Instruction manual

3.e. Outputs

Outputs are used to interface with external devices such as VMS (Variable Message Signs), static message boards,

Traffic Controllers (170/2070 signal controllers), secondary data recorders, ITS devices (Intelligent Transportation

Systems) and other useful roadside electronics. Although the Phoenix is self contained it is sometimes useful to

connect and control other electronics to provide additional functionality.

3.e.1. Incident Alarm Outputs

The Phoenix II can be fitted (optional) to provide Open Collector to ground style outputs for incident detection or event

triggers to an external device. The main board can be ordered or retrofitted to include 4 separate optically isolated Open

Collector (the older Phoenix units contained 3 OC outputs).

3.e.2. WIM Alarm Outputs

The Phoenix II WIM board (optional) also contains 4 WIM Alarm outputs identical to the main board that are optically

isolated. These outputs are reserved for WIM type functions and are programmable for WIM events to trigger signage to

alert overweight vehicles and the like.

3.e.3. Loop Outputs

The inductive loop sensor board can be fitted (optional) with optically isolated presence style loop presence signals so

you can piggy back any kind of controller or presence input device off each loop from the counter. Since the loop

circuitry is isolated for the output signal to the external device, it is protected from power surges of line failure to ensure

sensor and operation reliability.

3.f. Power Input / Charging

A power port/jack is used to provide the Phoenix II with AC or DC power to allow the unit to charge the internal 6VDC

sealed lead acid battery (similar to a car battery). On the main board is a lithium AA cell for the real time clock and

memory backup so settings and data is (intact incase of primary power loss). The unit uses the 6VDC lead acid battery

as its primary power cell and only uses the power input to charge the battery and not as its primary power source. This

allows the Phoenix to operate during power outages or during times when no power is present (i.e. solar charging

applications). The Phoenix II can receive Alternating Current power from 110-120VAC and Direct Current voltage of 9-

18VDC. There is also a pin for 6VDC out from the counter battery to power an external device such as a modem or

radio unit. The following diagram shows the pin numbers of the Phoenix II/Unicorn/Pegasus 7 Input Connector. The

orientation of the diagram is as if you were looking directly at the connector from the outside of the box.

Note: Open collector is a type of output on many integrated circuits (IC). Instead of outputting a

signal of a specific voltage or current, the output signal is applied to the base of an internal npn

transistor whose collector is externalized (open) on a pin of the IC. The emitter of the transistor

is connected internally to the ground pin.