VT400

Weight Indicator
Technical Manual

Revision A4, September 2006 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................ II

TABLE OF FIGURES .................................................................................. VI

LEGAL NOTICE ........................................................................................ VII

WARRANTY........................................................................................... VIII

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ........................................................................... IX

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY .............................................................. XI

ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT ......................................................................... XII

1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS......................................................... 14

1.1 GENERAL ........................................................................................... 14

1.2 ANALOG INPUT .................................................................................... 15

1.3 ANALOG OUTPUT (OPTIONAL) ................................................................... 15

1.4 DIGITAL INPUT .................................................................................... 16

1.5 DIGITAL OUTPUTS ................................................................................ 16

2 INSTALLATION .............................................................................. 17

2.1 SITE REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................. 17

2.2 MOUNTING THE INDICATOR ...................................................................... 17

2.2.1 Installation ...................................................................................... 17

2.2.2 Wiring ............................................................................................. 18

2.3 CONNECTING LOAD CELLS ....................................................................... 18

2.3.1 Load Cell Operating Parameters .......................................................... 19

2.4 SERIAL CONNECTIONS ............................................................................ 19

2.4.1 Printer and PC Cables ........................................................................ 19

2.4.2 RS485 Cable Connections .................................................................. 20

2.5 CONNECTING POWER ............................................................................. 20

3 DISPLAY, KEYS AND MENUS........................................................... 21

3.1 THE DISPLAY ...................................................................................... 22

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 ii Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Table of Contents

3.1.1 Status Annunciators .......................................................................... 22

3.1.2 Common Messages Shown on the Display ............................................ 22

3.2 FRONT PANEL KEYS ............................................................................... 23

3.2.1 Using Keys to Perform Operations ....................................................... 23

3.2.2 Using Keys to Navigate and Enter Information ...................................... 23
3.2.3 Editing Multiple Digits ........................................................................ 24

3.3 THE FUNCTION MENU ............................................................................. 24

3.3.1 Using the Function Menu.................................................................... 24

3.3.2 Function Summary............................................................................ 25

3.4 SETUP MENUS ..................................................................................... 27

3.4.1 Accessing and Navigating Setup Menus ................................................ 27

3.4.2 Menu Structure ................................................................................ 28
3.4.3 Parameter Summary ......................................................................... 28
SETUP > SETUP 1 (General Operating Parameters)............................................................ 28

SETUP > SETUP 2 (Com 1 Settings)................................................................................. 29

SETUP > SETUP 3 (Com 2 Settings)................................................................................. 30

SETUP > SETUP 4 (Tilt Switch)........................................................................................ 30

SETUP > SETUP 5 (Setpoints) ......................................................................................... 31

A-CAL (Analog Output)................................................................................................... 31

A-CAL (Analog Output, cont.).......................................................................................... 32

4 CALIBRATION ................................................................................ 33

4.1 CALIBRATION WITH STANDARD WEIGHTS (S-CAL) .......................................... 33

4.1.1 Zero (Dead-Load) Calibration ............................................................. 33

4.1.2 Span Calibration ............................................................................... 34

4.2 ELECTRONIC CALIBRATION (E-CAL) ........................................................... 34

4.2.1 Calculating Calibration Values ............................................................. 35

4.2.2 Setting Zero Calibration (Dead-Load) Value .......................................... 35
4.2.3 Span (Max. Capacity) Calibration ........................................................ 36

4.3 STORING CALIBRATION DATA ................................................................... 36

4.4 LOCKING AND UNLOCKING CALIBRATION....................................................... 36

4.4.1 Sealing Indicator Enclosure with Stickers.............................................. 37

4.4.2 Securing Load Receptor ..................................................................... 39
4.4.3 Checking Seal Status and Audit Trail Counter........................................ 39

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 iii Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Table of Contents

5 GENERAL SYSTEM PARAMETERS..................................................... 40

5.1 PAR MENU ......................................................................................... 40

5.1.1 Accessing the Menu and Editing Parameters.......................................... 40

5.1.2 PAR Menu Parameters ....................................................................... 41

5.2 SETUP 1 (INSIDE SETUP MENU) ............................................................. 42

5.2.1 Accessing the Menu and Editing Parameters.......................................... 42

5.2.2 SETUP 1 Parameters ......................................................................... 42

6 SERIAL COMMUNICATION .............................................................. 43

6.1 SERIAL PORTS CONFIGURATION ................................................................. 43

6.1.1 RS232 Serial Port ............................................................................. 43

6.1.2 RS485 Serial Port ............................................................................. 43

6.2 SETTING PORT OUTPUT PARAMETERS .......................................................... 44

6.2.1 Setting Port 1 Output ........................................................................ 44

6.2.2 Setting Port 2 Output ........................................................................ 44

6.3 OUTPUT TYPES .................................................................................... 44

6.3.1 Local Printer..................................................................................... 44

6.3.2 Continuous Weight Output ................................................................. 44
6.3.3 Print on Demand............................................................................... 45
6.3.4 Alibi Transmit ................................................................................... 45
6.3.5 Alibi Mode Commands ....................................................................... 45
Transmit Displayed Weight ............................................................................................. 45

Command “ZERO” ......................................................................................................... 46

Print on Demand Character............................................................................................. 46

6.3.6 EDP Protocol Output.......................................................................... 46

6.3.7 Remote Printer Output....................................................................... 47
6.3.8 Master-Slave Protocol Output ............................................................. 48

7 OUTPUTS AND DIGITAL INPUT....................................................... 49

7.1 SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................. 49

7.1.1 Digital Outputs ................................................................................. 49

7.1.2 Analog Outputs ................................................................................ 49
7.1.3 Digital Input (Tilt Switch) ................................................................... 49

7.2 CONNECTING DIGITAL OUTPUTS AND TILT SWITCH .......................................... 50

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 iv Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Table of Contents

7.3 SETTING THRESHOLDS FOR DIGITAL SETPOINTS .............................................. 50

7.3.1 Parameters for Digital Outputs............................................................ 51

7.4 CONFIGURING ANALOG OUTPUT ................................................................. 52

7.4.1 Connecting PCB and Setting Jumper .................................................... 52

7.4.2 Setting Analog Output Parameters ...................................................... 53
7.4.3 Calibrating D/A Converter .................................................................. 54

7.5 USING THE TILT SWITCH ......................................................................... 55

7.5.1 Tilt Switch Options ............................................................................ 55

8 SERVICE OPERATIONS AND TESTING ............................................. 56

8.1 SERVICE OPERATIONS ............................................................................ 56

8.1.1 Setting and Changing Calibration Password (Function 40) ....................... 56

8.1.2 Checking Calibration Seal (Function 48) ............................................... 56
8.1.3 Viewing Load Cell mV (Function 80)..................................................... 57
8.1.4 Viewing A/D Count (Function 81) ........................................................ 57
8.1.5 View Software Version Number and Date (Function 82) .......................... 57
8.1.6 Locking and Unlocking Keys ............................................................... 57

8.2 TESTING THE INDICATOR ......................................................................... 58

8.2.1 Testing ROM/RAM Integrity (Function 86)............................................. 58

8.2.2 Testing the Keypad and Display (Function 90, 91) ................................. 58
8.2.3 Testing Digital Input and Outputs (Function 93) .................................... 59
8.2.4 Testing the Print Buffer (Function 94) .................................................. 59
8.2.5 Testing Data Received on Both Serial Ports (Function 96) ....................... 59

9 TROUBLESHOOTING....................................................................... 60

9.1 ERRORS, CAUSES AND REMEDIES ............................................................... 60

9.2 CHECKING LOAD CELL CONNECTION ............................................................ 61

9.3 CHECKING POWER SUPPLY ....................................................................... 62

9.4 CHECKING DIGITAL INPUT AND OUTPUTS ...................................................... 62

APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL DRAWINGS ...................................................... 63

APPENDIX B: MASTER-SLAVE PROTOCOL ................................................. 67

CONTACTING VISHAY TRANSDUCERS ...................................................... 82

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 v Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Table of Figures

Table of Figures

FIGURE 1 – FRONT AND REAR VIEWS OF THE VT400 ................................................... 17

FIGURE 2 – LOAD CELL CONNECTION DIAGRAM .......................................................... 18
FIGURE 3 – PRINTER AND PC CABLES CONNECTION DIAGRAM ......................................... 19
FIGURE 4 – RS485 CABLE CONNECTION DIAGRAM ...................................................... 20
FIGURE 5 – NON-REMOVABLE STICKER ................................................................... 37
FIGURE 6 – LEAD WIRE SEAL / HARD PLASTIC STICKER ................................................. 37
FIGURE 7 – DESKTOP MODEL, SEALING WITH NON-REMOVABLE STICKER ............................. 38
FIGURE 8 – DESKTOP MODEL, SEALING WITH LEAD SEAL / NON-REMOVABLE STICKER .............. 39
FIGURE 9 – DIGITAL OUTPUT AND TILT SWITCH CONNECTION DIAGRAM .............................. 50

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 vi Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Legal Notice

Legal Notice
This manual contains information that is proprietary to Vishay Transducers Ltd.
(“VT”). No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form whatsoever
without prior written approval by VT.
Right, title and interest, all information, copyrights, patents, know-how, trade
secrets and other intellectual property or other proprietary rights relating to this
manual and to the VT400 (“the Product”), and any software components contained
therein, are proprietary products of VT protected under international copyright law
and shall be and remain solely with VT.
VT400 is a registered trademark of VT. No right, license, or interest to such
trademark is granted hereunder, and you agree that no such right, license, or
interest shall be asserted by you with respect to such trademark.
You shall not copy, reverse compile or reverse assemble all or any portion of the
Manual or the Product. You are prohibited from, and shall not, directly or indirectly,
develop, market, distribute, license, or sell any product that supports substantially
similar functionality as the Product, based on or derived in any way from the
Product. Your undertaking in this paragraph shall survive the termination of this
Agreement.
This Agreement is effective upon your opening of the packaging of the Product,
and shall continue until terminated. VT may terminate this Agreement upon the
breach by you of any term hereof. Upon such termination by VT, you agree to
return to VT the Product and all copies and portions thereof. For further
information contact VT or your local distributor.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 vii Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Warranty

Warranty
Vishay Transducers warrants all instruments it manufactures to be free from defect in materials and factory workmanship, and agrees to

repair or replace any instrument that fails to perform as specified within one year after date of shipment. Coverage of computers,

cameras, rechargeable batteries, and similar items, sold in conjunction with equipment manufactured by Vishay Transducers and bearing

the identifying name of another company, is limited under this warranty to one year after the date of shipment. The warranty on non-

rechargeable batteries and similar consumable items is limited to the delivery of goods free from defects in materials and factory

workmanship.

This warranty shall not apply to any instrument that has been repaired, worked on or altered by persons unauthorized by Vishay

Transducers in such a manner as to injure, in our sole judgment, the performance, stability, or reliability of the instrument; subjected to

misuse, negligence or accident; or connected, installed, adjusted, or used otherwise than in accordance with the instructions furnished by

us.

At no charge, we will repair, at our plant, or at an authorized repair station, or at our option, replace any of our products found to be

defective under this Warranty.

This Warranty is in lieu of any other warranties, expressed or implied, including any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular

purpose. There are no warranties which extend beyond the description on the face hereof, Purchaser acknowledges that no salesman, agent,

employee or other person has made any such presentations or warranties or otherwise assumed for Vishay Transducers any liability in connection

with the sale of any goods to the purchase. Buyer hereby waives all rights Buyer may have arising out of any breach of contract or breach of

warranty on the part of Vishay Transducers, to any incidental or consequential damages, including but not limited to damages to property,

damages for injury to the person, damages for loss of use, loss of time, loss of profits or income, or loss resulting from personal injury.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages for consumer products, so the above

limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.

The Purchaser agrees that the Purchaser is responsible for notifying any subsequent Buyer of goods manufactured by Vishay Transducers

of the warranty provisions, limitations, exclusions and disclaimers stated herein, prior to the time any such goods are purchased by such

Buyer, and the Purchaser hereby agrees to indemnify and hold Vishay Transducers harmless from any claim asserted against or liability

imposed on Vishay Transducers occasioned by the failure of the Purchaser to so notify such Buyer. This provision is not intended to afford

subsequent Purchasers any warranties or rights not expressly granted to such subsequent Purchasers under the law.

Vishay Transducers reserves the right to make any changes in the design or construction of its instruments at any time, without incurring

any obligation to make any change whatever in units previously delivered. Vishay Transducers’ sole liabilities, and Buyer’s sole remedies,

under this agreement shall be limited to the purchase price, or at our sole discretion, to the repair or replacement of any instrument that

proves, upon examination, to be defective, when returned to our factory, transportation prepaid by the Buyer, within the applicable period

of time from the date of original shipment. Return transportation charges of repaired or replacement instruments under warranty will be

prepaid by Vishay Transducers.

Vishay Transducers is solely a manufacturer and assumes no responsibility of any form for the accuracy or adequacy of any test results,

data, or conclusions which may result from the use of its equipment.

The manner in which the equipment is employed and the use to which the data and test results may be put are completely in the hands of

the Purchaser. Vishay Transducers shall in no way be liable for damages consequential or incidental to defects in any of its products.

