RS232 Relay Board 8-Channel 5-Amp ProXR Lite

The RS-232 Interface

Connects to Third Party Devices

RS-232 devices are perhaps versatile and most popular choices because of their ability to adapt to any other communication protocol and devices.  For instance, using 3rd party devices, RS-232 relay controllers can be controlled from GSM modems, Ethernet to Serial Adapters, WiFi to Serial Adapters, USB to Serial Adapters, Bluetooth to Serial Adapters, and Wireless Mesh Network to Serial Adapters.  RS-232 will continue to adapt to all emerging technologies, as the foundation for all communication technologies has provisions for RS-232 communications.  With the DB-9 or direct wire capabilities this controller can connect to third party devices including Crestron almost any way possible.

ZRS Module

This board is equipped with a ZRS Module.  The ZRS RS-232 Serial Interface module adds a serial port to the NCD line of products.  The ZRS Module is offered with 3 different RS-232 connection options depending on the wiring option that best suits your application.  The ZRS module is powered from the serial port of your computer.  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.

Three ZRS Modules Available

There are three RS-232 connection options available for this board.

ZRS-A Wire It Up	ZRS-B Plug It In	ZRS-AB Both!

Integrates with Crestron

This board can integrate with Crestron, in fact we have many Crestron customers using our devices.  The most important thing you need to know is how to format the data out the serial port of the Crestron device.  Our devices work with Hex/Decimal byte values.  Crestron systems usually work with Hex values, our devices start with a header byte of 254, followed by a command (ProXR controllers need 254, 108, 1 to activate the first relay).  So you need to convert all of these values to Hex for the Crestron system and send the bytes out the port.  For a detailed list of all the commands with descriptions see our ProXR Enhanced Command Set.

Mounts as a COM Port

This ProXR series controller connects to the serial port of your computer and will mount as a COM port on your PC.  Once powered up, the controller waits for a command.  A command consists of a few bytes of data in numerical format usually between 2 and 6 bytes.  Once the command has been received, the controller processes the command, and sends you back ASCII character code 85 to signal the completion of your command.

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 Serial devices, it is not as severe as using a USB port a capacitor is still recommended.  Capacitors that we offer are available at checkout, for more information view our Induction Suppression Video.

USB Induction Solution

If USB is required, an RS-232 communications module will allow RS-232 communications between your PC and controller with no complications.  A USB to RS-232 adapter can be used in combination with the RS-232 controller.  The RS-232 communications format with a capacitor effectively blocks induction to safe levels for a USB to RS-232 adapter to function without errors.

The ProXR Lite SPDT Relay Board

ProXR Lite Relay

In this tab we'll take a look at the board design itself.  The ProXR Lite series controllers are machine manufactured for a highly accurate and reliable design.  Fully tested before they leave the production facility each ProXR Lite 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!

Not Expandable

Unlike it's big brother, the ProXR Series, the ProXR Lite series controllers are NOT expandable.  The firmware still thinks 256 relays are available but the relay portion of the controller only responds to the first 1, 2, 4 or 8 relays in Bank 1.

ProXR Command Set

The ProXR Firmware installed on the board has more commands and functionality than any other board on the market!  The list of commands and parameters this board is capable of is extensive!  Writing your own program can be done in just about any programming language so you can use what you are comfortable with!  Software is available for those who aren't programmers.  You can find the complete command set in the ProXR Quick Start Guide.

Base Station Software

Base Station Software was designed to help you learn the ProXR command set.  Explore ProXR features using it's Graphical User Interface.  Watch data bytes flow to and from the board, so you easily understand the command execution process.  There is no faster or easier way to learn how to automate than Base Station, as it was designed to work with the complete array of communication modules.  Base Station software supports every feature of this device - no other controller manufacturer even comes close to offering this type of software. 

