Setting up the RT01 Temperature Sensor

RT01Temperature Sensor

The RT01 temperature sensor is a Pt1000 RTD thermometer for measuring PV module temperatures. The RT01 can output temperature digitally via Modbus RTU protocol over RS485 as well as in analog format with 0-10V, 0-1.5V, or 4-20mA scaling.

The RT01 is based on the RC18 PV reference cell and uses the same housing, wiring, circuit board, and software. For setup of the RT01, please refer to the RC18 PV Reference Cell User Guide but note the modifications discussed here.

Connecting the RTD

After unpacking your RT01 from the shipping box, please connect the RTD at the M8 RTD Connection. 

NOTE: Ensure that the M8 connector is fastened tightly to prevent water intrusion which could damage the cable or connector.

Configuring

For configuration of your RT01, please use the Configuration Kit 810235-01 and RC18 Configuration Manager Software.

Refer to RC18 PV Reference Cell User Guide for instructions on the software.

When using the RC18 Configuration Manager, please ignore the readouts for Irradiance and Isc. These do not apply to the RT01 product.

Modbus Output: Refer to the  RC18 PV Reference Cell User Guide for setting Modbus communication parameters.

Analog Output: If you are configuring the RT01 for analog output, please note that there is only one signal (temperature) and therefore you should only use one analog output.

Power & Wiring

For powering and wiring your RT01 in your measurement installation, please follow the power and wiring instructions in the RC18 PV Reference Cell User Guide. 

However, note that for RT01 you should only use one analog output signal, as shown below.

Observe all other power and wiring instructions in the RC18 PV Reference Cell User Guide, including properly protecting any unused wires.

RS485 Sensor Network

To integrate the RT01 with additional Atonometrics sensors on an RS485 network, you may use the Bus Box and 830260 cables as shown in the figure below which is excerpted from the RC18 PV Reference Cell User Guide. In the figure, the RT01 may take the place of any of the RC18 units. The figure provides an example only. Consult Atonometrics with questions.

Modbus Registers

Refer to the  RC18 PV Reference Cell User Guide for a list of Modbus registers for querying from your data acquisition system. Please ignore registers for Irradiance and Isc (short-circuit current), as these do not apply to the RT01 product.

RTD Application to PV Module

Please see epoxy instructions included in the shipping box with RT01.