This warranty constitutes the full understanding between the Manufacturer and Buyer, and no terms, conditions, understanding or

agreement purporting to modify or vary the terms hereof shall be binding unless hereafter made in writing and signed by an authorized

official of Vishay Transducers.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 viii Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Safety Instructions

Safety Instructions
The following instructions serve as a general guide for the safe operation of the
VT400.

Safety Symbols

This symbol indicates potential safety hazards regarding product operation

or maintenance to operator or service personnel.

General Safety Practices

Do not touch or tamper with the power supply when the power cord is connected.
Line voltages may be present even when the product is powered off or a fuse is
blown.
Before working on equipment connected to power lines or to other devices, remove
jewelry or any other metallic object that may come into contact with energized
parts.
The product is intended to be grounded during normal use. Grounding is provided
by connecting the mains plug to a wall socket with a protective earth terminal. The
earth lug provided on the product should be connected to the protective earth at
all times, by a wire with a diameter of 18 AWG or wider.
Always make the ground connection first and disconnect it last. Do not connect
data cables to ungrounded equipment. Make sure that all other cables are
disconnected before disconnecting the ground.

Special Safety Warnings

Welding on or in the vicinity of the equipment is strictly prohibited.

Use reliable lightening conductors to prevent static loads caused by

thunderstorms.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 ix Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Safety Instructions

Connection of AC Mains
Make sure that the electrical installation complies with local codes. Always connect
the AC plug to a wall socket with a protective ground.
The maximum permissible current capability of the branch distribution circuit that
supplies power to the product is 16A. The circuit breaker in the building installation
should have high breaking capacity and must operate at short-circuit current
exceeding 35A.
Always connect the power cord first to the equipment and then to the wall socket.
If the power cord cannot be readily disconnected in case of emergency, make sure
that a readily accessible circuit breaker or emergency switch is installed in the
building.

Operating Environment

Ambient Storage temperature: -10C to +70C (14F to 158F).

Temperature Operating temperature: -10C to +40C (14F to 104F).

Humidity 40% to 90% RH (non condensing).

Vibration Severe vibration can affect the accuracy of weighing and damage components.

Air The air surrounding the product should be dust-free and should not contain
corrosive gasses or other materials that could adversely effect the product.

Electromagnetic Heavy electrical equipment should not be installed near to the weighing
Fields apparatus.

Incoming and Relays and contacts connected to the equipment must have reliable and
Outgoing Signals effective interference suppression. This also applies to other equipment within
3 meters of the equipment.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 x Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Declaration of Conformity

Declaration of Conformity
Non-Automatic Weighing Instrument (III)

Manufacturer Vishay Transducers

Type/Model VT400

EC Type Approval DK 0199.62

Certificate Number

Corresponds to the production model described in the EC Type Approval Certificate

and to the requirements of the Council Directive 90/384/EEC as amended and to
the requirements of the following EC Directives:
EN 45501:1994, The Metrological Aspects of Non-Automatic Weighing Machines.
EN 55022:1987, Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Interference
Characteristics of Information Technology Equipment.
EN 60950:1992, Safety of Information Technology Equipment.

Date April 30, 2004

Signature Benny Shaya, Director R&D/Operations Instruments

Being the responsible person employed and appointed by Vishay Transducers.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 xi Doc # UM-VT400-EN

About this Document

About this Document

This document explains how to use and service the VT400 Weight Indicator. It is
intended for technical staff tasked with installing, setting up, configuring and
monitoring the indicator, as well as troubleshooting and servicing it.

Chapters and Their Contents

1 Technical General indicator specifications; analog input/output Pg. 14

Specifications specs; and digital input/output specs.

2 Installation Installing and connecting the indicator. Pg. 17

3 Display, Keys and Using the VT400 display, keypad, function menu and Pg. 21
Menus setup menus.

4 Calibration Performing standard weight calibration and electronic Pg. 33

calibration.

5 General System General parameters in the SETUP 1 and PAR menus. Pg. 40
Parameters

6 Serial Communication Setting up communication with printers, host PCs and Pg. 43
other external devices.

7 Outputs and Digital Connecting and using the digital input (tilt switch), Pg. 49
Input digital outputs (setpoints) and analog output.

8 Service Operations How to set a PIN number, view load cell mV, test the Pg. 56
and Testing keypad and display, and perform other service and
testing operations.

9 Troubleshooting Errors, causes and suggested corrective actions; Pg. 60

maintenance and service instructions.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 xii Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 About this Document

Style Conventions

Verdana Regular text.

Arial Bold Keys, menus, commands and parameters.

Monospace Text displayed on the LCD, text a user must key in, or values of parameters.

Notes, which offer an additional explanation or a hint on how to overcome a

common problem.

Warnings, which indicate potential safety hazards regarding product operation

or maintenance to operator or service personnel.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 xiii Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Technical Specifications
General

1 Technical Specifications

1.1 General

CPU characteristics MCU 89C51RD, 64KB Flash ROM, 1KB RAM, 32KB serial EEPROM.

Communication • Serial port 1: RS232C Full duplex, 2400 baud, 7 data bits/even parity or 8
data bits/no parity.

• Serial port 2: (optional): RS485 half duplex, 2400-57600 baud, no or even

parity, 7 or 8 data bits.

Display 6 digit red LED (20mm height) display.

Annunciators Net, no motion, tare, weight range 1 and 2.

Keyboard 6-key membrane type with tactile feedback.

Approvals EU type approval 10,000 divisions, 0199.62.

Accuracy class III.

Resolution Selectable up to 99.000dd (in accordance with regulations).

Max tare effect Full scale (100%).

Auto zero track Off or 0.5dd setup, selectable.

Weight digits 4, 5 or 6.

Weight steps 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200.

Digital filter FIR automatically adjusted to conversion speed, plus post filtering (rolling
average of 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 samples).

Calibration methods Dead load, span and scale parameters via keyboard commands. Calibration can
be performed either by weighing or by entering load cell mV values.

Self diagnostics Hardware and software, MCU watchdog, memory failure, I/O failure, program
check.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 14 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Technical Specifications
Analog Input

1.2 Analog Input

Load cell excitation ±5V switched polarity or +5VDC with sense.

Connection 6-wire technique. Max 10 load cells 350Ohm each.

Signal range • -0.25 to 1.75mV/V (Gain=10).

• -0.25 to 3.75mV/V (Gain=20).

Sensitivity • Approved scales: min 0.4µV / digit (VSI).

• Non-approved scaled: min 0.1µV / digit.

Input amplifier Input noise 0.3µVp-p, input bias current 10nA typical.

A/D Converter Sigma delta 550.000 internal counts max. Conversion speed: 3, 7, 14, 28, 57,
70Hz (selectable).

Linearity Within 0.002% of full scale.

Span temp coefficient ≤2ppm/°C.

Zero temp coefficient ≤2ppm/°C.

Long-term stability 0.005% of full scale per year.

1.3 Analog Output (Optional)

Power supply External 24VDC, Main instrument PSU can be used.

Current or voltage Selected via jumper JP1 on printed circuit board 761 (see section 7.4).

Current output 0-20mA or 4-20mA. Max load resistance 1KΩ (line + termination).

Voltage output 0.02-10V. Min load resistance 1KΩ (This is the default output).

Resolution • Internal: 16 bits.

• External: 16 bits, or in accordance with regulation.

Linearity Better than 0.01% of FSR.

Thermal stability 50ppm/°C typical.

Short-circuit 25mA indefinite duration.

protection

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 15 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Technical Specifications
Digital Input

1.4 Digital Input

Input voltage 9-24VDC, positive common, optoisolated to 2.5KV.

Input resistance 3.3KΩ.

On delay 2msec max.

Off delay 2msec max.

1.5 Digital Outputs

Output voltage 24 VDC ±10% transistor (source) darlington, positive common.

Max current 100mA, leakage current 100µA.

Max off-state voltage 30VDC.

On delay 2msec max.

Off delay 2msec.

Both outputs are optoisolated to 2.5KV.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 16 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Installation
Site Requirements

2 Installation

2.1 Site Requirements

The mounting location must be a stable surface, free of vibrations, heat or humidity.
Avoid direct sunlight on the front of the instrument. The unit should be placed at the
correct height to allow easy reading of the display and convenient keyboard
operation.

2.2 Mounting the Indicator

2.2.1 Installation
The indicator is panel-mounted. The cut-out dimensions for panel installation are
136.5mm x 66.5mm. The front and rear views of the unit are shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1 – Front and rear views of the VT400

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 17 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Installation
Connecting Load Cells

2.2.2 Wiring
All connections to the instrument are made through the rear panel connectors. Strain-
relief clamps should be used. The shield should be connected to the metal frame of
the connector.

Do not run signal cables together with power cables. Connect the shielding only
where indicated in the drawing. Never use a Megger to check wiring. Never use
plastic insulating tape on load cell connections.

2.3 Connecting Load Cells

Use 6 x 0.5mm2 shielded cable for load cell connections. Maximum length 300m.
Connect the load cells according to the diagram below.

COM 2 Analog Output

DB15
DB9 fem
fem/male

COM 1 Load Cell 1

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 DB9 male DB15 fem

+ - I1 CI O1 O2 +Co

LOAD CELL 1

Pin Description

1 Excitation (-)
2 Sense (-)
3 Sense (+)
4 Excitation (+)
5 Signal (-)
6 Signal (+)
D-Type Metal Case
(Shield)
Calib.
7-8
Enable

Figure 2 – Load cell connection diagram

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 18 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Installation
Serial Connections

2.3.1 Load Cell Operating Parameters

The load cell utilization ranges are listed in the table below.

Excitation 5VDC, fixed or alternating polarity (setup-selectable) for 10 load cells of 350Ω
each.

Gain / input ranges • For load cell output of 10mV, gain permitted is between -0.25 and 1.75mV/V.

• For load cell output of 20mV, gain permitted is between -0.25 and 3.75mV/V.

The load cells must be chosen so that the input signal to the controller is at least
0.4µV per scale increment. For load cell output less than 0.4µV/digit, the
controller will still be stable but the full temperature range accuracy is not
guaranteed.

2.4 Serial Connections

  For RS232C connection, use 3 x 0.34mm2 shielded cable.
  For RS485 connection, use 2 x 0.34mm2 shielded twisted pair cable.

2.4.1 Printer and PC Cables

Printer DB25 Male OR

DB9 DB9 Shield
fem Metal
Case Max 15m GRN RX RX
3 3
TX GRN To
3
BRN GND To GND Epson
7 Serial 7 Printer
GND BRN
5 Printer
WHI DTR TX
20 2
DTR WHI
2

DB9 FEM OR
DB9 DB9 Shield RX
fem Metal
Case Max 15m GRN RX
2 3
TX GRN To
3
BRN GND GND PC
5 7
GND BRN
5
WHI DTR DTR
3 2
DTR WHI
2

Figure 3 – Printer and PC cables connection diagram

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 19 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Installation
Connecting Power

2.4.2 RS485 Cable Connections

The terminal block on the RS485 board enables connecting two pairs of wires (A, B):
  One wire pair for connecting the incoming cable.
  A second wire pair for a daisy-chain connection to the next unit on the RS485
bus.
The RS485 cabling configuration is illustrated in Figure 4 below.

Slave #1 Slave #2 (Up to 30 Slave #30

(VT x00)
(VT x00) (VT x00) slaves)
A B A B … A B

Master +V
RT
Termination
120R Resistor
470R

A
White
Network
150R
Biasing RT

Resistors B
Brown

470R Shield 2X0.34mm2 twisted pair shielded

Max cable length: 1000m

Chassis
Earth

Figure 4 – RS485 cable connection diagram

2.5 Connecting Power

VT400 indicators are powered from an external power supply (24VDC) or battery.
Power should be isolated from other data processing equipment.
Verify that the AC power socket outlet is properly protected. For optimum EMC
performance, keep the length of cable shielding inside the enclosure as short as
possible.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 20 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Display, Keys and Menus
Connecting Power

3 Display, Keys and Menus

DK 0199.62

The VT400 front panel can be divided into three areas:

  A six-digit display that shows weight information, status information, and the
names of menus and functions.
  Six keys, used to perform the most common functions and access a function
menu with more advanced options.
  The lower area shows information about the maker, model and certified limits of
your indicator.
Five status annunciators are located in the top left part of the panel. The red dots
provide the current function, range and status information, such as whether the scale
has been tared or not.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 21 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Display, Keys and Menus
The Display

3.1 The Display

3.1.1 Status Annunciators

Status annunciators are important for understanding what is being shown on the
display.

Net weight Active – the display is showing net weight.

Inactive – the display is showing gross weight.

Tared Active – the preset tare value is now being displayed on the screen.

Stable Active – the scale is stable (necessary for ZERO, TARE and PRINT).
Inactive – the scale is not stable.

The scale is currently in weight range 1.

The scale is currently in weight range 2.

3.1.2 Common Messages Shown on the Display

Message type Meaning

352.0 Weight of the item on the scale.

319.0 Net weight.

( active)

∩∩∩∩∩∩ Over range. The item on the scale weighs more than the maximum capacity of the
scale, or the load cell signal is too high.

UUUUUU Under range. The item on the scale weighs less than the minimum capacity of the
scale, or the load cell signal is too low.

Fn 06 Function menu (see section 3.3). To perform the function currently showing, press
PRINT ( ). To cancel press ZERO ( ).

Err15 An error has occurred (see section 9.1). In some cases, you can ignore the error and
continue working by pressing ZERO ( ).

