USB Relay Switch 8-Channel 20-Amp with UXP Port

USB Relay Control

Mounts as a Virtual COM Port

The USB Relay connects to the USB port of your computer and will mount as a COM port on your PC.  Windows computers with access to the internet will automatically download the proper driver.  Once powered up, the board waits for a command consisting of a few bytes of data in numerical format usually between 2 and 6 bytes.  Once the command has been received, the board processes the command, and sends you back ASCII character code 85 to signal the completion of your command.

USB Communications Module

This USB interface module makes it easy to control relays using the USB port.  Simply plug into any available USB port and start controlling the relays and reading the AD Inputs using standard serial commands.  NCD USB Interface modules feature genuine FTDI USB to Serial Converter Chips, the very best in the industry!  The ZUSB USB to USART converter is based on the FTDI FT232-RL, making it the world's most cross-platform compatible USB to serial converter available.  With drivers available for Windows, Mac, Linux and much more, users may communicate to NCD devices using a virtual COM port, which greatly simplifies software integration.  Once installed, users may open a COM port at 115.2K Baud and begin sending and receiving bytes of data.  On-board USB, TX, and RX status LEDs indicate all aspects of communications activity.  This device uses a USB Mini interface, which is our strong preference for best durability.  NCD has used this line of chips since 2004 with excellent results!  Download the latest version of Base Station and install on your Windows computer, the COM Port should be listed and you will be ready to start communicating!

Virtual COM Port

A Virtual COM Port is a COM port that is registered with your PC.  This allows you to develop or use existing software to communicate to the entire line of NCD Industrial controllers.  VCP communications is the easiest of all communication formats to learn, so if you are looking for a place to get started, look no further than the ZUSB USB Interface communications module.  Serial communications are widely supported across all operating systems, programming languages, and computing platforms.  The ZUSB should be considered the essential tool for learning, troubleshooting, and using NCD Industrial devices.

Induction Solutions

Even with capacitors in place, the possibility does exist that capacitors will not suppress enough induction to prevent periodic communications loss. Testing is required in these applications. If problems persist, other communications mechanisms must be considered.  If USB is required, an RS-232 communications module will allow RS-232 communications between your PC and board with no complications.  A USB to RS-232 adapter can be used in combination with the RS-232 interface. The RS-232 format effectively blocks induction to safe levels for a USB to RS-232 adapter to function without errors for higher induction applications.

The ProXR Relay Board

ProXR Relay

We've looked at the interface now let's take a look at the board design and programming.  The ProXR series controllers are manufactured by hand for a highly accurate and reliable design.  Equipped with the XR Expansion Port additional relays can be easily added.  Fully tested before they leave the production facility each ProXR 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!

Easy Software Development

Most of our customers write their own program for controlling these devices. 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 device.

Plug-In for Visual Studio

The NCD Component Library is a plug-in for the Visual Studio 2005/2008 that greatly simplifies the communications to the NCD product line. The samples can be run in Visual Studio and full customization to your needs.  Over 40 samples included with this free download!  Component Library.

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. 

UXP Expansion

UXP is a new standardized data port, specifically for the purpose of speaking to various expansion modules.  If the controller you are considering is equipped with a UXP port, you can take advantage of extended commands to speak to our growing line of I/O expansion modules. You will find the UXP port on models with UXP in the part number.

Summary of UXP Modules
• Compatible with UXP Series Controllers ONLY
• Not a stand-alone controller - MUST be used with a UXP Series Controller
• Add Contact Closure Inputs
   - up to 256 Inputs
• Add Analog to Digital Inputs
   - up to 48 Inputs
• Add Digital Potentiometer Outputs
   - up to 256 Outputs

UXP Expansion Modules

UXP Expansion Boards have no on-board brains.  They are entirely reliant on the brains of a "master" device.  A master device is an NCD controller with a UXP expansion port and a microprocessor of some kind.  Most master UXP devices have on-board relays.  If you need to add A/D, Contact Closure Inputs or Digital Potentiometers just plug in the appropriate expansion module.  You cannot daisy chain different types of modules to the same controller however.  In other words if you plug in a potentiometer you will not be able to plug a contact closure or A/D module also.  For controllers that are equipped with a UXP Expansion port (and are suitable master devices for UXP Series Expansion) simply look for UXP in the part number.  All UXP Expansion Modules have an input and an output so you can simply daisy chain the boards together until you reach the number of contacts you are looking for.

XR Expansion Port

Most UXP controllers (Master Devices) have an XR expansion port and therefore can accommodate XR Expansion Boards.  Typically the XR Expansion port is used to add relays to the main controller (Master Device).  Like the UXP Expansion boards the XR Expansion Boards have no on-board brains.  They are entirely reliant on the brains of a "master" device.  When you run out of relays, just plug in an XR expansion board that is equipped with the kind of relays you need.  You can add up to 256 relays including the relays that are on the main controller (Master Device). All XR Expansion modules are compatible with each other so if you want to add different types of relays you can.  For controllers that are equipped with an XR Expansion port (and are suitable master devices for XR Series Expansion Controllers) simply look for PROXR in the part number.

Using XR and UXP Together

If you select a board that is equipped with both XR and UXP port you can use both ports simultaneously.  This allows you to add and control more relays through the XR port plus add A/D, Contact Closures or Potentiometers to the same board through the UXP port.  This can all be controlled through the same virtual COM port on your computer.  These Expansion Boards can be purchase with the controller or purchased at a later time when you have a need to expand.  To use both ports together you will need to select a controller that has UXP and PROXR in the part number to have bothports available on the controller (Master Device).

ProXR Enhanced Firmware Installed

This board has ProXR Firmware installed that responds to the full ProXR Command Set.  The ProXR Firmware is the industry leading firmware for controlling relays with more commands and functionality than any other board on the market.  The list of commands and parameters this board is capable of is extensive.  ProXR Enhanced is the newly released enhance version of the ProXR Firmware with more commands, more functionality and better control than ever before!  For a detailed list of all the commands with descriptions see our ProXR Enhanced 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 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. 

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.

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

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.

16 User-Programmable Timers

The ProXR Series controllers have 16 user-programmable timers. Each independent timer can be assigned to any relay, and can be programmed to hold the relay in the On state, or to pulse the relay at the end of the timer.  The ProXR timing features are ideally suited for Watchdog, Keep Alive, and Server Reboot applications, as well as sprinkler systems, gate openers, and lighting applications.  Relay Timing Features support two modes of operation: Duration and Pulse. Duration timing is ideally suited where a device should be activated for a period of time. Pulse timing mode is designed specifically for server reboot applications, whereby, if the timer is not reset periodically by your software, the timer will run out and reboot your computer.

5-Year Warranty/Money Back Guarantee

ProXR Lite series controllers are guaranteed against manufacturing and functionality defects for a full 5 years!  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 Control 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
• "Wall Wart" or direct power capability
• Relay status light bar
• XR Expansion Port - easily add more relays
• Easy screw terminal connections
• DPDT Relays with 2 connections per relay

ProXR Features
• Works with the full ProXR Enhanced Command Set
• UXP Expansion Port
• Highly reliable relay with industry leading command set
• 16 programmable timers available

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!

Power & More

20/30 Amp Relay Board Specifications

This table covers all NCD boards with 20 or 30 amp relays installed.  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			15ms	Needs Further Validation
Relay Deactivation Time			10mS	Needs Further Validation
Operational Life Mechanical	10,000,000			Component Operation Rating
Operational Life Electrical	100,000			Component Rating at Maximum Load

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.

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.