Operating instructions

Radar Level Sensor

OTT RLS

English
01.9.2 !
ber 63.108.0
fo r de vi ce s with order num
valid
These Operating Instructions, version 04-0124 describe the OTT RLS firmware
version V 2.00.0 used in equipment manufactured as of January 2015. They are
only valid for OTT RLS radar sensors with the order number [Link].2!
Please note: When you want to swap an existing OTT RLS manufactured
before July 2009 for a new unit, the datalogger configuration should be checked
and modified as applicable. In such a case, please contact OTT HydroService.

We reserve the right to make technical changes and improvements without notice.
Table of contents

1 Scope of supply 4

2 Order numbers 4

3 Basic safety information 5

3.1 Markings and symbols used in the instruction 5
3.2 Explanation of safety information used 5
3.3 Note the following for safe and trouble-free operation 6
3.4 Radio frequency approval 6

4 Introduction 7

5 Installing the OTT RLS 9

5.1 Criteria for selecting a suitable mounting location 9
5.2 Notes on power supply 10
5.3 Suitable cable types when using the RS-485 interface 10
5.4 Mounting the OTT RLS 10
5.5 Connecting the OTT RLS to any datalogger using an SDI-12 interface 12
5.6 Connecting the OTT RLS to any datalogger using a 4 … 20 mA interface 13
5.7 Determining the maximum load resistance at the 4 … 20 mA interface 13
5.8 Notes on using the 4 … 20 mA interface 14
5.9 Note on using the RS-485 interface 14

6 SDI-12 commands and responses 15

6.1 Standard commands 15
6.2 Advanced SDI-12 commands 16

7 Carrying out maintenance work 21

8 Repair 21

9 Troubleshooting 22

10 Note about the disposal of old units 23

11 Technical Data 24

Annex A – Connecting the OTT RLS via SDI-12 or RS-485 interface to OTT netDL 26

Annex B – Connecting the OTT RLS via 4 … 20 mA interface to OTT netDL 29

Annex C – Dimensions of wall bracket/position of fixing bores 30

Annex D – Declaration concerning to the health of the user 31

3
 1 Scope of supply

 OTT RLS – 1 Radar sensor OTT RLS, two part swivel mount
(consisting of device and wall brackets with 4 M8 Allen bolts)
with SDI-12-, RS-485- and 4 … 20 mA interface
– 1 Installation kit (4 x wood screws 6 x 40 mm; 4 x plastic plugs S8)
– 1 Double open-ended wrenches size 10 x 13
– 1 Operating instructions
– 1 Factory acceptance test certificate (FAT)

2 Order numbers

 OTT RLS Radar sensor OTT RLS [Link].2

 Accessories Connection cable [Link].5

– twisted-pair design
– PVC, black
– 2 x 2 x 0,5 mm2
AWG 20

Connection cable [Link].5

– twisted-pair design
– PVC, black
– 2 x 2 x 0,75 mm2
AWG 19

OTT RLS bridge mounting [Link].2

– Mounting aid for attaching the OTT RLS to a bridge
– For side mounting
– Height according to customer requirements
– Distance to bridge according to customer requirements
– Including angle bracket for attachment from above

OTT USB/SDI-12 Adapter [Link].2

– For temporarily connecting OTT sensors to a PC with
SDI-12 or RS-485 interface
– Including 1 USB connection cable. USB connector
type A to USB type B; 3 m

4
 3 Basic safety information

3.1 Markings and symbols used in the instruction

 This bullet point indicates an instruction relating to a specific action.
 This bullet point indicates an item in a list.
– This bullet point indicates a sub-item in a list.

Remarks: …
 Information on easier and more efficient work
 Further information
 Definition

Please note: …
Information that prevents potential damage or malfunction on the OTT RLS.

3.2 Explanation of safety information used

The safety information used in these operating instructions is classified according
to the nature and severity of a particular hazard. The hazard level defined is
indicated by the signal word "WARNING" and a pictogram (orange triangle) in
these operating instructions.

WARNING Warning of a hazardous situation with a medium level of risk

The safety information specifies the nature and source of the hazard.
If you fail to carry out the specified actions, the hazardous situation can result
in death or serious injuries.
 Action to prevent the hazardous situation!
 Action to prevent the hazardous situation!

