Page 2 6842 Koblach Austria This manual or parts of it may only be copied or passed on to third parties with written permission of Sommer Messtechnik. This applies to printed as well as digital issues of this manual. Sommer Messtechnik Strassenhäuser 27...
Page 3 EU conformity This product is in conformity with the following standards: 2014/30/EU EN 61326-1: 2013 2014/35/EU EN 62311:2008 EN 62368-1:2014 RoHS II 2011/65/EU RoHS III 2015/863/EU...
Page 4 Prior to installation of equipment inform the owner of the measurement site or the authority responsible for it. Upon completion, secure the installation from trespassers. Maintenance and repair must be performed by trained personnel or an engineer of Sommer Messtechnik. Only replacement parts supplied by Sommer Messtechnik should be used for repairs.
Page 5: Table Of Contents
RS-485 7.5.2 SDI-12 7.5.3 How to wire analog outputs Testing Adjustment Start-up Operation Connect device to PC How do I test the USH-9 indoors? Maintenance Support software Commander 10.1 Software features 10.2 System requirements 10.3 Installation of Commander 10.4 Working with connections 10.4.1...
Page 6 Download setup 10.9.2 Open a setup file 10.9.3 Edit setup 10.9.4 Upload new setup file 10.10 Update firmware Configuration of the USH-9 11.1 Software tools 11.2 Configuration with Commander support software 11.3 Configuration with a terminal program 11.4 Conflict messages 11.4.1...
Page 7 11.7 Configuring the USH-9 for snow measurements 11.8 Configuring the USH-9 for water level measurements Communication 12.1 Communication protocols 12.2 Data output 12.2.1 Main values 12.2.2 Special values 12.2.3 Analysis values 12.2.4 Exception values 12.3 RS-485 12.3.1 What is RS-485? 12.3.2...
Page 8 13.5 Simulate current output Parameter definitions Measurement trigger Measurement Interval Level and distance Measurement duration Level/distance test Adjust level Distance to zero level Application Moving filter, duration Moving filter, type Technics Language/Sprache Decimal character SDI-12 address Units and decimals D-D-A Level, unit D-D-B Level, decimals...
Page 9 Special functions Device status View setup Continuous meas. mode (temp). Set factory default Temp. load factory default Relaunch program Measurement table Appendix A Device Errors Appendix B Troubleshooting Devices B.1.1 The USH-9 is not responding B.1.2 The USH-9 reboots repeatedly...
Page 10 Commander loads wrong setup B.3.2 Firmware update via RS-485 is aborted SDI-12 B.4.1 Data logger receives no SDI-12 data B.4.2 The USH-9 is not detected by a SDI-12 master device Analog output B.5.1 The 4-20 mA output is wrong Appendix C CRC-16 array...
Page 11: What Is The Ush-9
It measures the transit time of an ultrasonic signal between a variable surface and the USH-9 sensor, and translates it to a snow or water level. An integrated processor compensates the detected signal for temperature and filters interfering reflections of precipitation within the meas- urement path.
Page 12: Unpacking
2 Unpacking When unpacking your USH-9 sensor box please make sure that the following items are present: Name USH-9 sensor including sensor mount, sensor cable 10 m and RS-485 to USB con- verter Manual and Commander Software on USB stick Commander support software In case of missing or damaged items please contact your Sommer Messtechnik sales partner.
Page 13: Get Started
6. Click Connect to establish a connection with the USH-9. If the connection was successful a green icon is displayed at the top-right corner of the Commander window. 7. Select the tab...
Page 14: Configure The Ush-9
3. Select the Measurement (F3) tab. 4. In the Commandssection click Start polling measurement. Now, the Commander will trigger measurements of the USH-9 without any delays between measurements. The results are dis- played Measurement values and plotted in the Measurement data graph.
Page 15: How The Ush-9 Works
4 How the USH-9 works The USH-9 is a sensor to measure distance contact-free. Ultrasonic pulses with a frequency of 50 kHz are emitted from the sensor-head and are reflected at any surface. The reflected signal is then detec- ted by the sensor and from the travelling-time of the pulses the distance to the surface is calculated.
Page 16: Components
Analog outputs IOUT1 Snow depth (4…20 mA) NOTE The analog outputs and the trigger input are referenced to GND on pin Wire colour of the provided “Sommer” cable According to TI notation which differs from the standard EIA notation Manual...
Page 17: Specifications
6 Specifications Snow depth measurement Measurement range 0…10 m Near blanking dis- 0.7 m tance Accuracy max. ± 1cm; typically 0.1% FS Resolution 1 mm Non-linearity ≤0.15% Measurement dur- 2…20 s ation Measurement interval 20 s…3 h Measurement prin- Ultrasonic (frequency 50 kHz) ciple Beam aperture 12°...
