Signal Conditional AN401 UK 15

DS EUROPE
TRANSDUCERS AND INDUSTRIAL ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
MICROPROCESSOR BASED
SIGNAL CONDITIONER
AN-401 SERIES
TECHNICAL MANUAL
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Notice: The information in this manual is subject to change without notice. DS Europe shall not be liable
for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein, nor for incidental or consequential damages
resulting from the furnishing, performance, or use of this material. This manual contains information
AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

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protected by copyright. No part of this manual may be photocopied, or reproduced in any form, or
translated without prior written consent from DS Europe.

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FOREWORD
1. This manual is integral part of the shipment and it is supplied with the Product even if not listed in the
invoice.
This manual can also be sent during purchase negotiation on Buyer’s request provided that the Buyer
states end application of the Product.
Except as expressly request by the Buyer, only one copy of this manual may be attached to shipments
consisting of more than one unit of the Product.
2. The Products, which are the subjects of this manual, are designed and manufactured for general use;
therefore, being not possible to specify limits of use for all applications, the Buyer shall introduce
safety measures in order to avoid personal injuries, damages to property or damages due to plants
stoppage, etc.
In case of use that can cause risk of damages, the Buyer shall immediately advise the Supplier in
order that it can suggest safety solutions or can decide to reject the order and not to deliver the
Product.
3. AN401 series of instruments are not certified instruments; it is Buyer’s responsibility to check
instrument suitability to the requirements of the specific application.
4. AN401 series of instruments, even when connected to transducers or other equipment, are only parts
of more complex systems and plants; they are sold in thousands per year, for the most different
applications which shall meet as many different norms that are not always known to the Supplier.
For these reasons, DS Europe is obliged to disclaim all responsibility concerning the use of the
instrument; however, a list of the most elementary and basic precautions for the correct use of the
instrument is given in this manual.
Besides, the need of a complete and specific insurance policy is highlighted, especially when systems
and machinery are to be installed in Countries like United States or Canada.
5. AN401 series of instruments are designed and manufactured by DS Europe conforming to the highest
quality standards; the instruments are rugged and designed to the highest possible safety and
reliability: limitations and precautions listed in this manual are aimed to draw Buyer’s attention to the
importance of avoiding damages.
6. During manufacturing process, AN401 series of instruments are submitted to several intermediate
tests and to a final test including performance test of all functions.
Electrical, temperature and mechanical sampling tests are periodically carried out to check conformity
of manufactured items to Product specifications.
For the overmentioned it is thereby certified that the delivered Product is completely operating.
DS EUROPE S.r.l.
Via F. Russoli, 6
20143 MILAN - ITALY
tel. +39 02 8910142
fax +39 02 89124848 / 8910145
E-mail:
• [email protected]

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CE Declaration of Conformity
Applied Council’s directives: 89/336/CEE modified by directives 92/31/CEE, 93/68/CEE
Conformity to Standards: EMC:

EN 50081-2: 1994 - Emissions, General Norm
EN 55011
EN 50082-2: 1995 - Susceptibility, General Norm
ENV 50140
ENV 50141
EN 61000-4-4
EN 61000-4-2
EN 61000-4-8
ENV 50204
Manufacturer: DS Europe srl
Address: via F. Russoli, 6 Milan (Italy)
Equipment type: Indicator Conditioner
Model: AN401 series
Year of registered mark: 1998
The equipment has been tested in the typical installation configuration, as described by the instruction manual
of the Product.
DS Europe srl certify that the above defined equipment meets the requirements of above mentioned EMC
directives.
Milan, June 12th 1998

DS Europe srl
Technical Dept.

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SIGNAL CONDITIONER
AN-401 SERIES
HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE

TECHNICAL MANUAL

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CONTENTS
1. GENERAL OVERVIEW............................................................................................................. 11
1.1. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................ 11
1.2. ORDER INFORMATION ................................................................................................... 11
1.3. BLOCK DIAGRAM ............................................................................................................ 12
1.4. COMPONENT LAYOUT .................................................................................................... 13
2. TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS........................................................................................ 14
2.1. POWER SUPPLY................................................................................................................. 14
2.1.1. AN401-12 .........................................................................................................................14
2.1.2. AN401-24 .........................................................................................................................14
2.2. TRANSDUCER POWER SUPPLY...................................................................................... 14
2.2.1. AN401-12 .........................................................................................................................14
2.2.2. AN401-24 .........................................................................................................................14
2.3. ANALOG INPUT SIGNALS................................................................................................ 15
2.3.1. DIFFERENTIAL INPUT ..................................................................................................15
2.3.2. SINGLE ENDED INPUT..................................................................................................15
2.4. RESOLUTION ..................................................................................................................... 15
2.5. ANALOG INPUT ADJUSTMENT...................................................................................... 15
2.6. DISPLAY.............................................................................................................................. 15
2.7. LEDs ..................................................................................................................................... 16
2.8. FRONT PANEL PUSHBUTTONS...................................................................................... 16
2.9. BANDWIDTH ...................................................................................................................... 16
2.10. SERIAL COMMUNICATION ........................................................................................ 16
2.11. ANALOG OUTPUT.......................................................................................................... 17
2.12. EXTERNAL COMMANDS.............................................................................................. 17
2.13. LIMIT LEVELS................................................................................................................ 17
OVERALL DIMENSIONS................................................................................................................ 17
3. INSTRUMENT SETUP .............................................................................................................. 19
3.1. PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS......................................................................... 19
3.2. ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS TO REAR PANEL ........................................................ 19
3.2.1. No. 1 TERMINAL ............................................................................................................20
3.2.2. No. 2 TERMINAL ............................................................................................................20
3.2.3. No. 3 TERMINAL ............................................................................................................20
3.2.4. No. 4 TERMINAL ............................................................................................................20
3.2.5. No. 5 TERMINAL ............................................................................................................20
3.2.6. AIN TERMINAL..............................................................................................................20
3.2.7. COMMON TERMINALS .................................................................................................20
3.2.8. +VDC TERMINAL ..........................................................................................................21
3.2.9. EARTH TERMINAL........................................................................................................21
3.2.10. AOUT TERMINAL..........................................................................................................21
3.2.11. REL 4 TERMINALS.........................................................................................................21
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3.2.12. REL 3 TERMINALS.........................................................................................................21

3.2.13. REL 2 TERMINALS.........................................................................................................21
3.2.14. REL 1 TERMINALS.........................................................................................................21
3.2.15. KEY 4 TERMINAL..........................................................................................................21
3.2.16. KEY 3 TERMINAL..........................................................................................................22
3.2.17. KEY 2 TERMINAL..........................................................................................................22
3.2.18. KEY 1 TERMINAL..........................................................................................................22
3.3. JUMPERS CONFIGURATION SETUP ............................................................................. 22
3.3.1. INSTRUMENT OPENING...............................................................................................22
3.3.2. JUMPERS FOR RELAY OUTPUT CONTACTS..............................................................23
3.3.3. SELECTION OF RELAY OUTPUT CONTACT ..............................................................23
3.3.4. JUMPERS FOR CALIBRATION SELECTION ................................................................24
3.3.5. JUMPER FOR INPUT SELECTION ................................................................................25
3.4. POWER SUPPLY WIRING ................................................................................................. 26
3.5. EARTHING.......................................................................................................................... 26
3.6. DIFFERENTIAL INPUT WIRING ..................................................................................... 27
3.7. SINGLE ENDED INPUT WIRING...................................................................................... 28
3.7.1. A5 (±5V) AMPLIFIED TRANSDUCERS WIRING ..........................................................28
3.7.2. A10 (±10V) AMPLIFIED TRANSDUCERS WIRING.......................................................29
3.7.3. SERVOINCLINOMETER ES200 OR OTHER ±15 V TRANSDUCER WIRING...............30
3.8. DIGITAL INPUT WIRING.................................................................................................. 31
3.8.1. DIGITAL INPUT FROM EXTERNAL MECHANICAL CONTACTS...............................31
3.8.2. DIGITAL INPUT FROM LOGIC SIGNALS .....................................................................32
3.9. RELAY CONTACTS WIRING............................................................................................ 32
3.10. SERIAL PORT WIRING.................................................................................................. 32
3.10.1. RS-232 POINT-TO-POINT WIRING................................................................................32
3.10.2. RS485 BIDIRECTIONAL MULTIDROP WIRING...........................................................33
3.10.3. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS ON SERIAL LINES......................................................33
4. INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION PROCEDURES.................................................................... 35
4.1. INSTRUMENT POWER ON............................................................................................... 35
4.2. CALIBRATION MENU ...................................................................................................... 37
ANALOG INPUT ADJUSTMENT (CAL).........................................................................................38
4.2.2. MINIMUM READING VALUE (LO)...............................................................................40
4.2.3. MAXIMUM VALUE (HI) ................................................................................................40
4.2.4. MAXIMUM VALUE (HICAL).........................................................................................40
4.2.5. TARE...............................................................................................................................41
4.2.6. CALIBRATION HINTS ...................................................................................................41
4.3. CUSTOMIZATION MENU................................................................................................. 48
4.3.1. CONVERSION TO MECHANICAL UNITS AND RESOLUTION...................................50
4.3.2. LIMIT LEVELS AND HYSTERESIS ...............................................................................51
4.3.3. FILTERING......................................................................................................................52
4.3.4. SERIAL TRANSMISSION RATE ....................................................................................52
4.3.5. SERVOINCLINOMETER CONVERSION .......................................................................53
4.3.6. CHANGING LIMIT LEVELS IN MEASURE MODE .......................................................53
4.3.7. DISPLAY MODE.............................................................................................................54
4.3.8. TARE SETTING...............................................................................................................55
4.3.9. INSTRUMENT IDENTIFIER ...........................................................................................55

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4.4. CLOCK MENU.................................................................................................................... 55

4.5. EEPROM MEMORY .......................................................................................................... 58
5. MEASURING FUNCTIONS OF AN401 ................................................................................... 59
5.1. NET....................................................................................................................................... 59
5.2. GROSS.................................................................................................................................. 59
5.3. PIECE-COUNTER............................................................................................................... 59
5.4. ERROR................................................................................................................................. 59
5.5. PEAK.................................................................................................................................... 60
5.6. HOLD ................................................................................................................................... 60
5.7. PRINT................................................................................................................................... 60
6. SERIAL COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL............................................................................ 62
6.1. PROTOCOL FORMAT....................................................................................................... 62
6.1.1. COMMAND MESSAGE FORMAT ..................................................................................62
6.1.2. CONFIGURATION MESSAGE FORMAT .......................................................................63
6.2. AVAILABLE COMMANDS ............................................................................................... 65
6.2.1. “C” COMMAND..............................................................................................................65
6.2.2. “G” COMMAND..............................................................................................................65
6.2.3. “H” COMMAND..............................................................................................................65
6.2.4. “INIT” COMMAND.........................................................................................................67
6.2.5. “K” COMMAND..............................................................................................................67
6.2.6. “L” COMMAND ..............................................................................................................68
6.2.7. “P” COMMAND ..............................................................................................................68
6.2.8. “R” COMMAND..............................................................................................................69
6.2.9. “V” COMMAND..............................................................................................................69
6.2.10. “Z” COMMAND ..............................................................................................................69
6.3. CUSTOMIZATION PARAMETERS.................................................................................. 71
6.4. RESPONSES FROM AN401 ............................................................................................... 72
7. CE MARKING ........................................................................................................................... 73
7.1. ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE PROTECTION ............................................. 73
7.2. TEST LABORATORY AND TEST LIST ........................................................................... 75
7.3. TEST RESULTS AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.............................................. 75
8. TERMS OF SALE ...................................................................................................................... 76
8.1. LIMITED WARRANTY...................................................................................................... 76
8.2. LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES ............................................................................................. 76

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1. GENERAL OVERVIEW
1.1. INTRODUCTION
The panel mounting instrument described herein is part of a new family of microprocessor based
products designed and manufactured by DS Europe.
This general purpose instrument can be connected to the signals provided by any DS Europe
transducers as:
• pressure transducers
• load cells
• position transducers
• inclinometers; in this case, the instrument can display the results directly in degrees
• torque meters
• radial load cells
The instrument can also be connected to standard voltage signals.
The instrument includes many standard functions, e.g. readings in mechanical units, piece-counter,
linearization and other functions as described in this manual or which will be implemented later
according to Customer’s requests.
1.2. ORDER INFORMATION
The AN-401 family of instruments is coded as follows:
Fig. 1 Definition of Model Coded Variants

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1.3. BLOCK DIAGRAM
The block diagram of AN401 is shown in fig. 2: the microprocessor is in the center of the picture and
all the peripherals are around it.
The microprocessor is a RISC type, 16-bit, 20 MHz clock rate; some peripherals are embedded into
the microprocessor to supervise power supply (POWER-ON), to avoid alting of executing program
(WATCH-DOG) and to RESET.
An EEPROM technology memory has been selected to store instrument parameters in order to
ensures data retention, without battery or other means, when power is switched off.
A Flash technology memory has been selected as program memory in order to easily update the
software loaded into the instrument.
PROGRAM VOLATILE
MEMORY MEMORY
( FLASH ) ( RAM )
INPUT 1
4 FILTERED DIGITAL
INPUT 2
5 DIGITS DISPLAY
INPUT 3
INPUTS
LED
PUSHBUTTONS
INPUT 4
16 BIT MICROPROCESSOR
DATA MEMORY WITH WATCH-DOG
RS-232 OR RS-485
( EEPROM ) POWER-ON TX
RESET
SERIAL PORT
RX
+VDC
SWITCHING
POWER SUPPLY
OUTPUT CONTACTS
COMMON A/D 16 BIT

