The Sapling SBL/SBLG Series Wireless Clock is a digital timekeeping device designed for various indoor applications, offering precise time synchronization and a range of customizable features. It is available in different series (3100, 3200, and 3300) with varying capabilities, as indicated by the part number on the clock packaging (e.g., SBL-31/SBLG-31 for 3100 Series, SBL-32/SBLG-32 for 3200 Series, and SBL-33/SBLG-33 for 3300 Series).
Function Description:
The primary function of the SBL/SBLG Series Wireless Clock is to display accurate time, synchronized wirelessly with a Sapling Master Clock or Repeater. It supports both 12-hour and 24-hour display formats, with a circular light indicating PM in 12-hour mode. The clock can also alternate between displaying time and date, with customizable durations for each. Certain models (3200 and 3300 Series) offer advanced features like temperature display (if a sensor is connected), elapsed timer functions, and user-configurable inputs and outputs. The 3300 Series specifically includes manual controls for basic settings and supports buzzer installation for audible alerts. The clock is designed for indoor use and can be surface (wall) mounted, dual-faced, or flag mounted, accommodating various installation needs.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Frequency Range: SBL digital clocks operate in the 900MHz frequency range, while SBLG clocks operate in the 2.4GHz frequency range. Clocks of different frequency ranges cannot be used together in the same system.
- Power Input: The clocks can be powered by either 110VAC/230VAC or 24VAC/24VDC.
- 2.5" Digit Size:
- 24V: 11-28 V
- 110VAC: 85-130 VAC
- 230VAC: 180-260 VAC
- 4.0" Digit Size:
- 24V: 16-28 V
- 110VAC: 100-130 VAC
- 230VAC: 200-260 VAC
- Timekeeping Accuracy: In case of power failure, the clock's internal quartz oscillator maintains time for approximately ten years using a battery backup, drifting only a few seconds per year.
- Communication: Wireless synchronization with a Sapling Master Clock or Repeater. The master clock transmitter has a maximum transmission distance of 3300 feet (1000 meters) in an unobstructed, open space.
- USB Programming Cable (D-USB485-INTF-1): An optional accessory for advanced configuration.
- FCC Compliance: Class B digital device, Part 15 of FCC rules.
- 900 MHz Model: FCC ID R73LPA1. Requires professional installation with a minimum separation distance of 3 cm from the unit for human exposure. Antenna gain: 5.14 dB.
- 2.4 GHz Model: FCC ID R73MOD-24G-1. Antenna(s) must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 5.78 cm from all persons.
Usage Features:
- Display Modes: 12-hour or 24-hour time display.
- Alternating Display: Configurable to alternate between time and date, with adjustable display durations (e.g., 7 seconds for time, 3 seconds for date).
- Brightness Control: Manual brightness adjustment (Low, Medium, High) on 3300 models. Advanced brightness schedules can be programmed via sbdconfig software, allowing for different brightness levels at specific times on different days.
- Daylight Saving Time (DST): Can be enabled or disabled. Default DST settings (second Sunday of March at 2:00 AM to first Sunday of November at 2:00 AM) can be overridden for specific regions using sbdconfig.
- User Inputs (3300 Only): Four configurable dry contact closure inputs (J2-1 to J2-9) to trigger various functions:
- No Action
- Return to Time Display
- Briefly Display Date
- Go to Count Up and Hold/Start
- Go to Count Down and Hold/Start (with user-specified start time)
- Reset (countdown/count up)
- Start/Stop (timer)
- Shift Digits (for 4-digit clocks, shifts between Hour/Minutes and Minutes/Seconds)
- Flash Time
- Relay 1/Relay 2 activation
- Code Blue (special-purpose count up)
- Output Relays (3300 Only): Two relay outputs (J3-1 to J3-4) for controlling external devices like intercoms or paging systems.
- Elapsed Timer (3200/3300 Only): Chronograph functions accessible via Sapling's Elapsed Timer (part# SBD-ELT-001-0) or configurable user inputs.
- Loss of Communication Alert: The clock's colons will blink if it loses contact with the time data source. The delay before this alert activates can be configured (from 5 minutes to 240 minutes).
- Displaying "BELL" and "FirE": The clock can display these signals when sent by the appropriate master clock.
- Mounting Options: Surface (wall) mounted, dual-faced, or flag mounted.
Maintenance Features:
- Software Configuration (sbdconfig): The USB Programming Cable and sbdconfig software allow for advanced clock configuration, including:
- Assigning a unique clock name and number.
- Defining a zone number for grouping clocks.
- Adjusting time bias in seconds.
- Setting the blink colon delay after loss of communication.
- Selecting input type (RF for wireless clocks).
- Programming brightness schedules.
- Configuring alternating time/date display durations.
- Setting up elapsed timer functions.
- Configuring user inputs and outputs.
- Driver Installation: The sbdconfig software requires a USB DRIVER to be installed on the user's computer for communication with the clock.
- Firmware Updates: The sbdconfig software allows for checking and potentially updating the clock's software version.
- Troubleshooting:
- No Signal: Check installation of master clock/repeaters, ensure proper placement to avoid obstructions (concrete, sheet metal, large tanks of salt water, old microwave ovens, industrial machines). Consider installing a signal repeater or additional secondary clocks.
- No Power: Measure input voltage, ensure the transformer is isolated (for 24VAC models), and verify ground wire connections.
- Software Compatibility: Older 3200/3300 clocks (shipped before March 27, 2014) may require an older version of sbdconfig software. Contact support if the clock does not respond to the software.
- Cleaning: The clock face and housing can be cleaned with a damp cloth or disinfectant. Avoid bleach and chemicals known to dissolve plastics.
- Warranty: Standard 24-month warranty on workmanship and materials. An extended 5-year (60-month) warranty is available with a surcharge. The warranty is voided by outdoor installation, hanging objects from the clock, or unauthorized alterations/repairs.