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What is the maximum cable length for a Modbus RTU network?

For Modbus communication, the total cable length per segment must not exceed 1.000 m. (Total cable length = sum of the main network line and all branches). Here

What cable to use for a Modbus network?

Sentera products share information via Modbus communication. Modbus is a serial communication protocol that uses RS485 technology. Based on that technology,

What is the maximum current in a PoM network?

Sentera developed the concept Power over Modbus or PoM to interconnect Sentera products. The PoM concept means that Modbus data communication and 24 Volt supply

What does ‘IP protection’ mean?

Protection against ingress of solid objects and liquids IP rating stands for “Ingress Protection rating”. However, sometimes, “International Protection rating”

What motor insulation class is required in combination with a fan speed controller or VFD?

The insulation of the motor windings prevents short circuits in the windings or connection of the winding to the protective earth. The class of insulation of a

What is the difference between a transmitter, intelligent sensor and sensor controller?

Sentera offers three sensor types: transmitters, intelligent sensors, and sensor controllers. The main difference between these types is the functionality, or t

How to control EC fan speed?

An EC motor or Electronically Commutated motor can be seen as an AC motor with integrated fan speed controller. The EC motor requires an indication of the desir

Can I control multiple motors with one fan speed controller?

Yes, that is possible. If doing so, make sure that: - All connected motors are identical. - The fan speed controller is selected, based on the total motor

Kick start versus Soft start - what is the difference?

Kick start and soft start are two different ways to start up a motor or fan. The best acceleration method depends on the application. Applications with high ine

What is a PWM signal?

PWM or Pulse Width Modulation (also known as “Pulse Duration Modulation” or PDM), is a control signal, comparable to an analogue 0-10 Volt or 0-20 mA signal. It

Can a Sentera device with Modbus RTU communication work stand alone?

Yes. All Sentera devices with Modbus RTU communication can be used standalone or they can be integrated in a Modbus RTU network. In many situations, the defau

How to adjust parameters of a Sentera device?

All parameters of Sentera devices can be read and adjusted via Modbus RTU communication. These parameters can be subdivided into Input registers and Holding reg

What is the difference between an AC and EC motor?

In HVAC business, an induction motor is often referred to as ‘AC motor’. These motor types have a stator winding to generate the required magnetic field to g

What is PI control?

PI control is the abbreviation of Proportional Integral control. PI control is a commonly used method in control systems to correct the error between the desire

How to regulate AC fan speed?

In general, there are two ways to regulate AC fan speed: 1. Reducing the motor voltageReducing motor voltage reduces both motor speed and motor torque - t

What is indoor air quality or IAQ?

In the developed world, we spend 90% of our time indoors. Research shows that key pollutants are up to five times more concentrated inside than outside. Accordi

Why to measure temperature and relative humidity?

Temperature and relative humidity have a direct impact on the sense of well-being and comfort of the residents. Dry air leads to dry skin, itchy eyes, and i

Why measure CO2?

Demand-controlled ventilation based on CO2 measurements Demand-controlled ventilation systems use CO2 concentrations within a building to know whether adequate

Why to measure TVOC or indoor air quality?

Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs are organic chemicals that become a gas at room temperature. They are the main origin of air pollution at ground level. A com

Why measure CO in underground parking garages?

In general, cars with combustion engines primarily emit carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) as exhaust gases. However, the relative amounts of each em

What is Modbus RTU communication?

Open communication protocol Modbus is an open communication protocol, meaning that it's free for manufacturers to build into their equipment without having to

What is PoM or Power over Modbus?

Many Sentera products can share information via Modbus communication. Modbus is a serial communication protocol that uses RS485 technology. Sentera Modbus-compa

What is an electronic fan speed controller for AC motors?

Electronic fan speed controllers offer continuous variable fan speed control by reducing the motor voltage. To reduce the motor voltage, they use phase angle co

Can I use a Sentera transmitter for agriculture or horticulture applications?

Sentera has products for a wide range of applications. Agriculture is one of those. Sentera products in this category measure CO2, soil moisture, relative humid

How to control ceiling fans with 3-speed motor?

A 3-step control switch can be used to regulate the speed of ceiling fans with single phase 3-speed motor. Sentera 3-step control switches are available with or

What is a potentiometer?

A potentiometer is a device to generate a control signal. A potentiometer is an electronic component that allows you to vary the resistance in a circuit. It co

What is a control switch for EC fans?

While a potentiometer generates an continuous variable 0 - 10 Volt signal, a control switch generates a stepped control signal. The 0-10 Volt output signal is d

What is the difference between 3-wire and 4-wire connection?

4-wire connection Sentera -F and -H sensors require a supply voltage of 24 VDC. This type of sensors require a 4-wire connection. They can be connected with a

How does an NDIR CO2 Sensor Work?

NDIR stands for “nondispersive infrared”. Today, it is the most common sensor type for the measurement of CO2, carbon dioxide, concentrations in an environment.

How to recalibrate a CO2 sensor?

Virtually all gas sensors are subject to some sort of drift, including CO2 sensors. The degree of drift is partially dependent on the use of quality components

How to restore the factory default settings of a Sentera device?