( 5V ) DIGITAL CONVERTER
RELAYS
OUTPUT
4 LEVELS
+VDC
LINEAR POWER
SUPPLY
COMMON FOR TRANSDUCER AMPLIFIER
AND ANALOG CIRCUITS
INPUT
SELECTION SINGLE ENDED
DIFFERENTIAL INPUT
AND
BLACK
INPUT
CALIBRATION
RED
COMMON
WHITE
AIN
GREEN
YELLOW
Fig. 2 AN401 Block Diagram

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1.4. COMPONENT LAYOUT
The layout of electronic components on the printed circuit board is shown in fig. 3 where the position
of some jumpers is highlighted: these jumpers are used to change hardware configuration of AN401 in
order to suit the most different applications.
RELAYS JUMPERS FOR INPUT
OUTPUT CONTACT SELECTION
SELECTION TYPE JUMPER
CALIBRATION
SELECTION
JUMPER
Fig. 3 Components Layout on PCB

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2. TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS
2.1. POWER SUPPLY
The instrument, according to the selected variant, can be powered by different supply voltages.
Two variants are available, as follows.
2.1.1. AN401-12
The nominal voltage is 12 VDC±20%, i.e. the instrument is fully operating when the power
supply voltage is between 9.6 and 14.4 VDC.
Should power supply be lower than 9.6 VDC, internal power supply regulation is lost.
The maximum allowable voltage is 28 VDC.
Power supply voltage higher than 14.4 VDC causes longer “warm-up” time.
2.1.2. AN401-24
The nominal voltage of this variant is 24 VDC±20%, i.e. the instrument is full operating
when the power supply voltage is between 19.2 and 28.8 VDC.
The minimum voltage without loosing internal regulation is 15.5 VDC, while the maximum
allowable voltage is 32 VDC.
2.2. TRANSDUCER POWER SUPPLY

Both variants of the instrument can provide supply voltage to non amplified strain-gauge bridge
transducers.
The minimum resistance of the bridge shall not be less than 120 ohm.
The voltage provided to the transducer is as follows:
2.2.1. AN401-12
The voltage provided to the transducer is 8 VDC.
Should the transducer require a lower voltage, connect two series resistors in order to obtain
the required voltage.
Example: to supply a transducer of BC 300 series, which requires 5 VDC maximum, connect
two 160 ohm series resistors.
2.2.2. AN401-24
The voltage provided to the transducer is 12 VDC.
See example of paragraph 2.2.1 to lower the voltage provided to the transducer, with two 300
ohm series resistors.
Model AN401-24 can also supply DS Europe amplified transducers with A5 output variant (±
5 V) and all the conditioning boards EL 500 series, A5 output variant.
Generally, Model AN401-24 can supply any system requiring 12 VDC power supply, e.g. it is
possible to connect a load cells summing unit mod. EL574-12 or a pressure transducer mod.
LP655.
Note applicable to both models: current consumption of transducers shall not exceed 120 mA.

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This value is limited by the maximum allowable dissipation of the internal regulator.
2.3. ANALOG INPUT SIGNALS

The analog input signal to the AN401 shall be a voltage mode signal; current mode signals cannot be
directly connected to the instrument.
Two input stages are provided: one stage is suitable for differential signals, while the other stage is
suitable for single ended signals referred to ground; in this case, the polarity of the signal vs. ground
can be either positive or negative.
2.3.1. DIFFERENTIAL INPUT

This input provides maximum flexibility and good stability even at high gain.
The following full scale ranges are available:
• ±5 mV
• ±10 mV
• ±20 mV
• ±40 mV
• ±80 mV
2.3.2. SINGLE ENDED INPUT

Available full scale ranges are:
• ±1 V
• ±2.5 V
• ±5 V
• ±10 V
Typical input impedance of both stages is 1 Megaohm.
2.4. RESOLUTION
Analog to digital conversion of the input signal is performed by means of a 16-bit A/D converter
providing 65,535 conversion points.
Available conversion points shall be allocated considering conversion to mechanical units, required
calibration and the range of input signal.
For further details about allocation of conversion points, see chapter 4-Instrument Calibration
Procedures of this manual.
2.5. ANALOG INPUT ADJUSTMENT

In the rear panel of the instrument, there are two holes marked “ZERO” and “GAIN” (see fig. 4);
these holes allow easy access to zero and gain trimmers to adjust input stage of AN401.
The position of these trimmers is protected in order to avoid unwanted or accidental adjustment.
It is recommended to not stress the trimmers using the screwdriver.
See chapter 4 for trimmer adjustment.
2.6. DISPLAY
The display consists of 5 digits , 7 segments LED type indicator.
An additional LED in front of the most significant digit allows to display minus sign without wasting
any digit; therefore any value in the range ±99999 can be displayed.
The display of the decimal point is software controlled by AN401 and is User defined.
According to the calibration of the instrument together with the transducer, the AN401 displays the
measured value in the required mechanical units.

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Calibration also determines the resolution of the measured signal, i.e. the smallest value of the input
signal which can be displayed in mechanical units.
2.7. LEDs
On the front panel of the instrument there are four LEDs marked 1 thru 4; functions of these LEDs
are in accordance to the selected mode of operations of the instrument.
For instance, in net weight mode of operations, LED 1 is ON when the measured value reaches the
value defined for limit level no. 1 and, as a consequence, relay no. 1 is activated.
Alternatively, a blinking LED shows the selected measurement function, i.e. NET, GROSS, PIECE-
COUNTER or ERROR.
2.8. FRONT PANEL PUSHBUTTONS

Below instrument display there are four pushbuttons protected by a film strengthened with
polypropylene.
The main functions of these pushbuttons are as follows:
θ (down); it allows: to move one level down in the configuration menus of AN401; or to move
to next measuring mode; or to decrease the value of a parameter.
π (up); it allows: to move one level up in the configuration menus of AN401; or to activate
printing through the serial printer; or to increase the value of a parameter.
E (Enter); it allows: to confirm data entry by the User and to save them into the instrument; or
to save the value of the sample in PIECE-COUNTER mode of operations.
C (ESC); it allows: to escape from any menu without saving changed parameters, if any; or to
clear the reading when in measuring mode.
The above pushbuttons may have other functions according to the selected mode of operations and to
the specific context where they are used (see chapters 4 and 5).
To avoid damages, it is recommended to gently press pushbuttons and to not use sharpened tools, like
screwdrivers and similar tools, which can damage the instrument.
2.9. BANDWIDTH
The bandwidth of the instrument is 25 - 30 Hz approximately when no digital filter is activated.
2.10. SERIAL COMMUNICATION

AN401 instrument can be connected to a remote computer, for instrument setting and/or data display,
or connected to a serial printer.
For these purposes, the instrument is provided with a serial port which can be either an RS-232 serial
port (standard version) or an RS-485 serial port (option).

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Data transmission rate is User selectable between 600 and 57,600 baud.
As detailed in chapter 6, a simple protocol allows transfer of data from the instrument and setting of
instrument parameters.
2.11. ANALOG OUTPUT
Optionally, an analog output board can be installed into the instrument; the analog output is
proportional to the displayed value and can be used to implement a simple closed loop system.
The analog output is obtained by means of a D/A converter, the resolution of which is 8 to 16 bits
(12-bit D/A converter for standard version).
The analog output is available as voltage or current output with the following full scale ranges:
• ±5 V (5 mA maximum load)
• ±10 V (5 mA maximum load) only with AN401-24
• 0-20 mA
• 4-20 mA
• 4-20 mA (with 12 mA corresponding to physical zero)
The voltage output should be connected to a high impedance load for a correct use of the instrument.
2.12. EXTERNAL COMMANDS
TTL inputs are used to synchronize instrument functions to external equipment part of User’s
system.
According to the software version loaded into AN401, different functions can be assigned to these
inputs, e.g. printing, net weight function, peak holding, etc.
These inputs are active low and can also be activated by closure to ground of switches or relays
contacts (see paragraph 3.8).
Inputs are provided with software filter for debouncing and noise rejection.
2.13. LIMIT LEVELS
Four limit levels are available: each level can be set in the range ±100% of full scale value in
mechanical units. 92 44
Four internal relays are associated to limit
8
levels: each relay is activated when the

relevant set point is reached by the input
signal.
The output contact of each relay can be
selected as normally open (NO) or
139
normally closed (NC); moreover, a

hysteresis around each level can be
software defined in the range 0-50
mechanical units.
8
2.14. OVERALL DIMENSIONS 96 48
DIN standard 96x48 mm; depth: 147 mm.

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Panel cut out: 92x44 mm.
Dimensions in mm.

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3. INSTRUMENT SETUP
3.1. PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS

Electrical connections to the instrument shall be in accordance with all rules and standards in use
concerning safety and accident prevention.
Specific cares shall be taken to avoid that electrical connections to the instrument may propagate
electrical interference that could be present at the environment where the instrument is installed.
It is also recommended to have a good knowledge of the instrument and its functions before final
setup: it is suggested to connect the transducer and to calibrate the system preliminarily at laboratory.
3.2. ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS TO REAR PANEL

Fig. 4 shows the rear panel of the instrument.
Rear terminals are screw type terminals, connector for serial port is DB-9 standard connector used
for serial connections to PC.
In the low right part of the panel, there are two holes which allow easy access to ZERO and GAIN
trimmers.
Note: to avoid damages to the instrument, it is recommended to avoid direct mechanical stress to the
terminals or indirect stress due to connecting cables.
Fig. 4 Rear Panel
Table 1 hereafter gives a brief description of the functions of each terminal; a more detailed description is
given in the following paragraphs.

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TERMINAL DESCRIPTION DS Europe

1 ANALOG SIGNAL DIFFERENTIAL INPUT (+) WHITE
2 ANALOG SIGNAL DIFFERENTIAL INPUT (-) GREEN
3 CALIBRATION INPUT YELLOW
4 POSITIVE POWER SUPPLY OUTPUT (+) RED
5 NEGATIVE POWER SUPPLY OUTPUT (-) BLACK
AIN ANALOG SIGNAL INPUT (SINGLE ENDED)
COMMON TWO TERMINALS FOR RETURN SIGNALS,I.E.:
COMMON ANALOG, DIGITAL AND POWER SUPPLY GROUND
+VDC POWER SUPPLY INPUT (+12VDC / +24VDC)
EARTH EARTH TERMINAL
AOUT ANALOG OUTPUT
REL4 LEVEL 4 OUTPUT CONTACTS
REL4
REL3
REL2
REL1
KEY 1 DIGITAL INPUT No. 1
3.2.1. No. 1 TERMINAL

Positive polarity input (+) from the transducer output signal.
For DS Europe load cells: white wire.
For input voltage range, see paragraph 2.3.1.

Negative polarity input (-) from the transducer output signal.
For DS Europe load cells: green wire.

Calibration input of the transducer.
For DS Europe load cells: yellow wire.

Positive power supply output (+) to the transducer.
For DS Europe load cells: red wire.
For output voltage range, see paragraph 2.1.1 or paragraph 2.1.2 according to the model.

Negative power supply output (-) to the transducer.
For DS Europe transducers: black wire.
3.2.6. AIN TERMINAL

Single ended input signal, ground referred.
3.2.7. COMMON TERMINALS

The following return signals shall be connected to these terminals: power supply ground,
analog signal (AIN) ground, digital signals ground.
To make connections easier, two terminals are provided on the rear panel.

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Also PIN 5 of DB-9 connector (serial port) and terminal No. 5 are internally connected to
COMMON; for terminal No. 5 this is true on condition that no series resistor has been
connected to lower transducer power supply.
3.2.8. +VDC TERMINAL

This is positive input of instrument power supply.
Power supply voltage is defined in paragraph 2.1.1 or paragraph 2.1.2 according to the
model.
3.2.9. EARTH TERMINAL

Earth can be connected to this terminal.
It allows earthing of filtering devices internal to the instrument.
Earthing improves performances against electrical interference.
3.2.10. AOUT TERMINAL

When the relevant optional board is installed (see paragraph 2.11), this terminal provides an
analog output (voltage or current) proportional to the displayed value.
3.2.11. REL 4 TERMINALS

An uncommitted relay contact is connected to these two terminals: the contact is activated
when the value set for LEVEL 4 is reached,
The contact can be selected as:
• NORMALLY OPEN (N.O.)
• NORMALLY CLOSED (N.C.)
by means of an internal jumper.
Note: the relay contact can withstand 1 A at 20 VDC maximum.
Select NORMALLY OPEN if the contact is required open until the displayed value is lower
than the set value.
Select NORMALLY CLOSED if the contact is required closed until the displayed value is
lower than the set value.
Note: the above description is also applicable to terminals described in paragraphs 3.2.12,
3.2.13 and 3.2.14 hereafter.

Relay contact relevant to LEVEL 3 is connected to these terminals.


3.2.15. KEY 4 TERMINAL

Some functions of the instrument can be activated connecting a digital logic level to this input.
The following signals can be used:
• TTL/CMOS signals from remote devices

• External switch

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The switch is active when closed to ground. An internal pull-up resistor to +5VDC is
provided.
Note: the above description is also applicable to terminals described in paragraphs 3.2.16,
3.2.17 and 3.2.18 hereafter.



3.3. JUMPERS CONFIGURATION SETUP
Hardware configuration of AN401 can be changed at any time should a different transducer type or a
different relay contact be required.
Changes can be carried out by the User, under his responsibility, to fit the instrument for specific
application. Fig. 3 shows a general overview of component layout on the printed circuit board.
3.3.1. INSTRUMENT OPENING
Instrument opening shall be carried out after removing power supply: this is to avoid damages
or short circuit.
To open the instrument, simply unscrew the four (A) screws at the corners of the rear panel
(see fig. 5), then gently slip electronics out of the chassis: please consider that display board
and rear panel are vertically mounted on the main board.
A A
1 2 3 4
6 7 8 9 5
KEY 4
KEY 3
KEY 2
KEY 1
EARTH
+VDC
AOUT
COMMON
AIN
REL4 REL3 REL2 REL1

5 4 3 2 1
GAIN
ZERO
A A
Fig. 5 Rear View of AN401

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Avoid mechanical stress to boards or to internal components.