XXXXXX Software model number, shown during the power-up sequence.

XXXXXX Software version issue date, shown during the power-up sequence.

888888 Display self-test, performed during the power-up sequence.

ZeRO Automatic or manual zeroing is being performed.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 22 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Display, Keys and Menus
Front Panel Keys

3.2 Front Panel Keys

The keys on the front panel serve two functions:
  Performing operations, indicated in black at the center of the key.
  Navigating menus and entering numeric information. Each key’s navigation
function is indicated in white at its bottom-right corner.

3.2.1 Using Keys to Perform Operations

Key Description Related operations

Press to zero the scale*. Only works if the current weight Manual zeroing
is in the zero range.

Press once to tare the scale*. Press again to view gross Taring using current weight
weight.

Press once to view the current tare value. Tare recall

When you press this key, the current weight* is printed Printing, outputting to computer
to the printer and/or output to an attached computer, and
added to the accumulated total.

Press once to view the sum of all accumulated weights. Accumulated total
Press again to see the number of weights accumulated.
Press again to view the current weight.

* This operation cannot be performed if the weight is not stable.

3.2.2 Using Keys to Navigate and Enter Information

Key Description

Escape. Cancels the current operation or exits a menu.

Next. When editing multiple digits, moves to the next digit. Only press this key once you have
finished editing the current (flashing) digit.

Up. Increments (adds one) to the current digit, or moves to the previous menu option in setup.

Enter. Confirms the current operation or the information entered.

Down. Moves to the next menu option in setup.

Function menu. Enters the function menu.

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Display, Keys and Menus
The Function Menu

3.2.3 Editing Multiple Digits

To edit multiple digits shown on the display:

1. Take note of the flashing digit. This is the digit you are currently editing. Press u
(P.TARE) to increment this digit, until it shows the number you need.
2. Press t (TARE) to move to the next digit on the right. It should start flashing.
3. Press u (P.TARE) to increment the flashing digit, until it shows the number you
need.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have edited the last digit.
5. Press  (PRINT) to confirm the number you entered.

3.3 The Function Menu

The function menu allows you to perform advanced operations like high-resolution
weighing, selecting printing format and viewing alibi memory. It is accessed by
pressing the FUNCTION ( ) button.
This subchapter explains how to use the menu and provides a summary of its
functions. All operations are explained in more detail further in this document.

3.3.1 Using the Function Menu

To access a function on the function menu:

1. Press FUNCTION ( ) on the front panel. The display shows Fn 00. The left digit
should be flashing.
2. Check the number of the function you need (refer to section 3.3.2 below). If the
function you need is between 01 and 09, skip to step 4.
3. Press u (P.TARE) to increment the left-hand digit (tens). Keep pressing it until it
matches the function you need. For example, if you need function 43, press u four
times. The left digit should become 4.
4. Press t (TARE) to move to the right-hand digit (units). This digit should start
flashing.
5. Press u (P.TARE) to increment the right-hand digit (units). Keep pressing it until it
matches the function you need. For example, if you need function 43, press u three
times. Assuming you entered 4 for the left-hand digit, the display should now show
Fn 43.
6. Press  (PRINT) to confirm. The operation associated with the function number you
entered is performed.

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 Display, Keys and Menus
The Function Menu

3.3.2 Function Summary

Function Description Refer to

01 Edit setpoints. The display shows SEtP 1 briefly, then the current setpoint Section 7.3
value.

Use u (P.TARE) to change the current digit, then t (TARE) to move to the
next digit.

When you are done, press  (PRINT).

The display shows SEtP 2 briefly, then the current setpoint value.

Edit the second setpoint value using the same procedure.

06 High resolution weighing. Increases the accuracy of the displayed weight -

by a factor of ten (in other words, the indicator shows an additional digit on
the right).

When this function is enabled, the display flashes and you may not print.

Press ZERO ( ) to cancel and return to normal resolution.

20 Disable serial output. Prevents the indicator from printing when you press -
PRINT ( ), even if a printer is connected.

(Function activated only if setup parameter 2.8 is set to 1.)

21 Set print output format: Ticket. Shows weight in the following format: Section 6.2.1

GROSS:<00.500 kg>

(Function activated only if setup parameter 2.8 is set to 1.)

22 Set print format: Continuous output. Used for external display or PC. Section 6.2.1

(Function activated only if setup parameter 2.8 is set to 1.)

23 Set print format: Print on demand. Section 6.2.1

For gross weight: 00.300 kgG

For net weight: 00.300 kgG 00.100kgT 00.200kgN

(Function activated only if setup parameter 2.8 is set to 1.)

30 Enable / disable host computer protocol output (EDP mode). Section 6.2.1

The display shows Pro...

Press PRINT to disable. The display shows Pro OFF briefly.

Press PRINT again to enable. The display shows Pro on briefly.

The selection is lost when the unit powers down.

40 Changing PIN. Used to change the current Personal Identification Number Section 8.1.1
that enables access to the calibration procedure.

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Display, Keys and Menus
The Function Menu

Function Description Refer to

48 Check calibration seal. Shows the calibration counter, and the status of -
the physical calibration seal (if used).

49 Setup menus. Section 3.4

55 View an alibi memory record/print ten next records. -

Set setup parameter 2.t to 13 to enable Alibi printing.

Press  (PRINT). The display shows n 0000 (the Alibi serial number).

Choose the required Alibi number . To view the gross weight of an Alibi
record, press  (PRINT).

When you are done, press  (PRINT). The display shows the memory record
you requested. If you want to print this and the next nine records, press 
(PRINT) again.

56 Print all alibi memory records. Prints the entire contents of alibi memory, -
including empty or corrupted locations.

Set setup parameter 2.t to 13 to enable Alibi printing.

The entire alibi memory will be printed in the format (gross weight):

SN 0001 123.45

Press ZERO ( ) to stop printing.

57 Checksum test. Performs a checksum on each alibi memory, ensuring it is -

not corrupted. An alibi memory serial number will be displayed in the format
n 0000.

If all records are okay, PASS is displayed briefly. If an error is found, Err 57
is displayed.

(This function is only active if setup parameter 2.t is set to 13.)

80 Load-cell mV meter. The actual mV output of the scale sensors is Section 8.1.3
displayed.

81 Display internal A/D count. The analog-to-digital converter internal count Section 8.1.4
is displayed.

82 Display version and date. -

85 Analog output test. Section 7.4.3

86 ROM/RAM test. A validity check is performed on system ROM and RAM. Section 8.2.1

90 Display segment test. All digits go through 0-9 display routine in Section 8.2.2
sequence, after which the character set is displayed.

91 Keyboard test. Display blanks. The scan code of any key pressed is shown Section 8.2.2
on the display.

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 Display, Keys and Menus
Setup Menus

Function Description Refer to

93 I/O test. Display shows the status of input and outputs. Section 8.2.3

94 Print buffer test. An ASCII file (30h-7Fh) is output to the printer port, with Section 8.2.4
error control.

96 Display characters received by COM ports. Any character received by Section 8.2.5
COM 1 is echoed and displayed in ASCII hex on digits 1 and 2. Any
character received by COM 2 is echoed and displayed in ASCII hex on digits
5 and 6.

99 Soft reset. -

3.4 Setup Menus

3.4.1 Accessing and Navigating Setup Menus

To enter the setup and calibration menus, either execute function 49, or follow the
procedure below.

To enter the setup and calibration menus:

1. Turn on the unit.

2. During the self-test routine, while all display segments are on (all 8 on the
display), press PRINT ( ) momentarily, followed by TARE ( ) momentarily.

Alternatively, press FUNCTION ( ), and access function 49.

3. If the PIN code is activated, the display shows ACCESS briefly. Type the PIN number
and then PRINT ( ) to get into the calibration menu. The display shows SETUP.

4. Use TOTAL ( ) to step through the menus.

The menus displayed depend on whether jumper JP1 is in the sealed position or
not (see section 4.4). If it is sealed, the following menus are hidden: Par, CAL,
INIT and A-CAL.

5. To enter a menu, press PRINT ( ).

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Display, Keys and Menus
Setup Menus

3.4.2 Menu Structure

Main menu Submenu Description

SETUP SETUP 1 Totalizer enable/disable and key locking.

SETUP 2 Serial port 1 parameters.

SETUP 3 Serial port 2 parameters.

SETUP 4 Tilt Switch parameters.

SETUP 5 Setpoint parameters.

Par 0.P, 1.P, 2.P, 3.P, 4.P, 5.P, 6.P, 7.P General scale parameters with multiple values.

8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, General scale parameters with two possible
8.A, 8.b values.

CAL S-CAL (ZEro, SPAN) Standard-weights calibration dialog.

E-CAL (ZEro, SPAN) Electronic calibration dialog.

STORE - Permanently saves calibration data and exits

setup.

INIT - Resets scale parameters, configuration and

calibration data to manufacturer defaults.

A-CAL A.1, A.2, A.3, A.4, A.5, A.6, A.7, A.8 D/A analog output parameters.

3.4.3 Parameter Summary

SETUP > SETUP 1 (General Operating Parameters)

Par. Description Values

1.1 Enable totalizer. YES enables the totalizer. NO disables it. 0=NO 1=YES

1.2 (Reserved for future use)

1.3 Lock ZERO key ( ) 0=NO 1=YES

1.4 Lock TARE key ( ) 0=NO 1=YES

1.5 Lock P.TARE key ( ) 0=NO 1=YES

1.6 Lock PRINT key ( ) 0=NO 1=YES

1.7 Lock TOTAL key ( ) 0=NO 1=YES

1.8 Lock FUNCTION key ( ) 0=NO 1=YES

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 Display, Keys and Menus
Setup Menus

SETUP > SETUP 2 (Com 1 Settings)

Par Description Values

2.t Print type. Sets output of communication port 1 00=port disabled; 01=ticket; 02=weight
(printer port), or disables the port. output; 03=demand; 13=alibi memory

2.C Print-on-demand character. 65-90

2.L Page length. Ticket length in linefeeds.

2.r Paper reverse. Number of reverse linefeeds

before printout.

2.A Left margin. Number of spaces from left margin.

2.F Page header. Number of linefeeds before

printout.

2.E Line termination. 0=LF 1=CRLF 2=LFCR

2.1 Printer model. 0= FANFOLD(like Epson FX or similar serial

printer) 1= SLIP (like Epson TM-295)

2.2 (Reserved for future use)

2.3 Print below minimum capacity. 0=NO 1=YES

2.4 (Reserved for future use)

2.5 (Reserved for future use)

2.6 Wait unload. 0=NO 1=YES

2.7 Printer error control. Set to 0 for 0=NO 1=YES

communication with a PC.

2.8 Operator print type change (Fn 20-30) 0=NO 1=YES

2.d Data bits serial channel 1. 17=7 data bits/even parity

08=8 data bits/no parity

Baud rate is 2400 by default.

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Display, Keys and Menus
Setup Menus

SETUP > SETUP 3 (Com 2 Settings)

Par. Description Values

3.t Instrument communication type. 00=disabled; 01 =continuous weight output;

02=EDP protocol output; 03=printer protocol output;
65-89=master/slave protocol address

3.1 Timeout control. 0=NO 1=YES

3.2 Handshake. 0=NO 1=YES

3.3 Operator disable. 0=NO 1=YES

3.4 Host enquiry. 0=NO 1=YES

3.5 Remote keyboard commands. 0=NO 1=YES

3.6 (Reserved for future use)

3.7 (Reserved for future use)

3.8 Debug. 0=NO 1=YES

3.b Baud rate serial number 2. 24=2400 bps

96=9600 bps
19=19200 bps
38=38400 bps
57=57600 bps

3.d Data bits serial channel 2. 17=7 data bits / even parity
08=8 data bits / no parity
18=8 data bits / even parity

SETUP > SETUP 4 (Tilt Switch)

Par. Description Values

4.t Time delay, after closing the contact, for the display to lock. This is also 00=disabled
the time for the display to unlock after the contact is opened.
01-90
This parameter has several special values: (x 0.1 seconds)
• 91 – Tare scale on the rising edge of input. Setpoints always enabled.
91-96=special
• 92 – Print on the rising edge of the input. Setpoints always enabled. options
• 93 – Setpoints active when input is high. Setpoints inactive when
input is low.
• 94 – Scale is tared at the rising edge of input. If taring is successful,
setpoints are activated. If input is low, setpoints are inactive.
• 95 – When input is low, scale 1 is selected and displayed. When input
is high, scale 2 is selected and displayed.
• 96 – Reset scale to zero.

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 Display, Keys and Menus
Setup Menus

SETUP > SETUP 5 (Setpoints)

Par. Description Values

5.1, 5.2 Setpoint 1 output. 5.1=0 and 5.2=0: normal

5.1=1 and 5.2=0: no motion

5.1=0 and 5.2=1: error

5.3, 5.4 Setpoint 2 output. 5.3=0 and 5.4=0: normal

5.3=1 and 5.4=0: zero

5.3=0 and 5.4=1: net

5.6 Net / gross for both setpoints. 0=net

1=gross

5.7 Normally open / closed for both setpoints. 0=normally open

1=normally closed

A-CAL (Analog Output)

Par. Description Values

A.1 Standard / custom zero and span. 0 = Standard (20mA max)

0 specifies that the scale should output 0mA at zero input and 1 = User defined Zero and
20mA at maximum input (or 0V at zero and 10V at max). Span

1 opens a dialog, after A.8, that allows you to enter custom

zero and span values. Press PRINT to confirm; the display
shows 0 XX.XXX. Enter the D/A output at zero, in voltage or
mA, and press PRINT. The display shows F XX.XXXX. Enter the
D/A output at maximum input, in voltage or mA, and press
PRINT.