5
 3.3 Note the following for safe and trouble-free operation
 Read these operating instructions before using the OTT RLS for the first time!
Make yourself completely familiar with the installation and operation of the
OTT RLS! Retain these operating instructions for later reference.
 The OTT RLS is used for contactless level measurement of surface waters.
Only use the OTT RLS in the manner described in these operating instructions!
For further information ➝ see Chapter 4, Introduction.
 Note all the detailed safety and warning information given within the
individual work steps.
 Never use the OTT RLS in areas where there is a danger of explosion.
For further information ➝ see Chapter 5, Installing the OTT RLS.
 Note that the electric installation of the OTT RLS may only be done by a
professional. For further information ➝ see Chapter 5, Installing the OTT RLS.
 Protect the power supply connection with a fuse (0.250 ampere, blowing
speed: fast). For further information ➝ see Chapter 5, Installing the OTT RLS.
 It is essential to comply with the electrical, mechanical and climatic specifications
given in the Technical Data section. For further information ➝ see Chapter 11,
Technical data.
 Do not make any changes or retrofits to the OTT RLS. If changes or retrofits are
made, all guarantee claims are voided. Furthermore, the radio approval required
for its operation is void!
 Have a faulty OTT RLS inspected and repaired by our repair center. Never
make any repairs yourself under any circumstances. For further information
➝ see Chapter 8, Repair.
 Dispose of the OTT RLS properly after taking out of service. Never put the
OTT RLS into the normal household waste. For further information ➝ see
Chapter 10, Note about the disposal of old units.

3.4 Radio frequency approval

The OTT RLS with the order number [Link].2 may not be used within the
countries of the European Union, USA and Canada. It has no radio approval for
these regions!
Please use the OTT RLS with order number [Link].2 for applications in
the countries of the European Union, USA and Canada!
Please note: Before installing the OTT RLS, please check whether operation
of a radar sensor with a transmission frequency of 24.1 GHz (transmission
power < 5 mW) is permitted in the measuring site region.

6
 4 Introduction

The OTT RLS radar sensor is used for contactless measurement of the levels of
surface water.
Operation of the OTT RLS is based on pulse radar technology. The transmitting
antenna emits short radar pulses on 24.1 GHz. The separate receiver antenna
receives the pulses reflected from the water and uses them to determine the dis-
tance between sensor and water surface: the time taken by the radar pulses from
transmission to reception is proportional to the distance between sensor and water
surface. The actual water level of the waterway is then calculated automatically, if
required, by the radar sensor. To do this, on initial startup there is the possibility
of inputting the relevant measurement mode and a reference value.
Three standardized electrical interfaces are available for connecting the OTT RLS
to a datalogger or peripheral devices: 4 … 20 mA, SDI-12 and RS-485 (SDI-12
protocol).
The radar sensor can be configured via the SDI-12 transparent mode of a data-
logger or via the OTT USB/SDI-12 Adapter (accessory; SDI-12/RS-485 interface).
When using the 4 … 20 mA interface, it is possible to scale the measurement out-
put to a smaller measuring range.
The transmission antenna has a beam width of approx. 12 °. The resulting sensor
beam can be seen in the depiction in Figures 2 and 3 and the table in Chapter 5.1.
The OTT RLS includes a swivel mount that allows the sensor housing to be mount-
ed parallel (longitudinal and lateral axis) with the water surface, even when the
sensor is mounted on a slanted surface. A waterproof terminal area can be found
under a removable screw cover for attaching the sensor cable.

Fig. 1: Overview of radar sensor OTT RLS.

Swivel
mount

Removable
screw cover

Cover for transmission and

receiving antenna (radom)

If the RS-485 interface is used, the length of cable between radar sensor and data-
logger can amount up to 1000 meters · 3,300 ft. Using the SDI-12 interface, the
maximum length of cable is 100 m · 330 ft.

7
 Provided that the unit has been mounted correctly according to the operating
instructions, the complete radar sensor is flood proof with IP 67 rating (diving
bell principle).

Fig. 2: Application example 1:

Mounting the OTT RLS on a bridge.
The projection of the sensor beam onto
the water surface is virtually round.

OTT RLS

Distance

Sensor beam

Fig. 3: Application example 2:

Mounting the OTT RLS on an
auxiliary construction, e.g. metal OTT RLS
stand with mounting plate.

Distance

Sensor beam

8
 5 Installing the OTT RLS

WARNING Danger of explosion due to spark formation and electrostatic

discharge
The use of the OTT RLS in explosive atmospheres can lead to the danger of ignition
of this atmosphere. An explosion resulting from this involves the risk of very severe
material and personal damage.
 Never operate the OTT RLS in explosive areas (e. g. in sewers). The OTT RLS
is not equipped with EX-protection (EXplosion protection).