Page 18 Physical and environmental Operating tem- -40…60 °C (-40…140 °F) perature Storage temperature -40…60 °C (-40…140 °F) Environmental humid- 0…100 %rH Protection rating IP 64 Lightning protection Integrated protection against indirect lightning with a discharge capacity of 0.6 kV peak Housing material Anodized aluminium Mounting bracket Ø32…60 mm...
Page 19: Installation
6. If the measurement spot is on or near a slope any snow gliding has to be ruled out. Things to consider for installation The USH-9 can be mounted to a horizontal tube with the included bracket (max. tube diameter 60 mm) as shown in...
Page 20: Power Supply
Figure 4 Measurement spot and USH-9 position It is recommended to mount the USH-9 one meter above the maximum expected level and minimum 3 m above ground. The maximum mounting height is 10.5 m above ground. As an accessory, Sommer provides a 1.6 m long, rotatable cross-arm for easy sensor mounting.
Page 21: Signal Cables
Consult an expert for advice. The USH-9 is protected against overvoltage. If a data logger is mounted to the mast, its ground lug must be properly connected to earth ground.
Page 22: Mounting
>2 m. This ensures that precipitation can be detected properly and the rate of change filter operates correctly. 2. Connect the signal cable to the USH-9 and route it to the location of the data acquisition unit. Fix the cable with cable ties.
Page 23 7.5.2 SDI-12 Connect the USH-9 to a data logger by SDI-12 according to the figure below. SDI-12 uses a shared bus with a ground wire, a data wire (indicated as SDI-12) and an optional +12 V wire. NOTE The connection with the 12 V power supply is optional and depends on the connected SDI-12 master device (typically a data logger).
Page 24: How To Wire Analog Outputs
Wiring of the USH-9 with a data logger via SDI-12 7.5.3 How to wire analog outputs Connect the analog outputs of the USH-9 to a data acquisition device according to the figure below. NOTE If a data logger is connected to the IOUT outputs, the resistance of the logger input(s) must not exceed 470 Ω.
Page 25: Start-Up
1. Select the Parameter (F2) tab and open the menu Level and distance. 2. Click the button Adjust level. 3. After the measurement has completed, enter the correct level in the pop-up window and press enter. 4. Repeat the Level/distance test and verify the reading.
Page 26: Operation
Working with connections. How do I test the USH-9 indoors? To test the USH-9 and to verify its distance/level measurements turn the device upside down so that it is facing the ceiling of a room. Now, click the buttonLevel/distance test...
Page 27 The USH-9 then triggers a measurement and returns the current distance and level. Place a sturdy, flat object (e.g. book) underneath the USH-9 and perform additional measurements to check a second distance/level. ATTENTION If the USH-9 is configured for snow applications do not use the...
Page 28: Maintenance
9 Maintenance The USH- 9 generally does not require any special maintenance. However, the device should be inspected occasionally for damage and a dirty sensor surface. To remove dirt use a wet cloth with little force. Do not use any abrasive detergent or scraping tool! Manual...
Page 29: Support Software Commander
10 Support software Commander 10.1 Software features The Commander is a multipurpose software tool to configure and operate any Sommer Messtechnik device. It offers the following functions: Communication with Sommer Messtechnik sensors and data loggers via serial connection, modem, socket, IP-call and Bluetooth®...
Page 30 4. Read the instructions and click Next 5. Select the installation type and click Next Manual...
Page 31 Installation folders: User program folder: Users\User\AppData\Local\Programs\Sommer\Commander Data structure: Users\User\AppData\Local\Programs\Sommer Specific folder (default): C:\Sommer\Commander Data structure (default): C:\Sommer Everybody Admin rights are required. Updates may only be performed by system administrators. Installation folders: Standard program folder: Program Files (x86)\Sommer\Commander Manual...
Page 32 Data structure: Users\Public\Public documents\Sommer Specific folder (default): C:\Sommer\Commander Data structure (default): C:\Sommer 6. Select the installation directory and click Next. 7. Select the features to be installed and click Next. Manual...
Page 33 8. Click Install to start the installation. 9. Click Finish to complete the installation. Manual...
Page 34: Working With Connections
6. Click Connect to establish a connection with the USH-9. If the connection was successful a green icon is displayed at the top-right corner of the Commander window. To view the settings of the connected device or to read the current measurements, follow the steps...
Page 35: Establish A Connection Manually
4. Enter the required information for the selected connection type. If your USH-9 is wired to your PC with a RS-485 to USB converter cable, select the port where the device is connected and select a Baud rate of 9800.