A.2 (Reserved for future use)

A.3 Error output level. Specifies whether scale errors should be 0 = Low (0mA)
indicated as a low or high signal.
1 = High (24mA)

A.4 Current / voltage. This parameter must correspond to the 0 = Current

hardware jumper, which defines whether output should be in
1 = Voltage
current or voltage (see section 7.4.1). The default setting is
voltage (1).

A.5 Net / gross. Specifies whether the indicator should always 0 = Net weight
output gross weight, or output net weight when tare is active.
1 = Gross weight

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Display, Keys and Menus
Setup Menus

A-CAL (Analog Output, cont.)

Par. Description Values

A.6 Effective Range for current output. Sets the range to 0- 0 = 0-20mA
20mA or 4-20mA. Relevant only if A.4 and the hardware
1 = 4-20mA
jumper are set to current.

A.7 Resolution. Specifies whether output should be in high 0 = Display

resolution if the display is showing high resolution.
1 = Internal

A.8 Operation. Enables and disables the analog output. 0 = Disabled

1 = Enabled

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 32 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Calibration
Calibration with Standard Weights (S-CAL)

4 Calibration
Before you can calibrate the scale, you must ensure that jumper JP1 is not in the
sealed position (see section 4.4). There are two ways to calibrate the VT400:
  Standard weights calibration, in which you record the center of zero, and then
place a known weight on the scale and enter its weight (see section 4.1).
  Electronic calibration, in which you enter the mV value of the minimum and
maximum weight (see section 4.2).
Both of the above are performed using the CAL setup menu.
After calibrating the scale, you should store calibration data in persistent memory
(see section 4.3), and seal the calibration lock (see section 4.4).

To calibrate the unit:

1. Power up the VT400.

2. Allow a minimum of 10 minutes for warm-up.
3. Proceed with calibration as described in the following pages.
4. Store the calibration data (see section 4.3).
5. Seal the unit (see section 4.4).

4.1 Calibration with Standard Weights (S-CAL)

Calibration with standard weights is done in two stages:
  Zero calibration, in which you take a weight measurement when there is nothing
on the scale (see section 4.1.1). This is also called dead-load adjustment.
  Span calibration, in which you place a known weight on the scale, and manually
enter its correct weight (see section 4.1.2).
You must perform both of the above for the scale to be calibrated properly.

After calibrating the scale, you must save the values in permanent memories by
entering the setup menus and selecting the STORE option (see section 4.3). It
is also advised to lock calibration (see section 4.4).

4.1.1 Zero (Dead-Load) Calibration

To perform zero calibration:

1. Enter the setup menus and use TOTAL ( ) to scroll to the CAL menu. Press PRINT
( ) to enter the menu.

2. Press PRINT ( ) to enter the S-CAL menu.

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Calibration
Electronic Calibration (E-CAL)

3. Press PRINT ( ) to select the ZEro option (zero calibration).

4. The display shows E Scl. Clear the scale, and wait about 10 seconds.

5. Press PRINT ( ) to record the zero position. The display counts down for about 10
seconds (50 measurements are taken and an average is calculated).

6. The display should now show 0. If the zero point is not accurate, press ZERO ( )
and go back to step 3.

4.1.2 Span Calibration

To perform span calibration:

1. Enter the setup menus and use TOTAL ( ) to scroll to the CAL menu. Press PRINT
( ) to enter the menu.

2. Press PRINT ( ) to enter the S-CAL menu.

3. Use TOTAL ( ) to scroll to the SPAN option, and press PRINT ( ) to select it.
4. The display shows the maximum capacity of the scale. Enter the correct calibration
weight, using P.TARE ( ) to edit the current digit, and TARE ( ) to move to the
next digit.

5. Press PRINT ( ) to confirm the calibration weight.

6. The display shows Add Ld. Place the calibration weight on the scale, and wait about
10 seconds.

7. Press PRINT ( ). The display counts down for about 10 seconds, and then shows
the calibration weight.

8. If the weight shown is not accurate, press ZERO ( ) and go back to step 4.

4.2 Electronic Calibration (E-CAL)

Electronic calibration involves setting two values, using the indicator keypad:
  The signal level in mV, corresponding to the zero, or dead-load point (see section
4.2.2).
  The signal level in mV, corresponding to the maximum capacity of the scale (see
section 4.2.3).
To learn how to calculate these values from the load cell specifications provided by
the manufacturer, see section 4.2.1 below. You must perform both of the above for
the scale to be calibrated properly.

After calibrating the scale, you must save the values in permanent memories by
entering the setup menus and selecting the STORE option (see section 4.3). It
is also advised to lock calibration (see section 4.4).

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 Calibration
Electronic Calibration (E-CAL)

4.2.1 Calculating Calibration Values

Consider the following example. A scale has maximum capacity 30/60kg,
e=0.010/0.020kg, with 4 load cells, each of rated capacity 50kg (2mV) and dead load
1.940kg. The load cell data, as noted in the manufacturer data sheet, is shown in the
following table.

Load cell Output at 50kg Zero balance

L/C1 1.9793mV 0.0257mV

L/C2 1.9392mV 0.0276mV

L/C3 1.9577mV 0.0553mV

L/C4 1.9640mV -0.0022mV

To calculate the dead-load and span calibration values:

1. Calculate an average of the load cells’ rated output. In the example above, this
equals (1.9793+1.9392+1.9577+1.9640)/4=1.9600mV.
2. Calculate the combined output of the load cells when the scale is at maximum
capacity. In the example above, this equals 1.9600x60/4x50=0.5880 mV/V. This
is the span calibration value.
3. Calculate an average of the load cells’ zero balance. In the example above, this
equals [0.0257+0.0276+0.0553+(-0.0022)]/4=0.0266mV.
4. Calculate the scale dead-load. In the example above, this equals
1.9600mV*[1.940Kg/(4*50Kg)]=0.0190mV.
5. Calculate the overall dead-load by adding together the load cell zero balance and
the scale dead-load (calculated in step 2). In the example above, this equals
0.0266+0.0190=0.0456mV. This is the dead-load calibration value.

4.2.2 Setting Zero Calibration (Dead-Load) Value

To set the zero calibration value electronically:

1. Enter the setup menus and use TOTAL ( ) to scroll to the CAL menu. Press PRINT
( ) to enter the menu.

2. Press PRINT ( ) to enter the E-CAL menu.

3. Press PRINT ( ) to select the Zero option (zero calibration).

4. Enter the overall mV of the dead-load (see section 4.2.1 to learn how to calculate
it). Use P.TARE ( ) to edit the current digit and TARE ( ) to move to the next
digit.

5. Press PRINT ( ) to record the zero calibration value. The display shows the
corresponding weight.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 35 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Calibration
Storing Calibration Data

4.2.3 Span (Max. Capacity) Calibration

To set the span calibration value electronically:

1. Enter the setup menus and use TOTAL ( ) to scroll to the CAL menu. Press PRINT
( ) to enter the menu.

2. Press PRINT ( ) to enter the E-CAL menu.

3. Use TOTAL ( ) to scroll to the SPAN option, and press PRINT ( ) to select it.
4. Enter the overall mV of the scale’s maximum capacity (see section 4.2.1) to learn
how to calculate it). Use P.TARE ( ) to edit the current digit and TARE ( ) to
move to the next digit.

5. Press PRINT ( ) to confirm the maximum capacity calibration value. The display
shows the corresponding weight.

4.3 Storing Calibration Data

After calibrating the scale (using either method) or the analog output, calibration data
is stored in volatile memory only, and so it is lost when the indicator powers down. To
store the calibration data permanently, follow the procedure below.

To perform span calibration:

1. Enter the setup menus and use TOTAL ( ) to scroll to the STORE option.

2. Press PRINT ( ). The indicator exits the setup menus and re-initializes.

4.4 Locking and Unlocking Calibration

An internal jumper (JP1, located on the main printed circuit board next to the analog
circuit) must be removed to allow access to configuration and calibration parameters.
One way to seal the indicator is to prevent access to this jumper. This is done by
placing a brittle plastic sticker over one of the screws that keeps the cabinet closed.
The indicator also has an Audit Trail Counter, which is incremented every time weight
parameters or calibration are changed, regardless of whether the change was saved
in EEPROM or not. This counter allows the authorities to check if any calibration
attempt has been made since the last inspection.

A label with an inscribed count (all digits permanently printed and suffixed by a
hyphen) is placed on the rear side of the instrument. The label is designated
CAL-Nr and may not be removed without destroying it.

Seals bear the verification mark of a notified body or alternative mark of the
manufacturer according to Annex II, section 2.3 of the Directive 90/384/EEC.

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 Calibration
Locking and Unlocking Calibration

4.4.1 Sealing Indicator Enclosure with Stickers

After calibration, you can seal the indicator with two stickers:
  A non-removable label, to prevent unauthorized opening of the indicator
enclosure (Figure 5)
  A lead wire seal or hard plastic sticker, to prevent unauthorized tampering with
the load cell connector (Figure 6)

Figure 5 – Non-removable sticker

Figure 6 – Lead wire seal / hard plastic sticker

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 37 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Calibration
Locking and Unlocking Calibration

To seal the indicator:

  Refer to Figure 7 below for the non-removable sticker, and to Figure 8 for
the lead seal / non-removable sticker. You must apply both stickers.

Non-
removable
sticker

Non-
removable
sticker

Non-
removable
sticker

Figure 7 – Desktop model, sealing with non-removable sticker

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 38 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Calibration
Locking and Unlocking Calibration

Lead
seal

Figure 8 – Desktop model, sealing with lead seal / non-removable sticker

4.4.2 Securing Load Receptor

You can inscribe the serial number of the load receptor as part of the indicator
identification label.

The load receptor bears the serial number of the indicator on its data plate.

4.4.3 Checking Seal Status and Audit Trail Counter

In order to check whether the jumper is still in the sealed position, and that the audit
trail counter has not changed.

To check seal status and audit trail counter:

Execute function 48. If JP1 is currently in the sealed position, the word SEALED
appears on the display briefly. Following this, the audit trail counter is displayed.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 39 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

General System Parameters
PAR Menu

5 General System Parameters

Two of the VT400 setup menus provide access to general system parameters, which
affect how the scale operates:
  The PAR menu contains parameters including the number of display digits, the
position of the decimal point, the A/D gain and the zero range (see section 5.1).
  The SETUP 1 submenu, inside the SETUP menu, allows you to enable and disable
the totalizer, and lock or unlock keys.
Other setup menus allow you to calibrate the scale (CAL menu; see chapter 4); set
communication parameters (SETUP 2 and SETUP 3; see chapter 6); and input/output
parameters (SETUP 4, SETUP 5 and A-CAL; see chapter 7).

5.1 PAR Menu

5.1.1 Accessing the Menu and Editing Parameters

To access the PAR menu:

1. Turn on the unit.

2. During the self-test routine, while all display segments are on (all 8 on the
display), press PRINT ( ) momentarily, followed by TARE ( ) momentarily.

Alternatively, press FUNCTION ( ), and access function 49.

3. If the PIN code is activated, the display shows ACCESS briefly. Type the PIN
number and then PRINT ( ) to get into the calibration menu. The display shows
SETUP.

4. Use TOTAL ( ) to scroll to the PAR menu.

5. Press PRINT ( ) to enter the menu.

To edit parameters in the PAR menu:

1. The current parameter number is shown on the display. Use PRINT ( ) to scroll to
the parameter you need (see the following section for descriptions of parameters).

2. To edit the parameter value, use P.TARE ( ) to increment the current digit and
TARE ( ) to move to the next digit (if any).

3. When the display is showing the required value, press PRINT ( ) to confirm your
selection.

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 General System Parameters
PAR Menu

5.1.2 PAR Menu Parameters

Par. Description Values

1.P Number of display digits. 4, 5, 6

2.P Number of digits after decimal point. Defines the position of 0-5
the decimal point.

3.P Display resolution. 1-200

4.P First two digits of full load. 00-99

5.P Digital filter. If x is entered, the filter averages 2x samples. 0-5

6.P Number of conversions per second. 3, 7, 14, 28, 57, 70

7.P No-motion samples. If x is entered, no-motion samples are 2x. 1-7

8.1 Auto-zero maintenance. 0=NO 1=YES

8.2 Auto-zero at power up. 0=NO 1=YES

8.3 Dual digital filter (Antiflicker) 0=NO 1=YES

8.4 Automatically clear A/D converter error (Error 05). 0=NO 1=YES
NO specifies that, when the A/D converter is enabled, errors are
automatically cleared when the cause is no longer present.
YES specifies that A/D converter errors should remain on the
display until the operator presses ESC.