Easy Software Development

Most of our customers write their own program for controlling these relays.  Since you can use almost any programming language, you can use one that is most familiar to you so you don't have to learn a new language.  These boards support the Serial Port Profile, meaning they will mount to the computer as a virtual com port. This makes it very easy to send commands to the board.  Not a programmer, check out N-Button!  Software that allows you to configure buttons to control relays and read the status of those relays without programming using point-and-click action.  Click Here for More

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

Read Analog Sensors

All ProXR Lite controllers offer a 8-Channel 8/10-Bit Analog to Digital Converter in addition to relay control.  Read and control from 8 sensors per board from 0 to 5 volts (0 being a dry contact)!  A/D inputs are ideal for reading the on/off status of switches, connect a switch between input and ground and software may then be used to monitor the contact closure status of the switch.  AD inputs can also be used for reading variable resistance signals, the board will then will return a value between 0-255.  Click the grey Data Sheets tab above and look for the AD8 Quick Start Guide to see the full AD command set.

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 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 using screw terminal connections.  The maximum guage wire the terminal can handle is 14 ga but we have used up to 12 ga solid core for several applications with no issues.

2-Million Cycles

ProXR series controllers 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!  Place your order now, while everything is in front of you.

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.

Break-A-Way Tabs for a Smaller Design

The ProXR Lite 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

ProXR Lite 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. 

Induction Suppression

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 board requires an induction suppression capacitor for each relay being used.  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 interferes with the logic of the board, causing relay banks to shut down unexpectedly.  For more information view our Induction Suppression Video.

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.

ProXR Lite Is Here!

A more streamlined manufacturing process brings a more durable, reliable and better relay board to the market.  Here's a lists of great features:

User Friendly Board Design
• Single Pole Double Throw Relays Installed
    - Wire to Normally Open or Normally Closed Position
• Break-A-Way Tabs Lets you Decide the Board's Size
• Screw Terminal Contact Closure/Relay Connections
• RoHS Compliant

ProXR Lite Features
• Industry Leading ProXR Command Set
• 8-Channel 8/10-Bit Analog to Digital Converter
• Highly Reliable Board
• Assign up to 16 Programmable Timers

ProXR Lite Limitations
• This controller cannot be expanded

The ProXR Command Set

Introduction

The ProXR Series Controllers allow you to control up to 2048 relays depending on your controller model.  Relays are divided into groups of 8 called banks, and are addressed by their bank number.  For instance, a ProXR series controller with 32 on-board relays has four on-board banks, the on-board relays respond to bank values of 1-4.  If you use the XR Expansion port to add another bank of 24 relays, then you will need to specify bank values of 5-7 to control the extra relays.  The firmware doesn’t actually know how many relays are attached to the relay controller, it is up to the user to define how many relays are attached to the controller using Base Station Software.  The ProXR CPU will assume you have connected the maximum number of supported relays to your controller.  In the ProXR Quick Start Guide, you will see two commands that appear to do the same thing, for example:

  254 0-7 Turn Off Individual Relays
  254 100-107 Bank# Turn Off Individual Relays in Bank
  254 8-15 Turn On Individual Relays
  254 108-115 Turn On Individual Relays in Bank
  254 16-23 Get the Status of an Individual Relay
  254 116-123 Bank# Get the Status of an Individual Relay in Bank
While the outcome is the same, these commands function in slightly different ways.

For instance:
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1
To make this command work, you will send a 254, then a 8 to activate a relay. By default, relay bank 1 will be affected by this command. However, you can redirect this command to a different relay bank using the following command:
  254 49 2  Direct Commands to Relay Bank 2
Then you can send:
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in Bank 2

Here are a few more Bank Specified Examples:
  254 49 1 Direct Commands to Relay Bank 1
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in Bank 1
  254 49 2 Direct Commands to Relay Bank 2
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in Bank 2
  254 9 Turn On Relay 2 in Bank 2
  254 10 Turn On Relay 3 in Bank 2
  254 49 3 Direct Commands to Relay Bank 3
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in Bank 3
  254 11 Turn On Relay 4 in Bank 3
  254 12 Turn On Relay 5 in Bank 3
  254 13 Turn On Relay 6 in Bank 3
  254 14 Turn On Relay 7 in Bank 3
  254 49 0 Direct Commands to All Relay Banks
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in All Relay Banks

This command structure has the advantage of being very fast and efficient. However, if power to the controller is ever lost, commands will automatically be directed to bank 1 when power to the controller has been restored. This command methodology is generally advisable for ProXR controllers with 8 or fewer relays. When working with more than 8 relays, we generally advise users to use Bank Directed commands as shown in the following examples.