The settings of Sentera products can be changed via the parameters in the Modbus Holding registers. We distinguish between communication parameters and operatio

What is Ecodesign regulation EU 2019-1781?

The European Union (EU) Ecodesign Directive is focused on making sure we get the maximum possible performance out of any energy that is consumed. The directive

What does IE2 mean for VFDs?

The Ecodesign regulation EU 2019/1781 covers 3-phase standard drives with a diode rectifier in the range 0.12 kW ≤ Pn < 1000 kW. After 1st July 2021, the power

Can Sentera products communicate with non-Sentera products via Modbus RTU communication?

Modbus is an open communication protocol, meaning that it's free for manufacturers to build into their equipment without having to pay royalties. The Modbus com

Can I also collect my order?

Our central warehouse is based in Temse, Belgium. It is possible to collect your products from our central warehouse by appointment. The appointment for colle

Where does Sentera deliver?

As a company, can I buy on account?

We ask prepayment for private persons and non-HVAC related companies. HVAC professionals who order on regular basis, can buy on account. The first order h

How can I cancel my order?

A private person or non-HVAC professional must pay for the order before it is delivered. Once paid, the order cannot be cancelled. HVAC professionals can

Who is Sentera?

Sentera - innovative and easy to use HVAC control solutions! It's our mission to optimise your comfort and indoor air quality by regulating fresh air supply and

What are the opening hours of Sentera?

To collect products, you must make an appointment. Our offices and warehouse are open on normal business days from 08:30 - 12:00 and from 13:00 - 17:00.

Does Sentera have a showroom?

Sentera does not have a physical showroom. Via our website, social media and videos, we provide detailed information about our products and HVAC control

How to create an account on SenteraWeb?

1. Go to: https://www.senteraweb.eu/en/Account/Registration 2. Complete the form. Obligatory fields are marked with (*) 3. Click Register

How to set up an installation in SenteraWeb?

1. Log in via: https://www.senteraweb.eu/en/Account/Login 2. Click Add installation 3. Enter the serial number of your Sentera internet gateway in the f

How to create your dashboard in SenteraWeb?

1. Log in via: https://www.senteraweb.eu/en/Account/Login Now, you have to select the values that will be visible on your dashboard: 2. Select the insta

How to add a contact person for your installation?

1. Log in via: https://www.senteraweb.eu/en/Account/Login 2. Select the installation and click the button Add person 3. Complete the form Users

How to modify or remove an existing contact person?

1. Log in via: https://www.senteraweb.eu/en/Account/Login 2. Select the installation 3. Click on the blue status link of the contact person that you

How to remove an installation?

1. Select the correct installation and check if you are configurator of the installation that you want to delete. Only configurators can delete an installatio

How can I create my e-Commerce account?

The Sentera e-Commerce platform is available in all European countries. Everyone can create a free account on the Sentera e-Commerce platform. How to create y

How can I get a copy of my invoice?

1. Log in to e-Commerce 2. Select 'My orders' in e-Commerce Now you will see your open (pending) orders. In the second tab Closed, you can see your alr

How to get my Long term preferential origin declaration from Sentera?

The long term preferential origin declaration is sent automatically by our Erp system. 1. Log in to e-Commerce 2. Click My long term preferential origin d

How can I download my Sentera price list?

We distinguish between private persons, non-HVAC related companies, and HVAC related companies. Only HVAC professionals can download a price list. 1. Log in

How do I claim a credit note?

In case of an invoicing mistake, you can submit a claim via your e-Commerce account. 1. Log in or register 2. In the e-Commerce page, click Submit a cla

How can I claim warranty?

Sentera products come with two years warranty from the delivery date against defects in manufacturing. Any modifications or alterations to the product relieve t

What is SenteraWeb?

SenteraWeb is the online HVAC portal to log data and to monitor or control your HVAC installation. Via SenteraWeb, it is possible to monitor or remo

How to restore the connection with my Senteraweb installation?

In some cases , your Sentera installation can get disconnected from SenteraWeb. This can occur if the modem (access point) has been replaced or restarted. To r

How can I return purchased products?

Non-HVAC professionals or private persons have the right to return products that they have purchased from Sentera up to 14 days after delivery. HVAC professiona

Why to create a SenteraWeb account?

Via SenteraWeb - the online HVAC portal - it is possible to: - Adjust parameter settings and configure connected devices - Remotely monitor connected

How to log data in SenteraWeb?

First you have to select which parameters (input registers) you want to log. This can be done via installation details. Select a device and click edit. In the c

Where is Sentera based?

Sentera Headquarters and the central warehouse are based in Temse, Belgium. From here, all products are shipped to our customers. This is also the location wher

How to connect a 0-10 Volt control signal?

We distinguish 2 different situations: 1. A passive potentiometer or 10KΩ potentiometer can be connected to a fan speed controller or EC fan via 3 wires. In t

What is a Common Ground?

"Common ground" is a term used in electrical systems to describe a reference point for the voltage potential in a circuit. In simple terms, it is a shared conne

How to measure air volume flow or air velocity?