8.5 (Reserved for future use)

8.6 Leading zero blank. 0=NO 1=YES

8.7 Load cell amplifier gain adjustment (A/D Gain). 0=2mV/V

2mV/V setting allows maximum utilization of 1.75mV/V (1.75mV/V utilization)
4mV/V setting allows maximum utilization of 3.75mV/V 1=4mV/V
(3.75mV/V utilization)

8.8 AC/DC excitation. 0=AC 1=DC

AC sets load cell excitation to AC, and specifies that polarity
excitation should be switched at the conversion rate. Switching
excitation results in more stable zero.
DC sets load cell excitation to DC.

8.A Zero range. Some operations, including taring and printing, are 0=2% 1=10%
only active within the zero range.

8.b Dual interval or range. This parameter is not relevant if 0.P=00. 0=interval 1=range

8.c Unit selection. Specifies the weight unit. kg=kilograms

lb=pounds

0.P First two digits of weighing range, defining the limit 00-99
between the 2 weighing ranges, the lower display division is
automatically selected. If set to 00, disables interval / range.

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General System Parameters
SETUP 1 (Inside SETUP Menu)

5.2 SETUP 1 (Inside SETUP Menu)

5.2.1 Accessing the Menu and Editing Parameters

To access the SETUP 1 menu:

1. Turn on the unit.

2. During the self-test routine, while all display segments are on (all 8 on the
display), press PRINT ( ) momentarily, followed by TARE ( ) momentarily.

Alternatively, press FUNCTION ( ), and access function 49.

3. If the PIN code is activated, the display shows ACCESS briefly. Type the PIN
number and then PRINT ( ) to get into the calibration menu. The display shows
SETUP.

4. Press PRINT ( ) to enter the SETUP 1 menu.

To edit parameters in the SETUP 1 menu:

1. The current parameter number is shown on the display. Use PRINT ( ) to scroll to
the parameter you need (see the following section for descriptions of parameters).

2. To edit the parameter value, use P.TARE ( ) to increment the current digit and
TARE ( ) to move to the next digit.

3. When the display is showing the required value, press PRINT ( ) to confirm your
selection.

5.2.2 SETUP 1 Parameters

Par. Description Values

1.1 Enable totalizer. YES enables the totalizer. NO disables it. 0=NO 1=YES

1.2 (Reserved for future use)

1.3 Lock ZERO key ( ). 0=NO 1=YES

1.4 Lock TARE key ( ). 0=NO 1=YES

1.5 Lock P.TARE key ( ). 0=NO 1=YES

1.6 Lock PRINT key ( ). 0=NO 1=YES

1.7 Lock TOTAL key ( ). 0=NO 1=YES

1.8 Lock FUNCTION key ( ). 0=NO 1=YES

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 Serial Communication
Serial Ports Configuration

6 Serial Communication
Communication and printer parameters can be set in the SETUP 2 and SETUP 3
submenus of the SETUP menu.

6.1 Serial Ports Configuration

VT400 has two serial ports, designated port 1 and port 2:
  Port 1 is an RS232 port.
  Port 2 is an optional port installed on order, and can be either RS232 or RS485.

6.1.1 RS232 Serial Port

The port is used to connect to serial printers or personal computers.

General Asynchronous serial ASCII, RS232C standard, full duplex.

Protocol 2400 baud, 1 start, 7 data/even parity or 8 data/no parity, 1 stop bit.

Handshake DTR BUSY per character for fanfold printers or REQUEST PAPER END STATUS for EPSON
TM-295 slip printer.

Connection DB9 male on rear panel (J1 or J3). Three-conductor shielded cable, max distance 15m.

Tx = Pin 3

Rx/DTR = Pin 2

GND = Pin 5

6.1.2 RS485 Serial Port

Used to connect to a host computer, remote printer, remote display, etc.

General Asynchronous serial ASCII, RS485 half duplex.

Protocol 2400 to 57600 baud, 1 start, 7 or 8 data, 1 even parity, 1 stop bit.

Connection DB9 female on rear panel. Two-conductor twisted-pair shielded cable, max distance
1000m. A termination resistor 120R may be connected by shorting pins 8 and 9.

A = Pin 6

B = Pin 7

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Serial Communication
Setting Port Output Parameters

6.2 Setting Port Output Parameters

6.2.1 Setting Port 1 Output

You can use setup parameter 2.t to determine the output for port 1. The parameter
accepts the following values:
  00 – port disabled.
  01 – ticket print format. See section 6.3.1
  02 – continuous weight output. See section 6.3.2.
  03 – print on demand. See section 6.3.3.
  13 – transmit alibi memory. See section 6.3.4.

6.2.2 Setting Port 2 Output

You can use setup parameter 3.t to determine the output for port 2. The parameter
accepts the following values:
  00 – port disabled.
  01 – continuous weight output. See section 6.3.2.
  02 – EDP protocol output. See section 6.3.6.
  03 – printing data from local printer on remote printer. See section 6.3.7.
  65 through 89 – participate in a network of several indicators as slave, with this
address. See section 6.3.8.

6.3 Output Types

6.3.1 Local Printer

Works with port 1. A slip is printed on the printer connected to the port each time the
user presses PRINT ( ). One print format is available, shown below.

GROSS : <123.40 kg>

6.3.2 Continuous Weight Output

Works with ports 1 and 2 (RS232 or RS485). Net weight and status information is
transmitted continuously. No handshake is required. Used mainly for remote display
or PC. The structure of the transmitted data block is shown below.

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 Serial Communication
Output Types

Data Block Composition

Byte Name Description

1 Weight status Bit 0: 0=Normal 1=No weight display

Bit 1: 0=Gross 1=Net

Bit 2: 0=No Auto zero 1=Auto zero

Bit 3: 0=Within range 1=Out of range

Bit 4: 0=No standstill 1=Standstill

Bit 5: 0=Normal 1=Under minimum weighing range

Bit 6: Always 1

Bit 7: Zero or parity

2 Polarity “+” or “-”.

3-8 Net weight 6 digits, including decimal point if any.

9 Sync Carriage return (0D hex) for end of transmission.

6.3.3 Print on Demand

Works With Port 1 (RS232). Weight data is transmitted every time a character is
received from a connected peripheral. The demand character is programmed using
setup parameter 2.C, e.g. “1” 49d or 31 hex.

6.3.4 Alibi Transmit

Works With Port 1 (RS232).
Transmits alibi serial number and gross weight for each transaction, when the PRINT
key is pressed. The record is transmitted in the following format:
SN 1234 012340 kgG

6.3.5 Alibi Mode Commands

When Alibi mode is active (2.t=03), these operations can be executed.

Transmit Displayed Weight

This is executed when ASCII character ? (3F hex) is received. The output data block
is as shown below:

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Serial Communication
Output Types

Byte Name Description

1 Weight status Bit 0: 0=Normal 1=No weight display

Bit 1: 0=Gross 1=Net

Bit 2: 0==No Auto zero 1=Auto zero

Bit 3: 0=Within range 1=Out of range

Bit 4: 0=No standstill 1=Standstill

Bit 5: 0=Normal 1=Under minimum weighing range

Bit 6: Always 1

Bit 7: Zero or parity

2 Polarity “+” or “-”

3-8 Weight 6 digits, including decimal point if any

9 Sync Carriage return (0D hex) for end of transmission.

Command “ZERO”

Equivalent to pressing the front panel Zero key. This is executed when ASCII
character 0 (30 hex) is received. No data is returned to the host. Execution of the
command may be verified by examining the weight (command ?).

Print on Demand Character

When a demand character is received the unit saves the weight in its Alibi flash. It
then transmits the Alibi number and the weight, for example: 1234 012.340 kg
The demand character may be programmed through SETUP > SETUP 2, setting
2.c=65-90(A-Z). A (41h) will generate and transmit the new Alibi number; a (61h)
will repeat the last Alibi number (in the case where the message was not received
properly).

6.3.6 EDP Protocol Output

Works With Port 2.
Transmits weight measurements to a host computer, according to the currently-
selected print format, with or without an ENQ prompt, and with or without an
ACK/NAK handshake (see ‘Relevant Setup Parameters’ below).
The EDP protocol works when more than one indicator is connected to the host PC. It
is also more flexible than print on demand, allowing for more complex operations. It
can also transmit more than just the weight measurement shown on the display,
because it sends data according to the currently-selected print format.

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 Serial Communication
Output Types

Full Protocol Workflow

1. Within 5 seconds of initialization, the PC requests data by sending an ENQ (05h)
command. If it doesn’t send an ENQ, the indicator shows Error 30 (host not ready).

2. After the PRINT ( ) button is pressed, the indicator transmits weight information
according to the currently-selected print format, using the standard data block
composition (shown below).
3. Within 5 seconds of transmission, the PC either:
  Acknowledges receiving the data properly, by sending an ACK (06h)
command.
  Notifies the indicator the data was not properly received, by sending a NAK
(15h) command.
  Does not respond, in which case the indicator shows error 33 (host does not
acknowledge).
4. If the host responded with a NAK command, steps 2 and 3 are repeated. The
number of repeats is unlimited.

Relevant Setup Parameters

  3.1 – timeout control. 0=No; 1=Yes. Turning off timeout removes the 5-second
constraint in workflow steps 2 and 4. Errors 30 or 33 are never shown.
  3.2 – handshake. 0=No; 1=Yes. Turning off handshake removes steps 4 and 5 of
the protocol workflow - the indicator sends data blocks on demand, without
waiting for a response.
  3.3 – operator disable. 0=No; 1=Yes. If this option is turned on, an indicator may
interrupt the protocol by pressing any key on the indicator keypad.
  3.4 – host enquiry. 0=No; 1=Yes. Turning off host enquiry specifies that the
indicator should send weight information continuously, not on demand.

Data Block Composition

Character/s Description

STX (02h) Start of transmission.

ASCII (any) ASCII data identical to the data printed.

ETX (03h) End of transmission.

BCC Block check character (XORSUM of all data characters STX, ETX inclusive).

6.3.7 Remote Printer Output

Works with Port 2 (RS232 or RS485). Used to transmit the data printed on the local
printer to a remote printer. No handshake is required.

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Serial Communication
Output Types

6.3.8 Master-Slave Protocol Output

Works with Port 2 (RS232 or RS485). By setting port 2 output method (parameter 3.t)
to any number between 65 and 89, you specify that the indicator should participate in
a network of several indicators. The number set in 3.t is this indicator’s network
address. For more details on the master-slave protocol supported by the VT400, see
Appendix B.

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 Outputs and Digital Input
Specifications

7 Outputs and Digital Input

The VT400 is able to interface with weighing automation systems, using two
optoisolated outputs (digital setpoints) and one digital input. There is also an analog
output configuration.
  The digital outputs (setpoints) are triggered when the scale reads an upper
weight threshold, defined by the user. There is a separate threshold for each
setpoint.
  The analog output configuration consists of a galvanically-isolated D/A converter,
generating either voltage or current output. Relevant parameters can be modified
using the A-CAL dialog (see section 7.4).
  The digital input is used as a tilt switch. When a signal is received on the input
cable, the display locks for a certain period of time.

7.1 Specifications

7.1.1 Digital Outputs

  Transistor output open collector positive common.
  24VDC + 10% / 100mA per output.
  Max off: State voltage 30VDC / leakage 100µA.
  Optoisolated to 2.5KV.
  Short-circuit protected.
  2ms maximum delay for both on and off positions.

7.1.2 Analog Outputs

  Galvanically-isolated D/A converter.
  Circuit may be operated as current output or voltage output.
  Output is capable of driving 20mA into 1KΩ load.
  Current output values: 0-20mA, 4-20mA, 0-24mA.
  Voltage output values: 0-10V.
  Powered by an external 24VDC, Main instrument PSU can be used.

7.1.3 Digital Input (Tilt Switch)

  9-24VDC, positive common optoisolated to 2.5KV.
  Input resistance 3.3KΩ.
  2ms maximum delay for both on and off positions.

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Outputs and Digital Input
Connecting Digital Outputs and Tilt Switch

7.2 Connecting Digital Outputs and Tilt Switch

Tilt Switch
+
3 Power
I1
Supply
Input 1
CI - 9-24VDC
4
Fuse
CO + Power
7 Supply
-
O1 Output 1 24VDC
5

O2 Output 2
6
Digital
+ Outputs
Power & +
Imax=100m
Setpoints L L
O O
Connector A A
D D
- -

Figure 9 – Digital output and tilt switch connection diagram

7.3 Setting Thresholds for Digital Setpoints

Each setpoint has an upper weight threshold that triggers it. For example, if you set a
threshold of 13kg for setpoint 1, nothing will happen as long as the items on the scale
weigh less than 13kg. As soon as the weight reaches 13kg, or more, the setpoint will
be switched on (if normally off) or to off (if normally on).
You can use the two setpoints to set an upper and lower range for a production
operation. For example, if the weight of a product drops below the threshold for
setpoint 1, or goes above the threshold for setpoint 2, it can be rejected.

Setpoints can be activated either by net weight value or by gross weight,

depending on how it was defined in setup.
In GROSS the setpoint will be activated when the gross weight reaches the
target value either by weight accumulation or by weight loss (in case that the
starting load was above the setpoint)
In NET mode the setpoint will be activated either when:
a. Net weight reaches the target weight (for weight accumulation applications)
or:
b. Net weight reaches the NEGATIVE value of the target weight (for weight
loss applications)

Setpoints can be either normally open or normally closed, depending on how it

was defined in setup.