Please note:
 The electrical installation of the OTT RLS may only be undertaken by qualified
persons (e.g. a specially trained electrician)!
 Never operate several radar sensors (OTT RLS, third-party products) at one
measuring site at the same time! Simultaneous operation leads to inaccurate
measurements or measurement errors. If necessary, synchronise the sample
intervals of the radar sensors to each other (factory setting OTT RLS measuring
time: approx. 20 seconds).

5.1 Criteria for selecting a suitable mounting location

 Possible mounting locations are, for example, bridges and auxiliary
constructions directly above the waterway section to be measured.
 The minimum distance between lower edge of the sensor and water surface must
be 0.4 m · 1.3 ft (dead area in which no useable measurement is possible).
 Select a mounting point high enough so that measurement is possible even with
high water levels.
 The mounting point must be steady. Vibrations and movement of the mounting
point must be avoided. Bridges are affected by movements of several centi-
meters as a result of load changes and temperature movements. If pillars are
available, the sensor can be mounted to a stable positioned pillar with a suit-
able spacer.
 The water surface must be as smooth as possible in the area of the sensor
beam. Avoid turbulent areas, areas where foam is created, surge areas and
waterway sections where obstructions or bridge piers cause changes in the
water level. The measurement result cannot be used if there is ice or snow on
the water surface!
 Choose a mounting location that does not become dry at low water levels.
 Stations subject to very rapid changes in water level are not suitable. With fac-
tory setting the OTT RLS averages its measurement result over a measuring time
of approx. 20 seconds. For special applications the default measuring time can
be reduced (see advanced SDI-command aOXM<value>!; chapter 6.2).
 The area within the sensor beam (see Figures 2 and 3) must be completely free
of obstructions. Table for approximating the size of the sensor beam:
Distance Diameter
OTT RLS – sensor beam
water surface
5m 16.5 ft 1.06 m 3.5 ft
10 m 33.0 ft 2.12 m 7.0 ft
15 m 49.0 ft 3.19 m 10.5 ft
20 m 66.0 ft 4.25 m 14.0 ft
25 m 82.0 ft 5.31 m 17.5 ft
30 m 98.0 ft 6.38 m 21.0 ft
35 m 115.0 ft 7.44 m 24.5 ft
The diameters given are minimum sizes. Where possible, select an area free of
obstruction that is clearly larger.

9
  Avoid large metal surfaces near the sensor beam (reflections from these surfaces
can distort the measurement result).
 The climate specifications in the technical data must be kept to at the mounting
location.
 Stilling wells are unsuitable as a mounting location.
 The OTT RLS cannot be used to measure wave height.

5.2 Notes on power supply

The OTT RLS requires a power supply of 5.4 … 28 V direct current of type
12/24 VDC (e. g. a battery or mains connection with galvanically isolated low
safety voltage).
The OTT RLS is immediately ready for operation after connecting the power supply.

Please note:
 Secure the power supply cable (terminal 1 of the screw terminal strip) with a
fuse (0.250 ampere, reaction time: fast)!
 When using solar panels, we recommend the use of an overvoltage protection
device.

5.3 Suitable cable types when using the RS-485 interface

The maximum length of the connecting cable is 1,000 m · 3,300 ft. Recommended
cable type: Twisted-pair cable; unshielded (alternatively: shielded). The wires
intended for the power supply can be twisted pair, but do not have to be.

Types of OTT cable which can be used (see accessories)

 up to 500 m · 1,650 ft length of connecting cable: 2 x 2 x 0,5 mm2;
approx. AWG 20 (flexible wires)
 500 to 1000 m · 1,650 to 3,300 ft length of connecting cable:
2 x 2 x 0,75 mm2; AWG 19 (flexible wires)

5.4 Mounting the OTT RLS

Please note: Ensure no moisture enters the connection area when the screw
cover is open! If the connection area gets moist there is increased danger of
corrosion of the electric contacts.

