 0 and 31, a typical value would be 3.

Apply 13 mV to the sensor input.

" Press MENU to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons, select menu option:
E:12
" Press ENTER. The display shows the sensor peak output level.
" Use the INCREASE and DECREASE buttons to set the required
signal level.
Note: When the INCREASE and DECREASE buttons are
being operated the display shows the amplifier gain setting
as a number between 0 and 31. The larger the number the
higher the gain, the lower the signal reading.

" Press ENTER to store the new value.

Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER button
exits without any change.

" Press MENU to close the menu system.

Note: The signal gain setting will be displayed on exit while
the MENU key is pressed.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 21

 Microx User Manual

4.1.13 Menu 13 – Sensor damping

Oxygen sensors output change when subjected to pressure changes.

The damping option is used to allow the user to reduce the effects of sudden
changes by applying digital filtering. The larger the number the more the signal
damping that is applied.

Note: The minimum setting is 5.

" Press MENU to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons, select menu option:
E:13
" Press ENTER. The display shows the damping factor that is
applied to the sensor.
" Use the INCREASE and DECREASE buttons to set the required
damping level.
" Press ENTER to store the new value.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER button
exits without any change.

" Press MENU to close the menu system.

Note: The signal damping setting will be displayed on exit
while the MENU key is pressed.

4.1.14 Menu 14 – New sensor data

This option allows the initial sensor calibration data to be set. It is used to
predict the remaining sensor life.

" Press MENU to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons, select menu option:
E:14
" Press ENTER. The display displays E:14
" Press ENTER to store the new data in the memory.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER button
exits without any change.

" Press MENU to close the menu system.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 22

 Microx User Manual

4.1.15 Menu 15 – Electronics zero

Disconnect the sensor and place a short at the sensor input to simulate 0%
oxygen.

" Press the MENU button to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons select menu option:
E:15
" Press ENTER.
" Press ENTER to zero the sensor, ‘– – – –‘will be displayed to
confirm the sensor zero has been performed.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER
button exits the zero feature without performing the
calibration.
" Press the MENU button to close the menu system.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 23

 Microx User Manual

4.1.16 Menu 16 – Noise Rejection

Warning
Customer adjustment of this setting is not recommended. The module
will be factory set prior to shipment at a value appropriate to the sensor
type fitted. Otherwise changing this value may limit the performance
and, in extreme cases, the instrument may no longer detect gas.

The unit has a noise rejection value associated with the reading and
displaying of the measured gas level.

The noise rejection value is expressed in number of readings that

must be within approximately 20 counts on the AtoD converter of each
other before the display is updated. It takes a value of between 0 and
9, where 0 is no rejection and 9 is the maximum jejection.

Setting the noise rejection results in a two second delay for quick
changing gas levels.

" Press MENU to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons, select menu option:
E:16
" Press ENTER. The display shows the Noise rejection value.
" Use the UP / DOWN keys to set the desired level.
" Press ENTER to store the new value in the memory.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER button
exits without any change.
" Press MENU to close the menu system.

Note each range noise rejection differs in the equivalent gas level as
follows:

Range Fixed A to D Typical span Equivalent gas

%vol Counts factor level %vol
0.00 - 0.0200 20 0.05 0.0001
0.02 - 0.1000 20 0.3 0.0006
0.10 – 1.0000 20 3.5 0.0070
0.0 – 5.0 20 0.004 0.08
5.0 – 25.0 20 0.013 0.26

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 24

 Microx User Manual

4.1.17 Menu 17 – Relay

The unit is fitted with three relays that are operated in conjunction with one of
three alarm levels.
Relay 1 is associated with alarm level 1.
Relay 2 is associated with alarm level 2.
Relay 3 is associated with alarm level 3.

The user can select if the relay is normally Energized, E’ or normally de-
energised, ‘d’ when the unit is not in an alarm condition. The relay can also be
set to act on rising, ‘r’ or falling ‘F’ gas levels.

This option allows the user to configure the operation of the relays.

" Press MENU to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons, select menu option:
E:17
" Press ENTER. The display displays r:1
" Use the UP / DOWN keys to select the desired relay.
" The display will show the following:
E:r Normally energized, rising alarm
d:r Normally de-energized, rising alarm
E:F Normally energized, falling alarm
d:F Normally de-energized, falling alarm
" The mode of operation can be changed by pressing the UP
button.
" Press ENTER to store the new data in the memory.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER button exits
without any change.

