Troubleshooting guide

MAGNUM VERSION 8 MANUAL REVISION 3.1
11
 MCS-SI16-AO4 (16 SI and 4 AO)
The versatility of the Magnum offers the user much flexibility in configuring the controls in an economical
way. The limitation is not the number of boards but the total number of points.
3.3. About this Manual
The purpose of this manual is to document MCS’s V8 software for the Magnum. This software requires a
configuration type 11 in MCS-Config. Any other type of configuration file will result in an invalid Config
message and the unit will not function.
This manual documents how the Magnum V8 software functions. Since this is a large manual, it is
structured in logical sections for ease of reference. The Table of Contents will guide you through the
sections but you are urged to read the entire manual. This will provide an understanding of the capabilities
of the Magnum Control System and hopefully introduce other ways that you may benefit from the existing
control strategies. Quick Reference sheets and MCS Specification sheets are provided in the
appendixes.
This manual was created using Microsoft Office, Word 2000. A printed copy may be ordered, please refer
to our Price Book. A PDF copy of this manual may be downloaded from our web site at
www.mcscontrols.com free of charge.
An approved OEM of MCS may make copies and / or change any section of this manual to develop
custom documentation for a site where a Magnum controller is installed. In this way, MCS supports the
documentation requirements of individual customer sites.
3.4. About the Magnum
The Magnum is a rugged microprocessor controller designed for the harsh environment of the HVAC/R
industry. It is designed to provide primary control without needing mechanical controls. It will interface
locally with a null modem serial cable, remotely through an Ethernet connection, and also through building
management systems. The Magnum offers a great deal of flexibility with adjustable Setpoints and control
options that can be set prior to activating a system or even when the unit is operational. The Magnum is
designed to safeguard the system being controlled, minimize the need for manual intervention, and to
provide a simple but meaningful user interface.
3.5. MCS 485 Network
The MCS 485 Network can support up to 20 Magnum’s and their associated I/O boards. Access to this
network can be local through a RS232 or Ethernet connection, or remotely through a 14.4K Baud modem.
When using the dialup connection through a modem there is no degradation in the performance of the
network.
Each Magnum in the network must be assigned a unique address in the configuration file. This address
will be the key in establishing communications with the appropriate Magnum system. It can be viewed or
changed from the LCD / keypad of the unit with Factory authorization.
Notes:
 RS 232 transmissions should not exceed 50’ in length.
 RS 485 transmissions should not exceed 1 mile without a repeater.
3.6. MCS Ethernet Port
When connecting directly through the 100 MBPS Ethernet port on the Magnum from a PC it is necessary
to use a crossover Ethernet cable.