Assembling the swivel mount (see also Annex C)

Mounting surface: concrete or masonry
 Make four holes (Ø 8 mm · 5/16" / 43 mm · 1.7 ft deep) using a hammer
drill (use wall bracket as a template).
 Insert the four plastic plugs supplied into the holes.
 Attach the wall bracket using the four wood screws supplied.
 Insert housing bracket (without sensor) into wall bracket and lightly tighten the
hex bolts A (see fig. 5).
Mounting surface: auxiliary construction, e. g. metal stand with mounting plate
 Drill four holes (Ø 7 mm · 9/32") in the mounting plate (use wall bracket as a
template).
 Attach the wall bracket e. g. using four hex bolts (M6) and nuts.
 Insert housing bracket (without sensor) into wall bracket and lightly tighten the
hex bolts A (see fig. 5).

Preparing the cable gland

 With a cable diameter of 7.0 … 11.0 mm, remove inlet: Insert screwdriver
vertically into the seam and lever out the inlet. See Figure 4.
 Insert the connecting cable.

10
 Mounting the radar sensor
 Remove screw cover.
 Insert connecting cable from OTT RLS to datalogger through cable gland.
 Remove insulation from connecting cable.
 With flexible wires: put end caps on the wires.
 Connect the connecting cable to the terminal block. Take note of Chapters 5.5
and 5.6 and Appendices A and B. If required, the terminal strip can be pulled
out for connecting.
 Retighten connecting cable as necessary.
 Tighten the tightening nut of the cable gland (torque for tightening nut: 6 Nm).
 Screw on the screw cover and tighten firmly by hand.
 Insert sensor into housing bracket and lightly tighten the hex bolts B (see fig. 5).
 Align the housing parallel (longitudinal and lateral axis) with the water surface
using a bubble level.
 Tighten the hex bolts B (housing shell) carefully (see fig. 5).
 Tighten the hex bolts A (wall/housing brackets) carefully (see fig. 5).
 Check alignment of the OTT RLS once more.

Fig. 4: OTT RLS – connection area.

Clamping range of the cable gland: Screw
with inlet ➝ 4.0 to 7.0 mm terminal strip
without inlet ➝ 7.0 to 11.0 mm
Sensor

Tightening nut
Cable gland

Removable Connecting
screw cover cable

Cable gland

Inlet

Screw terminal strip

(pulled out)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
GND

* SDI-12 protocol via physical

RS-485 B *
RS-485 A *
4 … 20 mA –
4 … 20 mA +
SDI-12 DATA
+9.6 … 28 V

RS-485 interface (for connecting to

OTT DuoSens and OTT netDL)

11
 Please note: The alignment of the sensor parallel to the water surface must be
carried out as accurately as possible! Deviation from the parallel alignment leads
to a linearity error!

Fig. 5: OTT RLS – rotation

range of swivel mount.

Hex
Wall bolt A
bracket Housing bracket

Hex bolt B

max. ±15 ° max. ±90 °

5.5 Connecting the OTT RLS to any datalogger using an SDI-12

interface
 Connect the OTT RLS to an SDI-12 input of the datalogger. Follow the data-
logger handbook as you do this. Refer to Figure 6 for the connection assign-
ments of the OTT RLS. The maximum length of the connecting cable is 100 m ·
330 ft. Recommended wire cross-section: 0.5 mm2 · AWG 20. With separate
voltage supply and point-to-point connection (no SDI-12 bus operation) a cable
length of up to 300 m · 985 ft is possible.

Fig. 6: Connecting the OTT RLS to any

datalogger using an SDI-12 interface. OTT RLS
(Standard SDI-12 wiring via
three-wire connecting cable).

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
GND
SDI-12 DATA
+12 V

You will find the SDI-12 commands for the OTT RLS in Chapter 6, SDI-12
commands and responses.

12
 5.6 Connecting the OTT RLS to any datalogger using
a 4 … 20 mA interface
 Connect the OTT RLS to a 4 … 20 mA input of the datalogger. Follow the data-
logger handbook when doing this. Refer to Figure 7 for the connection assign-
ments of the OTT RLS. The maximum connecting cable length/recommended
wire cross-section: depending on the amount of voltage supply and the size of
the burden (load resistor). Please note that the ohmic resistance of the connect-
ing cable together with the eventually existing burden do not exceed the max.
allowed load resistance (see Chapter 5.7)!

Please note: The 4 … 20 mA interface of the OTT RLS is passive. If needed the
supply for the current loop must be injected by wire-linking the supply voltage.
For this case the minimum supply voltage is 9.6 Volt.

Remark: To connect the OTT RLS using the 4 … 20 mA interface, a 4-wire

cable is required. If the OTT RLS is also to be configurable via SDI-12 commands,
➝ use 5-wire (cable length up to 100 m) or 6-wire cable (cable length up to
1000 m).