Page 36 1. Click on Communication assistant in the Commander-window 2. In the pop-up window choose the required connection and click Next. 3. Verify that the USH-9 is connected to your PC and a power supply. Click Next. Manual...
Page 37 4. Select Logger (115200 Bd) and click Next. 5. Select Scan ports and click Next. 6. The Commander now scans all available ports. Manual...
Page 38 7. Adopt the Name provided by the communication assistant. Click Next. 8. The Commander now scans the selected port for connected devices. Manual...
Page 39 9. Adopt the Name of the new station or enter a new name. Click Next. 10. A new station has now been created. Click Finish. Manual...
Page 40: Create A Station Manually
Station number Sommer ID. By default both settings are set to the device’s serial number (visible on the USH-9 housing). 3. Select the Connections used for the station. Multiple selections are possible; the default con- nection can be selected by ticking the circular field.
Page 41: Record Measurements
3. Select the Measurement (F3) tab. 4. In the Commandssection click Start polling measurement. Now, the Commander will trigger measurements of the USH-9 without any delays between measurements. The results are dis- played Measurement values and plotted in the Measurement data graph.
Page 42: Working With Data
10.7.1 View live data Follow the steps below to view live data acquired from your device: 1. Establish a direct or remote connection with the USH-9 using the Commander. Use an existing Commander-connection or -station if available. 2. In the Parameters (F2) tab download the parameters of the USH-9.
Page 43: Read Spectrum File
Save the setup on your PC before you make any changes! 10.9.2 Open a setup file 1. Start the Commander on your PC and connect to your USH-9 either directly with the USB to RS485 isolated converter cable or, if available, the optional Bluetooth connection.
Page 44: Edit Setup
This will display the present setup of the USH-9. 10.10Update firmware 1. Connect the USH-9 to your PC with the USB to RS485 isolated converter cable and make sure the device is powered. 2. Click on the menu item...
Page 45 Click Program Unpower the data logger Wait 3…5 seconds Repower the data logger The firmware currently present on the data logger is now erased and the new one copied to the data logger. During the update process the pop-up window may show the following mes- sages: The programmer is not ready;...
Page 46 9. Click Download parameters from device. The download of the new parameter list might take a few minutes. After completion the new firmware and setup versions will be displayed in the Information section. Manual...
Page 47: Configuration Of The Ush-9
Configuration with a terminal program 11.2 Configuration with Commander support software Follow the steps below to modify the configuration parameters of the USH-9: 1. Establish a connection between your PC and the USH-9 as described in Connect the USH-9 to your 2.
Page 48 NOTE The first download of the parameter list may take a few minutes. After that the device is known to the PC and consecutive downloads are much faster. 3. Save the parameter file to your PC by clicking Save parameter file.
Page 49 4. Adapt the parameters required for your application. Changed values are displayed with a pink background. Manual...
Page 50: Configuration With A Terminal Program
The Commander software ships with an integrated terminal program. However, communication with the USH-9 can be performed with any terminal program. Follow the steps below to modify the configuration parameters of the USH-9: 1. Establish a connection between your PC and the USH-9.
Page 51: Conflict Messages
Esc. Menus are closed with X. After closing the main menu with X the sensor performs an ini- tialization. 11.4 Conflict messages During configuration via RS-485, the USH-9 may return conflict messages after one or more para- meters have been changed and uploaded to the device. An example is shown in Figure...
Page 52: Parameter Conflict
Table 2 Parameter conflict messages 11.4.2 Setup conflict A setup conflict message as listed below is returned if a modified setup with conflicting parameters is loaded onto the USH-9. Conflict code Parameter Comment 0001 Max. measurement distance Must be in the range 1'000 ...
Page 53: General Settings
Table 3 Setup conflict messages 11.5 General settings When first setting-up a USH-9 at a measurement site, the parameters described below may need to be adapted. 11.5.1 Measurement trigger Measurements are initiated by one of the options listed in the table below.
Page 54: Language/Sprache
An internal measurement interval can be set for the USH-9. If selected in menu item Measurement trigger, measurements are performed in the defined interval. However, a measurement is always completed before a new one is initiated. 11.5.2 Language/Sprache The menu language.
Page 55: Level/Distance Measurements
Function to test the level/distance measurement. Initiates a measurement and returns the current distance and level. 11.6.3 Adjust level Function to adjust the level measurement of the USH-9 to the actual level. It first initiates a meas- urement and then requests the actual level. 11.6.4 Distance to zero level The distance between the sensors lower edge and the ground surface, e.g.
Page 56: Moving Filter, Duration
A constant rate of change filter (Rate of change, maximum (./h)) is active. ATTENTION By default the USH-9 is configured for snow-depth measurements. If the instrument is used for water level monitoring, adapt its configuration as described in Configuring the USH-9 for water level measurements.