Avoid introduction of external contaminants, e.g. water, oil, metallic blurs, tin pieces and any
other contaminant which could damage the circuits.
If in doubt, send the instrument back to DS Europe detailing required operations.
3 2 1 3 2 1 3 2 1 3 2 1
Fig. 6 Details of Relays Section
3.3.2. JUMPERS FOR RELAY OUTPUT CONTACTS
After electronics has been removed from chassis, locate the area detailed in fig. 6.
Near to the relays there are four jumpers, identified as PT 7, PT 6, PT 5, PT 4.
Each jumper is assigned to a relay and to a contact according to the following table:
JUMPER RELAY CONTACT

PT 7 RELAY No. 4 REL 4
Table 2 Jumpers, Relays and Contacts Assignment
3.3.3. SELECTION OF RELAY OUTPUT CONTACT
Tables 3, 4, 5, and 6 hereinafter show how the jumper is to be placed for each relay; the
symbol • in the table identifies the pins to be short-circuited by the jumper to obtain the
required function.
In table 3, for instance, if normally open (N.O.) contact is required, the jumper shall be placed
between pins 1 and 2; if normally closed (N.C.) contact is required, the jumper shall be
placed between pins 2 and 3.
The above example is also applicable to other jumpers (see tables 4, 5 and 6).
PT 7 OUTPUT CONTACT
3 2 1
• • NORMALLY OPEN
• • NORMALLY CLOSED
Table 3 PT 7 Jumper for Relay No. 4

-24-
PT 6 OUTPUT CONTACT
3 2 1
PT 5 OUTPUT CONTACT
3 2 1
PT 4 OUTPUT CONTACT
3 2 1
3.3.4. JUMPERS FOR CALIBRATION SELECTION
Should the transducer connected to AN401 be provided with an internal calibration circuit, as
DS Europe transducers, this feature can be automatically activated by the instrument.
PT 1, PT 2 and PT 3 jumpers allows to select three calibration modes suitable for all DS
Europe series of transducers; fig. 7 details jumpers layout.
To properly place the jumper, also consult the manual of the transducer.
Fig. 7 Details of Calibration Selection
AN401 allows to close automatically the calibration contact and therefore to check
transducer calibration or to perform an automatic test on the functionality of the measuring
chain whenever needed.
This function is directly carried out by the microprocessor which select calibration mode by
means of a digital switch.
Also transducers without calibration circuit can be connected to the instrument: in this case,
operating mode of AN401 is independent from PT 1, PT 2 and PT 3 setting.

-25-
JUMPER CALIBRATION CIRCUIT CLOSING MODE

PT 1 Connect calibration wire (YELLOW) to GREEN
PT 2 Connect calibration wire (YELLOW) to WHITE
PT 3 Connect calibration wire (YELLOW) to GROUND
Table 7 Calibration Jumper Selection (DS Europe wiring code)
For non-amplified load cells, calibration circuit consists of an internal resistor which, when
connected in parallel to one arm of the strain gauge bridge, determines an unbalance
corresponding to the mechanical value specified in test certificate of the transducer.
3.3.5. JUMPER FOR INPUT SELECTION
As mentioned in paragraph 2.3, it is possible to select the type of the input to be measured by
AN401. The input signal type is selected by jumper J5 which is shown in fig. 8.
3 2 1
J5
Fig. 8 Details of Analog Input Selection
Table 8 shows the position of the jumper according to the required input type.
J5 INPUT SIGNAL
3 2 1
• • DIFFERENTIAL SIGNAL INPUT
• • SINGLE ENDED SIGNAL INPUT
Table 8 Input Jumper
Example: should a non-amplified load cell be connected to the instrument, differential signal input shall
be selected and the jumper shall be placed between pins 1 and 2.

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3.4. POWER SUPPLY WIRING
Fig. 9 details wiring between the instrument and the power supply.
Power supply negative polarity (or return or common) shall be connected to instrument COMMON
terminal. This is also the common point for analog and digital signals.
Power supply positive polarity (+VDC) shall be connected to instrument +VDC terminal.
REGULATED
POWER SUPPLY
12 or 24 VDC
_ +
+VDC
COMMON
1 2 3 4
6 7 8 9 5
KEY 4
KEY 3
KEY 2
KEY 1
EARTH
+VDC
AOUT
COMMON
AIN
REL4 REL3 REL2 REL1

5 4 3 2 1
ZERO
GAIN
Reversing polarity must be avoided.
Fig. 9 Power Supply Wiring
3.5. EARTHING
Important notice: AN401, the transducer and the system connected to them shall be earthed
according to the rules in use in the Country where the system is installed. In case of conflict between
these rules and this manual, the rules shall take precedence.
AN401 is provided with input filters (for power supply, analog and digital signals) and output filters
(when the relevant option is installed).
The use of these filters may be required by the environment where the instrument is installed and
allows improved protection in addition to interference and noise immunity of AN401 itself.
For good noise rejection of these filters, the instrument shall be connected to an earth which is free
from other equipment noise.
Earthing of the instrument is shown in fig. 10. The shortest possible wire with a section according to
rules shall be used and connected to EARTH terminal.

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1 2 3 4
6 7 8 9 5
EARTH
KEY 4
KEY 3
KEY 2
KEY 1
+VDC
AOUT
COMMON
AIN REL4 REL3 REL2 REL1

5 4 3 2 1
GAIN
ZERO
Fig. 10 Instrument Earthing
3.6. DIFFERENTIAL INPUT WIRING
Typical wiring diagram between differential input of AN401 and a transducer strain gauge bridge is
shown in fig. 11.
Measuring ranges of differential input signal are listed in paragraph 2.3.1.
1 2 3 4
6 7 8 9 5
KEY 4
KEY 3
KEY 2
KEY 1
EARTH
+VDC
AOUT
COMMON
AIN
REL4 REL3 REL2 REL1

5 4 3 2 1
ZERO
GAIN
BLACK
RED WHITE
YELLOW GREEN
TC
+R3 -R2
-R4 +R1
RCAL
DS Europe Wiring Description
Red Power Supply (+)
DS EUROPE LOAD CELL Black Power Supply (-)
Green Input Signal (-)
White Input Signal (+)
Yellow Calibration Input
Fig. 11 Strain Gauge Connections to Differential Input

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3.7. SINGLE ENDED INPUT WIRING
Generally, this input is used together with “amplified” transducers, i.e. transducers with internal
electronics, signal amplifier and with high voltage output, e.g. ±5V, as described in paragraph 2.3.2.
These transducers may require a voltage power supply equal to or different from the one provided by
the instrument (see paragraphs 2.2.1 and 2.2.2). If the required voltage power supply is not available
from the instrument, a separate and suitable power supply shall be provided by the User.
For good operations of the measuring system, i.e. AN401 and transducer, power available from the
external general power supply shall be greater than system power consumption; specific cares shall
be taken if the system exhibits transient power consumption.
Connections to DS Europe amplified transducers, covering most of applications, are described in
paragraphs 3.7.1, 3.7.2 and 3.7.3 hereafter; in the following applications, the transducer is supplied
directly by AN401 or by the external general power supply.
3.7.1. A5 (±5V) AMPLIFIED TRANSDUCERS WIRING
Wiring diagram in fig. 12 shows how to connect a DS Europe transducer with A5 (±5V)
amplified output which requires +12VDC (typical) power supply.
Using AN 401-24 model, the instrument can directly supply the transducer.
1 2 3 4
6 7 8 9 5
KEY 4
KEY 3
KEY 2
KEY 1
EARTH
+VDC
AOUT
COMMON
AIN
REL4 REL3 REL2 REL1

5 4 3 2 1
ZERO
GAIN
BLACK
YELLOW
WHITE
RED
DSEUROPE 500QDT- A5 LOAD CELL
AN401 Terminal Description

5 Power Supply (-)
4 Power Supply (+)
3 Calibration Input
AIN Input Signal

-29-
Fig. 12 Amplified Transducer (0±5V) Connections
3.7.2. A10 (±10V) AMPLIFIED TRANSDUCERS WIRING
Wiring diagram in fig. 13 shows how to connect a DS Europe transducer with A10 (±10V)
amplified output which requires +24VDC (typical) and +18VDC (minimum) power supply.
In this application the transducer is supplied by the external power supply (24 VDC). 24VDC
voltage shall be regulated very well.
AN401-24 model is preferred to AN401-12 since the transducer is supplied directly from the
external general power supply without any load for AN401.
REGULATED
POWER SUPPLY
_ + 24 VDC
+
+VDC
COMMON
1 2 3 4
6 7 8 9 5
KEY 4
KEY 3
KEY 2
KEY 1
EARTH
+VDC
AOUT
COMMON
AIN
REL4 REL3 REL2 REL1

5 4 3 2 1
ZERO
GAIN
YELLOW
BLACK
WHITE
RED
DS EUROPE SERIES 500QDT- A10 LOAD CELL

5 24 VDC external Power Supply (-)
3 Calibration Input
AIN Input Signal
Fig. 13 Amplified Transducer (0±10V) Connections

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3.7.3. SERVOINCLINOMETER ES200 OR OTHER ±15 V TRANSDUCER WIRING
Wiring diagram in fig. 14 shows how to connect a DS Europe servoinclinometer, model

ES200, with amplified output (±5V) which requires ±15VDC (typical) power supply.
In this application, the instrument cannot supply the transducer.
It is suggested to use AN401-12 model, which can be supplied by regulated 15VDC,
connected as in the wiring diagram below.
REGULATED
POWER SUPPLY
+ / - 15 VDC
0V +15V -15V
COMMON +VDC
1 2 3 4
6 7 8 9 5
KEY 4
KEY 3
KEY 2
KEY 1
EARTH
+VDC
AOUT COMMON
AIN
REL4 REL3 REL2 REL1

5 4 3 2 1
ZERO
GAIN
YELLOW
GREEN
BLACK
WHITE
RED
ES253/7
DS EUROPE SERVOINCLINOMETER
MOD. ES 253/7-AQ1

5 Common
3 Calibration Input
AIN Input Signal
Fig. 14 Servoinclinometer or ±15VDC Transducers Connections

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3.8. DIGITAL INPUT WIRING
As described hereinbefore, up to four external command signals can be connected to AN401.

These signals can be of two types as follows:
• mechanical switches (pushbuttons, relays, etc.)
• digital signals (TTL or CMOS)
To activate functions relevant to digital inputs, terminals KEY1-2-3-4 shall be connected to common
(ground).
Voltage greater than +5V shall not be connected to these inputs since they are provided with internal
pull-up resistors to +5VDC (internal digital power supply).
Mechanical and digital commands to these inputs can be mixed according to User’s application, e.g. a
relay contact can be connected to KEY1 and a TTL signal can be connected to KEY2.
See chapter 5 for the relation between digital inputs and instrument functions.
3.8.1. DIGITAL INPUT FROM EXTERNAL MECHANICAL CONTACTS
Fig. 15 shows the wiring diagram when switches are used.

According to application, either un-stable or stable switches can be connected.
Relay contacts, instead of switches, can be connected in the same way.
It is possible to connect only the inputs required by the application without connecting unused
inputs.
Inputs are active low, i.e. the function is activated when the relevant switch is closed to
COMMON terminal (ground).
KEY
KEY
KEY
KEY
1 2 3 4
6 7 8 9 5
KEY 4
KEY 3
KEY 2
KEY 1
EARTH
+VDC
AOUT
COMMON
AIN
REL4 REL3 REL2 REL1

5 4 3 2 1
ZERO
GAIN
Fig. 15 Digital or Manual External Commands Connections

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3.8.2. DIGITAL INPUT FROM LOGIC SIGNALS
Either CMOS or TTL digital signals from other equipment can be connected to digital inputs.
Inputs are active low, i.e. the function is activated when the relevant signal is at low logic
level.
In this kind of application, logic signals shall be connected to terminals KEY1-2-3-4 while
instrument ground and external equipment ground shall be connected together using
COMMON terminal.
Even in this case it is possible to connect only the inputs required by the application without
connecting unused inputs.
3.9. RELAY CONTACTS WIRING

Refer to the description given in paragraphs 3.2.11 through 3.2.14; it is reminded that relay contact
rating is 1A max., 20VDC max.
Should switching of greater loads be required, then it is necessary to use more powerful external
relays controlled by the internal ones.
This solution could be necessary even in case that AC loads are to be connected to the instrument:
this way, noise generated by AC loads is not propagated inside the instrument.
3.10. SERIAL PORT WIRING

According to system configuration, different serial connections to the computer are required: in case
of a system consisting of one instrument with one transducer, RS-232 serial port should be used; in
case of a system consisting of several instruments with one transducer each, RS-485 multi-drop serial
port should be used.
3.10.1. RS-232 POINT-TO-POINT WIRING
Instrument Computer
TX RX
RX TX
GND GND
The most common wiring for RS-232 connection between AN401 and PC compatible
computer is as follows:
AN401 - RS 232 Computer

9-pin Connector 9-pin Connector 25-pin Connector
TX 2 3 2
RX 3 2 3
GND 5 5 7
The following setting of the serial port is required:

• Data bit = 8
• Parity = none
• Stop bit = 1

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• Flow control = none
3.10.2. RS485 BIDIRECTIONAL MULTIDROP WIRING
The connection is achieved by means of a serial multi-drop wiring where data lines are in
parallel among several devices and ground lines are commoned.
Instrument No. 1 Instrument No. 2 Instrument No. n

Computer
Data+ Data+ Data+ Data+

Data- Data- Data- Data-
GND GND GND GND
AN401 - RS 485
9-pin Connector
Data+ 2
Data- 3
GND 5
3.10.3. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS ON SERIAL LINES
Connection for communication serial lines should consider the following:
• cable type: the use of shielded twisted pairs is recommended since their immunity to
noise is greater than non-shielded cables.
Moreover, if necessary, use double shielded interconnecting cables.
To obtain the best immunity to noise, paramount cares should be taken in earthing the
interconnecting cable. It shall be connected such that ground loops, which could allow
noise current to flow, are avoided. For shielding effectiveness, the User shall also
check that the earthing point be a true reference point at null electric potential.
If double shielded cables are used, it is suggested that inner shield be connected at
one side (e.g. the transducer) and the outer shield be connected at the opposite side
(e.g. the computer). This procedure shall also be followed when the interconnecting
cable passes through a metallic tube to improve shielding.
If necessary, it is also possible to consider the use of optocouplers for serial lines.
However, the above shall be considered together with the specific application and
shall be considered as suggestions only.
• cable length: the protocol, which defines RS-232 standard, recommends 15.2 meters
as maximum interconnecting length between the device and the computer.
For RS-485 serial connection, the relevant standard recommends 1,200 meters as
maximum interconnecting length.
As a matter of fact, the limits defined by reference standards are only theoretical
limits and the achievable results are dependent on the characteristics of the
application to a great extent.

