ECU - Electronic Control and Readout Unit

27-1200/09

Figure 1 ECU Front View

ECU configuration
Display screen Numeric keypad button

TEST MODE ENGINEERING Function buttons Zero Load and Screen navigation
button UNITS button Zero Flow buttons buttons

Figure 2 ECU Rear View

Power switch Load transducer Displacement RS232 Output sockets

socket transducer socket Printer Plotter Comms

Power lead Fuse Cooling fan Safety/ID socket

socket compartment

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ECU - Electronic Control and Readout Unit
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Figure 3a Connecting to a Multiplex 50

From displacement
transducer To printer or PC

From load transducer To plotter

Comms

Safety/ID

Figure 3b Connecting to a Marshall-Test 50

From flow transducer To printer or PC

From load transducer To plotter

Safety/ID

Figure 3c Connecting to a CBR-Test 50

From displacement
transducer To printer or PC

From load transducer To plotter

Safety/ID

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1 Introduction
The ECU is a readout and control unit for use with the following ELE load frames:
• Multiplex 50 (Fully automatic start and stop facility).
• Marshall-Test 50 (Requires manual start and stop of ECU and load frame).
• CBR-Test 50 (Requires manual start and stop of ECU and load frame).
It incorporates two input channels to accept data from one load transducer and one
displacement transducer. This allows it to record measurements during Marshall,
CBR, Quick Undrained Triaxial or other user-defined tests. At the completion of a
test, you can output the recorded data to:
• A printer or PC (as a CSV file).
• A plotter (x,y recorder).
The ECU, through the Safety/ID connection, provides overload protection for all load
frames in the event of a transducer exceeding 99% of its maximum range. Should this
occur, the ECU stops the load frame’s platen and disables the Up switch. This
protection remains in force until the user drives the platen downwards and the
measurement from the overloaded sensor measures 95% or less of its maximum
range. When this occurs, the ECU re-enables the instrument’s Up switch.
The Safety/ID connection also allows the ECU to interrogate test load frames and
automatically configure itself for the supported test type.
When used in conjunction with a Multiplex 50, the ECU provides a number of
additional features:
• Monitoring of the platen speed for compatibility with the selected test. If this is not
appropriate, the ECU halts the test and displays a warning message prompting
you to confirm or change the speed setting.
• In Automatic mode, the ECU starts recording data when you initiate a test on the
Multiplex 50 control panel. For Marshall and User tests, has all the same features
apart from automatic start and stop of the ECU and frame.

You will need to program the ECU with the calibration certificate information issued
with all ELE pre-calibrated transducers.

Note: If this equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer,

the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.

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2 Specification
Dimensions Depth (front to back) 260mm x Width 290mm
x Height 120mm
Weight 2.5kg
Power Requirements 110/240 vac 50-60 Hz
Fuses 2 x 1A
Supplied cables:
Mains lead IEC Mains Lead - 1.5m long
ECU Data Download cable: 2m long with 2 x 9way D type sockets
(ECU to PC)
Safety/ID 3m long with 2 x 8pin DIN type plugs

3 Installation
Install the ECU on a suitable bench next to the testing equipment. Avoid positions
where there is a likelihood of liquid spillage onto the unit as this may cause serious
damage. Ensure that the back of the instrument is not less than 50mm from any wall
or obstruction that may reduce ventilation.
3.1 Power Supply
Electrical safety
Warning: Before removing any covers or performing maintenance repair and service,
isolate from electrical supply by removing mains plug. Where mains supply is
required during these activities, only competent persons should perform the work.
Check that the power supply is compatible with the requirements stated on the label
and connect in accordance with IEE regulations or to local requirements.
The power cable is coded as flows:-
Brown wire L Live or Power
Blue wire N Neutral
Green/Yellow wire E Earth or Ground
Note: Exercise extreme caution when using the machine with wet hands. Dry hands
before operating.
3.2 Portable Appliance Tests (PAT)
All ELE designed products are tested for electrical safety prior to sale.
An electrical safety label is fitted, usually adjacent to the mains input socket.
Should no label be found, please contact ELE Service Department quoting the serial
number of the equipment.
Organisations have an obligation to ensure equipment is maintained and is safe for
use. Regular PAT testing is one means of ensuring equipment continues to be
electrically safe.
Important: Do not connect PAT leads to sensitive components such as PCBs
control switches and the like.
DO NOT FLASH TEST EQUIPMENT.
If in doubt as to the most suitable connection point (which will usually be an
earth stud or an external earth connection) contact ELE Service Department for
assistance.

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