Reactor Sensor Controlled Relay 1-Channel Solid State + 8-Channel 8-Bit ADC
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Highlights
- 1 On-Board Sensor Controlled Solid State Relay
- Stand-Alone Operation, Only Requires PC for Initial Setup
- 8 Analog Inputs Trigger Relays Based on User Configuration
- 8 Background Timers Offer Timed Relay Switching Functions
- 4 Rotation Counters Trigger Relays Based on Counting Values
- Use a Computer to Take Control of the Reactor Logic
- CPU Status LEDs Show Command Processing Activity
- Optional Key Fob for Long-Range Remote Operation
- Modular Communications Interface for Use with:
- USB, Bluetooth, WiFi, RS-232, Key Fob, or Ethernet
1-Channel Sensor Controlled Solid-State Relay
This 1-Channel Reactor Solid State Relay Controller makes it easy for sensors to directly control some of the most demanding loads without inductive interference. Use external sensors to activate a relay for a pre-set time period. Use a computer to configure the Reactor. Once configured, Reactor works stand-alone, or in combination with a PC, depending on your application requirements. Reactor is compatible with many popular communication technologies, providing a upgrade path should your needs change in the future. Solid-State Relays are ideal for users who require long-term reliability, silent operation, or high induction tolerance. Inductive loads such as Motors, Valves, Pumps, Solenoids, and Large Transformers (including Fluorescent Lighting) benefit from the use of solid-state relays, reducing the chances of the inductive load interfering with the logic of the relay controller. Choose between many solid-state relay types during purchase (See Resources Tab>Essential>Solid State Relay Types for complete Summary and Datasheets).
Reactor Relay Control
Sensor Controlled Relays Expand Automation WITHOUT Programming!
Intelligent Switching without a Computer is the foundation of the Reactor Series relay controllers. Reactor connects the real world to the electronics world, making it easy to configure and control real-world devices for simple automation tasks.
Reactor Automation Applications
Reactor can activate a light when it gets dark outside. Reactor can close a door that has been left open too long. Reactor can activate a heater to help maintain temperature. Reactor can turn on a light for 10 minutes if motion is detected. Reactor can water your crops when the soil moisture becomes too dry.
Configure Once, Automate Forever!
Reactor controllers are configured using our Free Base Station Software. Our simple GUI interface makes it easy to configure simple automation tasks with a point and click interface. Set parameters to activate relays within user-defined limits. Trigger timers, counters, and relay sequences with just a few clicks.
Once configured, the Reactor CPU will constantly monitoring external sensors using 8 analog inputs. When sensors reach pre-set limits, relays will be activated according to your configuration. Reactor is commonly used as a thermostat, motion activated light controller with a programmable timer, an automatic garage door closer, and much more.
Who’s Qualified to Use the Reactor Series?
Some computer skills are required. The Reactor series controllers do not require programming, simply configure the device with our Free Base Station Software. While programming is not required and simple functions can be done rather easily with basic computer skills, complex events may be possible with experimentation.
Sensors
The Reactor series controllers include 8 analog inputs, capable of reading switches, resistance changes, or voltages from 0 to 5VDC. Higher or lower voltages will damage the Reactor controller, so care must be taken not to exceed the voltage limits on the Reactor inputs. We offer many sensors to help get you started, including temperature sensors, light sensors, current sensor, and magnetic proximity sensors. You can connect your own sensors to the Reactor if we don’t offer what you are looking for. The Reactor configuration will control how the sensor affects the relay.
Complex Automation through Experimentation
Don’t be afraid to experiment with Reactor. Some complex automation can be achieved by experimenting with Reactor settings. Of course Reactor is capable of triggering relays, but did you know that Reactor can also trigger events? Relays can be associated with events, allowing you to play with all kinds of complex timing and counting settings. Events greatly expand the pallet of functionality available to Reactor.
Computer Controlled Relays
Software developers who need remote access to a Reactor controller will find themselves at home. The Reactor supports a very powerful computer-based command set, so it is possible for a computer to operate the relays and read sensor inputs. The computer can over-ride the Reactor decision logic, trigger events, and return control of the relays back to the Reactor Logic. Configuration settings are stored in files that can be loaded into other Reactor controllers.
Removable Communications Module
Once configured, Reactor controllers operate on their own, without a computer. Reactor will never lose its settings. In fact, the communication module can be removed from the Reactor controller and used to configure another Reactor controller. This helps keep costs down. If you choose to leave the communication module installed on the Reactor, your computer can monitor inputs and control relays.
