The flow chart below summarises the steps required to successfully install and commission the S-LX system.
Detailed descriptions of each step can be found below
It is recommended that installation diagrams are prepared prior to installation and referred to throughout the installation process.
The S-LX system is highly flexible and can be applied to many serial port and Ethernet remote monitoring applications and is not limited to those listed below.
Please contact MPEC to discuss any potential further applications
If trouble is encountered please contact MPEC technical support for further assistance:
Telephone: 01332 363 979. Available Monday to Friday 8 AM to 4 PM UK time.
Email: support@mpec.co.uk. Response typically within 24 hours.
System Overview
Industrial Computing Platform to decode, pre-process, and buffer monitored system data
Isolating wide-range power supply, 85 to 230 V AC
High Impedance, Fault Tolerant, Isolated RS232 Input to allow non-intrusive monitoring
Isolated RS485 output prevents tampering with RS232 signal or data stream
2 x Isolated LAN Ethernet Ports, for monitoring non-safety critical IP data streams, back-office connectivity or master-slave installation with additional S-LX systems.
Integral SD Card and SIM card for persistent data storage of provision of cellular connectivity
Integral LTE cellular modem
USB port for future monitoring and data storage applications
Prepare Overlay Diagrams
The means of connection to the monitored system will differ dependent on the application.
Refer to the application specific instructions below for example “overlay” wiring diagrams.
VHLC Level Crossing Applications
HXP3 Track Circuit Applications
Westronic 1024 TDM Applications
SSI Technicians Terminal Applications
AZLM Axle Counter Applications
Unbox & Mount the S-LX system
Carefully remove the S-LX system from its packaging
The system shall already be mounted on DIN rail, or attached to a 19 inch rack shelf
Antenna and accessory cables will be packed separately.
Mount the DIN rail in the desired location, or move the DIN rail mounted equipment onto an alternative rail.
The DIN rail may be cut to size. If doing so ensure that all sharp edges are deburred.
When supplied in a 19 inch rack, install the rack into an appropriate cabinet.
Antenna Installation
Antenna and antenna cable are supplied separately.
Mount the antenna external to the building
Never mount antenna inside an equipment enclosure or building
The antenna must be placed a minimum of 3 meters from sensitive electronic signalling equipment such as SSI.
The antenna features a magnetic mounting base. If this is not suitable, contact MPEC to discuss alternate mounting arrangements.
The antenna is to be mounted upright, with the “whip” element pointing skyward.
Ideally the antenna shall be placed clear of large structures and earthworks.
Bear in mind during placement that the antenna may need relocating during commissioning if inadequate signal strength is available.
A minimum12 mm circular aperture is required to route the antenna cable into the building / enclosure.
If the building or enclosure structure must be pierced to run the antenna cable, ensure this is done in a responsible manner using appropriate tools. Any new openings must be appropriately sealed against moisture ingress and rodent attack.
route the antenna cable using appropriate cable management from antenna to SLX device.
Avoid sharp radius bends and never bend the antenna cable tighter than a 13mm radius.
Avoid running the antenna cable directly parallel and close to sensitive digital signal cables, such as SSI data links.
Do not attempt to shorten or lengthen the cable unless competent to do so and in possession of the appropriate tools and connectors.
MPEC offer a range of antenna cable lengths, so please contact MPEC if the standard 5m cable is inappropriate.
Hand tighten the hexagonal SMA connector to terminal W1 of the S-LX compute module. Do not use tools to over-tighten.
Hand tighten the round TNC connector to the antenna base. Do not use tools to over-tighten.