Page 57: Configuring The Ush-9 For Snow Measurements
15, two third of the values are eliminated. 11.7 Configuring the USH-9 for snow measurements By default the USH-9 is configured for snow applications. This can be checked in the setting Applic- ation, which is set to snow.
Page 58 Settings 2 and 3 may be adapted to the flow conditions of your river or channel. See Parameter defin- itions or more details. ATTENTION Make sure to upload the modified parameters to the USH-9 and test the new settings as described in How do I test the USH-9 indoors?. Manual...
Page 59: Communication
RS-485 Modbus SDI-12 12.2 Data output The measurement values returned by the USH-9 are arranged in a fixed sequence and identified by an index. They are divided into three groups and can be selected in information. 12.2.1 Main values Measurement...
Page 60: Special Values
Snowfall is detected if Snowfall, precipitation limit is exceeded and the tem- perature is below Snowfall, max. temperature. To suppress this status set Snow- fall, precipitation limit to ≤0. A snow cover emerges if Snow settling, strength drop is exceeded and Snow set- tling, maximum level is not reached.
Page 61: Exception Values
Index Measurement value Unit Description Noise ratio 50 Diagnostic variable Noise ratio 85 Diagnostic variable Echo amp. Diagnostic variable Var. 1 Diagnostic variable Var. 2 Diagnostic variable Var. 3 Diagnostic variable Dist. max. echo Diagnostic variable Dist. last echo Diagnostic variable Distance 0 C Diagnostic variable Case temperature...
Page 62: What Is
System key and device number The system key and device number are used to identify a USH-9 in a bus system. This is essential if multiple devices ( USH-9 and data loggers) are operated within the same system.
Page 63 Waking-up a connected data logger The USH-9 supports wake-up of a connected data logger that is in standby mode. Generally, this fea- ture is only used in pushing mode and can be set under OP, wake-up sequence.
Page 64: Data Output Options
Prefix The prefix is an arbitrary character; the USH-9 uses a blank. This character is sent prior to any com- munication. Then the time of the OP, prefix holdback is waited and the command is sent afterwards. With this procedure the receiving device has time to wake-up.
Page 65 The data string is terminated with a CRC-16 in hex format (3883) followed by an end character and <CR><LF>. The CRC-16 is described in Sommer CRC-16. Parameter Format Description CRC-16 4-digit hex number Hhhh End character Control characters Carriage return and Line feed <CR><LF> Table 10 End sequence of the Sommer protocol Manual...
Page 66 Status 04 0| Closing sequence 3883; Table 11 Main values in Sommer protocol Special values Special values are returned as in the following example: EXAMPLE #M0001G01se01 1461|02 1539|03 25.25|04 0|3883; Header with system key 00, device number 01 and string number 01...
Page 67 Analyis values Analysis values are returned as in the following example: EXAMPLE #M0001G05se09 33.8|10 43.8|11 34|12 43.23|13 13.51|14 9|15 -28.6|7E66; #M0001G06se16 1|17 2920|18 1565|19 5578|20 1472|21 25.70|22 0.00|0E53; Header with system key 00, device number 01 and string number 05 for #M0001G05se the analysis values 9 to 15 0 933.8|...
Page 68: Standard Protocol
Table 13 Analysis values in Sommer protocol 12.3.6 Standard protocol The data string of the Standard protocol has the following format: EXAMPLE M_0001 1461 1359 25.38 0 Header The header (M_0001) identifies the data by system key and device number.
Page 69 End sequence The data string is terminated with <CR><LF>. Example Standard protocol Main values Main values are returned as in the following example: EXAMPLE M_0001 1461 1359 25.38 0 Header with identifier for measurement values M_0001 Level 1461 Distance 1359 Temperature 25.38 Status...
Page 70: Sommer Old Protocol
Dist. Max. echo 1563 Dist. Last echo 5543 Distance 0 C 1473 25.50 Case temperature Error code 0.00 Table 18 Analysis values in Standard protocol 12.3.7 Sommer old protocol The data string of the Sommer old protocol has the following format: Manual...
Page 71: Commands
This protocol has been implemented for compatibility reasons: When a Sommer device with firm- ware < 2.0 is updated to version 2.x the protocol is automatically set to Sommer old. Thus, the setup of a connected data logger does not have to be adjusted.
Page 72 4-digit hex number hhhh End character Table 19 Structure of Sommer bus commands and answers Commands The following commands can be used with the USH-9: Command Description Trigger a measurement Return measurement values Read a parameter with identifier XX Write a parameter with identifier XX and the value xxx...
