Reactor Relay 4-Channel 20-Amp with USB Interface

Reactor Relay

USB Configuration

The LRR420_USB Reactor Controller must be configured using a computer and the included Base Station Software.  Once configured, a Reactor will operate without a computer.  By choosing a USB version you will connect your computer to your controller via a USB cable.  This is the easiest and most popular way to connect to the Reactor Board.  At any time, a computer may monitor the Reactor, Trigger Events, Activate Relays, or Change Configuration settings. A computer can take over a Reactor or a Reactor can operate autonomously (without a computer). 

Inputs Monitored

Once a Reactor is configured, the Reactor monitors inputs. When inputs reach user-defined limits, relays can turn on or off.  Reactors allow much more than simple relay control.  Reactor inputs can trigger timers and rotations.  A timer allows a relay to activate over a duration of time.  A rotation is a simple counter, in which relays can be assigned to each "count".  This allows powerful functions such as relay activation sequencing, flashing, and stepping.  Event Piping allows timers and rotations to trigger other timers and rotations.  This is very powerful for setting up complex relay activation sequences.

Mounts as a COM Port

This ProXR series controller connects to the USB port of your computer and will mount as a COM port on your PC.  USB Drivers will most likely be needed and can be found in the resources section to the right and will also be available in the Base Station Software.  Windows 7 & 8 users will automatically download and install the necessary drivers.

ZUSB Modules

This board is equipped with a ZUSB Module.  The ZUSB communications module adds USB communications to the board.  The ZUSB module is powered from the USB port of your computer and includes a 6' USB Cable.  The board itself will require 12 volts of power and can be hard wired or you can purchase a "wall wart" type Power Supply at checkout.

8 Inputs Available

Reactor Inputs play a vital role in the use of a Reactor controller.  Analog inputs are simply inputs that are sensitive to voltages.  Analog Inputs are capable of reading switches and sensors operating in the 0 to 5VDC range.  Once configured, the Reactor CPU is constantly monitoring external sensors using 8 analog inputs that can read switches, resistance changes, or voltages from 0 to 5VDC.  Inputs can be configured to trigger relays, relay timers and relay activation sequences.

Input Voltage Changes

Analog Inputs are very special in that they are sensitive to voltage changes.  In the case of a Reactor controller, analog inputs have an 8-bit resolution, meaning the voltage input (from 0 to 5VDC) is interpreted as a value from 0 to 255.

For Example
• A voltage input of 0 Volts is interpreted as a value of 0
• A voltage input of 2.5 Volts is interpreted as a value of 128
• A voltage input of 5 Volts is interpreted as a value of 255

So if you divide 5 Volts by 256 possible steps (0-255 for 8-Bit resolution), the Reactor controller is sensitive to voltage changes as small as 0.0195 Volts.  A Reactor controller has 8 inputs.  Each input is capable of reading a separate voltage from 0 to 5 VDC, provided all voltages can share a common ground.  You configure exactly what value you want the board to trigger the relay or start a sequence or delay!

Who’s Qualified to Use the Reactor Series?

Some computer skills required.  The Reactor Relays do not require programming, simply configure the device with the included Base Station Software.  While programming is not required and simple functions can be done rather easily with basic computer skills, complex events can be configured which will require some understanding and patience.

Induction Capacitors

Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of relay control is proper handling of inductive loads. Inductive loads can best be defined as anything with a magnetic coil, such as a motor, solenoid, or a transformer.  Controlling a inductive load using this relay controller requires the use of induction suppression capacitors.  The purpose of this capacitor is to absorb the high voltages generated by inductive loads, blocking them from the contacts of the relay.  Without this capacitor, the lifespan of the relay will be greatly reduced.  Induction can be so severe that it electrically interferes with the microprocessor logic of our controllers, causing relay banks to shut themselves down unexpectedly.  In the case of USB devices, customers may experience loss of communications until the device is reconnected to the USB port.  Capacitors that we offer are available at checkout, for more information view our Induction Suppression Video.

Base Station Reactor Configuration

Base Station Software

Base Station will assist you in learning how this device functions and is the ultimate reference tool for configuring, testing and controlling this device.  Base Station software supports every feature of this device - no other controller manufacturer even comes close to offering this type of software.  Base Station works by communicating with your controller to identify the model and provides the appropriate graphical user interface for setting up and testing the identified device.  All Reactor configurations will be made through Base Station and an overview will be discussed below.  To help you get started and learn this controller Quick Start Guides are available for just about every feature.  As you discover a feature in Base Station a link is provided where you can easily download the Quick Start Guide.

Configure Each Input

The Reactor Relay allows users to define the activation of a relay or an event based on the voltage readings of the analog inputs.  An input can trigger a relay directly or an input can trigger an event, such as a timer. If an input triggers a relay, the relay may turn on. If an input triggers a timer event, a timer may be started, but a relay may or may not be turned on based on how you have configured the controller (the time delay may be before the relay triggers).  Triggering an event does not mean you are triggering a relay, it just means you are triggering an internal function. Relays may be associated with this internal function to achieve a large number of possible operations.

Using Input Values

Reading from Left to right, the settings above indicate Input 1 will trigger a relay when Analog Input 1 is above 200.  We have defined that a relay will turn on when the input level is defined by a value of 200.


