The Ridder Newton 100-S and 200-S are weighing systems designed for continuous measurement of growth substrate weight in horticultural environments. These systems are part of Ridder Growing Solutions' water treatment range, offering solutions for precise irrigation timing and monitoring substrate moisture levels.
Function Description
The Newton 100-S/200-S weighing system continuously measures the weight of the growth substrate. This data is crucial for:
- Monitoring Substrate Weight Changes: Tracking fluctuations in substrate weight due to irrigation and drainage cycles.
- Preventing Dry-Out: Ensuring the growth substrate does not become too dry, which can negatively impact plant health.
- Accurate Irrigation Timing: Optimizing irrigation schedules based on real-time substrate weight data, leading to more efficient water use and healthier crops.
The system consists of a Ridder control cabinet with an ST30 board and Ridder force transducers. The ST30 board is delivered pre-calibrated and provides options for setting the measuring range, calibrating the system, and resetting the measurement to zero. The output of the ST30 board connects directly to a CompactiMa module (for CX500 or MultiMa systems) or an XP input module (for MultiMa systems), which then processes the sensor data.
Important Technical Specifications
General:
- Type: Newton 100-S weighing system / Newton 200-S weighing system
- Measurement: Weight
- Unit: kg
- Measuring Principle: Change in resistance measured by force transducer
- Power Supply: 230 V
- Weight of Force Transducers: 1.5 kg
- Weight of ST30 Cabinet: 1.5 kg
- Computer Compatibility: CX500 or MultiMa
- Item Numbers: 31513000 (Newton 100-S) / 31513200 (Newton 200-S)
Newton 100-S Specifics:
- Measuring Range: 0 - 100 kg (using two force transducers rated for 50 kg each)
- Measuring Accuracy: 0.5 kg
- ST30 Output Signal: 0 - 20 mA
Newton 200-S Specifics:
- Measuring Range: 0 - 200 kg (using two force transducers rated for 100 kg each)
- Measuring Accuracy: 1 kg
- ST30 Output Signal: 0 - 20 mA
Components Provided by Ridder:
- Ridder control cabinet with ST30 board
- Ridder force transducer
Usage Features
The Newton weighing system is designed for ease of integration and operation within existing horticultural setups.
- Control Integration: The system can be used in combination with Ridder's CX500 or MultiMa automation solutions.
- CX500: Optimizes climate, irrigation, buffer tanks, and energy processes. The CX Assistant tool is used for configuration, installation, and management of the CX500, allowing dealers to set up and modify the weighing system's configuration.
- MultiMa: A versatile automation solution for controlling and managing all aspects of a greenhouse, including irrigation, water treatment, climate, energy, CO2 supplementation, and electricity. The Service Assistant tool is used for configuration, installation, and management of the MultiMa.
- Output Signal: The ST30 board provides an output signal of 0-20 mA or 0-10 V, which is compatible with standard industrial control systems.
- Adjustable Measuring Range: A DIP-switch on the ST30 board allows for changing the measuring range to suit specific crop requirements.
- Zero Compensation: A zero potentiometer on the ST30 board enables compensation for dead load, ensuring the output signal is exactly 0.0 mA when no weight is on the scales.
- Calibration: The system can be calibrated using a gain potentiometer on the ST30 board, adjusting the mV/V output to match known calibration weights.
- Installation Flexibility: The force transducers can be attached to the gutter suspension system, either directly above the gutter with an S-hook or from the truss. The control cabinet can be mounted on a board or a post.
Installation Requirements:
- Power Supply: A 230-volt power supply must be available near the control cabinet.
- Gutter System: A gutter with a minimum length equal to the distance between two roof trusses is required. Standard hanging gutters with a suspension system are recommended.
- Gutter Clearance: The gutter must hang completely free and be at least five centimeters above the ground. If an existing gutter system is present, the new gutter should hang five centimeters above it and be properly supported to prevent bending.
- Cable Management: Sufficient space is needed to connect the force transducer cables to the control cabinet. These cables should not be shortened or extended.
- Force Transducer Alignment: Force transducers must be fitted in line with the direction of force, indicated by an arrow on the load cell.
Maintenance Features
While the manual primarily focuses on installation and configuration, it implicitly highlights aspects related to system reliability and longevity:
- Original Components: Emphasizes the use of original components for repairs and replacements to ensure proper functioning and system integrity. Unauthorized modifications are strictly prohibited due to potential harm to personnel, the system, or the crop.
- Pre-calibrated Board: The ST30 board is delivered calibrated, simplifying initial setup and reducing the need for extensive on-site calibration unless specific adjustments are required.
- Diagnostic Tools: The CX Assistant and Service Assistant tools provide comprehensive configuration and management capabilities, which can also aid in diagnosing and troubleshooting issues.
- Documentation: Comprehensive documentation, including OEM manuals for components and electrical wiring diagrams, is provided to support proper use and maintenance.
The Newton weighing system is a robust and precise tool for modern horticulture, designed to provide accurate data for optimized irrigation and substrate management.
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