To edit weight thresholds for both setpoints:

1. Press FUNCTION ( ). The display shows Fn 00. The left zero flashes.

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 Outputs and Digital Input
Setting Thresholds for Digital Setpoints

2. Editing setpoints is function 01, so press t (TARE) to move to the second digit. It
starts flashing.
3. Press u (P.TARE) once. The display should now show Fn 01.

4. Press PRINT ( ) to confirm. The display shows SEtP 1 briefly. Then it shows the
current threshold for setpoint 1. The extreme-left digit flashes.

  If you don’t want to change this threshold, press PRINT ( ) and skip to step
6.
  If you do want to change it, proceed to the next step.
5. Enter a new threshold value. To do this, press u (P.TARE) to change the current
digit, then t (TARE) to move to the next digit. To finish, press PRINT ( ).
6. The display now shows SEtP 2 briefly, then the current threshold for setpoint 2.
The extreme-left digit flashes.

  If you don’t want to change this threshold, press PRINT ( ) and skip to step
8.
  If you do want to change it, proceed to the next step.
7. Enter a new threshold value. To do this, press u (P.TARE) to change the current
digit, then t (TARE) to move to the next digit. When you are done, press PRINT
( ).
8. The threshold values are saved in EEPROM memory.

7.3.1 Parameters for Digital Outputs

The following parameters can be edited by accessing SETUP > SETUP 5.

Par. Description Values

5.1, 5.2 Setpoint 1 output. 5.1=0 and 5.2=0: normal

5.1=1 and 5.2=0: no motion

5.1=0 and 5.2=1: error

5.3, 5.4 Setpoint 2 output. 5.3=0 and 5.4=0: normal

5.3=1 and 5.4=0: zero

5.3=0 and 5.4=1: net

5.6 Net / gross for both setpoints. 0=net

1=gross

5.7 Normally open / closed for both setpoints. 0=normally open

1=normally closed

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Outputs and Digital Input
Configuring Analog Output

7.4 Configuring Analog Output

The analog output channel allows the indicator to communicate with PLC devices,
using one of the following two methods:
  Converting load cell input into voltage (0-10V)
  Converting load cell input into current (0-20mA or 4-20mA)
This feature is only active if your indicator is equipped with an optional analog output
board. Section 7.4.1 below explains how to connect the analog output board, and set
a hardware jumper to define which of the two output methods to use.
After connecting the board and setting the jumper, you can set analog output
parameters using the SETUP > A-CAL menu (see section 7.4.2).

7.4.1 Connecting PCB and Setting Jumper

In order to use analog output, the option PCB (PCB 761) must be connected to the
VT400 as follows: To ST5 socket in the one side and to the rear panel in the other
side, using the mounting posts/spacers provided.
Jumper JP1 determines the output mode – current or voltage.

Analog output pins connections:

1. Connect pins as follows:

  For current output, connect pin 1 (current output, +) and pin 3 (common).
  For voltage output, connect pin 2 (voltage output, +) and pin 3 (common).
2. Connect an external power supply of 24VDC, using pins 4 and 5:
  Pin 4 – power in (+).
  Pin 5 – power in (-).

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 Outputs and Digital Input
Configuring Analog Output

To set output mode jumper (JP1):

Set jumper JP1 to the appropriate position, to define voltage output or current
voltage, as shown in the image below.

7.4.2 Setting Analog Output Parameters

The output can be set to the standard calibration, where 0 on the weight display is
output as 0mA or 4mA, and max on the display is output as 20mA. The output is
capable of driving 20mA into 1K Oho load.
Alternatively, you can edit these zero and span calibration values. This is controlled
through the A.1 parameter, which, when set to 1, opens a dialog that allows you to
enter mA values for zero and span.
There are several other analog output parameters, detailed in the table below.

Par. Description Values

A.1 Standard / custom zero and span. 0 = Standard (20mA max)

0 specifies that the scale should output 0mA at zero input and 1 = User defined Zero and
20mA at maximum input (or 0V at zero and 10V at max). Span

1 opens a dialog, after A.8, that allows you to enter custom

zero and span values. Press PRINT to confirm; the display
shows 0 XX.XXX. Enter the D/A output at zero, in voltage or
mA, and press PRINT. The display shows F XX.XXXX. Enter the
D/A output at maximum input, in voltage or mA, and press
PRINT.

A.2 (Reserved for future use)

A.3 Error output level. Specifies whether scale errors should be 0 = Low (0mA)
indicated as a low or high signal.
1 = High (24mA)

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Outputs and Digital Input
Configuring Analog Output

Par. Description Values

A.4 Current / voltage. This parameter must correspond to the 0 = Current

hardware jumper, which defines whether output should be in
1 = Voltage
current or voltage (see section 7.4.1). The default setting is
voltage (1).

A.5 Net / gross. Specifies whether the indicator should always 0 = Net weight
output gross weight, or output net weight when tare is active.
1 = Gross weight

A.6 Effective range for current output. Sets the range to 0- 0 = 0-20mA
20mA or 4-20mA. Relevant only if A.4 and the hardware
1 = 4-20mA
jumper are set to current.

A.7 Resolution. Specifies whether output should be in high 0 = Display

resolution if the display is showing high resolution.
1 = Internal

A.8 Operation. Enables and disables the analog output. 0 = Disabled

1 = Enabled

7.4.3 Calibrating D/A Converter

To calibrate D/A converter (0-10V):

1. Place jumper JP1 on PCB (761) for voltage output.

2. Power up the unit, enter the setup menus and enter the A-CAL menu.
3. Set parameters as follows: A.1=1; A.2=0; A.3=0; A.4=1; A.5=0; A.6=0; A.7=1;
A.8=1.
4. Skip D/A calibration and save the above settings by selecting STORE.
5. Access the function menu and select function 85 (see 3.3.1).
6. The display shows C 00000. Enter 65535. Press PRINT to output the value.
7. Use a voltmeter to measure the voltage at pins 2 (+) and 3 (-) of the analog
output connector (J4). Record the value (in volts). Calculate a new value, which is:
100/recorded value. E.g. Recorded value is 9.94, new value is 100/9.94=10.06.
This is the full scale voltage.
8. Exit Fn 85 and re-enter the A-CAL menu.
9. Set parameter A.1 to 1. The calibration dialog starts.
10. When prompted for D/A Zero, enter 00.000.
11. When prompted for D/A Span, enter the full scale voltage you calculated in step 7.
12. When you finish stepping through the dialog, exit the A-CAL menu.
13. Select STORE to save your settings.

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 Outputs and Digital Input
Using the Tilt Switch

7.5 Using the Tilt Switch

You can set the time delay for the tilt switch function using the setup parameter 4.t.
Use this parameter to enter the time delay for display lock in 1/10 seconds. The delay
may be between 1 and 90 1/10 seconds (i.e. between 0.1 and 9 seconds).
When the contacts close, the display locks after the time delay elapses. When they
open again, the display unlocks after the same time delay elapses.
Set 4.t to 00 to disable the tilt-switch function.

7.5.1 Tilt Switch Options

Parameter 4.t, which controls the tilt switched, allows several special options,
accessed by setting it above 90:
  91 – Tare scale on the rising edge of input. Setpoints always enabled.
  92 – Print on the rising edge of the input. Setpoints always enabled.
  93 – Setpoints active when input is high. Setpoints inactive when input is low.
  94 – Scale is tared at the rising edge of input. If taring is successful, setpoints are
activated. If input is low, setpoints are inactive.
  95 – When input is low, scale 1 is selected and displayed. When input is high,
scale 2 is selected and displayed.
  96 – Scale is reset to zero.

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Service Operations and Testing
Service Operations

8 Service Operations and Testing

8.1 Service Operations

The operations described below are performed by accessing the function menu. For
more detailed information on using the function menu, see section 3.3.1.

8.1.1 Setting and Changing Calibration Password (Function 40)

The Personal Identification Number (PIN) restricts access to the calibration procedure.
By default, the PIN is inactive and set to 000000. You can use the procedure below to
set a secret PIN, which will prevent users and unauthorized personnel from changing
calibration parameters.

To change the PIN:

1. Access the function menu and select function 40.

2. The display shows Pin 0 briefly, and then 000000. Enter the old PIN and press
PRINT( ).
  If the PIN you entered is correct, the display shows PIN 1.
  If you entered a wrong PIN, the unit resets. Turn it on and go back to step 1.

3. Enter the new PIN number and press PRINT( ). The display shows PIN 2.
4. Re-enter the new PIN number and press ENTER.
The new PIN is stored and the display shows PASS briefly. If the two entries are not
the same, FAIL is displayed briefly and the new PIN you entered is discarded.

IMPORTANT: Make sure you do not forget the PIN entered. If the PIN is
lost, the unit must be returned to the factory to initialize the PIN and a
fee will be charged.

8.1.2 Checking Calibration Seal (Function 48)

In order to check that calibration has not been tampered with. This can be verified by
means of the audit trail counter, which increments each time calibration parameters
are changed, and by means of a jumper (for more information, see section 4.4). Use
the procedure below to see the current value of the counter and the current position
of the jumper.

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 Service Operations and Testing
Service Operations

To check calibration seal and audit trail counter:

1. Access the function menu and select function 48.

2. The display shows the audit trail counter. Check to see that this counter is the
same as it was after the last authorized calibration. Press PRINT ( ).

3. The display shows the status of the physical calibration seal. Press ESC ( ) to exit.

8.1.3 Viewing Load Cell mV (Function 80)

To view an mV meter:

Access the function menu and select function 80. The indicator loads calibration
data, and displays the mV transmitted by the load cell.

8.1.4 Viewing A/D Count (Function 81)

To view the A/D count:

Access the function menu and select function 81. The indicator shows the internal
count of the analog-to-digital converter. Press ESC ( ) to exit.

8.1.5 View Software Version Number and Date (Function 82)

To view the number and date of the current software version:

Access the function menu and select function 82. The indicator shows software
version number and the date it was released. Press ESC ( ) to exit.

8.1.6 Locking and Unlocking Keys

To lock keys:

1. Access the setup menus and navigate to SETUP > SETUP 1.

2. Set one or more of the following parameters to 1:
  1.3 – ZERO.
  1.4 – TARE.
  1.5 – P.TARE.
  1.6 – PRINT.
  1.7 – TOTAL.
  1.8 – FUNCTION.
Keys you lock will not work (i.e. if a user presses them nothing will happen) until
you unlock them.

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Service Operations and Testing
Testing the Indicator

To unlock keys:

1. Access the setup menus and navigate to SETUP > SETUP 1.

2. Set the corresponding parameter to 0 (see the bulleted list above).

8.2 Testing the Indicator

8.2.1 Testing ROM/RAM Integrity (Function 86)

From time to time, it is advised to check the integrity of the unit’s ROM and RAM
using the procedure below.

To test ROM/RAM integrity:

1. Access the function menu and select function 86.

2. One of the following messages are displayed:
  Err 01 – indicates that ROM data is corrupted.
  Err 02 – indicates that RAM data is corrupted.
  PASS – indicates that both ROM and RAM memory is okay.

8.2.2 Testing the Keypad and Display (Function 90, 91)

To test that the display is working properly:

Access the function menu and select function 90. All digits display 0 through 9, in
sequence, and then all characters are displayed in sequence.

To test that the keypad is working properly:

Access the function menu and select function 91. The display blanks. When you
press a key, the scan code for that key is shown on the display. The scan codes
are as follows:
  32 – TARE.
  33 – P.TARE.
  34 – PRINT.
  35 – TOTAL.
  36 – FUNCTION.

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 Service Operations and Testing
Testing the Indicator

8.2.3 Testing Digital Input and Outputs (Function 93)

To test digital input and outputs (setpoints):

1. Access the function menu and select function 93.

2. The display shows the status of the inputs and outputs, as follows:
  The first digit from the left displays data received on the digital input
channel.
  The fifth digit from the left displays data sent on output 1.
  The sixth digit from the left displays data on output 2.

3. Press PRINT ( ) to toggle output 1 on and off. When it is on, the data sent should
be displayed in the fifth digit. If the output connects to another device, check if the
signal was received.

4. Press TOTAL ( ) to toggle output 2 on and off. When it is on, the data sent should
be displayed in the sixth digit. If the output connects to another device, check if
the signal was received.
5. Connect a device to the digital input, and send a signal. See if the data appears in
the first digit.

8.2.4 Testing the Print Buffer (Function 94)

To test the print buffer:

Access the function menu and select function 94. An ASCII file (30h-7Fh) is
output to the printer port, with error control.

8.2.5 Testing Data Received on Both Serial Ports (Function 96)

To test data received on one or both serial ports:

1. Access the function menu and select function 96.

2. The display shows data received on COM ports, as follows:
  The two digits on the left (first and second digits) show data received on
COM 1.
  The two digits on the right (fifth and sixth digits) show data received on
COM 2.
3. Connect a PC or another device to one or both of the indicator’s ports, and begin
transmitting data. Watch the display to see if the data is received properly.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 59 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Troubleshooting
Errors, Causes and Remedies

9 Troubleshooting
The indicator has no serviceable parts. Authorized technicians may:
  Respond to errors shown on the display (see section 9.1).
  Check load cell connections (see section 9.2).
  Check the power supply (see section 9.3).
  Check the digital input and outputs (see section 9.4).

9.1 Errors, Causes and Remedies

When an error or an unexpected event occurs, the indicator displays the message Err
xx, where xx is the error code. The following table explains all the error codes and
suggests what to do when each error message is displayed.