-34-
In case of very long interconnecting cables, signals could be attenuated: this can be
overcome using signal repeaters which are commonly on sale.
• data transmission rate: the two protocols, which have been considered for serial
connections, have different data transmission rate limits:RS-232 is limited to 19,200
baud maximum, RS-485 is limited to 10 Mbaud maximum.
For AN401, maximum data transmission rate is limited to 57,600 baud whichever
standard is used.
• electrical interface: RS-232 electrical interface is “single ended”, i.e. data lines are
referred to ground; in applications with high noise levels which can affect data
transmission, RS-485 is preferred since the electrical interface of this standard is a
differential interface: differential interface is less prone to noise than single ended
interface.
• number of devices on the same line: using RS-232, only one device can be
connected on the serial line; using RS-485, up to 32 devices can be connected on the
same serial line.
Instruments of AN400 series shall be used according to the rules of the standards.
It is possible to use instruments with multi-drop RS-485 serial port together with computers,
like a notebook, with only RS-232 serial port and without RS-485 port: this is possible using
RS-232 to RS-485 converters; these converters shall be “transparent”, i.e. they shall
completely support RS-485 protocol.
On sale, there are “passive” and “intelligent” converters; passive converters are just simple
electrical level translators: for this reason, they shall be avoided; intelligent converters provide
level translators, identification of data flow direction and automatic selection of data
transmission rate.
It is suggested to choose an intelligent converter which can operate at the maximum used
data transmission rate.

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4. INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION PROCEDURES
The User can control functions, operating modes and instrument calibration by means of a software program
installed inside the AN401.
Note: since the display of AN401 is not an alphanumeric display, it is highlighted that messages
displayed by the instrument to indicate menu items or parameters are necessarily stylized.
4.1. INSTRUMENT POWER ON
For a general overview of power on sequence of the instrument, refer to fig. 16 where numeric
references between square brackets [ ] highlight main steps; the same references are quoted within
the text hereinafter.
At power on, AN401 message is displayed followed few seconds later by the software version, e.g.
V. 1.00 [2]; then the selected function, e.g. NET weight, is displayed [4].
This way, at power on the instrument automatically selects the requested measurement function and
therefore there is no need to select the function at each power on also avoiding that anybody can
change the selected function except that intentionally.
At power on it is also possible to enter calibration and customization functions menus of AN401.
To enter setup and calibration menus, power on the instrument and at the same time press θ (down)
and C (ESC) pushbuttons [3].
The instrument will display the message MAINT [5] followed, on pushbuttons release, by the
message RDY (ready) [7]: this means that AN401 is waiting for one of the following commands to
enter different menus:
• pressing θ (down) key, calibration menu is entered [9]; in this menu, all the parameters,
which are used by the instrument to convert input voltage signal into a digital value, are
defined.
• pressing E (Enter) key, customized functions menu is entered [10]; in this menu, operations
of the instrument and its different functions are customized; also the conversion coefficient
which allows to convert digital value into mechanical units is set in this menu.
• pressing π (up) key, clock setting menu is entered [8], provided that clock option of AN401 is
installed.
To escape from above menus, press C (ESC) pushbutton and the instrument will return to RDY [7]
status waiting to enter another menu or to escape setting mode.
To escape setting mode, press C (ESC) pushbutton when AN401 is displaying RDY [7]: this also
stores the new settings of instrument parameters.
The instrument will perform a general RESET cycle [11] and will restart power on sequence from
step [1].
Once the instrument enters the measuring mode (MEASURE [4] ), it is no more possible to enter
setting mode except that switching off and on again the instrument.
The serial transmission to a remote computer is enabled when the instrument is in measuring mode
(MEASURE [4] ) only; on the contrary, it is disabled whenever the instrument is in setting mode.

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POWER ON [1]
SOFTWARE
VERSION
[2] ( V. 1.00 )
ARE
θ (DOWN) AND C (ESC) NO MEASURE [4]
[3] PRESSED
?
YES
[5] MAINT
YES
ARE
θ (DOWN) AND C (ESC)
[6] PRESSED
?
NO
RDY( READY FOR

[7] MENU SELECTION )
[8]
CLOCK KEY
KEY
MENU C
π (UP) ( OPTION ) (ESC)
[9]
KEY CALIBRATION KEY
θ MENU C
(DOWN) (ESC)
[10]
KEY CUSTOMIZATION KEY
E (ENT) MENU C
(ESC)
[11]
KEY
RESET C
(ESC)
Fig. 16 Simplified Block Diagram of Standard Program

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4.2. CALIBRATION MENU
This menu allows to set allocation of A/D converter conversion points according to characteristics of
the transducer, of the input signal and of the specific application of AN401.
The structure of calibration menu is as follows:
RDY( READY FOR

SELECTION MENU ) [7]
θ
[9.1] ANALOG
E
INPUT
CAL
ADJUSTMENT
PROCEDURE
π θ
[9.2]
LO E MEMO
π θ
[9.3]
HI E MEMO
π θ
[9.4]
HICAL E MEMO
π θ
[9.5]
TARE E MEMO
C
Fig. 17 Block Diagram of Calibration Menu
References [9.1] CAL, [9.2] LO, [9.3] HI, [9.4] HICAL, [9.5] TARE and MEMO show messages
displayed by the instrument to identify different available menus.

-38-
As highlighted in fig. 17, press θ (down) pushbutton to enter calibration menu from RDY [7] waiting status.
The sequence of operations is shown in the block diagram of fig. 17 where:
• θ (down) and π (up) pushbuttons allow to move from one menu to another one
• E (Enter) pushbutton allows to store the set value (MEMO)
• C (ESC) pushbutton allows to return to RDY [7] waiting status
4.2.1. ANALOG INPUT ADJUSTMENT (CAL)
CAL [9.1]
ZERO TRIMMER
[9.1.1]
ADJUSTMENT
[9.1.2]
INTERNAL YES
CALIBRATION?
NO
π
[9.1.4]
[9.1.3] APPLY FS SIGNAL GAIN TRIMMER
ADJUSTMENT
[9.1.5] GAIN TRIMMER

ADJUSTMENT
π
[9.1.6] DISCONNECT FS
SIGNAL
[9.1.7]
DISPLAY ZERO

-39-
Fig. 18 Calibration Procedure of Analog Input

PROCEDURE
For instrument operations, it is necessary to allocate of available conversion points (65,535 points).
This is achieved setting minimum and maximum values of conversion points which will correspond to
minimum and maximum values of analog signal.
Setting is carried out by means of ZERO and GAIN trimmers which control minimum and maximum
values of conversion points respectively.
During adjustment, the display shows the current value of conversion points as consequence of
trimmer adjustment.
The sequence for setting values necessary to AN401 operations is as follows:

a) From menu CAL [9.1], press E (Enter) to display minimum value of conversion
points [9.1.1].
b) With unloaded transducer (in case of a load cell) or with transducer at null position
(servoinclinometers or displacement transducers), adjust ZERO trimmer until the
required value is displayed.
Zero value is typically in the range 200 to 1000 conversion points for an input signal
ranging from 0 to +5V (refer to paragraph 4.2.6 for other cases).
c) After having applied to the analog input of the instrument the signal to be matched to
the desired maximum value of conversion points, adjust GAIN trimmer until the
desired value (of conversion points) is displayed.
Depending on whether a calibration signal simulating the maximum input is available
or not from the transducer, the procedure shall be carried out in two different ways
as detailed in d) and e) hereafter.
d) Calibration signal is available: pressing π (up) key, calibration circuit is activated
and the instrument displays the corresponding value as conversion points [9.1.4] on
condition that electrical connections are in accordance with paragraph 3.2.3.
This operation shall be performed with unloaded transducer (in case of a load cell) or
with transducer at null position (servoinclinometers or displacement transducers): this
is to avoid that the value measured by the transducer can jeopardize calibration
signal.
Setting the desired conversion points is achieved adjusting GAIN trimmer; it is to be
considered that, generally, signal simulated by calibration circuit is less than full scale
(FS) signal and therefore it is suggested to use less than maximum available
conversion points.
Generally, it is preferred to leave some margin between conversion points
corresponding to calibration signal and conversion points corresponding to FS.
After trimmer adjustment, press again π (up) pushbutton to disable calibration circuit
and return to display of ZERO conversion points [9.1.7].
Example: suppose that the range of input signal is 0 to +5V (FS) and that calibration
signal is 75% of FS (i.e. 3.75V); supposing also that there are 65000 available
conversion points and that ZERO is set to 1000 conversion points, then adjust GAIN
trimmer until instrument displays 48000 conversion points.
e) Calibration signal is not available: load the transducer to FS so that FS signal is
applied to the input of the instrument [9.1.3]; then adjust GAIN trimmer [9.1.5] until
the number of conversion points desired for full scale is displayed.
After trimmer adjustment, unload the transducer [9.1.6] and return to display of
ZERO conversion points.
During the above operations, the instrument displays the value of conversion points.
f) ZERO and GAIN adjustments may influence each other: therefore it is suggested to
reiterate the prodedure, steps b)+d) or b)+e), until the desired values are obtained.

-40-
g) On completion of above operations, press C (ESC) pushbutton to return to calibration

menu (CAL) [9.1].
WARNING MESSAGES
During ZERO and GAIN adjustment, the instrument may display the following warning messages:
• C-LO: this means that the instrument detects that ZERO trimmer has been adjusted
for a too small value of conversion points.
Adjust ZERO trimmer until the instrument displays a numerical value of conversion
points.
• C-HI: this means that the instrument detects that GAIN trimmer has been adjusted
for a too high value of conversion points.
Adjust GAIN trimmer until the instrument displays a numerical value of conversion
points.
4.2.2. MINIMUM READING VALUE (LO)

Minimum reading value [9.2] is the minimum value of conversion points to be assigned to zero
of input signal.
This function is used to store into AN401 the value set in paragraph 4.2.1.b by means of
ZERO trimmer.
From CAL menu, enter LO menu pressing θ (down) pushbutton; before storing the value,
check that no load is applied to the transducer or that the transducer is at null position.
To store the value, press E (Enter) key: the instrument will display the message MEMO for
few seconds and then it will return to LO menu.
4.2.3. MAXIMUM VALUE (HI)

If d) procedure of paragraph 4.2.1 has been used, then refer to paragraph 4.2.4.
Maximum reading value [9.3] is the maximum value of conversion points to be assigned to
full scale input signal.
This function is used to store into AN401 the value set in paragraph 4.2.1.e by means of
GAIN trimmer.
From LO menu, enter HI menu pressing θ (down) pushbutton; before storing the value,
check that full scale load is applied to the transducer or that the transducer is at full scale
position.
few seconds and then it will return to HI menu.
4.2.4. MAXIMUM VALUE (HICAL)

If e) procedure of paragraph 4.2.1 has been used, then refer to paragraph 4.2.3.
Maximum reading value [9.4] is the maximum value of conversion points to be assigned to
the input signal simulated by the calibration circuit.
This function is used to store into AN401 the value set in paragraph 4.2.1.d by means of
GAIN trimmer.
Check that electrical connections are in accordance with description of paragraph 3.2.3.
From HI menu, enter HICAL menu pressing θ (down) pushbutton; before storing the value,
check that no load is applied to the transducer or that the transducer is at null position.
During storing phase, the instrument automatically enables calibration circuit of the
transducer.