Communications Module Options
Reactor supports many communications technologies, including USB, RS-232, Bluetooth, Ethernet, and Industrial Wireless. We recommend the USB option, as Reactor focuses on automation, and is frequently used without any communications module once configured. Nonetheless, please feel free to choose the technology that best suits your needs as our Base Station software supports them all. Additional accessories will be required when selecting the KFX Key Fob option, as the Key Fob module must also be configured and does not include any remote controls.
Associated Part Numbers
This product may have been previously manufactured using a part number shown below:
Relay Options
Solid State Relays Option
Solid state relays are ideal for agricultural switching applications, or remotely located switching. SSRs are frequently chosen to control pumps, valves, solenoids, lights, and other high-reliability applications. NCD solid-state relay controllers do not include solid-state relays, but you will have the option to choose the type of solid state relays you require when customizing your product. This controller is designed specifically to fit select Crydom solid-state relays, but may be compatible other solid-state relays made by other companies. Review Solid-State Relay Options
Mechanical Drawing
Wiring Diagrams
Essential
Communications
Tutorials
- Using Comm Operator to Control USB Relays
- Choosing the Right USB Relay Controller
- Introduction to Computer Controlled Relays and Switching
- Relay Logic
Documentation Downloads
Download NCD Base Station
USB Intro
We explain the advantages and disadvantages to USB communications and how it effects our Relay Controllers and your application. Some of the information is outdated as we’ve moved away from controlanything.com. Most modern operating systems come with the FTDI driver installed so you should just need Base Station
USB FTDI Communication Module Compatible with the Digi XBee ® Controlling Relay
FT232RL USB Interface Adapter Similar to the Digi XBee ® footprint shown controlling a 16-Channel Relay Controller Board Available from https://store.ncd.io/product/usb-communications-module-ft232rl-zusb/ Drivers Available from FTDI: http://www.ftdichip.com/FTDrivers.htm Base Station Software: ncd.io/start Digi.com offers a wide variety of XBee Interface modules for industrial wireless applications. Digi XBee® devices are compatible with NCD products.
USB Setup
Learn how to set up you own ZUSB Module to work with your NCD Relay Controller. For complete instructions and details on how to use an NCD ZUSB Module see our article at https://ncd.io/zusb-usb-communications-module-quick-start-guide/ Portions of this video may be outdated as we have moved from controlanything.com since this video was created.
Finding the Com Port
Learn how to find the COM Port on your windows based computer. You can also use Base Station to find the COM Port of your Relay Controller. Base Station can be downloaded at ncd.io/start.
Wired Communications
Get the rundown on the pros and cons of all the Wired Communication Interfaces we offer. If you want to know which wired technology will best suit your needs this video will get you the information you need in just a few minutes. Whether you need the power of ethernet or the simplicity of RS-232 we have something to fit your application.
Introduction to Relay Control
This video will guide you in determining which relay controller you need for your application as well as a general overview of the differences between Relay Options. If you’re new to our products or just need a refresher for a new application this is a great place to start.
Induction Suppression
Learn about Induction and how it comes into play with Relay Controllers. Induction suppression can make your Relay Control applications intermittent and unreliable. This video will show you what causes it, how to avoid it, and how to account for it in your application.
Analog Inputs: 0 to 5 Volt Only
Analog inputs can accept voltages from 0 to 5VDC ONLY. Higher voltages and negative voltages will damage the Reactor controller. Users must NEVER apply a voltage to an analog input on the Reactor controller when powered down.
Compatible Sensors
If you would like to see all the sensors compatible with Reactor controllers, please click here (link opens in a new window).
ZUSB Communication Module Recommended
All customers are STRONGLY ADVISED to purchase at least ONE USB Communication Module (choose ZUSB during the order process). This communication module may be used to recover a controller or to reconfigure a controller should there be an accidental loss of communications. NCD Tech support may be unable to assist customers who do not have a USB Communications Module available for troubleshooting purposes.
Ethernet TCP/IP Compatibility Notes
This device periodically sends UDP Packets on port 13,000, which help identify the IP address of this device on your network.
RS-232 Serial Compatibility Notes
The NCD RS-232 Serial communications module is compatible with standard RS-232 signals (+/-10VDC), which are not directly compatible with UART signals from a microprocessor. If you are working with Arduino, Microchip PIC, or other common microcontroller, a communications module is not required. Microcontrollers will directly talk to the on-board processor of all NCD controllers.
Choosing a Solid State Relay
Please examine the datasheet of each solid state relay carefully, as SSRs do not function exactly like mechanical switches. SSRs frequently have minimum load requirements, and some require external snubber circuitry for certain applications. SSRs do not typically work with volt meters in the same way as mechanical switches. SSRs must also be chosen for AC or DC applications, as they are not universally interchangeable. Some SSRs require forced air cooling, and may be damaged if not properly ventilated. Please consult the experts at Crydom.com if you are uncertain about your choice of SSR.