" Press MENU to close the menu system.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 25

 Microx User Manual

4.1.18 Menu 18 – Alarm levels

This option allows the user to set the operation of the alarm levels. There are
three alarms levels associated with 3 relays.
Alarm level 1 is associated with relay 1.
Alarm level 2 is associated with relay 2.
Alarm level 3 is associated with relay 3.

" Press MENU to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons, select menu option:
E:18
" Press ENTER. The display displays A:1
" Use the UP / DOWN keys to select the desired alarm level.
" Press ENTER. The display shows the alarm level.
" Use the UP / DOWN keys to set the desired alarm level.
" Press ENTER to store the new value in the memory.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER button
exits without any change.
" Press MENU to close the menu system.

4.1.19 Menu 19 – Alarm hysteresis

The unit has a hysteresis value associated with the alarm levels to
avoid relay chattering as the unit goes in and out of alarm conditions.

The hysteresis value is expressed as a percentage of the alarm set

point and takes a value of between 0 and 10.

" Press MENU to open the menu system.

" Using the NEXT and PREVIOUS buttons, select menu option:
E:19
" Press ENTER. The display shows the hysteresis level.
" Use the UP / DOWN keys to set the desired level.
" Press ENTER to store the new value in the memory.
Note: Pressing the MENU button rather than the ENTER button
exits without any change.
" Press MENU to close the menu system.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 26

 Microx User Manual

5 COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOL
The communications protocol used by the Microx module is used for
communications between devices connected via an RS232 connection. This
point-to-point, P2P, protocol is a frame-based protocol.

5.1 Control Byte Constants

The following control byte constants are used in the P2P protocol1.

Read, RD = 0x13 (00010011)

Data Link Escape, DLE = 0x10 (00010000)
Write, WR = 0x15 (00010101)
Acknowledge, ACK = 0x16 (00010110)
Negative Acknowledge, NAK = 0x19 (00011001)
Single Data Frame, DAT = 0x1A (00011010)
End of Frame, EOF = 0x1F (00011111)

Write Password 1, WP1 = 0xE5 (11100101)

Write Password 2, WP2 = 0xA2 (10100010)

5.2 Frame Structure

The start of a frame is indicated by a DLE byte followed by the type of
frame to follow (RD, WR, ACK, NAK, DAT). The end of frame is
indicated by a DLE byte followed by an EOF byte.

Note: Each of the constants has bit 4 set and so is slip-resistant (i.e.
if shifted this bit will be out of position). The values have a Hamming
Distance of 2 (each code is at least 2 bits different from every other
code).

Any DLE bytes that occur between a frame’s start and end are
prefixed with another DLE (byte-stuffing).

Following the EOF is a 16-bit checksum of the entire frame, each byte
is added to produce the checksum.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 27

 Microx User Manual

5.3 Variables
Each piece of accessible data on a device is referred to as a Variable. Each
variable is referenced by a Variable ID. A variable ID may be any number of
bytes long.

The available Variables and their corresponding Variable IDs depend on the
type of device, but here are a few examples for OEM module:

Purpose Variable id Comments

Live Data 1 Read only
Zero Sensor 2 Write only
Span Sensor 3 Write only
Version Information 4 Read only
Dac FSD 6 Read / write
Zero offset 7 Read / write

The structure of the data returned in each variable usually depends both on
the type of device and the version of firmware running on the device.
Refer to device documentation for more information.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 28

 Microx User Manual

5.4 Reading a Variable

Send a read frame with the Variable ID to be read:

var- Csum Csum

DLE RD DLE EOF
id hi lo

Byte
stuffing

Device response on success, where requested variable data < 255 bytes:

data- Csum Csum

DLE DAT data DLE EOF
len hi lo

Byte stuffing

Device response on failure:

DLE NAK reason

Where ‘reason’ is a single byte failure code, the meaning of which depends on
the device type, i.e.