Fig. 7: Examples for connecting the

OTT RLS to any datalogger via the OTT RLS OTT RLS
4 … 20 mA interface.
Left: supplying the loop
current from the datalogger.
Right: supplying the loop current to the
OTT RLS supply voltage using wire bridges. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
GND

GND
4 … 20 mA –
4 … 20 mA +
+5.4 … 28 V

+9.6 … 28 V

4 … 20 mA +

4 … 20 mA –

5.7 Determining the maximum load resistance at the 4 … 20 mA

interface
The load resistance (burden + ohmic resistance of the connection cable) connected
to the OTT RLS must not exceed a specific maximum value. This value depends on
the level of the supply voltage of the OTT RLS. If the load resistance is greater, the
output current can no longer be evaluated. Smaller load resistances are allowed.

 Read off the maximum load resistance for your power supply from the follow-
ing diagram.
Example: Power supply 18 volt ➝ max. load resistance 450 ohm.
The OTT RLS delivers an output current corresponding to the measured value
for a load resistance of up to 450 ohm.
 Dimension the connected electrical circuit accordingly. Check the input resis-
tance of the connected peripheral device for this purpose.

13
 Figure 8: Diagram to determine
the maximum load resistance as R
a function of the power supply. Ω
Minimum power supply: 9.6 V 1000
Maximum power supply: 28 V
Resistor tolerance: 0.1 %/15 ppm 900
(burden = load resistor).
800

700

600

500
Example

400

300

200

100

0
U
10 15 20 25 30
V

5.8 Notes on using the 4 … 20 mA interface

 Switching behaviour of the 4 … 20 mA interface
After switching on the supply voltage, it takes approx. 20 seconds until the
loop current takes on a value proportional to the water level. (In the first
20 seconds, the loop current is between 3 and 4 mA.) Afterwards, the radar
sensor updates the loop current every 20 seconds.
 In case of failure, the loop current is also between 3 or 4 mA. For more infor-
mation, please refer to Chapter 9, "Interface Status Messages/Output".

Please note: The 4 … 20 mA interface cannot be used parallel to the SDI-12

or RS-485 interfaces. (Exception: temporary configuration of the OTT RLS with
SDI-12 commands.)

5.9 Note on using the RS-485 interface

The RS-485 interface is designed and tested to be used with the OTT dataloggers.
In such a case, the transmission protocol used within the physical RS-485 interfae
is the SDI-12 protocol. Conntecting the OTT RLS to OTT netDL using the RS-485
interface: ➝ refer to Appendix A, option B.

OTT will not provide any performance guarantee when you use the RS-485 inter-
face to connect the OTT RLS unit to a third-party datalogger!

14
 6 SDI-12 commands and responses

6.1 Standard commands

All SDI-12 standard commands (SDI-12 version 1.1) are implemented in the OTT RLS: The following SDI-12 standard
commands are relevant for the operation of the OTT RLS:
Command Response Description
a! a<CR><LF> Confirmation active
a – sensor address; factory setting = 0
aI! allccccccccmmmmmm… Send identification
…vvvxxxxxx<CR><LF> a – sensor address
ll – SDI-12 protocol version
cccccccc – manufacturer's identification (company name)
mmmmmm – sensor identification
vvv – sensor version (here firmware version)
xxxxxx – additional identification (here serial number)
OTT RLS response = 011OTT HACH RLS200xxxxxx
aAb! b<CR><LF> Change sensor address
a – old sensor address
b – new sensor address
?! a<CR><LF> Query sensor address
a – sensor address
aM! 1) atttn<CR><LF> Start measurement
and after a max. of 25 seconds a – sensor address
a<CR><LF> ttt – time in seconds until the sensor has
determined the measurement result
OTT RLS response = 025 seconds
n – number of measured values
OTT RLS response = 2
a<CR><LF> – service request
aD0! a<value1><value2><CR><LF> Send data (after aM!)
a – sensor address
<value1> – level/distance value:
[Link] [m] 2)
pbbbbb [cm] 2)
[Link] [ft] 2)
<value2> – status of the last measurement;
for details, see response to command aM1!
p – sign (+,–)
b – digit before the decimal point;
output without leading zeroes!
e – digit after the decimal point;
output in the case of invalid measurement
value: +99999999 (can be changed with
advanced command aOSI!)
aMC! 1) atttn<CR><LF> Start measurement and request CRC (Cyclic Redundancy
and after a max. of 25 seconds Check). For details, see command aM!. The response to the
a<CR><LF> following aD0! command is extended by a CRC value:
a<value1><value2><CRC><CR><LF>
aM1! 1) atttn<CR><LF> Query status of the last measurement
and immediately afterwards a – sensor address
a<CR><LF> ttt – time in seconds until the sensor makes the
status available; OTT RLS response = 000
n – number of measured values
OTT RLS response = 2
a<CR><LF> – service request
1) do not use this command if OTT RLS is connected to a datalogger via the 4 … 20 mA interface! OTT RLS would consequently interrupt the continuous measuring
operation which is needed for the 4 … 20 mA interface.
2)
dependent on the units set (advanced command aOSU<value>!)