Error code Possible cause Actions to be taken

Err 01 Faulty EPROM memory. Contact manufacturer.

Err 02 Faulty CMOS RAM. Contact manufacturer.

Err 04 Calibration data corrupted due to faulty Contact manufacturer.

EEPROM.

Err 05 The scale is not connected properly, or the Check the scale, cable and connectors. If
analog-to-digital converter is faulty. these are okay, contact manufacturer.

Err 06 Insufficient power. Check the indicator’s power supply.

Err 07 Data memory is corrupted, either because Input all operational data and clear
of extreme power supply transient or totalizer.
because the totalizer has not been
cleared.

Err 15 The indicator has been powered on after Press ZERO ( ).

an irregular shutdown: A power failure or
a soft reset.

Err 20 The printer is not online because it is not Make sure the printer is connected and
connected, not turned on, out of paper, or operational, and press PRINT ( ) to
for some other reason. retry. If you can’t bring the printer online,
and you would like to use the indicator
anyway, press ZERO ( ).

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 60 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Troubleshooting
Checking Load Cell Connection

Error code Possible cause Actions to be taken

Err 26 Printer has no paper. Add paper to the printer, and press PRINT
( ) to retry. If you can’t add paper, and
you would like to use the indicator
anyway, press ZERO ( ).

Err 30 The host PC is not connected, or the Make sure the computer is connected, and
communication link failed. press PRINT ( ) to retry. If there is some
problem with the computer, but you would
like to use the indicator anyway, press
ZERO ( ).

Err 33 The host PC did not return a proper Make sure the computer is connected, and
response (an acknowledgement required press PRINT ( ) to retry. If there is some
by the communication protocol). problem with the computer, but you would
like to continue using the indicator
anyway, press ZERO ( ).

Err 55 Alibi memory is full. The memory serial Press ZERO ( ).

number resets to 0000. From now on,
each new memory entry overwrites the
oldest record in alibi memory.

Err 56 Printing error. Tare is currently active, but Printout aborted. Printing stops and
selected print format does not support net returns to weighing mode.
weight.

Err 57 The weight measurement could not be Press ZERO ( ).

saved to alibi memory.

Err 67 The area of memory that stores the Print/reset the total weight
accumulated total weight is corrupted.

Err 69 The area of memory that stores the Print/reset the total weight
accumulated total weight has overflowed.
In other words, the total weight is too
large.

9.2 Checking Load Cell Connection

If there appears to be a problem with the load cell connection:
  Check input and output resistance.
  Check resistance between any terminal and shield.
  Check load cell connection and cable.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 61 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Troubleshooting
Checking Power Supply

9.3 Checking Power Supply

If the unit does not turn on:
  Check 24VDC power supply.
  Check the resettable fuse F3 on PCB 801.

9.4 Checking Digital Input and Outputs

If the setpoints are not working properly, you can test them using the instructions
below.

To test digital input and outputs (setpoints):

1. Access the function menu and select function 93.

2. The display shows the status of the inputs and outputs, as follows:
  The first digit from the left displays data received on the digital input
channel.
  The fifth digit from the left displays data sent on output 1.
  The sixth digit from the left displays data on output 2.

3. Press PRINT ( ) to toggle output 1 on and off. When it is on, the data sent should
be displayed in the fifth digit. If the output connects to another device, check if the
signal was received.

4. Press TOTAL ( ) to toggle output 2 on and off. When it is on, the data sent should
be displayed in the sixth digit. If the output connects to another device, check if
the signal was received.
5. Connect a device to the digital input, and send a signal. See if the data appears in
the first digit.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 62 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix A: Technical Drawings

Appendix A: Technical Drawings

i. System Block Diagram

RS232
(ST8) J1

+5V
+5V
Watchdog
RS232
Driver

+5V +5V
Max 10 X 350Ω
Load Cells (ST7) J2 Analog to MCU ST3 ST1 J3 (ST2)
Digital 89C51RD
Conversion 64KB EPROM RS485
&
1KB RAM
Driver RS-485
32D I/O Lines
BAT. TEST 32KB EEPROM
JP1
ST2 TER. RES PCB 439
JP1
2 Outputs
Calibration
1 Input (Tilt)
lock
Isolated
+5V
ST1 ST1 ST2
Keyb.
6 Key & PWRNF
&
Membrane Keyb.
LED (LCD)
Driver

ST5

6 Digits LED Display PCB 715

+5V
(LCD Black)
ST2
(ST9) J4
Option +5V
ST1 Power Power Power Input
Analog 0-10VDC or Input Filter
Supply
Output 0-20mADC Analog to Power On-Off 9-15VDC
24VDC Digital
EXTERNAL
Conv. PCB 801

JP1
(ST9) J4
Sel. Current or
Voltage Output
PCB 761

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 63 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Appendix A: Technical Drawings

ii. Rear Panel Connections (Desktop Model)

COM 2 Analog Output

DB15
DB9 fem
fem/male

COM 1 Load Cell 1

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 DB9 male DB15 fem

+ - I1 CI O1 O2 +Co

POWER & SETPOINTS COM 2 COM 1 LOAD CELL1 ANALOG OUTPUT

Pin Description Pin Description Pin Description Pin Description Pin Description

1 Power 6 A 2 RX or DTR 1 Excitation (-) 1,9 IOut (+)

9-15 VDC
2 7 B 3 TX 2 Sense (-) 2,10 VOut (+)

3 Input 1 8 Termination 5 GND 3 Sense (+) IOut (-) or

3,11
resistor VOut (-)
Input 9 D-Type Metal Case 4 Excitation (+)
4 (120R)
Common (-) (Shield) Power in
5 Signal (-) 4,12
D-Type Metal Case +24 VDC
5 Output 1
(Shield) 6 Signal (+) 5,13 Power in GND
6 Output 2
NOTE: Short pins D-Type Metal Case D-Type Metal Case
Output 8,9 for termination (Shield) (Shield)
7
Common (+) resistor (120R)
connection 7 Calibration
Enable
8

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 64 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix A: Technical Drawings

iii. Terminal Connections (Wall-Mount Model)

PCB 801

+
1

POWER
2

PCB 715
¯
+
3

INPUT
4

¯
OUT1
7 6 5

OUT2
COM

TX
1

RX
3 2

SGND
JP1 Cal.
Lock
SHIELD
1

+ SIG
2

– SIG
3

+ EX
7 6 5 4

+ SEN
- SEN
- EX

PCB
A
1

439
B
2

IOUT+ PCB
1

JP1 761
A
3

TER. SEL. VOUT+

2

B
4

VOUT- or
3

IOUT-
SGND
5

+
6 5 4

POWER IN
(24 VDC)

SHLD

NOTE: PCBs are drawn as Select Current or

viewed in the housing. Voltage Output

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 65 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Appendix A: Technical Drawings

iv. Cabling Diagram

Slave #1 Slave #2 (Up to 30 Slave #30

(VT x00)
(VT x00) (VT x00) slaves)
A B A B … A B

RT
master +V
Termination
120R Resistor
470R

A
White
Network
Biasing RT 150R

Resistors B Brown

2
470R Shield 2X0.34mm twisted pair shielded
Max cable length: 1000m

Chassis
RS485A CABLE CONNECTIONS
Earth

Printer DB25 Male OR Printer DB25 Male

DB9 DB9 Shield
Tilt Switch fem Metal
+ Case GRN RX RX
3 Power 3 3
I1 TX GRN MAX 15m
Supply
Input 1 3
CI - BRN GND To GND To
9-24VDC
4 To VTx00 7 Serial 7 Printer
GND BRN
Fuse RS232 Printer
5
CO + Power Connector WHI DTR TX
7 20 2
Supply DTR WHI
-
2
O1 Output 1 24VDC
5
DB9 FEM OR DB25 Female
DB9 DB9 Shield
O2 Output 2 fem Metal
6 Case
GRN RX RX
2 3
TX GRN MAX 15m
Digital
Outputs 3
Power & + + BRN GND GND
Imax=100m To VTx00 5 7 To PC
Setpoints L L
GND BRN
Connector
O O RS232 5
A A
D D Connector WHI DTR DTR
3 2
- - DTR WHI
2

DIGITAL OUTPUTS & TILT CONNECTIONS PRINTER & PC CABLES

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 66 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

Appendix Contents
I. INTRODUCTION .................................................................................. 67

II. BAUD RATE AND MESSAGE FORMAT ................................................... 67

III. DATA BLOCK FORMAT....................................................................... 68

IV. COMMUNICATION PROCESS OVERVIEW ............................................ 68

V. MASTER-SLAVE COMMANDS................................................................ 69

i. Introduction
This appendix defines the communication between a host computer (the master) and a
maximum of 5 weighing terminals (the slaves). The host computer may be any
processor connected to an asynchronous serial port: for example, a personal
computer or a mini computer. Each slave in the network possesses a unique address,
in ASCII characters A to Z. The Master-Slave Commands enable remote monitoring
and/or operation of the weighing terminals by the host processor.
The Master always controls the communication link although the Master itself may at
the same time be a slave to a higher level network. The master polls the slave
machines and they respond within a specific time period.
The protocol is designed as a low-cost long-distance communication link, to support
sporadic data exchanges in industrial environments, for network multi-drop
applications. Network connections require twisted-pair shielded cables and support a
20mA current loop standard and the RS485 standard.

ii. Baud Rate and Message Format

600-9600 baud,
1 start bit, 7 data bits, 1 even parity bit, and 1 stop bit.
6 data bits are used for the communication; The 7th data bit serves as the start-of-
message delimiter in the address byte.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 67 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

iii. Data Block Format

All communication is performed using nine-byte messages with a standard format:

ID SLAVE COMMAND DATA BCS

Message Components

Name Length Hex Code Description

(bytes)

ID Slave 1 41h - 5Ah Slave identification character (A-Z,

or @ for command to be executed
by all units on the network.

Command 1 20h - 3Fh Command type.

Data 6 x The data associated with the

command, or data from slave. If
no data is associated with the
command send 6 space characters
(20h).

BCS 1 x Block checksum. The XORSUM of

the six LSB of all bytes. Two most
significant bits are always set to
zero: 0xxxxxx

iv. Communication Process Overview

The main type of master-slave communication between the host and the VT400
processor is when the master addresses a slave unit with a request for information,
and the slave responds by transmitting the data requested by the master.

Master Transmission

A communication session is started when the master processor transmits a command

to a slave. In most cases the slave does not respond immediately. The master scans
for status with a Status (?) command. If the slave is ready to respond, then –
depending on the initial command – the slave responds either by sending data or by
echoing the data received. If status data is ready, the slave will begin transmitting to
the master with a three-msec delay. If the master does not receive a response within
the appropriate interval the scan is rejected: for example, in the case of auto self-
calibration, which occurs regularly when the scale is stable. This reduces unnecessary
wait time of the master during polling.
Response time to a command varies and depends on the execution time of the
command. Multiple scans may be needed until the response is received. The
communication session is ended either when a response arrives or when the timeout
period has passed.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 68 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

Slave Response

All slaves on the network receive all data transmitted by the master but they
respond only to the data blocks with the appropriate slave address. For some
commands the slave does not respond after the execution. When it receives an
unknown command, it responds with a Non-Acknowledge (NACK) block.
The slave typically begins transmitting the response string within a one-character
duration from the end of the master's transmission. If an error has occurred in the
master’s transmission (for example: parity, overrun, framing, or checksum errors),
the slave does not respond.
In case of communication error the master waits in idle transmission state for a ten-
character duration to allow for the slave’s transmit buffers to be cleared. The master
can initialize the slave's receiver buffers by transmitting a 7Fh.

Communication Modes

Two modes of communication can be used for 20mA current loop :full duplex and half
duplex. For RS485, only half-duplex mode can be used.

v. Master-Slave Commands
Following is a summary of the commands available in the master-slave protocol. After
the table is a more detailed description of each command.

Operational Hex Description Time Slave Response

Command

? 3F Upload weight and status Char Status + weight

duration

0 30 Reset Slave - None

1 31 Upload Tare 0.2 sec Data

2 32 Keyboard Emulation 0.2 sec Echo

3 33 Download Setpoint Values 0.2 sec Echo

4 34 Upload Setpoint Values 0.2 sec Data

5 35 Read Setpoint Values 0.2 sec Data

6 36 Force Setpoint Outputs 0.2 sec Echo

7 37 Enable Setpoint Outputs 0.2 sec Echo

8 38 Upload Error Code 0.2 sec Data

; 3B Download Function 0.2 sec Echo

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 69 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

? Command: Upload Status

This is the main command used to poll the slave or slaves. The slave replies with the
current weight being measured, or with a message if bit 0 of the status byte is ‘1’.

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE ? XXXXXX BCS

XXXXXX: These bytes are not used; fill with Space character (20h).
For RS485, Master Transmission contains only ID Slave, ? and BCS.

Slave Response

ID SLAVE Weight Status Weight Digits BCS

Weight Status Byte: see table below.

Weight Digits: 6 bytes (ASCII), including decimal point. Most

significant byte first.

Example For sending the ? (3F hex) command for RS485:

Address 66 (66 decimal=B ascii=42 hex ), the message is “B?BCS”.
BCS is calculated as 42 XOR 3F = 7D = 1111101, the 6 LSB of the 7D are 111101, add 00 to the 2
MSB and it becomes 00111101= 3D (“=” hex).
The message to send from the PC will be “B?=”.

