Renard SS16 Controller Board: Difference between revisions

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==Introduction==
[[image:Wiki - Renard SS16 Completed Board.jpg|600px|right|x]]
 
=='''Introduction'''==


:The Renard SS16 is a PIC microcontroller based Christmas light controller with 16 solid state relay circuits incorporated into the board. The board design is based on the PIC-based 8-port dimmer concept originally developed by Phil Short. Information on the original concept can be viewed [http://computerchristmas.com/christmas/link-how_to/HowToId-71/Simple_PIC-Based_8-Port_Dimmer here]. Generic information pertaining to current Renard designs (including maximum channel count) can be found on the [[Renard]] wiki page.  
:The Renard SS16 is a PIC microcontroller based Christmas light controller with 16 solid state relay circuits incorporated into the board. The board design is based on the PIC-based 8-port dimmer concept originally developed by Phil Short. Information on the original concept can be viewed [http://computerchristmas.com/christmas/link-how_to/HowToId-71/Simple_PIC-Based_8-Port_Dimmer here]. Generic information pertaining to current Renard designs (including maximum channel count) can be found on the [[Renard]] wiki page.  
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==Disclaimers==
=='''Disclaimers'''==


The standard disclaimers pertaining to the information contained on this wiki page are listed [[Disclaimers | here.]]
The standard disclaimers pertaining to the information contained on this wiki page are listed [[Disclaimers | here.]]
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==The Board==
=='''The Board'''==


[[Image:Wiki - Renard SS16 PCB.jpg | 800px]]
[[Image:Wiki - Renard SS16 PCB.jpg | 800px]]
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<center>'''The Renard SS 16 measures 4.1" X 8"'''</center>
==='''Board Availability'''===
:Check the [http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?6663-The-Renard-SS-16-is-now-available!-(first-post-is-current-2-19-2011)  DIYC Forum] for the latest information concerning board availability.






==Circuit Diagram==
=='''Circuit Diagram'''==


:The schematic diagram can be found [[media:Renard SS16 Schematic.pdf | here.]]  
:The schematic diagram can be found [[media:Renard SS16 Schematic.pdf | here.]]  
Line 62: Line 70:


::'''Resistors'''  
::'''Resistors'''  
:::* '''R26-R41''' – Triac gate resistors. The value of these resistors in the BOM was selected for locations using 115/120 VAC power. For locations using other voltages, please check the [[The Renard SS16 Controller Board#Other Setups | Other Setups]] section.
:::* '''R26-R41''' – Triac gate resistors. The value of these resistors in the [[Assembly Instructions The Renard SS16#Parts Listing (BOM) | BOM]] was selected for locations using 115/120 VAC power.  
 




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:::* '''U1''' – LF50CV, 5 VDC Voltage Regulator  
:::* '''U1''' – LF50CV, 5 VDC Voltage Regulator  
:::* '''U3''' – ECS-2100AX-18.432MHZ, 18.432 MHz Crystal Clock Oscillator  
:::* '''U3''' – ECS-2100AX-18.432MHZ, 18.432 MHz Crystal Clock Oscillator  
:::* '''T1-T16''' – BTA04-700T, these are gate sensitive triacs that only require 5mA of current on the gate signal.  They were selected as a dual use triac for both LEDs and regular incandescent lights.  
:::* '''T1-T16''' – BTA06-600CW  




::'''Jumpers'''  
::'''Jumpers'''  
:::* '''JP1''' – RS232 signal ground.  Install a shunt (jumper) on JP1 when receiving RS232 data.
:::* '''JP1''' – RS232 signal ground.  Install a shunt (jumper) on JP1 when receiving RS232 data.
:::* '''JP2''' – 120 ohm termination resistor enable.  Normally a shunt will be installed on JP2.  Remove the shunt if you are experiencing problems with incoming data.  
:::* '''JP2''' – 120 ohm termination resistor enable.  Normally a shunt will be installed on JP2 when receiving RS485 data.  Remove the shunt if you are experiencing problems with incoming data.  
:::* '''JP3''' – Diagnostic LEDs enable.  Install a shunt on JP3 to allow the Diagnostic LEDs to function.  During normal operation, you can remove the shunt with no negative impact on board operation.  
:::* '''JP3''' – Diagnostic LEDs enable.  Install a shunt on JP3 to allow the Diagnostic LEDs to function.  During normal operation, you can remove the shunt with no negative impact on board operation.  