In the above example, a relay is triggered when an analog input is inside a set range between 100 and 202.  By defining two limits, you can further narrow the parameters for the activation of a relay.  The limits can also be assigned to set the relay to be activated outside two set limits.

Output Configuration

Reactor controllers have up to 8 relays available depending on the actual model selected. Each relay can be assigned to a different input or event.  In the example shown below, Relay 1 is Controlled by Input 1 directly.  Input 1 will turn Relay 1 ON. In order for Relay 1 to activate, it must meet the conditions of the Input 1 configuration using the settings on the Input Configuration tab (see above).

There are many ways to directly control a relay from an input. Relays 1-5 in the below example shows how inputs can turn relays on, off, toggle relay state, set the relay to match the state of the input, or set the relay to NOT equal the state of a input.

In the example below, Relay 6 is controlled by Timer 1. In other words, if Timer 1 is active, the relay will stay ON. Otherwise, the relay will turn off. This is a great way to activate a light for a given period of time. If you are interested in Time Delay Relay, timers will be discussed on our Time Delay Relay Page.

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 and it 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.

Many More Options

We have just touched on the many ways the Reactor board can be configured.  The applications that this board can be use in are extensive.  For a more detailed look at the configuration and setup you can look at the Reactor Series Quick Start Guide.

Reactor Board Features

Reactor Relay

In this tab we'll take a look at the Reactor board design itself.  The Reactor series controllers are machine manufactured for a highly accurate and reliable design.  Fully tested before they leave the production facility each Reactor controller is ready to stand up to rigorous demands from heat, cold or vibration.  The best test of all is the numerous boards in the field from customers all over the world in all sorts of conditions.  Take it from us, these controllers will hold up!

Essential Power Requirements

Applying Good clean power to the board is essential for the operation of the board.  Not only for the switching of the relays but the firmware that processes the commands.  Without good steady clean power from a regulated power supply the board simply will not function correctly.  All boards on the site require 12 VDC power.  The PWR12 US power supply is a 120VAC to 12VDC 1.25A 60Hz regulated power supply and it plugs into the barrel connector on the board.  The output connector is a 2.1mm I.D. x 5.5mm O.D. x 9.5mm Female R/A barrel connector.  We also carry an international power supply with interchangeable adapters for international customers. Learn More

Amperage Rating

The 20-Amp relay is reated for 20-amps on the Normally Open connection and rated for 10-amps on the Normally Closed connection.  Please keep this in mind when wiring to the Normally Closed side it is only rated for 10-amps.

20-Amp SPDT Relay Installed

This device has SPDT relays installed.  SPDT Single Pole Double Throw Relays have three connections - Common, Normally Open, and Normally Closed.  When the relay is off, the common is connected to the normally closed connection of the relay.  When the relay coil is energized, the Common swings over to the Normally Open Connection of the Relay.  You can wire the device you are switching to either the Normally Open or the Normally Closed position.  The Common (COM) is the  moving part of the relay that comes in contact with the Normally Open (NO) when the coil to the relay is energized.  Wiring is done directly to the Relay terminals using a common 1/4" quick disconnect terminal.  To the right is a picture of the connector that will connect to the relay.

2-Million Cycles

Reactor series boardss are designed for long life, you should expect to get years of service from your controller and literally 2-million cycles from the relays on board.  With a 5-year warranty and a money back guarantee you have nothing to loose! 

This Board is RoHS Compliant

This board is led free and RoHS Compliant.  If your requirements are for RoHS compliant parts this board is manufactured with RoHS compliant led free parts and solder.

Not Expandable

The Reactor Series controllers are not expandable.

Break-A-Way Tabs for a Smaller Design

The Reactor relays have a great feature where space is a premium - Break-A-Way Tabs. The Break-A-Way Tabs allow most boards to fit in an optional undrilled plastic enclosure.  Snap off the Break-A-Way Tabs and you have a controller with a smaller profile when you need to fit in a tight space.

30-Day Warranty/Money Back Guarantee

Reactor series controllers are guaranteed against manufacturing and functionality defects for a full 30 days!  Not to mention a 30-day money back guarantee!  If for any reason you are not happy with a relay purchased from Relay Pros, simply return it within 30 days and we will give you your money back!  Controllers that are damaged by our customers will not of course be warranted under any circumstances. 

Shipping

The boards sold are brand new units shipped from our office conveniently located in Missouri.  These boards are completely tested before they are released for shipping  With so many boards on our site it is impossible to stock boards, please allow two to three days production time for your order to ship.  If you have any questions please feel free to call our office at 800-960-4287 or e-mail us at sales@relaypros.com.

Sensor Control Is Here!

Trigger relays with a sensor with and configure with included Base Station software.  Here's a lists of great features:

User Friendly Software
• Point & Click Interface - No Programming Knowledge Required
• Override Sensor When Computer is Connected to Board
• Read Sensor Levels in Base Station
• Read Status of Relays in Base Station

User Friendly Board Design
• 8 Analog Sensor Inputs Available (0 to 5 Volt Only)
• Break-A-Way Tabs lets you decide the board's size
• Direct relay connections make connecting to the relays easy

LRR420_USB Accessories

Data Sheets & Quick Start Guides

Below are the Data Sheets Quick Start Guides for this board.  These are the guides that will help you communicate and configure this board.