Wiring Guide - Radar Speed Signs with External Beacons

Wiring Guide for Radar Speed Signs with External Beacon Connections

Tools and Materials Needed

• Screwdriver
• Wire strippers
• Multimeter
• Suitable cabling
• Optional: Insulation tape or heat shrink tubing for secure connections

External Beacon Connection Overview

The connection for external beacons is made via a six-pin connector located under the access panel at the bottom of the Electronic Control System (ECS). This panel must be handled carefully to avoid damage to the interior components.

Connector Pin Assignments and Wiring Setup

1. Access the Connector: Open the access panel on the ECS to reveal the six-pin connector.
2. Pin Configuration:
   • Pin 1: Fused (1A) 12VDC output from the Display DC input
   • Pin 2: Opto-Isolator Positive common
   • Pin 3: Beacon DC control #1 (activates DC Return when active)
   • Pin 4: Beacon DC control #2 (activates DC Return when active)
   • Pin 5: Beacon Output DC COMMON (Fused at 1A)
   • Pin 6: Display Common

Wiring the Beacon

1. For isolated operation, connect the beacon power to Pin 2 (+) and common to Pin 5 (-).
2. If no isolation is needed, create jumpers between Pin 1 and Pin 2 and between Pin 5 and Pin 6 to draw power directly from the display batteries.
3. Connect the beacon's positive wire to the appropriate power source and the beacon's negative wire to either Pin 3 or Pin 4, depending on which output is used.

Wiring Diagrams

Basic Wiring Configuration

Wiring Beacons with Relays

Wiring External Flasher Timing

Configuring Beacon Behavior

• Default Control Mode:
  • Output #1 (Pin 3) activates when vehicle speed exceeds the set speed limit.
  • Output #2 (Pin 4) activates when the display is in RADAR mode.
• Programmable Modes (using DFB software):
  • Beacon Mode 1: Beacons alternate at a 1 Hz rate when the sign is active in radar mode.
  • Beacon Mode 2: Beacons alternate at a 1 Hz rate when the vehicle speed exceeds a selected threshold.

Testing and Troubleshooting

1. Test Connections: After wiring, use a multimeter to verify the correct voltage at the beacon connections.
2. Check Operation: Power on the sign and observe the beacon's response to ensure it functions as programmed.
3. Troubleshoot Issues: If beacons do not operate as expected, recheck wiring connections for any loose or incorrect contacts, and ensure programming settings are accurately applied.