Inception Power and Wiring
Overview
Critical wiring and power distribution requirements for the Inception controller and its RS485 LAN sub-systems. Proper earthing and cabling are essential to prevent earth loops and communication intermittent faults.
Technical Details
Power Supply Options
- Standard (Recommended): 24V DC 2.5A PSU connected to DC IN. Requires a 12V SLA battery (7AH-18AH) connected to BATT.
- External: Battery-backed 12.8V-14V DC supply (e.g., Integriti 3A/8A) connected to BATT. DC IN must not be used in this configuration.
Earthing Requirements
- Avoid Earth Loops: Do not connect “0V” terminals or module chassis to local earth points.
- Main Earth: The only connection between 0V and Earth should be at the Controller’s power cord (for units with internal PSUs).
- Shielding: If shielded cable is used, terminate cable shields to Protective Earth or 0V at one end only. DO NOT use the shield as a negative connection.
RS485 LAN & Reader Specifications
The Inception controller provides two distinct RS485 LAN ports:
- LAN Port: For expansion modules and LCD terminals.
- Reader Port: For SIFER or OSDP readers only. Do not connect LAN isolators or expansion modules here.
| Specification | LAN Port | Reader Port |
|---|---|---|
| Max Cable Length (Total) | 2000m | 1000m |
| Max Module Distance | 1500m | 1000m |
| Max Devices | 250 Modules | 8 Readers |
| Termination | Self-terminating | Standard OSDP |
Cable Selection
- RS485 LAN: TWISTED PAIR Cable MUST be used. Unshielded (e.g., Olex JCAT5E, Category 5/5e) or Shielded (e.g., Belden 8723).
- Power Cabling: Separate heavy-duty Figure 8 cable (24 / 0.20 recommended) should be run for “POS” & “NEG” over longer distances if used for powering modules.
Surge Protection
In multi-building installations or longer cable runs, shielded cable provides added protection. Inner Range Advanced Surge Protection Devices (Power Surge Diverter, LAN Surge Diverter) are recommended where LAN cabling enters/exits buildings.
Configuration / Programming
RS485 LAN Biasing & Termination
- Self-Termination: The Inception RS485 LAN is self-terminating. Remote LAN modules do not have termination jumpers.
- Elite LCD Terminals: Must NOT be terminated. Ensure the “Term” link is removed.
- Voltage Testing: Normal LAN A/B voltage should be between 500mV and 4.5V DC relative to 0V. A reading < 500mV indicates possible termination being present on legacy modules (remove them).
Input EOL Schemes
The Inception supports multiple EOL configurations (configured per input in the browser):
- Default: 2k2 + 2k2 (or 2k2 + 6k8).
- Alternative 1: 1k + 1k.
- Alternative 2: 4k7 + 4k7.
- Alternative 3: 10k + 10k.
Troubleshooting
LAN Voltage Diagnostics
Measure at the Controller or Module terminals with a Voltmeter:
- LAN +ve to 0V: Should be 11V to 14V DC. If < 11V, indicates excessive current draw or voltage drop (check cable gauge).
- LAN B to LAN A: Should be 500mV to 4.5V DC.
- Negative Reading: LAN A & B reversed.
- 0V / < 200mV: Short circuit between A and B.
- LAN A to 0V: If outside 500mV-4.5V range, indicates an earth loop or multiple earth points.
Power Faults
- System LED RED: Indicates a short on VOUT, LAN+, or READER+ terminals.
- AC Fail: Detects at 16.5V DC (on DC IN).
- Low Battery: Detects at 11.0V DC (on BATT). Deep discharge protection activates at 10.4V.