Q: What is difference between BL and BD coils?

The difference between BL and BD Coils is a BL coil has a lower power consumption which is good for a contactor ONLY (no auxiliaries attached). Wherefore a BD coil has a normal power consumption but has the capability to use auxiliaries.

Q: Why choose Type B RCD for 3 Phase Variable Speed Drives?

For the 3 Phase Variable Speed Drives, the RCD type B or type B-Si is particularly suitable.It protects against fault currents with DC offset, which is true for three-phase power converters. In addition, it has enhanced immunity against nuisance tripping caused by: EMC common mode filters connected upstream VSD.Type B has a tripping delay allowing the inrush current to flow on power up.The permanent switching leakage currents existing in power converters (ex: 25kHz).Type B includes a "low pass" filter to ensure a trigger threshold that increases with frequency while complying with the personal protection curve (fibrillation). Please note: if the required sensitivity is 300mA, Selective type RCD should be proposed ensuring a non-triggering time of 50ms. More information can be found on the Earth Fault Protection guide: https://download.schneider-electric.com/files?p_enDocType=Catalog&p_File_Name=CA908066E+%28web%29.pdf&p_Doc_Ref=CA908066EWith regards to installation of these RCDs, they are mounted upstream of the Variable Speed Drives.See below example Schneider Electric offers Acti9 iID range of 4 Pole RCDs type B available in 30 mA sensitivity and type B-Si available in 30 and 300 mA sensitivity (Selective type is available) Click this link below to view the complete range of Acti9 iID RCDs available in Australia: https://www.se.com/ww/en/product-country-selector/?pageType=product-range&sourceId=7559&N=781354987+3098582207+2355967283+39384534

Q: How do I access the Tools Page in eDLT

Press and hold down the bottom left button, whilst continuing to hold then double press the top right button.Please note that access to the Tools Page can be disabled using C-Bus Toolkit software.

Q: How can I cable to the PNP and NPN type outputs for sensors / detectors, using the wiring diagram?

PNP and NPN type outputs are available as 3-wire sensors with a DC voltage power supply (the voltage limits are dependent on the specific sensor): PNP type: switching on the positive voltage load NPN type: switching on the negative voltage load These outputs are typical of photoelectric detectors, inductive proximity and other types of sensors.For a detailed explanation of PNP vs NPN, see the following FAQ: FA142566 PNP output The load (relay coil, contactor relay input, PLC input) must be connected between the "-" negative terminal and the midpoint. The corresponding PLC input is Sink. NPN output The load must be connected between the "+" positive terminal and the midpoint. The corresponding PLC input is Source. Some sensors have two PNP and NPN outputs (4-wire sensors) which are wired according to the diagram below.Note that we no longer sell sensors. Telemecanique Sensors, who were previously part of the Schneider Electric brand, were sold in 2023. You can go to their website - www.telemecaniquesensors.com - for more information, including contact details.

Question 1

What does the 's' on the Power Meter Accuracy class 0.2s & 0.5s mean?

Accepted Answer

It refers to the accuracy of the meter. A 0.2s meter has a much higher accuracy as below.Since Accuracy depends on the load of the system, IEC/AS have developed different standards to define accuracy under different load conditions, known as “Accuracy Class”IEC/AS Standard 62053-11 covers Accuracy Class 0.5, 1.0 & 2 for electromechanical meters for active energy (watt-hours) which means the accuracy as a percentage from reading based on full load conditions and unity power factor. However the accuracy deteriorates under lower load conditions, power factor less than unity along with the presence of harmonics.IEC/AS Standard 62053-21 covers Accuracy Class 1.0 & 2 for static/electronic meters for active energy (watt-hours) which means the accuracy as a percentage from reading based on full load conditions and unity power factor. However the accuracy deteriorates under lower load conditions, power factor less than unity along with the presence of harmonics.IEC/AS Standard 62053-22 covers a higher Accuracy Standard of 0.2S and 0.5S for static/electronic for active energy (watt-hours) providing a higher “Accuracy Standard” under full load conditions and unity power factor in addition to better accuracy readings at much lower load currents, power factor conditions less than unity along with the presence of harmonics.

Question 2

What is the complete RJ45 connector pinout for ATV320?

Accepted Answer

The complete pinout, Pin 1 = CAN_HPin 2 = CAN_LPin 3 = CAN_GNDPin 4 = DI Modbus Signal Pin 5 = DO Modbus SignalPin 6 - Not connectedPin 7 = VP, 10VdcPin 8 = Common The CANopen signals on the front port are deactivated if an option card is plugged in the drive (any option card connected).