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:::* '''ZC''' – Zero Cross signal
:::* '''ZC''' – Zero Cross signal


==Firmware==
=='''Firmware'''==
 
:The PICs ('''U6''' & '''U7''') must be programmed with the correct firmware for the board to operate correctly.  There are two types of firmware available: Operational and Diagnostic.  The Operational firmware is what you need for normal board operation.  The Diagnostic firmware is a troubleshooting aid to use when there are problems with the board.
 
 
:'''Renard SS Operational Firmware:'''
 
::*[[media:Renard SS Operational Firmware.asm | Renard SS Operational Firmware.asm]] – source code that needs to be compiled
 
 
:'''Renard SS Diagnostic Firmware:'''
 
::*[[media:Renard SS Diagnostic Firmware.asm | Renard SS Diagnostic Firmware.asm]] – source code that needs to be compiled
 
:::Instructions for using the Renard SS Diagnostic Firmware are located on this [[Renard Diagnostic Firmware Instructions | wiki page]] or can be downloaded in this [[media:Renard SS Diagnostic Firmware Instructions.pdf | file]].


:The PICs ('''U6''' & '''U7''') must be programmed with the latest firmware for the Renard SS16 to operate properly. The firmware can be found on the [[Renard Firmware]] wiki page.


:'''DMX Firmware:'''


::Since there are many options available with the Renard DMX firmware it is impractical to post a dedicated Renard SS board version here.  Users desiring to use DMX should get the firmware [[Renard Firmware | here]].






==Powering the Renard SS16==
=='''Powering the Renard SS16'''==


:Input power requirements: An AC source  
:Input power requirements: An AC source  
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===AC Power:===
===AC Power:===
:The Renard SS16 requires AC power for generation of the DC voltage, the SSR (opto/triac) circuitry and for generation of the Zero Cross signal. The information in this wiki is targeted at users who are using 115/120 VAC power.  The board can be configured to use other AC voltages and anyone wanting to use other voltages should consult the [[Renard SS16 Controller Board || Other Setups]] section below.
:The Renard SS16 requires AC power for generation of the DC voltage, the SSR (opto/triac) circuitry and for generation of the Zero Cross signal. The information in this wiki is targeted at users who are using 115/120 VAC power.   








==AC Power Handling Capability==
=='''AC Power Handling Capability'''==
===Maximum Input Load===
===Maximum Input Load===
:The Renard SS16 is divided into two banks of eight triacs.  Each bank of triacs is capable of carrying up to 15 amps of current based on the trace width used on the pcb.  
:The Renard SS16 is divided into two banks of eight triacs.  Each bank of triacs is capable of carrying up to 15 amps of current based on the trace width used on the pcb.  
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===Triac Loads===
===Triac Loads===
:Based on the pcb trace widths, each triac can handle up to two amps of current. A heat sink is highly recommended when running the triacs at two amps. Care must be taken to ensure that the total load of the eight triacs in each bank does not exceed the rating of the fuse protecting the triac bank or 15 amps (whichever is less).  
:Based on the pcb trace widths, each triac can handle up to two amps of current. A [[Assembly Instructions The Renard SS16#Triac Heat Sink | heat sink]] is highly recommended when running the triacs at two amps. Care must be taken to ensure that the total load of the eight triacs in each bank does not exceed the rating of the fuse protecting the triac bank or 15 amps (whichever is less).
 


===Fuses===
===Fuses===
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:The [[Assembly Instructions - The Renard SS16#Parts Listing (BOM) | BOM]] calls for a 10 amp fuse under that assumption that each bank of triacs will be independantly powered by a common/generic extension cord.  Most of the common extension cords used by DIYC members are rated for only 13 amps and 13 amp fuses are not commonly found.
:The [[Assembly Instructions The Renard SS16#Parts Listing (BOM) | BOM]] calls for a 10 amp fuse under that assumption that each bank of triacs will be independantly powered by a common/generic extension cord.  Most of the common extension cords used by DIYC members are rated for only 13 amps and 13 amp fuses are not commonly found.
 
