Smart Cell for I-Line Breaker

[michael_franz]

Team:

We are having trouble integrating an I-Line Smart Cell into our PowerLogic system.  The RS485 master is a PM8000 meter.  All the setting have been completed to make the PM8000 a Modbus master on the serial string.  It is sending signals out that are indicated by flashing COM LEDs on the IFM and breaker modules.  There is an end-of-line resistor.  The wiring looks complete and correct.  There are two other devices on the daisy-chain, a PM3500 series and a BCPM.

We set up an identical PM8000 and placed a PM800 on a cable as a slave.  We were getting back good data with this configuration.

All setting and dip switches have been checked and rechecked.  Everything looks like it should work but none of the items on the serial string will talk.  Any advise is welcome.  We have existed the obvious.

Going back to "never mix protection and metering" camp.  Have been on the phone several times with both distribution and PowerLogic technical support.  Still cannot establish coms.

Please advise.

Michael Franz

[Anonymous user]

Hi Michael,

Sorry to hear that establishing communications has been a challenge for you.  Two quick things I might try would be to a) Increase the loops baud rate (looking at the picture this may have already been done), or b)  Increase the ports RTS delay.  I think it is 10ms by default, try doubling that.

In addition I would encourage you to contact tech support and let them know that the issue is unresolved, they have the ability to escalate your concerns higher if needed. 

I believe your case number is 31525730.

Brian

[michael_franz]

Brian:

Slowing down has proven a better way in the past.  How would speeding up the rate help with newer stuff?

Our issue is that we need to go through a timely process to shut the equipment down, take everything

apart, test and then reverse the process.

We have already spent 5 man days working on this.  I am an experienced communication trouble shooter.

I may have missed something but all the regular items have been rechecked several times.

Thanks,

Michael