A balanced ventilation system supplies fresh air to the building while it extracts stale air from the building. To check whether there is sufficient ventilation

What is dew point temperature?

The dew point temperature is the temperature at which air begins to condense. When air comes into contact with an object that has the dew point temperature, con

What is a transformer fan speed controller for AC motors?

Transformer fan speed controllers regulate fan speed in steps by reducing the motor voltage. Usually fan speed can be regulated from low to high speed in 5 step

Where to find price and lead times of Sentera products?

Available stock and lead times (3) of Sentera products are visible for all users of our website. Current stock are the number of items that we currently have on

How to find a product on the website?

We offer different search possibilities on the products page of our website. The easiest way to find a product is to enter the Sentera article code in the searc

How many EC fans can I control with a 0-10 Volt signal?

Input impedance EC motor Every power source has a limit, also the source of a 0-10 Volt signal is limited. Sentera expresses the limit of a 0-10 Volt signal as

What is relative humidity?

What is relative humidity? Relative humidity is a way to express how humid the air is. At any given temperature, there is water vapour in the air. Relative humi

Why measure indoor temperature?

Temperature is the measurement of how hot or cold a particular environment is. When we talk about ambient temperature, room temperature or outside temperature,

How to interpret article codes of Sentera sensors?

How to interpret article codes of Sentera sensors? The Sentera article codes follow a certain logic. Every character in the code stands for a characteristic of

How do destratification fans work?

Destratification is a simple, yet effective solution for heating savings in areas with high ceilings like warehouses and communal spaces. A destratification fan

What is a Modbus Network Bus Terminator or NBT?

Disruptions in a communication network can be prevented by using Network Bus Terminators or NBTs. Modbus Network Bus Terminators reduce voltage reflections in t

What should I pay attention to when creating a Modbus RTU network?

What is (RS485) Modbus RTU communication? Modbus RTU is an open serial protocol derived from the master/slave architecture (now client/server) originally develo

What is a control signal?

A control signal is typically used to control an electronic device. This can be a fan speed controller, a damper actuator, an EC fan, etc. An example: Telling a

What is the difference between VDC and VAC?

Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) are the two types of electric currents that coexists in our daily life. They are both used for supplying power

Why is mechanical ventilation important in buildings?

Mechanical ventilation is essential in buildings for several reasons: 1. Air quality: Proper ventilation helps to maintain good indoor air quality by removing

What type of fan speed controller should I choose?

There are many different types of fan speed controllers available for AC motors. That doesn't make the choice any easier. We will briefly list the main advantag

How does an electric autotransformer work?

An electric autotransformer is a type of transformer that has a single winding with multiple voltage taps. It operates based on the principles of electromagneti

What is Baudrate in a Modbus RTU network?

The Modbus RTU (Remote Terminal Unit) protocol is widely used in the HVAC industry and in industrial automation systems for communication between devices. Baudr

What is an analogue 0-10 Volt signal

An analogue 0-10 Volt signal is a continuous electrical signal that represents varying levels of voltage between 0 and 10 volts. It varies continuously between

The connected products are not visible in the 3SModbus configuration software

How a Modbus network works A Modbus RTU network is always composed of 1 master device and one or more slave devices. The master requests information from one

What are the advantages of Modbus communication over analogue signals?

Modbus communication offers several significant advantages over traditional analogue signals, particularly in industrial and home and building automation applic

What is the minimum current to activate a TRIAC?

TRIode for Alternating Current A TRIAC (TRIode for Alternating Current) is an electronic component that either allows electrical current to pass or stops it.

What types of NDIR sensors exist?

General characteristics of all NDIR sensors NDIR (Non-dispersive Infra-red) sensing has become the leading method for measuring CO2 concentration. This techno

What is a LAN cable?

LAN is an abbreviation of ‘Local Area Network’, a LAN cable is the connection between different devices (computers, printers, network switches, etc.) which crea

What are the key components of an air handling unit?

The main parts of an air-handling unit (AHU) are shown on the drawing below. This picture will be used as an example; however, many other different combinations

What is the best placement for sensors on air handling unit?

Sentera offers a wide range of control solutions for your air-handling units (AHU). These solutions include various sensors, a certain amount of which come pre-

What are the most common types of heat recuperators in AHU and how do they work?

The three most common types of energy recovery heat exchangers (recuperators) in air handling units (AHUs) are: • Plate heat exchangers • Rotary heat ex

How to mount a room sensor?

The room sensors of Sentera are intended for wall installation indoors. The front cover of the sensors is made of ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) plastic,

How to replace a gateway in an installation?

This article should help users of SenteraWeb to replace the gateway in an installation. This could be necessary due to gateway malfunction or system modificatio

How to use a frequency inverter?

Sentera has a wide range of products and solutions to control fans and monitor indoor air quality. Our product range has a modular structure, which offers enorm

What are 3-speed control switches?

3-speed control switch for three-speed AC motors With our SMT-1-30-series you can manually control 3-speed AC fans in 3 steps. They are available with or withou
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