Turns Off Relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank

This command will control the Off status of specified relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank.  This command has optional parameters <1-7> for controlling the Off status of the remaining relays, 1 being the next relay in sequence, 2-7 being all possible subsequent relays in the selected relay bank.  A value of 0 refers to the first relay in the specified relay bank, 7 being the 8th and final relay of the selected Relay Bank. This command sends byte value 85 back to the user when the operation has been completed.

Send Bytes:	Byte 1:	Byte 2:	Byte 3:
Function:	Command	Command	Optional Parameters
Decimal Values:	254	0-7	1-7
Hex Values	0xFE	0x00 - 0x07	0x01 - 0x07
Receive Byte:	Decimal:	85
	Hex:	0x55

Turns On Relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank

This command will control the On status of specified relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank.  This command has optional parameters <1-7> for controlling the On status of the remaining relays, 1 being the next relay in sequence, 2-7 being all possible subsequent relays in the selected relay bank.  A value of 0 refers to the first relay in the specified relay bank, 7 being the 8th and final relay of the selected Relay Bank.  This command sends byte value 85 back to the user when the operation has been completed.

Send Bytes:	Byte 1:	Byte 2:	Byte 3:
Function:	Command	Command	Optional Parameters
Decimal Values:	254	8-15	1-7
Hex Values	0xFE	0x08 - 0x0F	0x01 - 0x07
Receive Byte:	Decimal:	85
	Hex:	0x55

Read the Status of Relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank

This command will report the On/Off status of Relays 0-7 in the Currently Selected Relay Bank.  This command sends byte value of 0 of 1 back to the user when the operation has been completed, 0 reporting an Off status and 1 reporting an On status.

Send Bytes:	Byte 1:	Byte 2:
Function:	Command	Command
Decimal Values:	254	16-23
Hex Values	0xFE	0x10 - 0x17
Receive Byte:	Decimal:	0 or 1
	Hex:	0x00 or 0x01

Full Command Set

These are only a few examples from the ProXR Command set so you can get an idea of the command structure.  Download the ProXR Quick Start Guide to view the full command set ProXR Quick Start Guide.

Base Station Software

Base Station Software was designed to help you learn the ProXR command set!  No other relay board manufacturer even comes close to offering this type of software!  Explore ProXR features using it's Graphical User Interface.  Watch data bytes flow to and from the board, so you easily understand the command execution process.  There is no faster or easier way to learn how to automate than Base Station, as it was designed to work with all the communication modules we offer!  You only need a Windows 8 or 10 Computer to Run Base Station. 

Base Station Features

There are some useful features to look for when using Base Station Software to control, test, or configure your device:

• At the bottom left corner of each window there is a link to relevant documentation for your device
• In the Control Command Set Window, and many others, there is a MORE or LESS option at the top right corner.  Selecting MORE allows you to view specific communication details.
• All the functions of the command set are available as a point-and-click interface plus you can see the command that is being sent to the board!

The AD8 Command Set

Reading Switches/Variable Resistance Signals

This board is equipped with 8-Channels of 8/10-Bit Analog to Digital Converters, capable of reading analog voltages from 0 to 5 Volts DC.  The ADCs on this controller allow monitoring of external sensors or contact closure input detection.  Connect external temperature sensors, light sensors, current sensors, buttons, switches, or anything else that generates a 0-5VDC analog or contact closure output.  With 8-bit resolution, analog inputs will convert 0-5 Volt signals into a value from 0 to 255.  With 10-bit resolution, values of 0 to 1023 may be measured.  Input resolution is software selected.  Simply ask the controller for the analog value of each input, and the controller instantly responds.

