Dakota Alert SBB-4000

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Summary

Setting Reminder Signal for Continuously Interrupted Beams

Mounting the Sensors

Mounting to a flat surface

Instructions for attaching the sensor bracket to a flat surface like a wall or post.

Mounting to a pole or pipe

Instructions for attaching the sensor bracket to a pole or pipe using included hardware.

Mounting Sensors to the “C” Bracket

Trouble Shooting

If you are getting false signals

Provides solutions for common issues causing false signal detection.

If you are getting no signals

Offers troubleshooting steps for when the sensors do not transmit signals.

SBB 4000 Works With Other Dakota Alert 4000 Series Products

DCR 4000 Receiver (no relays)

Describes the DCR-4000 receiver and its features for use with transmitters.

RE-4 K+ Receiver (2 relay outputs and one 12 VDC output)

Describes the RE-4K+ receiver, its relay outputs, and programmable features.

PR-4000 Portable Receiver

Describes the PR-4000 portable receiver, its logging, and alert capabilities.

The Dakota Alert SBB-4000 is a solar-powered wireless break beam transmitter designed for security and detection purposes. It consists of a pair of sensors, labeled "A" and "B," that communicate wirelessly to detect interruptions in an infrared beam. This device is part of the Dakota Alert 4000 series and is compatible with various Dakota Alert 4000 series receivers.

Function Description

The SBB-4000 functions by creating an invisible infrared beam between two sensors. When this beam is broken by a person, vehicle, or other moving object, the "A" sensor sends a wireless signal to a compatible Dakota Alert 4000 series receiver, triggering an alert. The system is designed to provide security by detecting movement across a defined area. It can be used for various applications such as driveway alarms, perimeter security, or entry detection.

Important Technical Specifications

Power Source: Each sensor is powered by an 18650 rechargeable lithium battery, which can be charged automatically by built-in solar panels or manually via a USB Micro charger (not included).
Frequency: The device operates on a frequency of 433.92 MHz.
Wireless Range: The wireless range is specified as up to 1 mile, though actual range may vary depending on local terrain and obstructions.
Maximum Detection Range: The break beam sensors can detect interruptions up to 300 feet apart.
Operating Temperature: The SBB-4000 is designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -20°F to 120°F.
Mounting Height: The recommended mounting height is approximately 3 feet to minimize false alerts from small animals.
Reminder Signal: The "A" sensor can send a reminder signal to the receiver if the beams are continuously interrupted. The factory default is every 20 seconds, but this can be changed to 5 minutes.

Usage Features

Pairing: The sensors ("A" and "B") must be paired before use. This involves placing them 6-12 inches apart, pointing their IR lenses at each other, and pressing the power buttons on the "B" then "A" sensor. The "A" sensor's LED will flash green during pairing and stop when complete.
Coding to Receiver: The SBB-4000 can be coded to any Dakota Alert 4000 series receiver. To send a signal for code learning, users can either break the paired beams or quickly press and release the power button on the "A" sensor.
Adjustable Reminder Signal: The duration of the reminder signal for continuously interrupted beams can be adjusted. Holding the power button on the "A" sensor for 5 seconds will toggle between a 20-second (LED flashes green) and a 5-minute (LED flashes red) reminder duration.
Mounting Flexibility: The sensors can be mounted to flat surfaces (walls, wood posts) using "C" mounting brackets and appropriate screws, or to poles/pipes using provided pipe mounts, rubber adapters, and screws.
Alignment: The sensors should be mounted facing each other at approximately the same height. The "C" bracket allows for rotation of the sensors to achieve proper alignment. A built-in level bubble on the sensor helps with alignment, and it must be towards the top when mounted.
Testing: After pairing and mounting, the system can be tested by completely blocking the beams (e.g., with cardboard or by misaligning them). The "A" sensor's LED will flash for about two seconds to indicate detection. If a continuous reminder signal is received, it indicates misalignment or continuous obstruction.

Maintenance Features

Solar Charging: The built-in solar panels automatically charge the internal batteries when the sensors are outdoors and exposed to light.
Manual Charging: For indoor use or insufficient sunlight, the sensors can be manually charged using a USB Micro charger (not included). The charging port is located under a rubber plug near the power button.
Rubber Plugs: It is crucial to re-insert the rubber plugs into the power button recess after initial setup, pairing, coding, setting reminder times, and charging. This prevents water from entering the beams during outdoor use, ensuring durability and proper function.
Regular Inspection: Users are advised to clean and inspect the beams regularly for proper use.
Troubleshooting: The manual provides troubleshooting tips for false signals (checking for obstructions, misalignment, battery level, extreme weather) and no signals (checking power, coding, charge, proximity to receiver, interference from metal objects).
Battery Life: When fully charged, the built-in batteries typically hold a charge for about a month, depending on activations.
Support: Dakota Alert offers phone support for any issues encountered with the product.

The SBB-4000 is designed for reliable wireless security, offering flexible installation and user-configurable settings to suit various detection needs.