Question 3

What sets Type 1 and Type 2 Surge Protective Devices (SPD) apart from each other?

Accepted Answer

Issue:What sets Type 1 and Type 2 Surge Protective Devices (SPD) apart from each other?Product Line:TVSS/SPDEnvironment:ApplicationCause:ClarificationResolution:​​​​​​​Type 1 Surge Protective Devices (SPDs): Type 1 SPDs are permanently hard-wired devices intended for installation between the secondary side of the utility service transformer and the line side of the main service equipment’s overcurrent protective device. They may also be installed on the load side of the main service equipment. These devices are designed to protect against external surges, such as those caused by direct lightning strikes or utility switching events, before the surge reaches the main service panel. Type 2 Surge Protective Devices (SPDs): Type 2 SPDs are specifically designed for installation on the load side of the main service equipment’s overcurrent protective device. While they can be located at the service entrance, it is critical that they are installed after the main overcurrent protection. Type 2 SPDs primarily protect against internally generated surges, such as those caused by switching of inductive loads System-Level Protection Strategy: Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs serve complementary roles in a layered surge protection strategy: Type 1 SPDs provide the first line of defense against high-energy surges entering from external sources.Type 2 SPDs offer downstream protection for sensitive equipment and circuits from residual or internally generated surges. Together, they help ensure comprehensive surge protection across the electrical system.

Question 4

Replacing the Battery in a Smart-UPS

Accepted Answer

Issue: Smart-UPS requires battery replacement. Product line: Smart-UPS Environment: All models, all serial numbers. Cause: Smart-UPS batteries require replacement every 3-5 years. This document will assist you in replacing the battery. Resolution: Click Here to search by part number for the exact Smart-UPS unit you are using.On the product page of each Smart-UPS unit you will find a link to the user's manual on the "Documentation" tab. The manual for each unit will explain the battery replacement procedure.If your UPS is not listed your UPS may not have user replaceable batteries. Please contact our Customer Solutions Team for more information: https://www.se.com/ww/en/work/help/ Please refer to your users manual for the procedure for your specific model.

Question 5

How do I test PLC client and PLC server communication with explicit messaging using Control Expert’s simulator instead of actual hardware?

Accepted Answer

The solution is to use the steps below which show the setup of Control Expert V15.0 and above’s IP address port simulator.Step 1: Create an XML file with the format below. Any IP address can be used and assigned to a port.eg). Step2: Open Control Expert and create a new M580 project. Create a program with the Read_Var block and assign an IP address that corresponds to one of the ports (created in the XML). Eg) Build and connect to the simulator using the port number not assigned to the IP address used in the ADDM block. Transfer the program and run. Eg) Step 3: Open another instance of Control Expert and create another blank M580 project. Connect to the simulator as below. The IP address must be 127.0.0.1 but the port number must be the one assigned to the IP address used in the ADDM block previously. Step 4: From the task bar, select Options from the Simulator menu Step 5: Enter the location of the .xml file It will now be possible to monitor the memory read in by the Read_Var block.

Question 6

How are the long time, short time, instantaneous, and ground fault pickup levels determined on a Micrologic trip unit?

Accepted Answer

Issue:How to set dials on trip unit? What do the dials mean?Product Line:Circuit BreakersResolution:The settings are determined by a coordination study.Description of what the dial settings mean:The long time (current rating) (Ir) is the long time pickup setting multiplied by the sensor plug amperage (In).The short time current (Isd) equals the short time pickup setting multiplied by the long time pickup setting (Ir).The instantaneous current pickup amperage (Ii) is equal to the instantaneous pickup setting multiplied by the sensor plug amperage (In).Ground fault pickup values (Ig) is equal to the ground fault pickup setting multiplied by the sensor plug amperage (In).

Question 7

How hot can circuit breakers get?  What is the temperature of a molded case breaker?