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few seconds and then it will return to HICAL menu.
4.2.5. TARE
The tare [9.5] applied to a weighing system determines the number of conversion points that
is to be added to the number of conversion points set as to ZERO.
This function is used to store the value of tare that will be automatically taken into account by
the instrument when computing conversion coefficient between conversion points and
mechanical units.
From HICAL menu, enter TARE menu pressing θ (down) pushbutton; before storing the
value, check that the tare is applied to the transducer or to the weighing system.
The use of this function is not limited to load cells only, but it can be used with any transducer
to provide an offset to zero.
To store the tare value, press E (Enter) key: the instrument will display the message MEMO
for few seconds and then it will return to TARE menu.
4.2.6. CALIBRATION HINTS
Available conversion points (65535) shall be allocated considering the characteristics of the
signal and considering the conversion from conversion points to required mechanical unit to
be carried out by the instrument.
0 CONVERSION POINTS 65535
When setting ZERO and GAIN values by means of the relevant trimmers, allocation of
conversion points shall also consider the need of leaving some safety margin below the value
set as ZERO and above the value set as GAIN.
Should the signal become equal to the value corresponding to ZERO and GAIN adjustments,
margins avoid instrument from blocking and displaying ERROR due to A/D converter
under/overflow.
0 CONVERSION POINTS 65535
ZERO = 1000 GAIN = 64000
Conversion points allocation vs. “zero” and “gain” limits (typical values)
The definition of the number of conversion points to be set by means of GAIN trimmer shall
also consider advantages and disadvantages of analog signal amplification needed to use all
the conversion points.
An advantage of increasing GAIN adjustment is that the maximum available number of
conversion points are used.

-42-
A disadvantage of increasing GAIN adjustment is that not only the input signal to be
displayed, but also the noise superimposed is amplified: this causes less significant digits of the
display to be unstable requiring digital filtering.
This also happens when the transducer is subjected to vibrations or when its mode of
operation is pulsed.
In this case, decreasing GAIN to minimum needed to obtain desired resolution, and therefore
decreasing the number of conversion points allocated to GAIN, could be advantageous.
Calibration shall consider two possibilities:
• the input signal is unipolar, i.e. it ranges from 0 to + full scale (+FS)
• the input signal is bipolar, i.e. it ranges from - full scale (-FS) to + full scale (+FS)
Available conversion points shall be allocated accordingly to the above by means of ZERO
and GAIN adjustments.
a) Unipolar signal (0 to +FS)
Signal = zero Signal = +FS
0 65535
ZERO = 1000 GAIN = 64000
Conversion points allocation for unipolar signal (typical values)
This is the most simple case and it is applicable to pressure transducers, load cells
(used in compression only or in traction only) and displacement transducers; it is also
applicable both to single ended and to differential signals without differences.
On the contrary, should the input signal range from 0 to -FS, then the value GAIN =
64000 shall be associated to Signal = zero, while the value ZERO = 1000 shall be
associated to Signal = -FS
The above values for ZERO and GAIN shall be considered as suggestions only.
b) Bipolar signal (-FS to +FS)
The zero of the signal is centered between negative and positive full scale values.
In this case, conversion points shall be equally allocated between the two polarities of
the signal, i.e. about 31500 points for +FS and the same for -FS.
Signal = -FS Signal = +FS

Signal = zero
0 65535
ZERO = 31500 GAIN = 64000

-43-
Conversion points allocation for bipolar signal (typical values)
The above is applicable to servoinclinometers, LVDT displacement transducers, load

cells (used in compression and in traction) and to any transducer with centered zero.
c) Tare
Signal = zero Signal = +FS

Tare
0 65535
ZERO = 1000 GAIN = 64000
Conversion points allocation with tare (typical values)
In weighing systems, automatic deduction of tare is of great importance; in different

applications, tare can also be considered as a dummy offset to be deducted from the
measure (e.g. hydraulic pressure of the line).
Using AN401 instrument, tare can be deducted in three different ways:
• Using TARE function [9.5]: this is the suggested method since it
allows to read tare and to consider it when necessary.
• Using ZERO trimmer [4.2.1]: this method should be avoided since
any change of tare requires the complete re-calibration of the
instrument.
• Setting tare value in the instrument: to use this method, see
procedure described in paragraph 4.3.8.
d) Summing Units
Calibration of a system consisting of AN401, of a summing unit and of 2 to 4

transducers requires adjusting both the summing unit and the instrument.
The proposed procedures are applicable to DS Europe load cells and to summing
units AN-371 (output signal ±80 mV FS) or EL-574 (output signal ±5 V FS); it is to
be noted that electrical connections and output signals of the two models of summing
units are different (see paragraph 3.6 for connections between AN401 and AN-371,
see paragraph 3.7.1 for connections between AN401and EL-574).
It is preferable to calibrate first the sub-system consisting of the summing unit

together with load cells and then calibrate the AN401 together with the sub-system
using a simplified calibration procedure.
See technical manuals of AN-371 and EL-574 for their calibration procedure.
Simplified Procedure
1. Connect summing unit to load cells and calibrate the summing unit using a digital
multimeter or a voltmeter.
2. Connect AN401 to AN-371 (see paragraph 3.6) or to EL-574 (see paragraph 3.7.1).

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3. Perform AN401 analog input adjustment in accordance with the procedure

described in paragraph 4.2.1.

-45-
When a summing unit is connected to AN401, then:

a) Calibration circuit of transducers cannot be enabled pressing π (up) pushbutton of
AN401; calibration circuits (if available) can be enabled/disabled operating on the
summing unit.
b) Calibration circuits of all transducers shall be enabled at the same time if they are
used during AN401 calibration.
The resulting signals is the sum, in mechanical units, of calibration values
(=calibration equivalent load) of each transducer.
If the summing unit cannot be calibrated independently from AN401, the instrument can be
used to calibrate the summing unit together with load cells; AN401 can be calibrated
afterwards.
This procedure should be avoided since it is more complicated than previous procedure.
Note: connecting load cells to the summing unit (AN-371 or EL-574) an increasing sensitivity
order shall be followed: load cell with the lowest sensitivity shall be connected as load cell
no.1, while load cell with the highest sensitivity shall be connected as load cell no.4.
Procedure using AN401 as a Voltmeter
1. Start from CAL menu [9.1].
2. Set to minimum GAIN trimmer of AN401 (do not stress it).
3. Connect the cells to be summed (2,3 or 4) to the summing unit according to

instruction manual of summing unit.
4. Adjust ZERO trimmer of AN401 until it displays a value of 200 points approximately.
5. Close calibration jumper of cell no. 1 on summing unit.
6. Adjust GAIN trimmer of summing unit until AN401 displays the calibration value in
mechanical units (as reported on the transducer certificate) plus the value set at point
4., as the ZERO of AN401 (200 points).
Example:
Load cell 535QD - 12Kg full scale
Calibration (calibration equivalent load) = 7.11857 Kg
Adjust GAIN trimmer of the summing unit until AN401 displays 7318 = 7118+200 (only
significant digits, which can be displayed by the instrument, are considered).
7. Remove calibration jumper and, if necessary, adjust ZERO trimmer of the summing
unit until AN401 displays the value set at step 4. above (200 points).
8. Repeat steps 5,6 and 7 until required values of ZERO and calibrations are obtained.
9. Close calibration jumper of cell no. 2.
10. Adjust sensitivity trimmer of cell no.2 of summing unit until AN401 displays the
calibration value in mechanical units (as reported on the transducer certificate) plus
the value set at point 4., i.e. the ZERO of AN401 (200 points).

-46-
Example:
Load cell 535QD - 12Kg full scale
Calibration (calibration equivalent load) = 7.21568 Kg
Adjust sensitivity trimmer of the summing unit until AN401 displays 7415 = 7215+200
(only significant digits, which can be displayed by the instrument, are considered).
11. Open calibration jumper to display ZERO value; if necessary, adjust ZERO trimmer
of the summing unit until AN401 displays the value set at step 4. above (200 points).
12. Repeat steps 9,10 and 11 until required values of ZERO and calibrations are
obtained.
13. Repeat above steps for remaining cells.
14. If necessary, adjust ZERO trimmer of the summing unit until AN401 displays the
value set at step 4. above (200 points).
15. Close all calibration jumpers of the summing unit: AN401 will display the sum of all
calibrations + 200.
16. If the value of the sum is different from the computed value, adjust GAIN trimmer of
the summing unit until the required value is obtained.
17. Remove calibration jumpers and check ZERO value (200 points); if necessary, adjust
ZERO trimmer of the summing unit until AN401 displays 200 points.
18. Repeat steps 16,17 and 18 until required values of ZERO and calibrations are
obtained.
19. Perform AN401 analog input adjustment according to procedure of paragraph

4.2.1.
Adjustments for DS Europe summing unit:
ZERO GAIN Sensitivity

Can 2
EL-574 Zero Gain Can 3
Can 4
P3
AN-371 P2 P1 P4
P5
This table gives cross-reference between trimmers (ZERO, GAIN and SENSITIVITY) and
markings on summing units.

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[7] CUSTOMIZATION MENU

E RDY( READY FOR
SELECTION MENU )
C
[10.21]
FS
[10.1] FS E Value
IDSER E
IDSER
Value
θ π θ π
[10.20]
MVISU
[10.2] LEV 1 E LEV 1 MVISU E Value
Value
θ π
θ π [10.19]
HIST 1
BLOCC E BLOCC
[10.3] HIST 1 E Value
Value
θ π
θ π [10.18]
INCL
INCL E Value
[10.4] LEV 2 E LEV 2
Value θ π
[10.17]
θ π
MEAN E MEAN
Value
[10.5] HIST 2 E HIST 2
Value θ π
[10.16]
HISTM
θ π HISTM E Value
[10.6] LEV 3 E LEV 3 θ π

Value [10.15]
BAUD
θ π BAUD E Value
HIST 3 θ π
[10.7] HIST 3 E Value
[10.14]
FENAB
FENAB E Value
θ π
θ π
LEV 4
[10.8] LEV 4 E Value
[10.13]
FILT 1
FILT 1 E Value
θ π
θ π
[10.12]
[10.9] HIST 4 E HIST 4
Value E DP
DP
Value
θ π θ π
[10.11]
[10.10] TAREV E TAREV
Value
TAREM E TAREM
Value
θ π Fig. 19

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4.3. CUSTOMIZATION MENU
Customization menu allows to change operating modes of the instrument, i.e. to set:
• the conversion value between A/D converter measurements and mechanical units to be
displayed;
• the values of limit levels and their hysteresis;
• decimal point position;
• digital filters;
• baud rate of serial communication, etc.
From RDY [7] waiting status, press E (Enter) pushbutton to enter customization menu: the
instrument displays the first item of the menu FS [10.1] (FS = full scale); see fig. 16 and fig. 19).
All the items of the menu are in a closed loop:
• press π (up) pushbutton to move to next item
• press θ (down) pushbutton to move to previous item
• press C (ESC) to escape at any time and return to RDY [7] waiting status
Each item of the menu is displayed by a message, which indicates the name of the parameter.
Just press E (Enter) pushbutton to display present value of the parameter.
Press π (up) pushbutton to increase the value, press θ (down) pushbutton to decrease the value.
At the beginning, parameter changes by units, then keeping the pushbutton pressed the parameter
changes by tens and afterwards by hundreds.
Press E (Enter) pushbutton to store the new value and then press C (ESC) pushbutton to return to
parameters menu; just press C (ESC) pushbutton without pressing E (Enter) pushbutton to return to
parameters menu without storing the new value (original value is maintained).
After changes to parameters have been completed, press C (ESC) pushbutton to return to RDY [7]
[9.2]
FS
Discard
E C
variations
E
Actual FS
value
Store new value
NO Change
C FS
Yes, increase of
1, 10 , 100 π
value?
Yes, decrease of
1, 10 , 100 θ

-49-
waiting status.
Fig. 20 Example of Changes to Full Scale (FS) Value
The procedure highlighted in fig. 20 shows the sequence of operations to be followed to display and,
in case, to modify all the parameters of the customization menu (from [10.1] to [10.20]).
All the parameters of the customization menu (from [10.1] to [10.20]) are represented by a numerical
value with the following setting limits:
Display Minimum Maximum
Parameter Description
Indication Value Value
FS -99999 +99999 To set the value of FS, in the chosen mechanical units, to be
associated to the maximum of conversion points of the instrument
[10.1]
LEV 1 -99999 +99999 To set the value of limit level no. 1 [10.2]
HIST 1 -1 50 To set the value of hysteresis for level no. 1 [10.3]
The value -1 disables level no. 1
TAREV -99999 +99999 To set the value, if known, of the tare in mechanical units [10.10]
TAREM 0 1 For TAREM=0 [10.11], the tare measured by AN401 (by means of
TARE function [9.5]of calibration menu) is enabled (see paragraph
4.2.5). For TAREM=1, the tare is set to the value entered in
TAREV [10.10]
DP 1 5 To set the position of decimal point starting from the right. For DP=1,
all decimal points are switched OFF [10.12]
FILT 1 20 250 To set the value of the digital RC filter [10.13]
FENAB 0 1 For FENAB=1 [10.14], the digital filter FILT 1 [10.13] is enabled
BAUD 0 7 To set the baud rate of serial communication from 600 to 57,600
baud [10.15]
HISTM 1 50 To set hysteresis applicable to the display of the value measured by
AN401 [10.16]. For HISTM=0 the function is disabled
MEAN 0 20 To set the number of measures the average of which is displayed by
the instrument [10.17]
INCL 0 4 To enable inclinometer function and set the full scale to 14.5° (for
INCL=1), to 30° (for INCL=2), to 45° (for INCL=3), to 90° (for
INCL=4); for INCL=0 the converting algorithm is disabled [10.18]
BLOCC 0 1 For BLOCC=1 [10.19], the values of limit levels can be modified
even in MEASURE mode [4] without entering customization menu.
For BLOCC=0, the values of limit levels cannot be modified in
MEASURE mode [4]
MVISU 0 4 To set display mode [10.20] of AN401:
for MVISU=0, NET weight is displayed
for MVISU=1, GROSS weight is displayed
for MVISU=2, PIECE-COUNTER is displayed
for MVISU=3, ERROR is displayed

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for MVISU=4, COMBINED display mode of measurement

functions is activated
IDSER 0 99 To set the number of serial address of the instrument [10.21]. This
has to be a unique value in the group of instruments connected to the
same serial communication line
4.3.1. CONVERSION TO MECHANICAL UNITS AND RESOLUTION