Page 73: Sommer Crc-16
Answer: #A0001ok_010cv1461 |07EB; 12.3.9 Sommer CRC-16 The CRC-16 (cyclic redundancy check) used in data transmission of Sommer devices is based on the ZMODEM protocol. When data are exchanged between two devices the receiving device calculates the CRC-value. This value is compared to the CRC value sent by the other device to check if the data were transmitted correctly.
Page 74: Sdi-12
12.4.2 What can I do with it? The USH-9 listens to standard SDI-12 commands as listed in the SDI-12 specifications of version 1.3, e.g., to trigger a measurement or retrieve measurement results. Additionally, a set of extended SDI- 12 commands is implemented in all SOMMER sensors for instrument configuration.
Page 75: Commands
Measurement with index 06 12.32 Measurement with index 07 12.4.5 SDI-12 commands The following tasks can be performed with standard and extended SDI-12 commands. Extended SDI-12 commands are non-standard commands implemented by SOMMER to enable device configuration via SDI-12. Manual...
Page 76 Identify device The identification of a SDI-12 device is requested with the command aI!, with a the sensor address. EXAMPLE 0I! Answer 013Sommer USH 140r90 USH-9 <CR><LF> The answer contains the following information: SDI-12 address SDI-12 version prior to the point...
Page 77 0D0! Answer: 0+2591+706+25.53+0<CR><LF> The first values in the response to the aDn! command is the sensor address. Trigger measurement The command aM! with sensor address a triggers a measurement as in the example below. The response states the measurement duration and the number of measurement values (see example below).
Page 78 Configure parameter The configuration parameters of a SOMMER sensor are read with the command aXRpp! and written with the command aXWpp=vvv!, with a the sensor address, pp the parameter identifier and vvv the value of the parameter.
Page 79: Modbus
Read and write a parameters of a table Some SOMMER sensors are equipped with multiple transducers and their settings are listed in a table (see example below). A value within such a table is addressed by its row-index (01, 02 …) and column- index (A, B …).
Page 80: What Can I Do With It
Follow the instructions below to change the communication of a Sommer-device (in this example a RG-30) to Modbus: 1. Connect the USB to RS-485 converter to the data cable of the Sommer-device and a USB port on your PC. 2. Connect the sensor to a power supply with the specified rating.
Page 81 6. In the parameter list navigate to Technics and open the menus RS-485 protocol RS485 take a screenshot of the associated parameters. This and the previous step are helpful if you need to switch back to the standard communication mode at a later time. Manual...
Page 82 NOTE Modbus cannot trigger measurements! Make sure to use the trig- ger option suitable for your application! 8. Verify that the connection to the Sommer-device is active and click into the Terminal window. Type ??? to enter the sensor-menu. Manual...
Page 83 9. Navigate to RS485 protocol and select MODBUS, set default… Please note, that the index-let- ters might be different for your Sommer-device! Manual...
Page 84 10. Acknowledge the safety-note. 11. After completion the following message will be displayed: 12. Enter X until you get back to the main menu. The Sommer-device is now restarted and avail- able for Modbus-communication. As the connection-parameters have been changed to Mod- bus, the connection to the sensor is lost.
Page 85 NOTE By switching communication to Modbus with MODBUS, set default the fol- lowing parameters are changed: Parameter Modbus setting OP, measurement output just per command Output protocol (OP) Modbus MODBUS, device address Sleep mode Modbus, slow Parity, stop bits even par, 1 stop Baud rate 19200 Flow control...
Page 86: Modbus Commands And Registers
12.5.5 Modbus commands and registers Read input registers Input registers contain measurement values. The content of these registers is updated after each measurement. Register Unit / Variable Bytes Format address value Tes value Hardcoded test value 2.7519… float Level Distance Main val- float Temperature...
Page 87 Register Unit / Variable Bytes Format address value Signal focus Signal strength Half-value width Noise ratio 50 Noise ratio 85 Echo amp. Var. 1 Analysis float values Var. 2 Var. 3 Dist. max. echo Dist. last echo Distance 0 C Case temperature °C/F Error code...
Page 88 Report slave ID The Modbus function 17 (report slave ID, read only) can be used to read basic information of the USH-9. The following example shows the response of function 17 of a RG-30 sensor, which is received in hex-format:...
Page 89: Reactivate Sommer Protocol
Separator " " Serial number 34 35 31 35 45151821 31 38 32 31 BB D4 *Protocol Data Unit Table 24 Slave ID 12.5.6 Reactivate Sommer protocol Follow the instructions below to change the data output back to Sommer-protocol: Manual...
Page 90 1. Open the Connections (F8) tab and click connection. 2. Enter the Name of the new connection. We recommend to use a meaningful name for later recognition, e.g. Modbus31 (19200) to indicate port 31 and Baud-rate 19200. Select the Type Serial connection and choose the Port...