Accepted Answer

Issue:What is the temperature of a molded case breaker?Product Line:Circuit BreakersResolution: See data bulletin 2700DB9901 for detailed information regarding the circuit breaker operating temperature. The acceptable operating temperature of a circuit breaker is defined by UL in the UL489 standard (June 2011), which is listed below. Terminations for standard rated breakers: UL 489 Paragraph 7.1.4.2.2 says the temperature rise on a wiring terminal at a point to which the insulation of a wire is brought up as in actual service shall not exceed 50°C (122°F).Terminations for 100% rated breakers: UL489 Paragraph 7.1.4.3.3 says the temperature rise on the termination shall not exceed 60°C (140°F).Handles, knobs, and other user surfaces: UL489 Paragraph 7.1.4.1.6 says the maximum temperature on handles, knobs, and other surfaces subject to user contact during normal operation shall not exceed 60°C (140°F) on metallic and 85°C (185°F) on nonmetallic surfaces. Table 1: Summary of temperature rise and maximums for a standard rated breaker (breakers are calibrated in 40 deg. C ambient) SurfaceTemp. Rise above ambientTemp. Max at 40 deg. C ambient (104 F)Termination on standard rated breaker50°C (122°F)90°C (194°F)Termination on 100% rated breaker60°C (140°F)100°C (212°F)Handles, knobs, other user contact surfaces - MetallicN/A60°C (140°F) MaximumHandles, knobs, other user contact surfaces - NonmetallicN/A85°C (185°F) Maximum The heat that is generated from inside the breaker comes from the contacts and the bimetal, which are typically the hottest parts within the breaker, and the temperature in the current path gets cooler the closer to the bus or cable, which function as heat sinks. Therefore, the sides or bottom of the breaker can be hotter than the terminations. Each breaker family or frame will have its own heating characteristics due to different designs. Smaller frames tend to run hotter on the side of the breaker than do larger frames, since the side of the breaker is much closer to the heat generators within the breaker.If your breaker is operating within the temperature rise and maximum values in Table 1, then the breaker should be operating normally.If you still believe the breaker is suspect and are concerned that the breaker may nuisance trip, then it is recommended you hire Schneider Electric Field Services (Square D Services) to primary injection test the breaker to determine whether or not the breaker performs per its Characteristic Tripping Curve.