To give a meaning to the number of conversion points resulting from A/D conversion of the
analog signal, a coefficient shall be given to the instrument to convert conversion points into
mechanical units to be displayed.
For AN401, this is achieved entering the full scale value (=FS) [10.1], in mechanical units
(mm, Kg, inch, bar, etc.), which is associated by the instrument to the number of conversion
points stored at step HI [9.3] or HICAL [9.4] and adjusted by means of GAIN trimmer.
The definition of full-scale value is also depending on:

• Position of decimal point, DP. For computing convenience, all the numbers are treated
by AN401 as integer numbers; to obtain the display of a decimal number, the FS value
shall be multiplied by 10 raised to the number of required decimals.
For DP=1 [10.12], all the decimal points will be switched off since the first position
corresponds to the decimal point of the rightmost digit of the display.
• Number of conversion points. The number of conversion points is strictly dependent on

the FS value to be set [10.1]. It is suggested that conversion points be equal to FS value or
equal to a multiple of FS value: this increases accuracy in computing conversion
coefficients since less rounding is necessary.
Example no. 1
Connecting AN401 to a linear displacement transducer with 500 mm FS, the following displays can be
obtained:
FS Display Resolution DP Value FS Value Conversion
(mm) [10.12] [10.1] points (GAIN)
500 1 mm 1 500 500
500.0 0.1 mm 2 5000 5000
500.00 0.01 mm 3 50000 50000
Example no. 2
Connecting AN401 to a servoinclinometer with +90° FS, the following displays can be obtained
(INCL=3 [10.18] is to be set):
FS Display Resolution DP Value FS Value Conversion
(degree) [10.12] [10.1] points (GAIN)
90 1° 1 90 90
90.0 0.1 ° 2 900 900
90.00 0.01 ° 3 9000 9000
Example no. 3
Connecting AN401 to a servoinclinometer with ±90° FS, the following displays can be obtained
(INCL=3 [10.18] is to be set):
FS Display Resolution DP Value FS Value Conversion Conversion
(degree) [10.12] [10.1] points (ZERO) points (GAIN)
90 1° 1 90 1000 1090

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90.0 0.1 ° 2 900 2000 2900

90.00 0.01 ° 3 9000 10000 19000
Rounding of displayed value:

They are due to the conversion of units of measure (from electrical to mechanical units) or to a
mechanical quantity to be displayed greater than the number of conversion points.
4.3.2. LIMIT LEVELS AND HYSTERESIS
For each of the four limit levels of AN401, the threshold value [10.2], [10.4], [10.6], [10.8]
and the relevant hysteresis [10.3], [10.5], [10.7], [10.9] can be defined individually.
Threshold values can be set in the range ±99999 mechanical units according to User’s
convenience. Threshold values are referred to the value measured by NET function.
The band of activation of limit levels is defined by setting hysteresis values; this band is
centered on the relevant limit level as follows:
a) for increasing signal, the relevant relay (e.g. no. 1) is activated at t1, i.e. when
the signal reaches the sum of the values of limit level no. 1 and hysteresis no. 1
(LEV 1+ HIST 1);
b) for decreasing signal, the relevant relay (e.g. no. 1) is deactivated at t3, i.e.
when the signal reaches the difference between the values of limit level no. 1 and
hysteresis no. 1 (LEV 1- HIST 1).
Signal
LEV 1+HIST1
LEV 1
LEV 1-HIST1
t0 t1 t2 t3 Time
Fig. 21 Limit Level and Hysteresis
If the hysteresis value is set to zero (HIST 1=0), when LEV 1 value is reached, the relay is
activated at t0 for increasing signal and it is deactivated at t2 for decreasing signal.
Temporary, each relay can be individually disabled by setting to -1 the relevant hysteresis
value.

-52-
When COMBINED mode of operation is not enabled (see paragraph 4.3.7), an illuminated
LED on the front panel of the instrument (see paragraph 2.7) indicates that the relevant relay
is activated.
If BLOCC=1 [10.19] is set in the customization menu, then limit levels values and relevant
hysteresis values can also be modified in MEASURE [4] mode of operation without entering
custom functions menu.
On the contrary, if BLOCC=0 threshold values and hysteresis cannot be modified in
MEASURE [4] mode of operation: this way, a better protection of instrument configuration is
obtained.
4.3.3. FILTERING
Measurements of AN401 can be filtered in different ways which can be used separately or
combined in order to sum their effects.
a) Digital filtering. The effect of this RC digital filter is defined by setting the value of
FILT1 [10.13] between 20 (minimum) and 250 (maximum).
To enable this filter, set FENAB=1 [10.14]; to disable the filter set FENAB=0.
This filter affects all measuring functions of the instrument.
b) Average. By setting the value of MEAN [10.17] between 1 and 20, the number of
measurements to be averaged by the instrument is defined.
To disable this function, set MEAN=0; the function is also disabled when PEAK
mode of operation is selected.
When MEAN is enabled, display hysteresis is automatically disabled.
c) Display hysteresis. By setting the value of HISTM [10.16] between 1 and 50, the
minimum variation of the measured signal which will cause a display updating is
defined.
Example: for HISTM=2, a measured value increasing from 1000 to 1001 will still be
displayed as 1000; the display will be changed to 1002 when the measured value
reaches 1002.
To disable the function, set HISTM=1.
Display hysteresis is disabled when PEAK mode is selected.

When display hysteresis is enabled, MEAN function is automatically disabled.
Display hysteresis does not affect PIECE-COUNTER mode of operation.
The use of the above filtering techniques decreases the bandwidth of the instrument.
4.3.4. SERIAL TRANSMISSION RATE

Serial transmission rate can be defined by setting BAUD [10.15] value.
The following values can be defined:
BAUD [10.15] value Serial transmission rate

(baud)
0 600
1 1,200

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2 2,400
3 4,800
4 9,600
5 19,200
6 38,400
7 57,600
See paragraph 3.10 for further considerations concerning characteristics of serial lines.
4.3.5. SERVOINCLINOMETER CONVERSION

In systems consisting of AN401 connected to a servoinclinometer, where transducer output
vs. measured tilt is a sinusoidal function, it is possible to enable a conversion algorithm which
allows to display values in sexagesimal degrees.
This algorithm is enabled by the value of INCL [10.18] which defines the full scale value to
be considered for the conversion; the algorithm is disabled by setting INCL=0.
INCL [10.18] value Full scale value
0 Conversion disabled
1 14.5°
2 30°
3 45°
4 90°
After setting INCL to the full scale value of the transducer, follow calibration procedure as
described in paragraph 4 to calibrate AN401 connected to a servoinclinometer.
4.3.6. CHANGING LIMIT LEVELS IN MEASURE MODE

Independently from selected measuring function, when BLOCC=1 [10.19] is set, limit
threshold and relevant hysteresis values can be changed pressing π (up) key.
To change the values, follow the sequence of customization menu [10] from step [10.2]
(LEV1) to step [10.9] (HIST4).
All the items of the menu are in a closed loop: press π (up) pushbutton to move to next item,
press θ (down) pushbutton to move to previous item.
Press C (ESC) to escape from menu and return to measuring mode.
Each item of the menu is indicated on the display by the name of the parameter.
Press E (Enter) pushbutton to display present value of the parameter.

Press π (up) pushbutton to increase the value, press θ (down) pushbutton to decrease the
value.
At the beginning, parameter changes by units, then keeping the pushbutton pressed the
parameter changes by tens and afterwards by hundreds.
Press E (Enter) pushbutton to store the new value and then press C (ESC) pushbutton to
return to level setting menu; just press C (ESC) pushbutton without pressing E (Enter)
pushbutton to return to level setting menu without storing the new value.
From level setting menu, press C (ESC) pushbutton to return to active measuring mode.

-54-
4.3.7. DISPLAY MODE

When the instrument is in MEASURE [4] mode of operation, the display mode is defined by
setting MVISU [10.20] parameter.
This allows setting the instrument such that the required function is automatically selected at
power-on.
MVISU [10.20] value Measuring function
0 NET
1 GROSS
2 PIECE-COUNTER
3 ERROR
4 COMBINED DISPLAY
When COMBINED DISPLAY is set, at power-on the instrument will automatically select
NET function; press θ (down) pushbutton to move to GROSS, to PIECE-COUNTER and to
ERROR functions.
[4]
MEASURE MVISU=0
NET
MVISU=1
GROSS
NO
Is COMBINED
display mode MVISU=2 PIECE
activated ?
COUNTER
YES MVISU=3
MVISU=4 ERROR
θ
LED 1 is
blinking
NET LEDs 1, 2, 3 & 4 indicate
relay activation
θ ERROR LED 4 is
blinking
θ
LED 2 is
blinking
GROSS
LED 3 is
θ PIECE
COUNTER blinking
Fig. 22 Display mode

For MVISU=0 (1,2,3), LED no.0 (1,2,3) indicates that the relay associated to the relevant
limit level is activated.
For MVISU=4, blinking LEDs indicate selected measuring function; in this case LEDs do not
indicate activated relays.

-55-
4.3.8. TARE SETTING

Tare value can be set in mechanical units directly in the instrument by means of TAREV
[10.10]. AN401 instrument provides to automatically subtract it from the measurement.
After entering tare value, set TAREM=1 [10.11] to enable this function.
For TAREM=0, the instrument subtracts the measured tare by means of the TARE function
in the calibration menu [9.5] (see paragraph 4.2.5).
4.3.9. INSTRUMENT IDENTIFIER

When several instruments are connected to the same RS-485 serial line, it is very important
to set the numerical identifier of the instrument, IDSER [10.21].
Assigning to each instrument a different numerical identifier, commands or specific
measurements requests can be addressed individually to every single instrument .
On the same RS-485 serial line, different numerical identifiers shall be used to avoid abnormal
operations of the instruments or of the computer.
π RDY( READY FOR

SELECTION MENU )
C
[7]
Note: XX indicate
θ π
current value of the
parameter (two digits)
HOURS
[8.1] H XX E Value
θ π
[8.2] M XX E MINUTES
[8.7] dY XX E DAY
Value Value
θ π θ π
YEAR
[8.3] S XX E SECONDS
[8.6] Y XX E Value
Value
θ π θ π
[8.4] dT XX E DATE
[8.5] MO XX E MONTH
Value Value
θ π
Fig. 23 Clock Setting Diagram
4.4. CLOCK MENU

If CLOCK option is installed into the instrument, clock can be set by means of CLOCK menu [8].
From RDY [7] waiting status, press π (up) pushbutton to enter this menu.

-56-
To move from one parameter to another one, and to move from [8.1] to [8.2] and up to [8.7], press π
(up) pushbutton repeatedly; to move back to previous parameter, press θ (down) key.
For each parameter, the indication of parameter meaning and its present value are displayed at the
same time; consider, for instance, H 00: the first two characters on the left of the display indicate the
parameter, the two digits on the right of the display indicate the value of the parameter.
In display mode, the parameter is displayed steady; the parameter is blinking to highlight that modify
mode is active when E (Enter) pushbutton is pressed.

-57-
H 00 [8.1]
Current
HOUR value
is blinking
NO Modify
C π
Yes, increase of
HOUR
1, 10
value?
Yes, decrease of
1, 10 θ
Fig. 24 Clock Parameter Setting
The setting carried out in CLOCK menu will only have effect during printing executed by AN401 on
a serial printer.
Display Minimum Maximum Parameter description

indication value value
H xx 0 23 H parameter [8.1] sets hours in 24 hours format
(0=midnight)
M xx 0 59 M parameter [8.2] sets minutes
S xx 0 59 S parameter [8.3] sets seconds
dT xx 1 31 dT parameter [8.4] sets date
MO xx 1 12 MO parameter [8.5] sets month
Y xx 00 99 Y parameter [8.6] sets year; during printing, the
instrument will change the indication to four digits:
1980 to 1999 for 80 ≤ Y ≤ 99 or to
2000 to 2079 for 00 ≤ Y ≤ 79
dY xx 1 7 dY parameter [8.7] sets day of the week (1=SUN,
Sunday)

-58-
4.5. EEPROM MEMORY
All settings concerning calibration and customization of AN401 are stored into an EEPROM memory.
Also printing form is stored into this memory.
This kind of memory does not require power supply to the instrument or batteries for data retention.
Using the instrument, it is to be considered that the maximum number of memory cycles for such
devices is very high, but not endless: according to Manufacturer’s data, the devices are guaranteed up
to 10,000 typical memory cycles.
Characteristics of EEPROM memories are more than adequate for typical applications of AN401.
It is to be noted that one memory cycle is counted each time that E (Enter) pushbutton is pressed
during calibration menu [9] or customization menu [10].
The clock option is provided with its own independent memory.