Page 91 3. Click Save connection. 4. In the Communication window select Mode Connection and choose the Connection you have created. Then click Connect. Manual...
Page 92 Save the parameter file for future use and to document con- figuration changes! 6. Now, two options are available to revert communication back to the Sommer-protocol: A. If a parameter file is available that has the Sommer-protocol enabled, the file can be loaded by clicking Open parameter...
Page 93 B. If no parameter file is available, the device has to be reset to its default configuration: 1. Click into the Terminal window and type ??? to enter the sensor-menu. 2. Navigate to Special functions and select Set factory default… Manual...
Page 94: Plc Integration
3. Acknowledge the safety-note. 4. Enter X until you get back to the main menu. The Sommer-sensor is now restarted and available in its initial configuration. As the connection-parameters have been changed to the default settings, the connection to the sensor is lost. Press...
Page 95: Analog Output
4…20 mA signals. These analog signals can then be used to trigger a certain action, e.g. operate a switch. 13.2 How to wire analog outputs Connect the analog outputs of the USH-9 to a data acquisition device according to the figure below. NOTE If a data logger is connected to the IOUT outputs, the resistance of the logger input(s) must not exceed 470 Ω.
Page 96: Scaling
TRIG input is high. always on Analog outputs are permanently active. NOTE The USH-9 delays analog data acquisition by 200 ms. If Status is set to just during TRIG , the analog output must be read with a delay of min. 200 ms after the trigger has been sent.
Page 97 IOUT1, 4-20 mA span 10'000 mm, as illustrated below. If the USH-9 is moun- ted at a lower height, it is recommended to keep this setting. 13.4.2 IOUT 2 The measured air temperature or a status as configured in...
Page 98: Simulate Current Output
Option Description status, snow If the USH-9 detects a snow cover 20 mA is applied, otherwise 0 mA. A settling snow cover is detected if Snow settling, strength drop exceeds the spe- cified limit and Snow settling, maximum level is not reached.
Page 99: Parameter Definitions
B Measurement Interval generic-measurement-interval An internal measurement interval can be set for the USH-9. If selected in menu item Measurement trigger, measurements are performed in the defined interval. However, a measurement is always completed before a new one is initiated.
Page 100: C Level And Distance
Value range Default Units 20…18ˈ000 C Level and distance Measurement duration Level/distance test Adjust level Distance to zero level Application Moving filter, duration Moving filter, type C-A Measurement duration ush-measurement-duration The duration of a single measurement. During this time the ultrasonic signal is recorded and the dis- tance to the monitored surface calculated.
Page 101: C-D Distance To Zero Level
Function to adjust the level measurement of the USH-9 to the actual level. It first initiates a meas- urement and then requests the actual level. Adjusting the level will alter the parameter Distance to zero level. C-D Distance to zero level ush-distance-zero-level The distance between the sensors lower edge and the ground surface, e.g.
Page 102: C-G Moving Filter, Type
The figure below illustrates the default moving filter duration of 180 seconds. While a Measurement Interval of 90 seconds embraces two measurement values, an interval of 45 seconds includes 4 val- ues. Value range Default Units 0…99ˈ999ˈ999 C-G Moving filter, type ush-moving-filter-type The level/distance values in the buffer can be filtered by one of the following options: Option...
Page 103: D Technics
D Technics Language/Sprache Decimal character SDI-12 address Units and decimals Temperature IOUT settings Status limits Advanced settings RS-485 Protocol RS-485 Port D-A Language/Sprache generic-language The menu language. Option Description german/deutsch German language english/englisch (default) English language D-B Decimal character generic-decimals-character The character used as decimal separator in the values of the settings and in serial data strings.
Page 104: D-D Units And Decimals
The address is a unique identifier of the sensor within a SDI-12 bus system. Value range Default Units 0…9, a…z, A…Z D-D Units and decimals D-D-A Level, unit D-D-B Level, decimals D-D-C Temperature, unit D-D-D Temperature, decimals D-D-A Level, unit generic-units-level The following units of the level/distance can be selected: Option...
Page 105: D-D-C Temperature, Unit
D-E-A Offset D-E-B Adjustment D-E-C Test D-E-A Offset generic-temperature-offset Offset of the USH-9 temperature sensor. An offset might be required if the sensor needs to be matched to an external reference. Value range Default Units -9ˈ999.99…99ˈ999.99 °C D-E-B Adjustment generic-temperature-adjustment...