Question 8

Wiring of RS485 Communications Networks

Accepted Answer

IssueThis document attempts to explain correct methods of wiring RS485 communication networks in industrial environments based on various application notes and technical articles. Environment RS485 Serial Modbus Communications Resolution 1. RS-485 (EIA/TIA-485) Differential Data Transmission System Basics The RS-485 standard was developed jointly by two trade associations: the Electronic Industries Association (EIA) and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). The original prefix "RS" stands for Recommended Standard and has been officially replaced with "EIA/TIA" to help identify the origin of its standards. RS-485 Standard SpecificationsMode of operation Differential Allowed no. of Tx and Rx 32 Tx 32 Rx Maximum cable length 4000ft length Maximum data rate 10Mbps Minimum driver output range ±1.5V Maximum driver output range ±5V Minimum drive capability ±55mA Maximum driver short-circuit current 250mA Tx load impedance 54 Rx input sensitivity ±200mV Maximum Rx input resistance 12k Rx input voltage range -7V to +12V Rx logic high >200mV Rx logic low <200mV Max common mode voltage -7V to +12V Full duplex implementation requires 4 wires. This may be necessary for some applications involving legacy devices. In half-duplex implementation 2 wires are used this is the recommended configuration for most Schneider Electric PMC devices.All products manufactured by Schneider Electric PMC support half-duplex, 2 wire configuration. The 4 wire interface is usually implemented in order to avoid creating a T (tee) or star connections or to support full duplex connections.A twisted pair type of cable should be used in order to reduce radiated emissions and improve immunity of the communications system to any external electromagnetic interference. The National Electrical Code and all applicable local regulations must be followed when installing the communications wiring. Cable examples: Belden 9841 or Alpha 6412 or equivalent cable may be used for applications under 300V that are indoors or outdoors in conduit above grade.Belden 3074F or equivalent cable may be used for applications greater than 300V which are indoors or outdoors in conduit above grade. In all devices the RS485 ports are opto-isolated from the internal device electronics. All devices with RS485 port have a shield terminal, which may be connected to the chassis ground (e.g. on 7X50, 880, 8600) or to the isolated reference of the RS485 port (i.e. no connection to the chassis ground as in 6200, 6300, 6100)2. Network Configuration 2.1 TopologySeveral types of network topologies are possible, but the daisy-chain bus configuration is the most efficient. Typically, one of the units is the client controlling the network traffic and prevents multiple drivers from being active at the same time (bus contention). A shielded twisted pair cable is the physical medium. The cable impedance should be within 100-120ohm range. In the Backbone with Studs technology, no studs should be left unconnected at the device end. Otherwise, such a stud will act as an antenna and introduce a significant amount of noise on the RS485 bus, to such a point that communications may become impossible. This is actually a fairly common source of problems. The longer the cable, the lower the data rate: 2.2 TerminationTermination resistors that match the cable's characteristic impedance are essential for minimizing reflections and consequently communication error rates and electromagnetic emissions. For common RS-485 cables (a twisted pair of 24AWG wires), this means a 100-120 resistor at both ends . Termination resistors should be used especially with long cable length to ensure data integrity. Note that, on very long cable length, adding termination resistors can sometime cause an additional drop of voltage that will cause a loss of communication on the devices that are furthest from the client. In this case, adding a repeater or removing some termination resistors can restore communications.2.3 Fails-Safe Biasing Open bus condition:When a node is disconnected from the bus, the state of the bus, as seen by the receiver, is undetermined and may result in random output from the receiver. A weak failsafe biasing is recommended to ensure that the receiver does not enter undetermined state under open bus conditions. Idle bus condition:When no drivers are active on a bus with termination resistors, those resistors will decrease the differential bus voltage to zero, which according to the RS485 standard, is an undefined bus condition. Biasing resistors should be used in order to generate a valid bus logic state under idle-bus conditions. Biasing resistors are only needed at one node (usually the client), hence configuration switches must be used if the biasing resistors are incorporated into every node. Only one device on the bus should be providing the biasing. The biasing resistors may be external or internal to the device. Some products e.g.8800, 7X50 have internal resistors which may be connected with internal switches to provide biasing of the bus. The Com 32 and Com 128 have permanently connected biasing resistors.2.4 Unit Load (U.L.)A one RS485 transceiver represent a load of 1U.L. The RS485 standard specifies the bus loading as 32 U.L. 2.5 Shielding and GroundingThe RS485 interface standard does not specify a ground wire, but such wire is needed to provide a return path for common mode currents and consequently reduce emissions. It may be possible to operate the RS485 loop without a ground wire, but such systems may radiate high levels of EMI. A shield limits coupling of external interference and noise onto the bus. Generally the shield should be connected to the chassis ground (installation ground) at one end of the cable. In case of ground potential differences between nodes (common in industrial locations) this arrangement prevents the flow of DC ground loop currents in the shield. Ground loop currents flowing in the shield will induce noise in the communications cable. A capacitor or an RC network may be used between the other end and ground. The RS485 nodes can tolerate from -7V to +12V of common mode voltage. When this voltage is exceeded the nodes are no longer guaranteed to function and may even be damaged.Due to significant differences in ground potentials that may and will be present between nodes in industrial locations, ground should not be used as a reference. In installations where ground is used as return path 100-120 resistors may be used to limit the ground currents flowing due to ground potential differences between devices. The figure below illustrates the grounding concepts. Connection Example: 6300 meter, terminated daisy chain bus. The shield terminal is not connected to chassis ground of the meter. Installer must ensure low impedance connection to the system ground at one end of the cable. The 4 wire port on the 6300 is intended to help the installer avoid making T (or stub) connections. Note the use of termination resistors RT. Example: third party devices: Examples of improper networks Do NOT do this: Unterminated cable:Incorrect location of termination resistor: Multiple cables in a star configuration Backbone cable with long stubs:

Question 9

What is difference between BL and BD coils?

Accepted Answer

The difference between BL and BD Coils is a BL coil has a lower power consumption which is good for a contactor ONLY (no auxiliaries attached). Wherefore a BD coil has a normal power consumption but has the capability to use auxiliaries.

Question 10

Why choose Type B RCD for 3 Phase Variable Speed Drives?

Accepted Answer

For the 3 Phase Variable Speed Drives, the RCD type B or type B-Si is particularly suitable.It protects against fault currents with DC offset, which is true for three-phase power converters. In addition, it has enhanced immunity against nuisance tripping caused by: EMC common mode filters connected upstream VSD.Type B has a tripping delay allowing the inrush current to flow on power up.The permanent switching leakage currents existing in power converters (ex: 25kHz).Type B includes a "low pass" filter to ensure a trigger threshold that increases with frequency while complying with the personal protection curve (fibrillation). Please note: if the required sensitivity is 300mA, Selective type RCD should be proposed ensuring a non-triggering time of 50ms. More information can be found on the Earth Fault Protection guide: https://download.schneider-electric.com/files?p_enDocType=Catalog&p_File_Name=CA908066E+%28web%29.pdf&p_Doc_Ref=CA908066EWith regards to installation of these RCDs, they are mounted upstream of the Variable Speed Drives.See below example Schneider Electric offers Acti9 iID range of 4 Pole RCDs type B available in 30 mA sensitivity and type B-Si available in 30 and 300 mA sensitivity (Selective type is available) Click this link below to view the complete range of Acti9 iID RCDs available in Australia: https://www.se.com/ww/en/product-country-selector/?pageType=product-range&sourceId=7559&N=781354987+3098582207+2355967283+39384534