 


 
=='''Hooking Up the Renard SS16'''==
==Hooking Up the Renard SS16==


===Data Connections===
===Data Connections===
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:'''Data cables for Renard SS board hookup directly to computer COMM port'''  
:'''Data cables for Renard SS board hookup directly to computer COMM port'''  
[[image:Wiki - Renard SS RS232 Data Cable1.jpg | 350px ]]
[[image:Wiki - Renard SS RS232 Data Cable1.jpg | 400px ]]
  PC DE9 Pin 3 to Renard SS DE9 Pin 3
  PC DE9 Pin 3 to Renard SS DE9 Pin 3
  PC DE9 Pin 5 to Renard SS DE9 Pin 5
  PC DE9 Pin 5 to Renard SS DE9 Pin 5




[[image:Wiki - Renard SS RS232 Data Cable2.jpg | 350px ]]
[[image:Wiki - Renard SS RS232 Data Cable2.jpg | 400px ]]
  PC DE9 Pin 3 to RJ45-pin 4
  PC DE9 Pin 3 to RJ45-pin 4
  PC DE9 Pin 5 to RJ45-pin 5 and pin 1 and/or pin 2  
  PC DE9 Pin 5 to RJ45-pin 5 and pin 1 and/or pin 2  




:'''Data cable for Renard SS board hookup using a RS232?RS485 converter'''
:'''Data cable for Renard SS board hookup using a RS232->RS485 or a USB->RS485 converter'''


::Due to the many different types of RS232?RS485 converters available the drawing only refers to the signals coming from the converter. Check the documentation for your converter to figure out how/where to hook up the correct wires.
::Due to the many different types of RS232->RS485 and USB->RS485 converters available, the drawing only refers to the signals coming from the converter. Check the documentation for your converter to figure out how/where to hook up the correct wires.


[[image:Wiki - Renard SS RS485 Data Cable.jpg | 350px ]]
[[image:Wiki - Renard SS RS485 Data Cable.jpg | 400px ]]
  RS485(-) Signal to RJ45-pin 4
  Converter signal RS485(-)/T-/D-/B/485- connects to RJ45-pin 4 (blue CAT5 wire)
  RS485(+) Signal to RJ45-pin 5
  Converter signal RS485(+)/T+/D+/A/485+ connects to RJ45-pin 5 (blue/white CAT5 wire)
Converter GND signal connects to RJ45-pins 1 & 2 (orange and orange/white CAT5 wires)<br>
        An example is shown here with the [[media:Wiki - HXSP-2108F adapter.jpg |HXSP-2108F Adapter Hook-up ]]




:'''Data cable for Renard SS board hookup in a DMX environment'''
:'''Data cable for Renard SS board hookup in a DMX environment'''
[[image:Wiki - Renard SS DMX Data Cable.jpg | 350px ]]
[[image:wiki - DMX (XLR) to Renard SS Connection.jpg | 400px]] <br>
 
[[image:wiki - DMX (RJ-45) to Renard SS Connection.jpg | 400px]]


  DMX using XLR Connectors
  DMX using XLR Connectors
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:'''Data cable for Renard SS board hookup to other Renard boards'''
:'''Data cable for Renard SS board hookup to other Renard boards'''
[[image:Wiki - Renard to Renard Data Cable.jpg | 400px]] <br>


::Generally only a regular straight-thru CAT5 cable is required to connect Renard SS boards to other Renard boards.  For the few exceptions (ie Ren24 V2.5), check the wiki page for those boards to see what their unique requirements are.  
Generally only a regular straight-thru CAT5 cable is required to connect Renard SS boards to other Renard boards.
 
  For the few exceptions (ie Ren24 V2.5), check the wiki page for those boards to see what their unique requirements are.
 
 


====Cable Lengths====
====Cable Lengths====
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===AC Power Connection===
==='''AC Power Connection'''===
:'''Connection Option #1'''
:'''Connection Option #1'''
[[image:Wiki - Renard SS16 AC Layout1.jpg | 800px |center]]
[[image:Wiki - Renard SS16 AC Layout1.jpg | 800px |center]]
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::In the above layout, the right side banks of triacs are powered by jumper wires [blue/green wires] coming from the left side [N  120V] terminal block.  This means that both banks of triacs are being powered by the same AC input [orange/black wires].  
::In the above layout, the right side banks of triacs are powered by jumper wires [blue/green wires] coming from the left side [N  120V] terminal block.  This means that both banks of triacs are being powered by the same AC input [orange/black wires].  


::Key things to remember in this layout are:


:::* The size of the right fuse cannot exceed the current handling capability of the blue/green wires or 15 amps (whichever is less).  
:'''A pictorial "How To" can be found [http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?31143-Renard-SS-power-cord-daisy-chain-option here] using Option 3 WITH a daisy chain option.'''