Page 106: D-E-C Test
Function to adjust the measurement of the USH-9 temperature sensor. Applying this function will update the setting Offset. D-E-C Test generic-temperature-test Function to test the USH-9 temperature sensor. D-F IOUT settings D-F-A Status D-F-B IOUT1, function D-F-C IOUT1, 4-20 mA span...
Page 107: D-F-Ciout1, 4-20 Ma Span
Option Description distance (default) The distance between sensor and snow surface is returned. level The level is returned (distance between ground and snow surface) D-F-C IOUT1, 4-20 mA span usb-iout1-span Defines the output range of the 4-20 mA signal of IOUT1. The span should cover the expected range of the level or distance, respectively.
Page 108: D-F-Fiout2, Temperature 4-20 Ma Span
Level limit, 20 mA is applied, oth- limit erwise 0 mA. status, snow If the USH-9 detects a snow cover 20 mA is applied, otherwise 0 mA. A settling snow cover is detected if Snow settling, strength drop exceeds the spe-...
Page 109: D-F-I Simulate Current Output
If a limit defined in Status limits is reached, the status of IOUT2 is set to high and 20 mA is applied to the output. This status is maintained until the specified hold time elapses. Setting this parameter sup- presses a flickering signal if the monitored variable fluctuates around the limit value. Value range Default Units...
Page 110: D-G-B Snow Settling, Strength Drop
Only available if Application is set to snow; used to report snowfall. The USH-9 returns precipitation as dimensionless value that represents both, precipitation type and intensity. To identify pre- cipitation as snow and to trigger the status “snowfall”, the value must exceed the specified limit, and the air temperature must be lower than Snowfall, max.
Page 111: D-H Advanced Settings
Adapts the settings of the level/distance ana- lysis to the conditions of the sensors environment. Option Description indoor The USH-9 does not apply confirmation shots to determine the level/dis- (default) tance. outdoor The USH-9 applies confirmation shots to determine the level/distance.
Page 112: D-H-C View Spectral Distribution
D-H-D Maximum standard deviation ush-max-standard-deviation At the beginning of each measurement the USH-9 fires an impulse to detect the approximate position of the snow surface. Subsequent impulses then determine the exact snow depth. This setting spe- cifies the maximum acceptable standard deviation of a complete measurement.
Page 113: D-H-G Roc, Max. At Precip. (./H)
D-H-I Reset behavior generic-reset-behavior The USH-9 keeps certain sensor data in its memory, e.g. the measured data for calculation of the mov- ing average. This setting defines whether the acquired sensor data are deleted upon a sensor reset or not.
Page 114: D-H-J Sleep Mode
Sommer ID generic-sommer-id The Sommer ID is used to define stations within the Commander software. The ID is preset in the device and corresponds to its serial number.SOMMER suggests not to change the ID, except if a USH- 9 device is replaced. In such a case it can be practical to change the ID of the new device to the ID of the replaced device to guarantee data consistency.
Page 115: D-I-A Device Number
The type of the serial output protocol. The following options are available: Option Description Sommer (default) Sommer protocol; data values are returned with an index starting at 1 Standard Standard protocol; data values are returned without an index MODBUS Modbus protocol...
Page 116: D-I-Dop, Measurement Output
Serial data can be transmitted to a recording device automatically without a request. However, many devices demand a wake-up sequence before they can receive and process data. The USH-9 has the option to send a sync sequence and a prefix before data are transmitted (see...
Page 117: D-I-Gop, Prefix Holdback
Option Description No wake-up sequence sync The sync sequence UU~?~? is sent before the output string. prefix A blank with a time delay is sent before the output string. (default) prefix & A blank with a time delay and the sync sequence UU~?~? is sent before the sync output string.
Page 118: D-J-A Baud Rate
D-J-B Parity, stop bits D-J-C Minimum response time D-J-D Transmitter warm-up time D-J-E Flow control D-J-F Sending window D-J-G Receiving window D-J-A Baud rate generic-rs-485-port-baud-rate The following transmission rates in bps (baud) can be selected: Option Description 1ˈ200 2ˈ400 4ˈ800 9ˈ600 (default) 19ˈ200 38ˈ400...
Page 119: D-J-C Minimum Response Time
D-J-C Minimum response time generic-rs-485-port-minimum-response-time Setting of this parameter avoids interference of communication at the RS-485 interface. For this pur- pose the response to a command is delayed by the selected time. Additionally, the response is kept compact. Value range Default Units 0…2ˈ000...
Page 120: D-J-G Receiving Window
Displays information about the sensor and the software version. E-B View setup generic-special-functions-view-setup All parameters of the USH-9 are listed in the terminal window. E-C Continuous meas. mode (temp). generic-special-functions-continuous-meas-mode Inactive in the Commander menu. This feature can be triggered under the...