1 p2pNAKvarNotReadable,
2 p2pNAKvarNotWritable,
3 p2pNAKoutOfRange,
4 p2pNAKincorrectLength,
5 p2pNAKunexpectedBytes,
6 p2pNAKchecksumFailed,
7 p2pNAKincorrectVersion,
8 p2pNAKbusy,

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 29

 Microx User Manual

5.4.1 Read example - read live data

0x10, 0x13, 0x01, 0x10, 0x1F, 0x1b, 0xd0

Device response on success:

DLE, DAT, Data length, Data, DLE, EOF, Crc High byte, Crc low byte, i.e.

0x10 DLE
0x1A DAT
0x09 Data length
0x01 Version
0x00, 0x00, 0x00, 0x00 Gas reading, 32 bit floating point – IEEE format
0x98, 0x1C, 0xC6, 0x42 Life, 32 bit floating point – IEEE format
0x10 DLE
0x1F EOF
0xE5 Crc high byte
0xB2 Crc low byte

Note: 0x42C61C98 = 99.05585

5.4.2 Read example - read Dac Fsd

0x10, 0x13, 0x06, 0x10, 0x1F, 0x9B, 0xBF

Device response on success:

DLE, DAT, Data length, Data, DLE, EOF, Crc High byte, Crc low byte, i.e.

0x10 DLE
0x1A DAT
0x08 Data length
0x00, 0x00, 0x48, 0x43 Dac ppm FSD, 32 bit floating point – IEEE format
0x00, 0x00, 0xA0, 0x40 Dac Vol. FSD, 32 bit floating point – IEEE format
0x10 DLE
0x1F EOF
0x75 Crc high byte
0x03 Crc low byte

Note: 0x43480000 = 200

0x40A00000 = 5

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 30

 Microx User Manual

5.4.3 Read example - read Zero Offset

0x10, 0x13, 0x07, 0x10, 0x1F, 0x1B, 0xA8

Device response on success:

DLE, DAT, Data length, Data, DLE, EOF, Crc High byte, Crc low byte, i.e.

0x10 DLE
0x1A DAT
0x04 Data length
0x63, 0x66, 0xA6, 0x3F Zero Offset, 32 bit floating point – IEEE format
0x10 DLE
0x1F EOF
0xC1 Crc high byte
0x12 Crc low byte

Note: 0x3FA66663 = 1.3

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 31

 Microx User Manual

5.5 Writing a Variable

Send a write frame with the Variable ID to be written:

csu csu
DLE WR WP1 WP2 var-id DLE EOF
mhi mlo

Byte stuffing

Device response on success:

DLE ACK

Where data to write is < 255 bytes, send a DAT frame:

data- Csum Csum

DLE DAT data DLE EOF
len hi lo

Byte stuffing

Device response on write success:

DLE ACK

Device response on write failure:

DLE NAK reason

Where ‘reason’ is a single byte failure code, the meaning of which depends on
the device type, i.e.

Reason = 1, NotWritable
Reason = 2, WriteOutOfRange
Reason = 3, BadDataLength
Reason = 4, IncorrectVersion

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 32

 Microx User Manual

5.5.1 Write example – zero sensor

Send the following bytes:
DLE, WR, WP1, WP2, Variable ID, DLE, EOF, Checksum High byte,
Checksum low byte,
0x10, 0x15, 0xE5, 0XA2, 0x02, 0x10, 0x1F, 0xED, 0xD6

Device response on success:

0x10 DLE
0x16 ACK

Send the following bytes:

DLE, DAT, Data Len, Data, DLE, EOF, Checksum High byte, Checksum
low byte
0x10, 0x1A, 0x00, 0x10, 0x1F, 0x2F, 0xC7

Device response on success:

0x10 DLE
0x16 ACK

5.5.2 Write example – span sensor

Send the following bytes:
DLE, WR, WP1, WP2, Variable ID, DLE, EOF, Checksum High byte,
Checksum low byte,
0x10, 0x15, 0xE5, 0XA2, 0x03, 0x10, 0x1F, 0x6D, 0xC1,

Device response on success:

0x10 DLE
0x16 ACK

Send the following bytes:

DLE, DAT, Data Len, Data, DLE, EOF, Checksum High byte, Checksum
low byte
i.e.
0x10, 0x1A, 0x04, 0x33, 0x33, 0xA7, 0x41, 0x10, 0x1F, 0x4B, 0x44

Device response on success:

0x10 DLE
0x16 ACK

Where 0x41A73333 = 20.9, IEEE float lsb first.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 33

