The pulse sensor and Sensorfact Software are designed to continuously register consumption data by monitoring a pulse output of your gas, water, steam, kWh or main electricity meter. The pulse sensor sends a wireless message to a bridge once it registers a pulse – or - when it does not register any pulse within a single hour. Subsequently, following the correct volume or power coefficient (i.e. # of pulses per mᶟ), the Sensorfact Software logs the data and shows the consumption over time.
Basic functionality of the pulse sensor
Determine the suitable connection method
There are different methods to connect your meters to the pulse sensor. The suitable method follows from the brand and type of meter you have installed. In the connection advice you receive from Sensorfact, the method that works with your meter is explained.
Meter cable with pulse output (3mm to 6mm)
- Already part of your meter
DIN-cable, fitting to your meter’s pulse generating DIN-socket
- Delivered by Sensorfact
- Selection of 2 Pins to connect, advised by Sensorfact
- In case of multiple DIN-sockets, Sensorfact advises which one to use
Pulse generator generating a pulse output signal,often by monitoring the number of rotations of the meter
- Brand and type is advised by Sensorfact
- If required: selection of 2 Pins to connect, advised by Sensorfact
- A Pulse generator comes with a separate manual
Installation steps
Step 1: Open lid
Start by opening the lid of the pulse sensor with a PH2 screwdriver. You will see the below:
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Orange: DIP-switches |
Step 2: Insert and fasten the connection cable
The cable entry glands of the pulse sensor are designed for the entry of a 3mm to 6mm cable. Only use the left entry gland. To ensure the sealing effectiveness level (IP-classification), ensure that the cable only splits at the inside of the sensor, not at the outside.
- When a DIN-cable or pulse Generator is used, cross-check the connection advice before installation. The advice shows the selected pins(colour) to connect to the connectivity ports.
- Before inserting, strip the wires / pins to enable connectivity
- Make sure the gland is fully tightened after inserting the cable
The connection block on the pulse sensor circuit board has screw ports. To fasten the cables, use a small flat blade screwdriver. The selected two pins of the cable should be connected to the terminals marked O/C (Open/Close) and GND (Ground). The polarity/order of the connections does not matter here.
Step 3: Activate power by moving DIP-switch 1
By changing the position of DIP-switch 1 to ON (by moving it upwards), you activate the pulse sensor battery. After doing so, close the lid. Do not change the position of DIP switch 2 – 6 upwards, unless Sensorfact suggests you to do so. These switches can impact the calculation of your data.
Activate pulse sensor battery
Step 4: Check whether data shows in software
Before mounting, check whether:
- Sensor shows as online (green) in the ‘Installation’ tab of the software.
- Correct data shows in software.
If the sensor or data is not or incorrectly shown, follow the troubleshooting guide.
Step 5: Mount pulse sensor
The casing of the pulse sensor can be mounted via the outside with the sticky ps and via the inside with the screw kit (which accompanies O-pads for additional IP-protection). We recommend mounting it on a vertical non-metallic surface, with the cable entry gland facing downwards. Do not wrap the applied cable around other cables, as this can cause electrical interference to the pulse output.
When choosing the location for mounting the sensor, avoid placing the device on a metal surface. This would affect the signal strength between the sensor and the bridges.
If the data in the software is not correct – seemingly the software settings don’t fully correspond with the volume or power coefficient of your pulse output. Contact your Customer Success Representative or e-mail support@sensorfact.eu.