Simply Automated UTR — Three-Phase Repeater & Computer Interface Manual

Installation and operating instructions for the Simply Automated UTR Three-Phase Repeater & Computer Interface (CIM) — repeats UPB™ powerline messages across all three phases of a 3-phase AC system and provides an RS-232 interface to a host computer.

Overview

The UTR 3-Phase Repeater is designed to repeat a UPB™ message onto each 120V electrical phase of a standard 3-phase AC powerline where the phases are separated by 120°. It receives a UPB™ message on one AC electrical phase and repeats it onto all three phases. The UTR also provides an RS-232 serial interface for transmitting/receiving UPB™ messages from a host computer or home automation controller, functioning as a Computer Interface Module (CIM).

Safety Warning

CAUTION: Before installing the UTR, be sure power has been disconnected by turning off the circuit breaker(s). Installing products while power is on may expose you to dangerous voltages and may damage the device. Installation should be performed by a qualified electrician in accordance with the National Electrical Code and local regulations. The UTR requires a neutral (white) connection wire.

Installation Procedure

1. Turn circuit breaker(s) off for Phase A, Phase B, and Phase C circuits to be connected to the UTR.
2. Connect the "Neutral" wire to the WHITE wire coming out of the UTR (REQUIRED).
3. Connect the "Phase A" wire to the BLACK wire coming out of the UTR (REQUIRED).
4. Connect the "Phase B" wire to the RED wire coming out of the UTR (OPTIONAL).
5. Connect the "Phase C" wire to the BLUE wire coming out of the UTR (OPTIONAL).
6. Either Phase B or Phase C may be used when connecting 2 phases of a 3-phase system (commercial or multi-dwelling building).
7. Make sure all wire connections are tight with no exposed bare copper.
8. Restore power. Verify the UTR Status LED is solid orange.
9. Configure the UTR for desired operation.

All electrical phases are not required to be connected — the neutral and Phase A connections are the only mandatory ones.

LED Indicators

The UTR has a two-color (red/green) LED indicator for each electrical phase, plus one UTR status LED. These normally appear orange (red and green both on) and change color to indicate communication and configuration status.

UTR Status LED

Phase Status LED

Using UPB™ Devices with the UTR (Repeater Function)

To enable a UPB™ device to transmit through the UTR, use the Edit Device dialog in UPStart and check "Transmit through a powerline repeater" in the Transmission Options of the Advanced Tab. Once configured, devices transmit Repeater messages which the UTR then repeats across all phases. The UTR can also serve as a Computer Interface Module (CIM) to configure all UPB devices, or the plug-in CIM (UMC-DB9-W) can be used to configure devices on one phase at a time (the plug-in CIM only communicates with devices on the same phase in a 3-phase system).

Using the UTR with UPStart Software

1. Specify the UPB™ Interface and Communications Port — Select Tools → UPB™ Interface Device → Select, then specify "3-Phase Powerline Interface" and the communications port.
2. Establish UTR Communications Interface — Press Connect in UPStart to test communication; if successful, UPStart displays UTR interface info including firmware version.
3. Repeater Transmission Count — Adjustable to repeat a UPB™ packet 1, 2, 3, or 4 times (default: 2) via the Settings button.
4. Set the UPB™ Network(s) for the repeat function — By default the UTR responds to every "Repeater" message received; it can be configured to respond only to specified UPB™ Networks (1–8), useful to reduce interference in multi-dwelling or office buildings.
5. Close the UPB™ Interface Setup Dialog by pressing OK.

Communication Modes

The UTR has two operating modes: MESSAGE mode and PULSE mode. The last-used mode is retained through power interruption. UPStart automatically sets PULSE mode, but most controllers require MESSAGE mode. To restore MESSAGE mode:

1. Place the UTR in SETUP mode by pressing the Program Button five times rapidly (indicator blinks continuously GREEN).
2. Reset to MESSAGE mode by pressing the Program Button ten times (indicator blinks continuously RED).
3. Press the Program Button once to exit SETUP mode.

Use a standard serial cable with a male DB9 connector for the UTR end (same cable type as included with the UMC-DB9-W; no cable is provided with the UTR).

Specifications

Simply Automated, Incorporated. See www.simply-automated.com for the full manual and support.