Weight Status Byte:

B7 B6 B5 B4 B3 B2 B1 B0

0 1 1 Under/over Sign No motion Error Status Mode

range

0=UNDER, 0= + 0=NO, 0=NO, 0=Gross,

1=OVER 1= - 1=YES 1=YES 1=Net

0 Command: Reset Slave

Resets the slave to its power-on condition.

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE 0 XXXXXX BCS

XXXXXX: These bytes are not used; fill with Space character (20h).

Slave Response None

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 70 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

1 Command: Upload Tare

This command is used, when the scale is tared, to upload the tare value.

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE 1 XXXXXX BCS

XXXXXX: These bytes not used; fill with Space character (20h).

Slave Response

ID SLAVE 1 Tare Weight BCS

Tare Weight: 6 bytes (ASCII), including decimal point. Most

significant byte first.

2 Command: Keyboard Emulation

This command performs the operation corresponding to pressing one of a set of keys
on the keypad. SETUP3 parameter 3.5 must be set to 1 (Keyboard Commands
enabled) before this command can be used.

Master
ID SLAVE 2 0CXXXX BCS
Transmission
0: ASCII (30h)

C (the opcode of the key):

1 (31h) [>0<key]

2 (32h) [Tare key]

3 (33h) [P.Tare key]

4 (34h) [Print key]

5 (35h) [ast (total) key]

6 (36h) [fn key]

XXXX: These bytes are not used; fill with Space character (20h).

Slave Response ECHO

3 Command: Download Setpoint Values

This command downloads setpoint values from the master and saves them in the
slave’s memory.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 71 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE 3 NYYYYY BCS

N: Setpoint number 1-2 (ASCII)

YYYYY: Setpoint value (ASCII, MSB first)

Slave Response ECHO

4 Command: Upload Setpoint Values

This command uploads setpoint values from the slave to the master.

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE 4 NXXXXX BCS

N: Setpoint number 1-2 (ASCII)

XXXXX: These bytes are not used; fill with Space character (20h).

Slave Response

ID SLAVE 4 NYYYYY BCS

N: Setpoint number 1-2 (ASCII)

YYYY: Setpoint value (ASCII, MSB first)

5 Command: Read Setpoint Values

This command uploads status for the setpoint outputs.

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE 5 XXXXXX BCS

XXXXXX: These bytes are not used; fill with Space character (20h).

Slave Response

ID SLAVE 5 12---- BCS

1,2: Status of setpoints 1 and 2: 0 if setpoint is off, 1 if setpoint is

on)

----: Space characters (20h)

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 72 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

6 Command: Force Setpoint Outputs

This command sets or cancels setpoints but does not activate them. After this
command is issued the setpoints can be activated using the Enable Setpoint Outputs
command (see below).

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE 6 12---- BCS

1,2: Status of setpoints 1 and 2: 0 turns setpoint off, 1 turns setpoint

on)

Slave Response ECHO

7 Command: Enable Setpoint Outputs

This command is typically used after a Force Setpoint Output command (see above)
and it used to activate setpoints using the current settings in the slave memory.

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE 7 XXXXXX BCS

XXXXXX: These bytes are not used; fill with Space character (20h).

Slave Response ECHO

8 Command: Upload Error Code

This command uploads an error code when an error associated with status byte,
upload weight or status command is detected. Error codes are listed in 9.1.

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE 8 XXXXXX BCS

XXXXXX: These bytes not used; fill with Space character (20h).

Slave Response

ID SLAVE 8 EE---- BCS

EE: Error code (ASCII)

----: Space characters (20h)

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 73 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

; Command: Download Function

This command executes the specified function.

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE ; (3Bh) NNXXXX BCS

NN: Function number (ASCII DEC)

XXXX: These bytes not used; fill with Space character (20h).

Slave Response ECHO

Setup Commands

These commands download parameters from a host, for setup and calibration of the
VT400. Refer to Section 3.4.3 for details on these parameters. See the end of this
section for information on uploading setups from a slave device to the host machine.
The following is the format of most setup commands:

ID SLAVE COMMAND W1 (2 bytes) W2 (2 bytes) W3 (2 bytes) BCS

Data word (W1-W3) format :

Most significant byte (b7 to b4: nibble)
0 0 1 1 b7 b6 b5 b4

Least significant byte (b3 to b0: nibble)

0 0 1 1 b3 b2 b1 b0

Decimal to ASCII-hex Conversion:

Most of the setup commands have a data parameter which is specified in ASCII hex
and produces a decimal equivalent for the VT400 setup.

To convert from a decimal value to the ASCII hex equivalent:

1. Convert the value from decimal to hex: for example, 90 (dec) to 5A (hex).
2. Replace any letters (A-F) in the hex value with an ASCII character according to the
following conversion pairs (for example, 5A in hex to 5: in ASCII hex.
  A (hex) to :
  B (hex) to ;
  C (hex) to <
  D (hex) to =
  E (hex) to >
  F (hex) to ?

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 74 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

Setup Command Slave Response

The slave response to a setup command is an ECHO of the command, and the
response can be further verified using the Status (?) command.

Setup Commands Summary

Setup Hex Description Slave Response

Command

“ 22 Download Parameters (1) Echo

(Space) 20 Upload Parameters (1) Data

# 23 Download Parameters (2) Echo

! 21 Upload Parameters (2) Data

$ 24 Download D/A Setup and Echo

Zero

+ 2B Upload D/A Setup and Zero Data

% 25 Download D/A Full Echo

, 2C Upload D/A Full Data

& 26 Download Setup 1,2,3 Echo

- 2D Upload Setup 1,2,3 Data

` 27 Download Setup 4,5 Echo

. 2E Upload Setup 4,5 Data

) 29 Download Serial Port 2 Echo

Configuration

: 3A Upload Serial Port 2 Data

Configuration

* 2A Write to EEPROM None

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 75 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

“ and (space) Commands: Download/Upload Parameters (1)

New settings do not go into effect until a Write to EEPROM (*) command is issued.

Data Byte Parameter Name Description

Number to be Set

W1 4.P First two digits ASCII hex

of weighing
range

W2 6.P Conversions ASCII hex

per second

W3 Bit 8.1 b0
Bit 8.2 b1
Bit 8.3 b2
Bit 8.4 b3
Bit 8.5 b4
Bit 8.6 b5
Bit 8.7 b6
Bit 8.8 b7

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 76 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

# and ! Commands: Download/Upload Parameters (2)

New settings do not go into effect until a Write to EEPROM (*) command is issued.

Data Byte Parameter Name Description

Number to be Set

W1 0.P Dual interval ASCII hex

W2 2.P (b7-b5) Decimal digits 000=0, 001=1,

010=2, 011=3,
100=4.

1.P (b4) Number of 0=4 digits

display digits 1=5 digits

3.P (b3-b0) Display 0000 = 1

resolution
0001 = 2

0010 = 5

0011 = 10

0100 = 20

0101 = 50

0110 = 100

0111 = 200

W3 5.P (b7-b4) Digital filter 0000=min to

0101=max

7.P (b3-b0) Number of 0000=min to

motion 0110=max
samples

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 77 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

$ and + Commands: Download/Upload D/A Setup and Zero (1)

New settings do not go into effect until a Write to EEPROM (*) command is issued.

Data Byte Parameter Name Description

Number to be Set

W1 A.1-A.8 A.1 b0
(b0-b7) A.2 b1
A.3 b2
A.4 b3
A.5 b4
A.6 b5
A.7 b6
A.8 b7

W2 - Analog output 2 most significant

0 digits, ASCII hex (no
decimal point)

W3 - Analog output 2 least significant

0 digits, ASCII hex (no
decimal point)

% and , Commands: Download/Upload D/A Full (1)

New settings do not go into effect until a Write to EEPROM (*) command is issued.

Data Byte Parameter Name Description

Number to be Set

W1 2, 2L Linefeeds after 2 digits (ASCII) hex

printout

W2 - Analog output 2 most significant

FULL digits, ASCII hex (no
decimal point)

W3 - Analog output 2 least significant

FULL digits, ASCII hex (no
decimal point)

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 78 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

& and - Commands: Download/Upload Setup 1, 2, 3

Data Byte Parameter Parameter Bit Command Word Bit

Number to be Set

W1 SETUP 1 1.1 b0
1.2 b1
1.3 b2
1.4 b3
1.5 b4
1.6 b5
1.7 b6
1.8 b7

W2 SETUP 2 2.1 b0
2.2 b1
2.3 b2
2.4 b3
2.5 b4
2.6 b5
2.7 b6
2.8 b7

W3 SETUP 3 3.1 b0
3.2 b1
3.3 b2
3.4 b3
3.5 b4
3.6 b5
3.7 b6
3.8 b7

` and . Commands: Download/Upload Setup 4,5

Data Byte Parameter Parameter Bit Command Word Bit

Number to be Set

W1 SETUP 4 4.1 b0
4.2 b1
4.3 b2
4.4 b3
4.5 b4
4.6 b5
4.7 b6
4.8 b7

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 79 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

Data Byte Parameter Parameter Bit Command Word Bit

Number to be Set

W2 SETUP 5 5.1 b0
5.2 b1
5.3 b2
5.4 b3
5.5 b4
5.6 b5
5.7 b6
5.8 b7

W3 Additional PAR 8.9 b0

bits: 8.9, 8.A, 8.A b1
8.b 8.b b2

) and : Commands: Download/Upload Serial Port 2 Configuration

New settings of baud rate and data bits do not go into effect until a Write to EEPROM
(*) command is issued.

Data Byte Parameter Name Description

Number to be Set

W1 3.t Slave address ASCII hex

W2 2.b Baud rate ASCII hex

W3 2.d Data bits ASCII hex

* Command: Write to EEPROM

This command records the setup and calibration data sent to the VT400 via the other
setup commands in this section, and resets the indicator. No ACK block is transmitted
in this communication.

Data Byte Parameter Name Description

Number to be Set

W1 - - Not used.

W2 - - Not used.

W3 - - Not used.

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 80 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

 Appendix B: Master-Slave Protocol

Upload of Setup Parameters: Message Formats

Master
Transmission
ID SLAVE COMMAND XXXXXX BCS

XXXXXX: These bytes not used; fill with Space character (20h).

Slave
Response
ID SLAVE COMMAND W1 (2 bytes) W2 (2 bytes) W3 (2 bytes) BCS

VT400 Technical Manual, Rev. A4 81 Doc # UM-VT400-EN

Contacting Vishay Transducers
Americas
Vishay Transducers Americas Vishay Transducers Canada

677 Arrow Grand Circle, Covina, CA 91722, USA 41 Horner Ave, Unit 5, Toronto, Ontario M8Z 4X4, Canada
PH: +1-800-722-0820; +1-626-858-8899 PH: +1-800-567-6098; +1-416-251-2554
FAX: +1-626-332-3418 FAX: +1-416-251-2690
E-MAIL: vt.us@vishaymg.com E-MAIL: vt.can@vishaymg.com

Asia
Vishay Transducers Taiwan (Asia except China) Vishay Tranducers China

15 Fl, No. 86, Sec. 1 Shintal 5th Rd. No. 5 Binguan Nan Dao Youyi Rd., Hexi District,
Shijr City, Taipei, Taiwan 221 Tianjin China, Code 300061
PH: +886-2-2696-0168 PH: +86-22-2835-3503
FAX: +886-2-2696-4965 FAX: +86-22-2835-7261
E-MAIL: vt.tw@vishaymg.com E-MAIL: vt.prc@vishaymg.com

Europe
Vishay Transducers Germany Vishay Tranducers UK

Tatschenweg 1, 74078 Stroudley Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire

Heilbronn, Germany RG24 8FW, United Kingdom
PH: +49-7131-3901-260 PH: +44-125-646-2131
FAX: +49-7131-3901-2666 FAX: +44-125-647-1441
E-MAIL: vt.de@vishaymg.com E-MAIL: vt.uk@vishaymg.com

Vishay Transducers France Vishay Transducers Iberica

16 Rue Francis Vovelle, 28000 Chartres, France C/Toronga 25, 1◦C, 28043 Madrid, Spain
PH: +33-2-37-33-31-20 PH: +34-91-721-8890
FAX: +33-2-37-33-31-29 FAX: +34-91-721-9056
E-MAIL: vt.fr@vishaymg.com E-MAIL: vt.es@vishaymg.com

Vishay Transducers Sweden Vishay Transducers Norway

P.O. Box 423, SE-691 27 Karlskoga, Sweden Haarvard Marinsens vei 19, NO-0915 Oslo, Norway
PH: +46-586-63000 PH: +47-22-21-40-70
FAX: +46-586-63099 FAX: +47-22-21-92-10
E-MAIL: vt.se@vishaymg.com E-MAIL: vt.no@vishaymg.com

Vishay Transducers Finland Vishay Transducers Israel

Jorvas Hitech Center, FI-02420 Jorvas 5 Hazoran Street, P.O. Box 8381,
Finland New Industrial Zone, Netanya 42506, Israel
PH: +358-(0)9-8194-220 PH: +972-9-863-8888
FAX: +358-(0)9-8194-2211 FAX: +972-9-863-8800
E-MAIL: vt.fi@vishaymg.com E-MAIL: vt.il@vishaymg.com