Question 11

How do I access the Tools Page in eDLT

Accepted Answer

Press and hold down the bottom left button, whilst continuing to hold then double press the top right button.Please note that access to the Tools Page can be disabled using C-Bus Toolkit software.

Question 12

How can I cable to the PNP and NPN type outputs for sensors / detectors, using the wiring diagram?

Accepted Answer

PNP and NPN type outputs are available as 3-wire sensors with a DC voltage power supply (the voltage limits are dependent on the specific sensor): PNP type: switching on the positive voltage load NPN type: switching on the negative voltage load These outputs are typical of photoelectric detectors, inductive proximity and other types of sensors.For a detailed explanation of PNP vs NPN, see the following FAQ: FA142566 PNP output The load (relay coil, contactor relay input, PLC input) must be connected between the "-" negative terminal and the midpoint. The corresponding PLC input is Sink. NPN output The load must be connected between the "+" positive terminal and the midpoint. The corresponding PLC input is Source. Some sensors have two PNP and NPN outputs (4-wire sensors) which are wired according to the diagram below.Note that we no longer sell sensors. Telemecanique Sensors, who were previously part of the Schneider Electric brand, were sold in 2023. You can go to their website - www.telemecaniquesensors.com - for more information, including contact details.

Question 13

What is the selection criterion of Circuit Breakers for the Capacitor bank application.

Accepted Answer

The selection should be done after derating the Circuit Breaker taking into consideration voltage variation and capacitors tolerances that could increase nominal current up to 1.5In. The Derating factor of 1.5In Where In = Q/ ( Square root of 3 ) Un Q = Capacitor Power Un = Nominal Voltage Choose the Micrologic with delay time selection, so that the Circuit Breaker does not trip due to initial high inrush current. Also to be taken into account are the parameters like supply frequency, operating voltage & harmonics level of the power system for such application. Refer the attached sheet for further details for selection of Circuit Breaker for Capacitor duty application. Note: Use the phase barrier between the phases in Circuit Breaker to prevent flashover due to heavy inrush current.

Question 14

What are the effects of dV/dt on a Motor when using a VSD?

Accepted Answer

As there is an impedance mismatch at the termination of the motor cable to the motor, there will be a reflected wave which travels back along the motor cable causingovervoltage’s. Overvoltage’s on the motor terminals can cause both partial and corona discharge which eventually wears down the winding insulation to failure. Corona discharge occurs when the overvoltage is large enough to cause electrons to flow from one winding to another whilst ionising the air between the conductors. They cause damage to the internal and external insulating material respectively. As the motor cable length increases the peak voltage increases. This can increase to a value of 2 to 2.5 times the DC bus voltage. Schneider Electric Offer Sinus filters or dv/dt filters to reduce the overvoltage across windings and high frequency currents in differential mode. Check out our current ATV600 or ATV900 catalogue for more information on output filters to help you with overvoltage mitigation.

Question 15

Why is their no display on the VIP400 relay

Accepted Answer

Please note, the VIP400 is a stand alone protection relay powered by its current sensors - when current is present in the MV network, the protections and the display work and it is possible to enter settings and view measurements - the VIP operates at a pickup current value as mentioned in the table below. When no current is flowing through the circuit breaker or when the current is too low, the VIP is off and nothing appears on its display. If current appears, the protection functions are activated and trip the circuit breaker or not, according to the settings. The additional time for the VIP relay to start when current appears is called the pick up time and is mentioned in the table below.

Question 16

Why is Neutral and Earth (Ground) Connection forbidden Downstream from Main Panel?

Accepted Answer

The question is often asked what is the maximum voltage permitted between the Neutral and Earth (Ground) conductor and if the Neutral and Earth can be bridged to achieve a zero value.This can be a difficult topic, in fact in many cases it can be dangerous. As you will see from the attached document, there are many reasons why it is not allowed.

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