Analog Inputs Controlling Relays

ProXR AD8 controllers allow you to map analog inputs for direct control of on-board relays.  Inputs can be configured to flash relays, turn relays on or off, toggle the relay state, send push notification data, and much more.

Analog to Digital Connections

AD8 Series controllers allow users to monitor sensors and switches.  A/D inputs should never be left “floating,” which simply means all inputs MUST connect to something (such as a voltage or ground).  To prevent inputs from floating, a 10K Resistor connects each input to +5 or Ground using the pull up/down jumper.  While this 10K resistor does slightly interfere with the signal, its benefits far outweigh the consequences of leaving inputs floating.

AD8 Command Set

The AD8 Command Set is used to read analog voltages on controllers equipped with an 8-Channel 8/10-Bit Analog to Digital Converter.  The AD8 Command Set converts a Voltage from 0 to 5 Volts DC into numeric value.  The AD8 Command Set supports 8-Bit Analog to Digital Conversion, which converts 0-5VDC to a numeric value from 0 to 255.  The AD8 Command Set also supports 10-Bit Analog to Digital Conversion, which converts 0-5VDC to a numeric value from 0 to 1023.  Since 10-Bit Values must be communicated using two bytes, the following formula must be used to reconstruct the 10-Bit Value:
10BitValue = (MSB*256)+LSB 'Converts 2 Bytes into a Value from 0 to 1023

Reads the 8-Bit Analog Input of Channels

This command will read the Analog Input of Channels 1-8 and return an 8-bit value for each.

Send Bytes:	Byte 1:	Byte 2:
Function:	Command	Parameter (Channel 1-8)
Decimal Values:	254	150-157
Hex Values	0xFE	0x96 - 0x9D
Receive Byte:	Decimal:	0-255
	Hex:	0x00-0xFF

Full Command Set

These are only a few examples from the AD8 Command Set so you can get an idea of the command structure.  Download the AD Quick Start Guide to view the full command set AD Quick Start Guide.

Base Station Software for AD8

Base Station

Base Station will allow you to read the inputs and will even show you the commands being sent from Base Station so you can use them in your own programming. 

Relay Activator and Analog Inputs

The Relay Activator control panel allows analog inputs to directly control relays!  Simply connect the analog inputs to buttons or switches and trigger basic relay on or off functions to take manual control of the on-board relays.  The Relay Activator control panel allows you to define 8 functions for each of the 8 inputs.  Functions include turning relays on or off, toggling the state of relays, momentarily flash a relay, momentarily toggle the flashing function of a relay, turn all relays on, turn all relays off, and push notification events.  When push notification events are configured, the controller generates a packet of data every time the inputs change state.

Relay Activator for Manual Control

Relay Activator is great for applications where computer control is used but manual control is necessary at times.  Buttons or switches can be used to take manual control of any of the relays.  You will have the ability to turn a relay on with a computer and turn the relay off with the manual switch!  Download the Relay Activator Quick Start Guide here: in the AD8 Relay Activator Quick Start Guide.

Create Desktop Meters

Using N-Button software desktop Meters can be created for real time level readings of a sensor connected to the AD8 inputs!  "It's like having a meter right on your desk for constant monitoring".  Meters can be created for temperature sensors, moisture sensors, light meters and others as long as their output is between 0 and 5 volts.  Create a live at-a-glance determination of the sensor.  There are 8 inputs on the board so you can create a meter for each of the input and label them, our meter here is labeled Soil Moisture.  Best of all the increments on the meter can be fully customized to fit your needs.  N-Button Lite and N-Button Pro can be purchased at checkout.
Visit our N-Button Page

Power & More

SPDT Relay Controller Specifications

This table covers all NCD SPDT Relay Controllers.  All ratings assume 12VDC operation at 70°F (21°C).  Please note that most ratings are estimated and may be subject to periodic revision.  Some ratings represent stock controller settings without performance enhancement optimizations.  The estimated processing time can be impacted by background services and choice of commands.  Standby power consumption assume no communications module is installed and no relays are active on the controller.  Please add the power consumption of the activated relays and communications module to obtain a better estimation of power consumption.