:::'''AND'''


:::* The size of both fuses together cannot exceed the current handling capability of the AC input [orange/black wires].


::Key things to remember in this layout are:


:::* The size of the right fuse cannot exceed the current handling capability of the blue/green wires or 15 amps (whichever is less).


:::'''AND'''


:::* The size of both fuses together cannot exceed the current handling capability of the AC input [orange/black wires].


===Connecting Multiple Renard Boards===
===Connecting Multiple Renard Boards===
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:::* The total number of Renard boards that can be connected together depends on the event period and the baud rate being used.  More information on the total number of channels capable with Renard systems can be found here [[Renard#Number of Circuits (Channels) | here.]]
:::* The total number of Renard boards that can be connected together depends on the event period and the baud rate being used.  More information on the total number of channels capable with Renard systems can be found here [[Renard#Number of Circuits (Channels) | here.]]


=='''Configuring the jumpers on Renard SS boards'''==
:'''JP1 & JP2 Configuraton'''
:The configuration of JP1 and JP2 depends on the type of communication being used:
<br>
::'''RS-232 Communication (direct connect to PC)'''
:::*'''JP1''' installed
:::*'''JP2''' not installed
:::Reminder:  This only applies to the first Renard SS board connected to the PC.  The output of a Renard SS board to the next board is RS-485.
<br>
::'''RS-485 Communication (output of a Renard board or output from a RS-485 adapter/converter)'''
:::*'''JP1''' not installed
:::*'''JP2''' installed (try removing if data communication issues are encountered)
<br>
:'''JP3 Configuraton'''
::*Installed when running the Diagnostics Firmware
::*Normally not installed when running the Operational Firmware.  But can be left installed if you don’t mind seeing the on-board LEDs responding with the associated channels.






==Computer Setup==
=='''Computer Setup'''==


:'''VIXEN Settings'''  
:'''VIXEN Settings'''  
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:::*Hold port open during the duration of the sequence execution: Checked  
:::*Hold port open during the duration of the sequence execution: Checked  


=='''Assembly Instructions & BOM'''==


The assembly instructions and complete BOM with links to the Mouser Shared BOM <br>
[[Assembly Instructions The Renard SS16]]




==Setup for Beginners and Troubleshooting==
=='''Setup for Beginners and Troubleshooting'''==
 
:If you are unsure that you have built your hardware correctly, you should follow the procedures contained in the [[Beginner’s Setup Guide – The Renard SS16 | Renard SS16 Beginner’s Setup Guide]]. These procedures will guide you through the steps to help setup the hardware for the first time.
 
 
:If you encounter any problems with your Renard SS16, you can go to the [[Troubleshooting Guide – The Renard SS16 | Renard SS16 Troubleshooting Guide]]. The troubleshooting guide contains a methodical process to try to isolate problems/malfunctions and gives suggestions of what to do to fix them.
 
 
 


==Other Setups==
:If you are unsure that you have built your hardware correctly, you should follow the procedures contained in the [[Beginners Setup Guide The Renard SS16 | Renard SS16 Beginners Setup Guide]]. These procedures will guide you through the steps to help setup the hardware for the first time.  
:24 VAC Operation
::* '''R26-R41''' – Triac gate resistors. For 24 VAC operation use 33 ohm resistors instead of 180 ohm.




:If you encounter any problems with your Renard SS16, you can go to the [[Troubleshooting_Guide_The_Renard_SS16 | Renard SS16 Troubleshooting Guide]]. The troubleshooting guide contains a methodical process to try to isolate problems/malfunctions and gives suggestions of what to do to fix them.


=='''Related Links'''==
:[[Beginners Setup Guide The Renard SS16]]


==Related Links==
:[[Assembly Instructions The Renard SS16]]
:[[Beginner’s Setup Guide – The Renard SS16]]


:[[Assembly Instructions - The Renard SS16]]
:[[Troubleshooting_Guide_The_Renard_SS16]]


:[[Troubleshooting Guide – The Renard SS16]]
:[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?6663-The-Renard-SS-16-is-now-available!-(first-post-is-current-2-19-2011)  Board Availability Information]


:[[Renard Main Page]]
:[[Renard Main Page]]
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:[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_symbol Electronic Symbols]
:[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_symbol Electronic Symbols]
[[Category:DIYC Controllers]]
[[Category:Renard]]
[[Category:Renard SS16]]
[[Category:DIYC Index]]

Latest revision as of 23:12, 10 May 2017

x
x

Introduction

The Renard SS16 is a PIC microcontroller based Christmas light controller with 16 solid state relay circuits incorporated into the board. The board design is based on the PIC-based 8-port dimmer concept originally developed by Phil Short. Information on the original concept can be viewed here. Generic information pertaining to current Renard designs (including maximum channel count) can be found on the Renard wiki page.