 Microx User Manual

5.5.3 Write example – Dac Fsd

Send the following bytes:
DLE, WR, WP1, WP2, Variable ID, DLE, EOF, Checksum High byte,
Checksum low byte,
0x10, 0x15, 0xE5, 0XA2, 0x06, 0x10, 0x1F, 0x6D, 0x85

Device response on success:

0x10 DLE
0x16 ACK

Send the following bytes:

DLE, DAT, Data Len, Data, DLE, EOF, Checksum High byte, Checksum
low byte
0x10, 0x1A, 0x08, 0x00, 0x00, 0x16, 0x43, 0x00, 0x00, 0x90, 0x40, 0x10,
0x1F, 0x54, 0xD3

Device response on success:

0x10 DLE
0x16 ACK

Note: in this case Dac ppm range = 150 (0x43160000)

Dac Vol. Range = 4.5 (0x40900000).

5.5.4 Write example – Zero Offset

Send the following bytes:
DLE, WR, WP1, WP2, Variable ID, DLE, EOF, Checksum High byte,
Checksum low byte,
0x10, 0x15, 0xE5, 0XA2, 0x07, 0x10, 0x1F, 0xED, 0x92

Device response on success:

0x10 DLE
0x16 ACK

Send the following bytes:

DLE, DAT, Data Len, Data, DLE, EOF, Checksum High byte, Checksum
low byte
0x10, 0x1A, 0x04, 0xCD, 0xCC, 0x2C, 0x40, 0x10, 0x1F, 0xAF, 0XB4

Device response on success:

0x10 DLE
0x16 ACK

Note: in this case Zero Offset = 2.7 (0x402CCCCD)

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 34

 Microx User Manual

5.6 Data Structures

The data that is transferred via the P2P protocol take the form of structures.

The data types are as follows: Char 1 byte 8-bits

Integer 2 bytes 16-bits
Double 4 bytes 32-bits

There are three structures used by the Microx module. These are as follows:

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 35

 Microx User Manual

5.6.1 configuration data

struct { // common
unsigned char Version;
unsigned char Display;
unsigned char SensorType;
unsigned int DacZero;
double DacSpan;
// 0-1000ppm
unsigned int Range1Fsd[2];
unsigned int Range1Zero[2];
double Range1Span[2];
double Range1CalGas[2];
unsigned char Range1GainPot[2];
// 0-5%
unsigned int Range2Fsd;
unsigned int Range2Zero;
double Range2Span;
double Range2CalGas;
// 0-25%
unsigned int Range3Fsd[2];
unsigned int Range3Zero[2];
double Range3Span[2];
double Range3CalGas[2];
unsigned char Range3GainPot[2];
unsigned char RelayMode;
double Alarm_O2_PPM[3];
double Alarm_O2_VOL[3];
double Hysteresis;
unsigned char Damping;
double DacFsd[2];
// New sensor
unsigned int Range1ZeroNew;
double Range1SpanNew;
unsigned int Range3ZeroNew;
double Range3SpanNew;
unsigned char SerialNumber[10];
// Dual range calibration
double PpmZeroOffset;
double PpmLowCalGas;
unsigned int PpmLowCalZero;
unsigned char Filter;
}ConfigData;

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 36

 Microx User Manual

5.6.2 live data

struct{
unsigned char Version;
double Reading;
double Life;
}LiveData;

5.6.3 Calibration gas

struct {
double GasValue;
}CalGas;

5.6.4 Dac FSD

struct {
double DacFsdPPM;
double DacFsdVOL;
}CalGas;

5.6.5 Zero Offset

struct {
double ppmZeroOffset;
}ZeroOffset;

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 37

 Microx User Manual

6 ROUTINE MAINTENANCE & SERVICING

The Microx module will provide reliable and fault free service when given
regular maintenance and calibrations.

6.1 Routine Inspection and Maintenance

It is advisable to periodically inspect the Microx module installation:

Clean gas detector head using a clean DAMP cloth.

Inspect the sensor and ensure it is sound and the sensor-housing

aperture is not obstructed (where applicable).

The maximum time interval between routine inspections should be assessed

by the calibrating personnel and will depend upon the environment in which
the equipment is installed.

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 38

 Microx User Manual

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 39

 Microx User Manual

ECN00005 Issue: 1.14 Page 40