User's Manual

Hardware and Wiring Installation Guide 27
5. Troubleshooting Guide
These are possible hardware scenarios and solution issues that may affect the operation of the tracking
system. The Collector Voltage Troubleshooting Flow Chart and the Functionality Test Flow Chart are
included as troubleshooting strategies for correcting system hardware problems.
Problem: System will not start up.
Discussion: Most system failures on startup are caused by failure to properly crimp RJ Type connectors,
along with failure to test the completed connection.
Problem: Collector cannot be seen by the Concentrator on the Subnet.
Discussion: A collector works properly when unconnected to the subnet, on powering on, it blinks four to
five times every five or so seconds. Once connected to the concentrator’s subnet, upon power on, the
collector light should come on strong after the first few seconds and then blink only upon receipt of a badge
ID.
Problem: Incorrect voltages across sensor pair at the punch-down block.
Discussion: The voltage across the sensor pair at the collector punch-down block should be between 15
and 17 volts DC. A voltage above18 may indicate an open circuit, while a voltage below 15 may indicate
RF interference, or faulty sensor, or faulty wiring. RF interference may be verified by switching the meter
to the AC scale and reading voltage. With no badge id’s being sent down the sensor pair, any AC voltage
reading may indicate RF interference.
Problem: RF interference.
Discussion: RF interference may be checked as discussed above. Possible RF interference that effects the
sensor network includes, certain types of energy efficient lighting and associated electronic ballasts. The
most common offenders are classified as T8 lights and have and electronic ballast in the 40 kHz range.
Sensor wiring should not touch electrical conduit, or ceiling grates, as they are very good at picking up RF
frequencies.
Problem: Sensor not picking up id from badge (non-working sensor).
Discussion: Smoke detectors using IR detection interfere with Versus sensors. The sensor should not be
installed within two feet of smoke detectors to avoid any interference.
Problem: Collector mounting failures.
Discussion: Collector mounting failures can be avoided by using the mounting clip provided to hold the
end of the collector firmly against the wall.