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The information contained in this manual (including all illustrations, drawings, schematics and parts lists) is proprietary to BIRAL. It is provided for the sole purpose of aiding the buyer or user in operating and maintaining the instrument. This information is not to be used for the manufacture or sale of similar items without written permission.
Thank you for choosing Biral as your supplier of Road Weather Sensors. This guide is intended to get your RWS-30 sensor installed and working as quickly as possible with the most common (Default) settings and is intended for people who are familiar with installing electrical equipment.
1 IN THE BOX The sensor is securely packed in an appropriate shipping container. Should the contents be damaged, please inform Biral at the earliest opportunity. In the box with your RWS sensor, you will find: Part Identification Biral part number ‘U’...
2 SENSOR FEATURES The RWS sensor can be configured to suit different requirements Standard features Configurable Default Additional optional settings option Visibility 200m – 99.99km None – fixed measurement range Serial data RS232 RS422/485 output Baud rate 9600 configurable between 1200 to 57600 baud 0-10 V Output EXCO...
3 SENSOR CONNECTIONS To access the connection terminals, you will need to open the RWS sensor, by loosening the captive screws on the front panel. Figure 1: PCB diagram showing J7, J11, J12, and the relay connections For J11 and J12 Connectors, strip back the wire 11mm. This connecting strip is of a lever clamp design.
3.2 CONNECTING COMMUNICATIONS The RWS-30 can be operated with either RS232 or RS422 or RS485 communications. It is not possible to operate both the RS232 and the RS422/RS485 together. Use Jumper J7 to select desired communications protocol. Communication Jumper protocol...
3.5 CONNECTING THE FERRITES This sensor MUST HAVE FERRITES INSTALLED. Failure to install the supplied ferrite cores may result in inaccurate readings or lost communications The unit is supplied with two clip type ferrites; these are not optional items and must be fitted.
2. Ensure an earth connection to the chassis, and power connected to J11 C&D (9 to 36V, and 0V) 3. Connect to the Biral Sensor interface software using default 9600 baud 4. Apply power to the sensor: If communications are working the sensor will respond with “Biral Sensor Startup”.
5 CONFIRMING THE OUTPUTS If you wish to test the outputs of the sensor, use the command ‘TEST’ to get the unit to temporarily simulate foggy and clear conditions, which will allow you to check the analogue outputs and (optional) relay thresholds. Use the CO command before the TEST command to access the TEST command.
For recommendations on correct sensor location in other applications please consult Biral. Direct and Reflected Light – Care should be taken to ensure that the sensor is situated...
6.1 MOUNTING DETAILS Any glands not in use should be sealed with the supplied sealing plugs to retain the integrity of the weatherproof housing. The U-bolts fit a standard mounting pole of 40-64mm diameter. Receiver Figure 6: Mounting details...
6.2 ELECTRICAL GROUNDING / PROTECTION This sensor MUST BE EARTHED. Failure to install a suitable earth may result in inaccurate readings and / or damage to the sensor. Failure to install an earth when using mains voltages on the relays will make the sensor potentially unsafe. An M6 earth bolt is provided, this is attached to the earth stud.
7 MAINTENANCE The RWS-30 is a calibrated optical instrument and will require maintenance during its lifetime. Please consult the User Manual for more detailed information. The maintenance periods stated here are recommended maximums only - the period should be determined by the end user.
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