Page 121: E-D Set Factory Default
E-D Set factory default generic-special-functions-set-factory-default All parameters are reset to factory defaults. Only available in terminal-mode. E-E Temp. load factory default generic-special-functions-temp-load-factory-default Loads factory default values temporarily. Only available in terminal mode. E-F Relaunch program generic-special-functions-relaunch-program The device is restarted. Powering the sensor off and on again is equivalent. F Measurement table generic-measurement-table Lists all measured variables with their units (see Communication).
Page 122: Appendix A Device Errors
Appendix A Device Errors By configuring the USH-9 to return analysis values any error of the device can be recorded (see also Data output). The error code is displayed as a decimal number of which the value left of the decimal point refers to fatal errors and the value right of the decimal point to minor errors.
Page 123 Error code Name Description 0x01 SYSTEM_MAIN_ Voltage of external power supply is not measured cor- AVEXT_ERROR rectly. 0x02 SYSTEM_MAIN_A6V0_ Voltage of 6V power supply is too high. ERROR 0x04 SYSTEM_MAIN_TEMP_ Internal temperature sensor returns invalid data. ERROR 0x08 SYSTEM_NO_TARGET_ May only occur during outdoor-use. Spread of distance CLEARANCE acquired by confirmation-shots is too large.
Page 124: Appendix B Troubleshooting
B.3.2 Firmware update via RS-485 is aborted SDI-12 B.4.1 Data logger receives no SDI-12 data B.4.2 The USH-9 is not detected by a SDI-12 master device Analog output B.5.1 The 4-20 mA output is wrong B.1 Devices B.1.1 The USH-9 is not responding...
Page 125 USH-9! The power supply voltage is out of range. Adjust the power supply to match the specified voltage range. The port settings of the USH-9 and the data Use the CommanderCommunication assistant acquisition system do not match.
Page 126: The Ush-9 Reboots Repeatedly
< 2 m. ● Snow drift close to the surface is not recog- nized as precipitation. NOTE In snow applications a rate of change (RoC) filter is active! To test the USH-9 use the function Level/distance test or set Application to Water.
Page 127: Recorded Data Show Frequent Data Gaps
Measured level is out of range. Verify that level measurements are within the range of the USH-9. USH-9 is not perpendicular to the ground Verify that the USH-9 is mounted perpendicular to the ground (see also Mounting). B.3 Firmware & software B.3.1...
Page 128: Sdi-12
Otherwise the data logger runs into a timeout or is waiting indefinitely for a service request. B.4.2 The USH-9 is not detected by a SDI-12 master device Reason Solution The USH-9 and the SDI-12 master have dif- Verify that the USH-9 and the SDI-12 master are ferent grounds.
Page 129: Analog Output
B.5 Analog output B.5.1 The 4-20 mA output is wrong Reason Solution Analog output settings incorrect. 1. Check analog output settings. 2. Run Simulate current output and verify the correct output. Sensor and data acquisition system have dif- Verify that sensor and data acquisition system ferent grounds.
Page 130: Appendix Ccrc-16 Array
Appendix C CRC-16 array CRC-16 array crc16tab[] = 0x0000, 0x1021, 0x2042, 0x3063, 0x4084, 0x50A5, 0x60C6, 0x70E7, 0x8108, 0x9129, 0xA14A, 0xB16B, 0xC18C, 0xD1AD, 0xE1CE, 0xF1EF, 0x1231, 0x0210, 0x3273, 0x2252, 0x52B5, 0x4294, 0x72F7, 0x62D6, 0x9339, 0x8318, 0xB37B, 0xA35A, 0xD3BD, 0xC39C, 0xF3FF, 0xE3DE, 0x2462, 0x3443, 0x0420, 0x1401, 0x64E6, 0x74C7, 0x44A4, 0x5485, 0xA56A, 0xB54B, 0x8528, 0x9509, 0xE5EE, 0xF5CF, 0xC5AC, 0xD58D, 0x3653, 0x2672, 0x1611, 0x0630, 0x76D7, 0x66F6, 0x5695, 0x46B4,...
Page 131 Glossary Modbus A serial communications protocol for connecting industrial electronic devices. RS-485 A standard defining the signal trans- mission in serial communication sys- tems. SDI-12 Asynchronous serial com- munications protocol for intelligent sensors (Serial Digital Interface at 1200 baud) Manual...
Page 132 Index Modbus 17, 53-54, 79-80, 86-88, 115, 117, RS-485 12-13, 16-17, 21-22, 26, 35, 51, 53, 62-64, 71, 74, 80, 88, 99, 114, 116- 117, 119, 122, 127 SDI-12 16-17, 21, 23, 53, 63, 74-78, 82, 99, 103, 116, 128 Manual...

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