The Renard Standardized Series (SS) controllers are part of a design effort to standardize the board layouts for Renard based systems and to establish a standardized list of components to use in Renard designs. Some of the goals of the Renard SS design effort were:
  • Completely self-contained controller board. All that is needed to start using the board is a data input and an AC power source. No external DC voltage supply or externally generated ZC is needed and there is no need for an off-board neutral bar.
  • Common part list used for all boards. There are no special parts for any individual board, all the boards use the same components. The only thing different is the quantity used on each board.
  • Common component layout on the board. With only a few exceptions, all the components on the boards are laid out in the same fashion.
  • On-board LEDs for full support of Renard diagnostics firmware.
  • Easier for a new member to build. By removing extra options from the board, now a member can just order the parts from the BOM and will be able to build the board without having to figure out which options/parts apply to their configuration.
  • Easier to support. By having all the boards using the same parts and having the same component layout, it will be easier to provide support to DIYC members when they have problems or ask questions.
  • Complete documentation. In the past, boards were created, designed, produced and distributed without much documentation to support them. Documentation was an afterthought and was slow to catch up, some never did or is hard to understand for new members. In the Renard SS design effort, the documentation was created at the same time as the boards so that when the boards were ready for release, the documentation was also ready.


Disclaimers

The standard disclaimers pertaining to the information contained on this wiki page are listed here.


The Board



The Renard SS 16 measures 4.1" X 8"


Board Availability

Check the DIYC Forum for the latest information concerning board availability.


Circuit Diagram

The schematic diagram can be found here.


Key circuit components
Connectors
  • J1 – RS485 outgoing data
  • J2 – RS232/RS485 incoming data
  • JDP1 – RS232 incoming data, DE9 connector for direct connect to show computer serial port.


IC Chips
  • U2 – H11AA1 Optocoupler, used to generate the Zero Cross signal
  • U4 & U5 – ST485BN, RS232/RS485 Transmitter/ Receiver
  • U6 & U7 – PIC16F688 Microcontrollers
  • M1-M16 – MOC3023 Optoisolator, triggers the triac


Resistors
  • R26-R41 – Triac gate resistors. The value of these resistors in the BOM was selected for locations using 115/120 VAC power.


Diagnostic LEDs
  • PWR – Lit whenever the voltage regulator is generating 5 VDC.


NOTE: The following Diagnostic LEDs will only function when a jumper is placed on JP3


When U6 is programmed with the diagnostics firmware:
  • HB - will blink ON/OFF to indicate that the PIC is operating correctly
  • ZC - will blink ON/OFF to indicate that the Zero Cross signal is getting to the PIC correctly
  • SD - will be ON whenever the PIC is receiving data correctly
  • FE - will only be ON when the PIC has identified a Framing Error while receiving data
  • OE - will only be ON when the PIC has identified an Overrun Error while receiving data


When U6 is programmed with the operational firmware:
  • HB - will be ON whenever channel 2 is ON.
  • ZC - will be ON whenever channel 5 is ON..
  • SD - will be ON whenever channel 6 is ON.
  • FE - will be ON whenever channel 7 is ON.
  • OE - will be ON whenever channel 8 is ON.


Other Components
  • U1 – LF50CV, 5 VDC Voltage Regulator
  • U3 – ECS-2100AX-18.432MHZ, 18.432 MHz Crystal Clock Oscillator
  • T1-T16 – BTA06-600CW


Jumpers
  • JP1 – RS232 signal ground. Install a shunt (jumper) on JP1 when receiving RS232 data.
  • JP2 – 120 ohm termination resistor enable. Normally a shunt will be installed on JP2 when receiving RS485 data. Remove the shunt if you are experiencing problems with incoming data.
  • JP3 – Diagnostic LEDs enable. Install a shunt on JP3 to allow the Diagnostic LEDs to function. During normal operation, you can remove the shunt with no negative impact on board operation.