-59-
5. MEASURING FUNCTIONS OF AN401
The AN401 is a microprocessor-based instrument which, in the standard version, is provided with the
functions described in the following paragraphs.
Nevertheless, the instrument can be customized in different ways and additional functions can be
added to it within the limits of the hardware.
The following measuring functions are described with reference to a weighing system, but their use
can suit with other applications.
5.1. NET
In a weighing system, the measuring function NET displays the net weight applied to the transducer.
The User can subtract the tare by means of C (ESC) pushbutton or of KEY2 contact (see table 1).
If NET measuring mode is selected and MVISU=0, then actuation of relay contacts 1 through 4 will
be indicated on the front panel by the relevant LED switched ON.
By pressing θ (down), while in NET function, transducer calibration circuit is activated, if present,
and provided that electrical connection allows its use.
5.2. GROSS
In a weighing system, the measuring function GROSS displays the gross weight applied to the
transducer.
5.3. PIECE-COUNTER
The measuring function PIECE-COUNTER allows to display the number of pieces in a set where all
pieces weigh the same, provided that a sample has been already weighted and its value stored into the
instrument.
To store the weight of the sample, just press E (Enter) pushbutton independently from the measuring
function of AN401: the instrument displays the weight of the sample until E (Enter) pushbutton is
kept pressed and stores the value on pushbutton release.
To display the number of pieces corresponding to the weight applied to the weighing system, select
PIECE-COUNTER function on the instrument (MVISU=2 or when LED 3 is blinking in
COMBINED display mode).
Each time E (Enter) pushbutton is pressed, the instrument will store the value of the new sample
deleting the previous value.
The value of the sample is stored in the volatile memory of AN401, then it will be lost after a RESET
or a power down.
Display hysteresis has no effect when PIECE-COUNTER measuring mode is selected.
5.4. ERROR
ERROR measuring function displays the algebraic difference between the value measured by the
instrument in NET mode and the value set as limit level no.1 (LEV 1).
This function can be used to obtain a simple dosing system.

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5.5. PEAK
PEAK measuring function displays the maximum value reached by the signal after the function has
been activated by rear contact KEY1 (see table 1).
This function has effect on all measuring functions at the same time; as a consequence, in combined
display mode (MVISU=4), the peak value of all measuring functions can be displayed.
The contact KEY1 shall be kept closed until the display of maximum value reached by the signal is
required.
To reset peak value:

• press C (ESC) pushbutton on the front panel of AN401 or
• close contact KEY2 on the rear panel of the instrument
Opening contact KEY1, the instrument returns to the display mode selected before activating PEAK
function.
5.6. HOLD
HOLD function freezes present display value until the function is disabled.
This function freezes the display of all measuring functions of the instrument and it is enabled by
means of rear contact KEY3.
The display is frozen until contact KEY3 is kept closed; opening this contact, normal operations are
restored.
5.7. PRINT
The instrument can print a document consisting of a fixed form filled in with the values measured by
the instrument according to available measuring functions; the instrument shall be connected to a
standard serial printer (V891 type) through its serial port.
The form to be used for each print shall be loaded into EEPROM memory of the instrument before
requiring the function.
The form shall be developed by means of a personal computer taking into account characteristics of
the printer (as printing area, etc.) and then down loaded into the instrument using a specific
procedure.
The instrument is set to manage one print form only.
To modify an existing form or to replace it, the personal computer is still necessary to develop the
new form or to down load it to the AN401.
A description of the characteristics of the print form and of the commands for down load procedure is
given in paragraph 6.2.5.
For development of print forms, their management and their down loading to the instrument, a
software utility for Windows ® is available.
Since the print form is stored in the non-volatile memory of AN401, then it will not be lost after a
RESET or a power down.
According to the value of BLOCC [10.19] parameter, PRINT function can be initiated as follows:
• for BLOCC=0, printing is initiated by means of π (up) pushbutton or by digital input

KEY4.
• for BLOCC=1, printing is initiated by means of digital input KEY4 only, since π (up)
pushbutton is dedicated to modify values of limit levels.

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Even if π (up) pushbutton is kept pressed or contact KEY4 is kept closed continuously, only one print
will be carried out by the instrument.
To get another print, release and press again π (up) pushbutton or open and close again KEY4.

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6. SERIAL COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL
The AN401 can also be used from a remote computer connected to the instrument.
In this case, from the computer it is possible:

• to use the measuring functions of the instrument
• to customize the instrument
• to set the clock, if installed
• to down load into the instrument the print form developed at the computer
Using the simple communication protocol embedded in the AN401, the instrument can be controlled
either by means of point-to-point RS-232 serial connection (one instrument and one computer) or
multi-drop RS-485 serial connection (one computer and several instruments and transducers).
During serial transmission, the function of the protocol is to ensure integrity of transmitted data
(commands, measurement values or instrument responses).
All the above operations are carried out establishing a communication link between the computer and
the instrument through a set of commands. Commands shall be part of an ASCII command string
with a well-defined format.
6.1. PROTOCOL FORMAT
The protocol foresees two different formats for the messages to be sent to AN401:
• a format for generic commands;
• a format for instrument configuration commands (these commands are relevant to
customization menu [10] ).
6.1.1. COMMAND MESSAGE FORMAT
The format of command messages from computer to AN401 is as follows:
a) Any command shall begin with the character @ which signals the beginning of the
message. The character @ is equivalent to an ASCII character and will always be
placed in the first position of the message format.
b) Character @ shall be followed by the identifier ID of the instrument to which the
command is addressed. The identifier shall be a character in the set 0-9 or A-Z; ID
can also be the character ? if a message is to be sent to an instrument the identifier
of which is unknown.
With RS-485 multi-drop serial lines (several instruments connected to the same serial
line), the character ? can be used only if one instrument at a time is connected to the
serial line: this is to avoid that more than one instrument can respond at the same time
to the computer causing a conflict situation.
Typically, the character ? is used to establish a connection with an instrument without
identifier so that the computer can assign an identifier to it.
An ASCII character is used for the identifier and it will always be placed in the
second position of the message format.

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c) ID shall be followed by a character corresponding to the command to be sent to the

instrument.
This ASCII character will always be placed in the third position of the message
format. A description of available commands is given in paragraph 6.2.
d) Command character shall be followed by the argument of the command, if any; this
consists of one or more ASCII characters starting from the fourth position of the
message format.
e) Any message shall always be terminated by CR (Carriage Return) which
corresponds to a character of ASCII code.
COMMAND MESSAGE FORMAT
@ ID COMMAND ARGUMENT CR Message format
1 2 3 from 4 to n -1 n Character position
6.1.2. CONFIGURATION MESSAGE FORMAT
The message for instrument configuration is a special type of command where the command
is the character S followed by the additional indication of the parameter to be modified (this is
a numerical indication).
The format of configuration messages from computer to AN401 is as follows:
a) Any message shall begin with the character @ which signals the beginning of the
message. The character @ is equivalent to an ASCII character and will always be
placed in the first position of the message format.
b) Character @ shall be followed by the identifier ID of the instrument to which the
command is addressed. The identifier shall be a character in the set 0-9 or A-Z; ID
can also be the character ? if a message is to be sent to an instrument the identifier
of which is unknown.
With RS-485 multi-drop serial lines (several instruments connected to the same serial
line), the character ? can be used only if one instrument at a time is connected to the
serial line: this is to avoid that more than one instrument can respond at the same time
to the computer causing a conflict situation.
Typically, the character ? is used to establish a connection with an instrument without
identifier so that the computer can assign an identifier to it.
An ASCII character is used for the identifier and it will always be placed in the
second position of the message format.
c) ID shall be followed by character S corresponding to the command for parameter
modification.
This ASCII character will always be placed in the third position of the message
format.
d) S command shall be followed by a two digits number identifying the parameter to be
modified.
Should the parameter be a number between 0 and 9, then a zero shall be put in front
of the number as a prefix (00, 01, ..., 09).
e) The two digits number shall be followed by the value of the parameter to be modified.
It shall always consist of five ASCII characters with a preceding minus sign in case
of negative values.

-64-
Parameters can be in the range from -99999 to +99999.

Negative values shall be indicated by minus sign (-99999 or -09999), while + sign
shall not be put in front of positive values (99999 or 00123).

-65-
f) Any message shall always be terminated by CR (Carriage Return) which

corresponds to a character of ASCII code.
CONFIGURATION MESSAGE FORMAT
@ ID S XX PARAMETER VALUE CR Message format
6.2. AVAILABLE COMMANDS

Note: commands received by the AN401 are accepted whether upper or lower case character is
used for the command.
It is important to remind that the instrument accepts commands received on the serial line only
if MEASURE [4] mode is selected. Should calibration or customization modes [5], [6], [7],
[8], [9], [10] be selected, commands sent on the serial line will be ignored by the instrument.
Available commands are described in the following paragraphs; it is supposed to be connected to an

instrument with the identifier ID=0.
6.2.1. “C” COMMAND

“C” command stores into AN401 the weigh of the sample which is used for PIECE-
COUNTER measuring function. This command does not change the display of the instrument
since the value of the net weight of the sample is not displayed.
Example: @ 0 C CR
The instrument will send the character ! back to the computer to confirm execution of the
received command.
6.2.2. “G” COMMAND

“G” command allows the computer to read the set value of a custom parameter of the
instrument.
Example: @ 0 G 01 CR
In the above example, the instrument is requested to send the current value of limit level 1
(LEV1) to the computer.
The instrument will send the required value back to the computer to confirm execution of the
received command.
6.2.3. “H” COMMAND
“H” command allows computer to set or to read clock parameters (hour, date, etc.) when the
clock option is installed. This command is carried out sending a message with a well defined
format containing all necessary information.

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The format of the message shall be as follows:

XGDDMMAAHHTTSS
where:
• X determines whether clock parameters is to be set (X=0) or clock
parameters reading is required (X=1).
• G sets the day of the week; G is a number between 1 and 7, where G=1
means Sunday.
The print of the day of the week is abbreviated, then for G=1=Sunday
“SUN” is printed.
• DD sets the date; DD is a number between 1 and 31; single digit numbers
shall be preceded by 0 since this field requires two ASCII characters, then
put DD=06 instead of “6”.
• MM sets the month; MM is a number between 1 and 12; single digit
numbers shall be preceded by 0 since this field requires two ASCII
characters, then put MM=06 instead of “6”.
• AA sets the year; AA is a number between 80 and 99.
During printing, the instrument will change the indication to four digits:
1980 to 1999 for 80 ≤ AA ≤ 99
2000 to 2079 for 00 ≤ AA ≤ 79
• HH sets hours; HH is a number between 0 and 23; single digit numbers
put HH=06 instead of “6”. HH=0 means midnight.
• TT sets minutes; TT is a number between 0 and 59; single digit numbers
put TT=06 instead of “6”.
• SS sets seconds; SS is a number between 0 and 59; single digit numbers
put SS=06 instead of “6”.
Example 1: @ 0 H 04150798143521 CR
In the above example, the instrument will be set as follows:

day of the week: Wednesday
date: 15/07/98
current time: 14:35:21
Example 2: @ 0 H 1 CR
In the above example, the instrument is requested to send current values of clock parameters
to the computer.
The instrument will send the required values back to the computer by means of a message
starting with RTC and according to the following format:
RTCGDDMMAAHHTTSS
The meaning of these fields is the same as described hereinbefore.

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6.2.4. “INIT” COMMAND

“INIT” command allows computer to reset the instrument initiating the power-on sequence
of fig. 16.
This command shall follow a change of full scale value (FS [10.1]), which is used to convert
conversion points of A/D converter into mechanical units, or a change on the baud rate value
(BAUD [10.15]).
After saving the modified value, the command initiates a complete reset of the instrument
including calculation of the new conversion coefficient.
Example: @ 0 INIT CR
6.2.5. “K” COMMAND
“K” command presets the instrument to receive ASCII strings corresponding to the text to be
printed; each string corresponds to a line of the text.
Strings shall be compatible to available printing area of the printer: this shall be checked by
whom defines the strings.
The set of strings cannot exceed 1,500 total characters (bytes).
Example: @ 0 K CR
Strings can include:

• fixed text, i.e. headings or other text common to each print.
• data fields, i.e. the fields for the values resulting from AN401 different measuring
functions.
Data fields are “bookmarks” to be placed in the fixed text: the instrument will replace
bookmarks with values resulting from measuring functions.
In the text, each bookmark takes the same number of characters as the value to be
printed.
Function Data field bookmarks Characters Example

number
NET !NNNNNN 7 +5.2376
GROSS !GGGGGG 7 -726.79
PIECE-COUNTER !PPPPPP 7 +15000
ERROR !EEEEEE 7 -60.571
PEAK !XX 3 max ON or OFF
DATE !DDDDDDDDDDDDD 14 Sun_12/09/1998
HOUR !HHHHHHH 8 10:11:23
• sequence of control characters for the printer, if any

• Carriage Return (CR) and/or Line Feed (LF)
String receiving mode will be ended on receiving character CHR$(0) (NUL, ASCII code
0x00).

