GASMAX ECx Instruction Manual
Revision 1.1
4
SECTION 2 – GENERAL DESCRIPTION
2.1 Introduction
IMPORTANT
: This manual describes only GM ECx toxic / oxygen gas monitor equipped with
internal RF wireless modem and RF900 firmware. This battery powered device has no external
power or signal wiring and is limited to self powered electrochemical sensors for toxic and oxygen
measurements. A separate manual is available for the GASMAX IIx, an externally powered
wireless monitor for bridge-type sensors. Both are single channel fixed-point monitors designed to
provide continuous monitoring of hazardous gases in the workplace. Gas values are graphically
displayed in engineering units in either bar-graph or 30-minute trend formats (Figure 2-1).
Flashing front panel LED’s help notify personnel when alarm levels have been reached. Only
periodic calibration checks are needed to assure dependable performance.
The GM ECx provides a license free 900MHZ wireless link to any GDS Corp C1
Protector
Controller or C2
Quad Protector
controller (when configured with an RF900 wireless modem). Up
to 16 GM ECX wireless monitors may communicate to one C1 Controller.
Advanced microcontroller electronics and superior graphic LCD operator interface offers
enhanced diagnostics and fault analysis not possible in competing products. Non-volatile
memory retains all configuration data during power interruptions. The magnetic keypad allows
non-intrusive calibrations to be easily performed by one person without opening the enclosure. A
standard “real time clock & calendar” feature allows event logging of calibrations and alarm trips
for review on the LCD readout.
Compatible sensors include an 8-wire
Smart Sensor
interface capable of configuration data
uploads to the monitor as well as traditional
Simple
sensors with three-wire interface. A separate
PC compatible USB Interface device (part # 10-0252) allows
Smart
sensors to be preloaded with
configuration variables via a PC; when connected, the GM ECx gives the user the option to
upload this data to the GM ECx. This configuration data includes alarm set points, range, target
gas, calibration constants and other variables required to match the GM ECX to a specific
application. For
Simple
sensors with no smart interface, the USB device allows direct GM ECx
configuration from a PC or a six channel GM ECX
Educator
device.
Additional features include:
•
On screen radio status icons indicate “Server In Range”, “Server Out of Range” and “Low
Battery” conditions.
•
No potentiometer or jumper settings required. All setup is done with menus accessed via the
LCD / magnetic keypad operator interface without opening the enclosure.
•
Field adjustable alarm levels flash front panel LED indicators for HIGH, WARN, FAIL
conditions. Relays are not available with this low power model.
•
CAL MODE advises when to apply gas during calibrations.
•
A thirty-minute trend screen shows rate of change of gas exposures.
•
Sensor life bar-graph updates after each SPAN calibration.
•
Modular design affords efficient installation and plug in sensors allow changing target gases
after installation.
•
New smart sensors are recognized by the GM ECx and prompts users to either upload new
configuration data or continue with data from the previous smart sensor.
•
Sensors are industry proven for fast response and long life.