Test Points
  • +5 – Output from voltage regulator, should be +5 ± 0.1 VDC
  • GND – Ground
  • ZC – Zero Cross signal

Firmware

The PICs (U6 & U7) must be programmed with the correct firmware for the board to operate correctly. There are two types of firmware available: Operational and Diagnostic. The Operational firmware is what you need for normal board operation. The Diagnostic firmware is a troubleshooting aid to use when there are problems with the board.


Renard SS Operational Firmware:


Renard SS Diagnostic Firmware:
Instructions for using the Renard SS Diagnostic Firmware are located on this wiki page or can be downloaded in this file.


DMX Firmware:
Since there are many options available with the Renard DMX firmware it is impractical to post a dedicated Renard SS board version here. Users desiring to use DMX should get the firmware here.


Powering the Renard SS16

Input power requirements: An AC source

DC power:

The Renard SS16 generates all the DC voltage that it requires on-board and no external DC voltage source is required.


AC Power:

The Renard SS16 requires AC power for generation of the DC voltage, the SSR (opto/triac) circuitry and for generation of the Zero Cross signal. The information in this wiki is targeted at users who are using 115/120 VAC power.



AC Power Handling Capability

Maximum Input Load

The Renard SS16 is divided into two banks of eight triacs. Each bank of triacs is capable of carrying up to 15 amps of current based on the trace width used on the pcb.


Triac Loads

Based on the pcb trace widths, each triac can handle up to two amps of current. A heat sink is highly recommended when running the triacs at two amps. Care must be taken to ensure that the total load of the eight triacs in each bank does not exceed the rating of the fuse protecting the triac bank or 15 amps (whichever is less).

Fuses

Each bank of triacs is independently protected by its own fuse. The size of the fuse selected to use for each bank of triacs is dependent on how the Renard SS16 is connected to the AC power. When each bank of triacs has its own dedicated AC input, the size of the fuse cannot exceed the current handling capability of the input wire or 15 amps (whichever is less).


If both banks of triacs are being powered by the same AC input and a jumper is used to connect the two banks together, then the size of both fuses added together cannot not exceed the current handling capability of the input wire.


The BOM calls for a 10 amp fuse under that assumption that each bank of triacs will be independantly powered by a common/generic extension cord. Most of the common extension cords used by DIYC members are rated for only 13 amps and 13 amp fuses are not commonly found.

Hooking Up the Renard SS16

Data Connections

Typical connection between computer running Vixen and Renard SS16 boards



Typical connection between RS485/DMX/Renard and Renard SS16 boards


Data Cables

Data cables for Renard SS board hookup directly to computer COMM port

PC DE9 Pin 3 to Renard SS DE9 Pin 3
PC DE9 Pin 5 to Renard SS DE9 Pin 5


PC DE9 Pin 3 to RJ45-pin 4
PC DE9 Pin 5 to RJ45-pin 5 and pin 1 and/or pin 2 


Data cable for Renard SS board hookup using a RS232->RS485 or a USB->RS485 converter
Due to the many different types of RS232->RS485 and USB->RS485 converters available, the drawing only refers to the signals coming from the converter. Check the documentation for your converter to figure out how/where to hook up the correct wires.

Converter signal RS485(-)/T-/D-/B/485- connects to RJ45-pin 4 (blue CAT5 wire)
Converter signal RS485(+)/T+/D+/A/485+ connects to RJ45-pin 5 (blue/white CAT5 wire)
Converter GND signal connects to RJ45-pins 1 & 2 (orange and orange/white CAT5 wires)
An example is shown here with the HXSP-2108F Adapter Hook-up


Data cable for Renard SS board hookup in a DMX environment


DMX using XLR Connectors
   XLR connector pin 1 (GND) to RJ45-pin 1 and/or pin 2
   XLR connector pin 2 (Data-) to RJ45-pin 4
   XLR connector pin 3 (Data+) to RJ45-pin 5

DMX using RJ45 (CAT5) Connectors
   RJ45 connector pin 1 (Data+) to RJ45-pin 5
   RJ45 connector pin 2 (Data-) to RJ45-pin 4
   RJ45 connector pins 7 & 8 (GND) to RJ45-pins 1 & 2


Data cable for Renard SS board hookup to other Renard boards


Generally only a regular straight-thru CAT5 cable is required to connect Renard SS boards to other Renard boards.  
For the few exceptions (ie Ren24 V2.5), check the wiki page for those boards to see what their unique requirements are.