-68-
Example (applicable to printers without automatic line feed):
Strings sent to AN401 Corresponding printing
@0KCR
Measured net weight:!NNNNNN CRLF Measured net weight:+5.2376
CRLF
No. of parts on scale:!PPPPPP CRLF No. of parts on scale:+15000
CRLF
Date:!DDDDDDDDDDDDD CRLF Date:Sun 12/09/1998
Error:!EEEEEE Peak:!XX CRLF Error:-60.571 Peak:OFF
CHR$(0)
6.2.6. “L” COMMAND
“L” command allows computer to close calibration contact inside the instrument.
This is the same contact controlled by HICAL [9.4] function in calibration menu of AN401; it
can be used to check operation of the measuring chain.
When the contact is remotely controlled by the computer, it cannot be used to calibrate the
instrument: calibration can be carried out exclusively by means of the instrument itself.
For L=1, the contact is closed; it remains closed until a new command string with L=0 is
received.
Example 1: @ 0 L 1 CR
Example 2: @ 0 L 0 CR
In the above examples, calibration contact is closed on receiving the string of example 1; it is
then opened on receiving the string of example 2.
6.2.7. “P” COMMAND
“P” command allows computer to enable and to disable the peak function; also resetting of
current peak value can be achieved by this command.
The argument of command “P” is an ASCII character which can take the following values:
• P=0 to disable peak function
Example 1: @ 0 P 0 CR
• P=1 to enable peak function
• P=2 to reset peak value

-69-
6.2.8. “R” COMMAND
“R” command allows computer to read the value measured by AN401; the measuring
function is selected setting the value of command argument.
This command is executed independently from the current measuring mode of the instrument
at the time the command is sent from the remote computer.
The argument of command “R” is an ASCII character, which can take the following values:
• R=0 to read NET value from the instrument
Example 1: @ 0 R 0 CR
• R=1 to read GROSS value from the instrument
• R=2 to read PIECE-COUNTER value from the instrument
• R=3 to read ERROR value from the instrument
6.2.9. “V” COMMAND
“V” command allows computer to read the firmware revision installed in the instrument.
Example: @ 0 V CR
On receiving this command, the instrument will send an ASCII string back to the computer:
this string includes firmware version, date of reference and serial number of the instrument .
6.2.10. “Z” COMMAND
“Z” command allows computer to enable “zero” function of the instrument, i.e. an offset
equal to value measured at the time of the command is subtracted from measurement: as a
consequence, the difference between the measured value and the offset is displayed by
AN401 and send back to computer following command R=0.
Example: @ 0 Z CR

-70-

-71-
6.3. CUSTOMIZATION PARAMETERS
The meaning of these parameters and their range of values are given in paragraph 4.3.
CONFIGURATION MESSAGE FORMAT
@ ID S XX PARAMETER VALUE CR Message format
Argument of AN401 Description

S command Parameter
00 FS [10.1] To set the value of full scale (FS)
01 LEV 1 [10.2] To set the value of limit level no. 1
02 HIST 1 [10.3] To set the value of hysteresis for level no. 1
09 TAREV [10.10 ] To set the known value of the tare
10 TAREM [10.11] To select the type of tare to be used
11 DP [10.12] To set the position of decimal point
12 FILT 1 [10.13] To set the value of the digital filter
13 FENAB [10.14] To enable digital filter
14 BAUD [10.15] To set the baud rate of serial transmission
15 HISTM [10.16] To set hysteresis applicable to the display
16 MEAN [10.17] To set the average
17 INCL [10.18] To set the conversion for servoinclinometers
18 BLOCC [10.19] To enable/disable level menu in measure mode
19 MVISU [10.20] To set display mode of the measure
20 IDSER [10.21] To set serial identifier of the instrument
Example 1: @ 0 S 00 01500 CR
The string of example 1 will set full scale value (FS) to 1500.
Example 2: @ 0 S 03 -01000 CR
The string of example 2 will set limit level 2 to -1000.
Example 3: @ 0 S 11 00003 CR
The string of example 3 will set decimal point to position 3.

-72-
6.4. RESPONSES FROM AN401
According to the received command and to the context, the instrument will always send back a
response to computer; the response consists of the following strings.
AN401 Response Description

! Response to an accepted and executed command
? Response to an unknown command or to an incorrect format
Nxxxxxx Response to command G requiring parameter value;
xxxxxx corresponds to the required value including sign and decimal point
Vnnnnn Response to command R0 requiring NET value;
nnnnn corresponds to the required value including sign and decimal point
Lnnnnn Response to command R1 requiring GROSS value;
Pnnnnn Response to command R2 requiring PIECE-COUNTER value; nnnnn
corresponds to the required value including sign and decimal point
Ennnnn Response to command R3 requiring ERROR value;

-73-
7. CE MARKING
To certify the AN401 according to the requirements of electromagnetic compatibility specifications,

all useful hardware and software solutions have been implemented in the instrument.
Nevertheless, it is to be considered that the specific application where the instrument is installed can
differ from the conditions simulated during EMC testing.
Therefore, the set of installation and wiring conditions minimizing the effects of electromagnetic
interference shall be found out for each application; specific cares shall be given to:
• the analog signal from the transducer
• power supply to the instrument
• digital signals (TTL, RS-232 or RS-485)
All the above mentioned signals can be affected by noise or can propagate noise into the instrument.
7.1. ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE PROTECTION
The following considerations are general suggestions which can be effective depending on the amount
and kind of noise: they shall not be considered the only suitable solutions to protect the instrument.
Some cares to be taken in the interconnection between AN401 and transducer are as follows:
• Always use cables with 100% shield for the wiring between the instrument and the
transducer.
• Transducer and its interconnecting cable shall be placed far from electric motors,
power switches, electric actuators, etc.
• Cables shall be placed into reserved pipes.
• Generally, shield should be isolated from transducer body; shield should be earthed at
instrument side (see paragraph 3.2.9); if shielding is inadequate, the cable shall be
passed through a common iron tube (paramagnetic with low carbon content for best
electromagnetic shielding) earthed near or together with the transducer.
Note: cable shield and shielding tube shall be provided with isolating sheaths to avoid
leakage current due to accidental electric contact to metallic structures.
• If the cable is provided with plug connectors, shields shall be connected through
electric contacts: never use the shell of the connector which shall be coated with
insulating tape after execution of interconnection.
• Avoid connections to earth network of factories since they are always source of
noise: use separate earth connections.
Each system shall be connected to earth with a separate earth wiring; all earth
wirings shall be tied to a single earth point at true null potential (“star” topology);
avoid to connect different system to the same earth wiring.
• If necessary, it could be useful to connect earth terminal of AN401 as described in
paragraph 3.2.9: this way, by-pass filters of the instrument are activated.
• Additionally, the instrument can be installed into a metallic case connected to earth.
Important notice: always comply with all rules in use concerning earthing.

-74-
Some cares to be taken in the interconnection between AN401 and power supply are as follows:
To comply with CE marking, a ferrite coil (e.g. model

MEC MSFC-5T) shall be placed in the power supply cable
near to rear panel of the instrument; the cable shall pass
through the ferrite forming a one turn coil with 170 ohm
impedance at 25 MHz.
In the following picture, a view of the ferrite one turn coil is

given; as per the diagram hereinafter, the turn consists of both
wires.
If necessary, it could be useful to connect earth terminal of

AN401 as described in paragraph 3.2.9: this way, by-pass filters
of the instrument are activated.
+VDC FERRITE WITH 1 TURN

REGULATED
+
POWER SUPPLY
12 or 24 VDC _ COMMON
1 2 3 4
6 7 8 9 5
KEY 4
KEY 3
KEY 2
KEY 1
EARTH
+VDC
AOUT
COMMON
AIN
REL4 REL3 REL2 REL1

5 4 3 2 1
ZERO
GAIN
Some cares to be taken in the interconnection between AN401 and digital signals are as follows:
It is recommended to use shielded twisted pairs since their immunity to noise is greater than non-shielded
cables.
Moreover, if necessary, use double shielded interconnecting cables.

To obtain the best immunity to noise, paramount cares should be taken in earthing the interconnecting cable. It
shall be connected such that ground loops, which could allow noise current to flow, are avoided. For shielding
effectiveness, the User shall also check that the earthing point be a true reference point at null electrical
potential.
If double shielded cables are used, it is suggested that inner shield be connected at one side (e.g. the AN401)
and the outer shield be connected at the opposite side (e.g. the computer).
If necessary, it is also possible to consider the use of optocouplers for serial lines.
TTL inputs of terminals KEY1, KEY2, KEY3, KEY4 are provided with digital software filter for debouncing.

-75-
7.2. TEST LABORATORY AND TEST LIST
Tests have been carried out at a test laboratory internationally recognized as “competent body”.
The instrument has been submitted to the most severe compatibility tests applicable to industrial
applications, i.e. EN 50081-2 (for emissions) and EN 50082-2 (for susceptibility).
In details, they consist of:
1) Normative reference: EN 55011: Test category: Emission; Port: enclosure; Type of test:
radiated interference field strength; Frequency range: 30 to 1,000 MHz Class: A (ISM).
2) Normative reference: ENV 50140: Port: enclosure; Test category: Immunity; Type of test:
radiated radio-frequency, electro-magnetic field; Frequency range: 80 to 1,000 MHz; Test
level: 10 V/m.
3) Normative reference: ENV 50141: Port: DC I/O power port; Test category: Immunity;
Type of test: RF common mode; Frequency range: 0.15 to 80 MHz; Test level: 10 V.
4) Normative reference: ENV 50141: Port: signal lines; Test category: Immunity; Type of test:
RF common mode; Frequency range: 0.15 to 80 MHz; Test level: 10 V.
5) Normative reference: EN 61000-4-4: Port: DC I/O power port; Test category: Immunity;
Type of test: Fast transient (burst). Common mode; Test level: 3.
6) Normative reference: EN 61000-4-4: Port: signal lines; Test category: Immunity; Type of
test: Fast transient (burst). Common mode; Test level: 3.
7) Normative reference: EN 61000-4-2: Port: Enclosure; Test category: Immunity; Type of

test: ESD; Test level: ±4 kV.
8) Normative reference: EN 61000-4-8: Port: Enclosure; Test category: Immunity; Type of

test: Power frequency magnetic field; Frequency range: 50 Hz; Test level: 4.
9) Normative reference: ENV 50204: Port: Enclosure; Test category: Immunity; Type of test:
Radio frequency electromagnetic field. Pulse modulated: 900+5 MHz; Test level: 3.
7.3. TEST RESULTS AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
All the tests have been passed successfully.
Documents and test results shall be considered as confidential information according to test laboratory
and CE norms.
Therefore, they cannot be published, nor photocopied: they can be consulted at our Factory by an
appointed competent body only.

-76-
8. TERMS OF SALE
(These terms of sale are applicable to all DS Europe Products)
8.1. LIMITED WARRANTY

Several electrical and mechanical tests carried out during manufacturing process and the final test carried out
on each unit warrant that delivered Product is free from defects in materials, workmanship and performance.
During the warranty period of six months from delivery, at no additional charge, Product rendered defective
under normal use will be repaired or replaced at DS Europe factory.
The Product shall be forwarded at Buyer’s expense concerning shipping, insurance, customs duties or any
other charges associated with transportation of the Product.
This Limited Warranty does not extend to any Product that has been damaged or rendered defective as a
result of accident, misuse, or abuse.
Moreover, in case of heavy or non-reparable damages, the Product may be rendered disassembled to the
Buyer if the cost to re-assemble the Product will not be paid.
The Product contains firmware that is provided on an “AS IS” basis: essentially, firmware is in accordance
with the description of the Product manual.
Except as expressly set forth in this warranty, DS Europe makes no other warranties, expressed or implied,
including any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, concerning hardware
and firmware of the Product and its relevant documentation.
This Limited Warranty does not extend to any semiconductors: integrated circuits, transistors, diodes,
microprocessors, memories and whatever else not covered by semiconductor Manufacturers’ warranty.
The Buyer shall check the delivered Product within 10 days from receipt; after this limit, the Product shall be
considered accepted.
DS Europe liability is limited to the above; DS Europe is not liable for any personal injuries, damages to
property or damages due to stoppage of machinery or plants caused by installation and use of supplied
Product (including, without any limits, any lost profits, lost savings, stoppage of activities, lost information or
any other economic losses).
8.2. LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES

DS Europe products are parts of more complex systems and plants; these are sold in thousands per year, for
thousands different applications with thousands of norms and precautions concerning installation and use that
are not known to the Manufacturer.
In case of installation or use that can directly or indirectly cause personal injuries, damages to property or
damages due to stoppage of machinery or plants, before installation the Buyer shall immediately advise DS
Europe that will stop purchase negotiation or suspend deliveries of the Product.
However, to minimize or to avoid risk of damages, DS Europe is available, without any responsibility, to
suggest solutions and protection accessories, test certifications, competent Bodies or consultant Institutes.
Moreover, it is recommended to read carefully installation and use instructions attached to Product delivery.
These instructions can also be sent during purchase negotiation on Buyer’s request.
NOTICE:
Even if not expressly mentioned, these “Terms of Sale” are integral and complementary part of any bulletin,
invoice or instruction manual.
DS EUROPE S.R.L.
Terms of Sale no. 140998 of September 14th, 1998.

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DS EUROPE

TRANSDUCERS AND INDUSTRIAL ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

Applied Council’s directives: 89/336/CEE modified by directives 92/31/CEE, 93/68/CEE

Conformity to Standards: EMC:

Manufacturer: DS Europe srl

Address: via F. Russoli, 6 Milan (Italy)

Equipment type: Indicator Conditioner

Model: AN401 series

Year of registered mark: 1998

Milan, June 12th 1998

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

3.2.12. REL 3 TERMINALS.........................................................................................................21

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

4.4. CLOCK MENU.................................................................................................................... 55

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

1.2. ORDER INFORMATION

The AN-401 family of instruments is coded as follows:

Fig. 1 Definition of Model Coded Variants

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

1.3. BLOCK DIAGRAM

DATA MEMORY WITH WATCH-DOG

COMMON A/D 16 BIT

Fig. 2 AN401 Block Diagram

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

1.4. COMPONENT LAYOUT

Fig. 3 Components Layout on PCB

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

2.1. POWER SUPPLY

2.2. TRANSDUCER POWER SUPPLY

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

2.3. ANALOG INPUT SIGNALS

2.3.1. DIFFERENTIAL INPUT

2.3.2. SINGLE ENDED INPUT

Typical input impedance of both stages is 1 Megaohm.

2.5. ANALOG INPUT ADJUSTMENT

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

2.8. FRONT PANEL PUSHBUTTONS

2.10. SERIAL COMMUNICATION

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

2.11. ANALOG OUTPUT

2.12. EXTERNAL COMMANDS

2.13. LIMIT LEVELS

levels: each relay is activated when the

normally closed (NC); moreover, a

2.14. OVERALL DIMENSIONS 96 48

DIN standard 96x48 mm; depth: 147 mm.

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

Panel cut out: 92x44 mm.

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

3.1. PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS

3.2. ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS TO REAR PANEL

Fig. 4 Rear Panel

AN401 Manual V1.5 – DS Europe

TERMINAL DESCRIPTION DS Europe