SPDT Relay Specs

Specs of NCD SPDT Relay Boards	Minimum	Nominal	Maximum	Notes
Operational Voltages	10VDC	12VDC	15VDC
Standby Power Consumption	35mA	100mA	200mA	No Active Relays, No Com Module
Relay Power Consumption	28mA	35mA	60mA	Consumption of Each Activated Relay
Operational Temperature Range	-40°F (-40°C)	70°F (21°C)	185°F (85°C)	Theoretical Component Limits Shown
Storage Temperature Range	-67°F (-55°C)	70°F (21°C)	185°F (85°C)	Theoretical Component Limits Shown
Operational Ambient Air Humidity	0%	50%	70%	Non-Condensing Humidity Values Shown
Relay Activation Time	4ms	5ms	10ms	Needs Further Validation
Relay Deactivation Time	5mS	10mS	15mS	Needs Further Validation

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 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 using screw terminal connections.  The maximum guage wire the terminal can handle is 14 ga but we have used up to 12 ga solid core for several applications with no issues.

2-Million Cycles

ProXR series controllers 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!  Place your order now, while everything is in front of you.

Communication Module Specifications

This table covers all NCD Communication Modules.  While NCD communication modules operate at 3.3VDC, the ratings below highlight the effect they will have on the master controller operating at 12VDC at 70°F (21°C).  Maximum ratings should be used for power budget planning purposes and may reflect short term absolute maximum peak current consumption.  Some ratings are estimated and subject to periodic revision.

Communication Module Power Consumption

Specs of NCD Communication Modules	Minimum	Nominal	Maximum	Notes
Operational Temperature Range	-40°F (-40°C)	70°F (21°C)	185°F (85°C)	Theoretical Component Limits Shown
Storage Temperature Range	-67°F (-55°C)	70°F (21°C)	185°F (85°C)	Theoretical Component Limits Shown
Operational Ambient Air Humidity	0%	50%	70%	Non-Condensing Humidity Values Shown
USB Module Power Consumption	N/A	N/A	N/A	USB Modules are Powered by the USB Port Do Not Consume Device Current
RS-232 Module Power Consumption		10mA	20mA
Ethernet Module Power Consumption	58mA	82mA	100mA
WiFi Bluetooth USB Module Power Consumption	37mA	50mA	100mA	Up to 300 Foot Indoor Wireless Range, Unobstructed. Up to 50 Foot Range Through Walls
900MHz Wireless Module Power Consumption	13mA	30mA	50mA	Up to 1,000 Foot Indoor Wireless Range, up to 2 Mile Outdoor Wireless Range using Included Antennas. Up to 28 Miles Outdoor Wireless Range using High-Gain Antennas.
KFX Wireless Key Fob	11mA	15mA	25mA	Up to 200 Feet Outdoor Wireless Range using 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 Button Key Fobs. Up to 700 Feet Outdoor Wireless Range using 8-Button Remotes

AD8 Analog Input Usage Notice

Analog Inputs should not have a voltage present when powered down.  Use a 220 Ohm current limiting resistor on each input to prevent damage to the controller if voltage will be present on the analog input when this controller is powered down.  Do not exceed 0 to 5VDC on any analog input or the on-board CPU will be damaged.  Most analog inputs include a 10K Pull Up/Down resistor to help keep the inputs quiet when not in use.  This 10K resistor may slightly bias the readings of some sensors.

Accessories

Software Options

Not a programmer and think these boards look great, not to worry we have software to help get you connected and even control the relays with a button on your desktop or by a time schedule!

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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.