Cable Lengths

Data cables connecting the Renard SS boards directly to a computer COMM port should not be longer than 50 feet according to the RS-232 standard. This distance can also be greatly reduced by using poor quality cables.


Data cables connecting the Renard SS boards directly to other Renard boards or any other RS-485 source can be up to 4,000 feet in length for data rates up to 100Kbps according to the RS-485 standard.



AC Power Connection

Connection Option #1


In the above layout, each bank of triacs has its own dedicated AC input (orange/black wires).
Key thing to remember in this layout is:
  • The size of the each fuse cannot exceed the current handling capability of the orange/black wires or 15 amps (whichever is less).



Connection Option #2


In the above layout, the main AC input [orange/black wires] is connected to two sets of feeder wires [blue/green wires] by a twist-on wire connector (commonly referred to as a wire nut). The feeder wires are then connected to the triac banks.
Key things to remember in this layout are:
  • The size of the fuses cannot exceed the current handling capability of the feeder wires [blue/green wires] or 15 amps (whichever is less).
AND
  • The size of both fuses together cannot exceed the current handling capability of the main AC input [orange/black wires].



Connection Option #3


In the above layout, the right side banks of triacs are powered by jumper wires [blue/green wires] coming from the left side [N 120V] terminal block. This means that both banks of triacs are being powered by the same AC input [orange/black wires].


A pictorial "How To" can be found here using Option 3 WITH a daisy chain option.


Key things to remember in this layout are:
  • The size of the right fuse cannot exceed the current handling capability of the blue/green wires or 15 amps (whichever is less).
AND
  • The size of both fuses together cannot exceed the current handling capability of the AC input [orange/black wires].

Connecting Multiple Renard Boards


The above image shows how Renard SS boards can be daisy chained together. Renard SS8 boards are used in the image just as an example of how all Renard SS boards can be connected together.


Key things to remember when connecting Renard SS boards together:
  • You only need one instance of the Renard Dimmer plug-in in Vixen for each physical COMM port being used. You just need to make sure that the plug-in is setup for the total number of channels for all the Renard boards connected to that COMM port. In the above example, the plug-in would be set for 32 channels.
  • The total number of Renard boards that can be connected together depends on the event period and the baud rate being used. More information on the total number of channels capable with Renard systems can be found here here.


Configuring the jumpers on Renard SS boards

JP1 & JP2 Configuraton
The configuration of JP1 and JP2 depends on the type of communication being used:


RS-232 Communication (direct connect to PC)
  • JP1 installed
  • JP2 not installed
Reminder: This only applies to the first Renard SS board connected to the PC. The output of a Renard SS board to the next board is RS-485.


RS-485 Communication (output of a Renard board or output from a RS-485 adapter/converter)
  • JP1 not installed
  • JP2 installed (try removing if data communication issues are encountered)


JP3 Configuraton
  • Installed when running the Diagnostics Firmware
  • Normally not installed when running the Operational Firmware. But can be left installed if you don’t mind seeing the on-board LEDs responding with the associated channels.


Computer Setup

VIXEN Settings
The Renard SS boards require the Renard Dimmer [Vixen 1.1.*] or Renard Dimmer (modified) [Vixen 2.*] Plug-In.
Renard Dimmer Plug-In Settings:
  • Protocol Version: 1
  • COM1 (or whichever COM port you are connected to)
  • Baud: 57600 (default firmware value, if firmware is changed then this needs to be changed to match the firmware)
  • Parity: None
  • Data bits: 8
  • Stop bits: One
  • Hold port open during the duration of the sequence execution: Checked

Assembly Instructions & BOM

The assembly instructions and complete BOM with links to the Mouser Shared BOM
Assembly Instructions The Renard SS16


Setup for Beginners and Troubleshooting

If you are unsure that you have built your hardware correctly, you should follow the procedures contained in the Renard SS16 Beginners Setup Guide. These procedures will guide you through the steps to help setup the hardware for the first time.


If you encounter any problems with your Renard SS16, you can go to the Renard SS16 Troubleshooting Guide. The troubleshooting guide contains a methodical process to try to isolate problems/malfunctions and gives suggestions of what to do to fix them.

Related Links

Beginners Setup Guide The Renard SS16
Assembly Instructions The Renard SS16
Troubleshooting_Guide_The_Renard_SS16
Board Availability Information
Renard Main Page
Renard Firmware
Part Substitutions
VIXEN
Glossary of DIYC Terms
Electronic Symbols