User Manual

10/11/12 Page 5 of 12
SignalFire Telemetry Rev 1.2
WARING: Perform the steps in section 1 setup in a safe
location only.
The nodes need to be set up for correct operation before being fielded. The configurable
items include:
• Network Selection
• Check-in Period Selection
• Modbus Slave ID Setting
• Sensor on time/supply voltage
The Modbus slave ID is set using the DIP switch, all other setting are made using the
SFToolKit PC application and a serial programming cable.
Network Setting
The network address can be used to create separate networks using multiple gateways
(that are in close proximity with one another). The network is set using SFToolKit. The
Network Group setting is used when more than 8 networks are needed. Both the network
and network group must match for nodes to communicate.
Modbus Slave ID
The Modbus Slave ID is set using the DIP switch. The DIP switch takes an 8-bit binary
input which is converted into a slave ID from 1 to 255. In the picture below switch 1 and
2 are on which is 00000011 and results in a slave ID of 3. The least significant bit (LSB)
is on the left and is labeled 1 under the row of switches.
Sensor Settings
The Sentinel Node will supply either 18 Volts or 12 Volts to the sensor, this is selectable
in the SFToolKit application. Also the sensor warm-up time must be configured. The
default is 2 seconds which is used for most pressure and other simple sensors. Radar
sensors often require a longer warm-up time. Contact your sensor manufacturer or
SignalFire for details.
Selecting a sensor voltage of 12V will result in longer battery life; however some
sensors require higher voltage.