15
Command Response Description
aD0! a<value1><value2><CR><LF> Send data (after aM1!)
a – sensor address
<value1> – status of the last measurement
+0 = measured value O.K.
+2 = no target recognised
+4 = internal error ➝ device fault.
See Chapter 8, Repair
+8 = variance of individual measurements too
large
+16 = SDI-12 interface interruption (breach of
the SDI-12 interface protocol, e.g. com-
munication with the SDI-12 interface
between commands aM! and aD0!)
+32 = internal error (temperature calibration
values missing) ➝ device fault. See
Chapter 8, Repair
<value2> – signal-to-noise ratio in dB. Value ≥ 15 dB =
good signal quality (well-chosen mounting
location and parallel alignment)
aMC1! atttn<CR><LF> Query the status of the last measurement and request CRC
and immediately afterwards (Cyclic Redundancy Check). For details, see command aM!.
a<CR><LF> The response to the following aD0! command is extended by
a CRC value: a<value1><value2><CRC><CR><LF>

More information on the SDI-12 standard commands can be found in the document SDI-12; A Serial-Digital Interface Standard
for Microprocessor-Based Sensors; Version 1.4 (see Internet page [Link]).

6.2 Advanced SDI-12 commands

All advanced SDI-12 commands begin with an "O" for OTT. With these commands, it is possible to configure the OTT RLS
using the transparent mode of a datalogger or with the OTT USB/SDI-12 Adapter (accessory).

Command Response Description

 Query firmware version

aOOV! accccccc<CR><LF> Query the firmware version of the OTT RLS.

a – sensor address
ccccccc – firmware version. Example: V2.00.0
 4 … 20 mA interface – set/read units for measurements

aOPF<value>! a<value><CR><LF> Set units for commands aOPA<value>! and

aOPB<value>!.
aOPF a<value><CR><LF> Read unit for commands aOPA<value! and
aOPB<value>!.
a – sensor address
<value> – +0 = m
+1 = cm
+2 = ft
 SDI-12-/RS-485 interface – set/read units for measurements

aOSU<value>! a<value><CR><LF> Set units for commands aM!; aMC!; aOAB<value>! and
aOSU! a<value><CR><LF> aOAC<value>!.
Read unit for commands aM!; aMC!; aOAB<value>! and
aOAC<value>!
a – sensor address
<value> – +0 = m
+1 = cm
+2 = ft
Please note: Changing the unit deletes any set
reference or offset value!

16
Command Response Description
 Set/read measurement mode level or distance measurement

aOAA<value>! a<value><CR><LF> Set measuring mode

aOAA! a<value><CR><LF> Read out measuring mode
a – sensor address
<value> – +0 = measuring mode Level measurement acti-
vated (water level related to a level zero)
+1 = measuring mode Distance measurement
activated (distance of OTT RLS ↔ water
surface)
Factory setting = +1
Please note: If entries have been made before
changing the measuring mode for the parameters
aOAB<value>!, aOAC<value>!, aOPA<value>! or
aOPB<value>!, these must be input again! There is
no automatic conversion of the parameters entered.
 Set/read 4 … 20 mA interface – operating status (activated/deactivated)

aOPC<value> a<value><CR><LF> Set operating status

aOPC! a<value><CR><LF> Read operating status
a – sensor address
<value> – +0 = interface deactivated
+1 = interface activated
Factory setting = +1
Use: the command aOPC+1! is helpful, if e.g. an aM! com-
mand unintended has interrupted the continuous operation
which is needed for the 4 … 20 mA interface.
 4 … 20 mA interface – setting/reading the lower limit

aOPA<value>! a<value><CR><LF> Set lower limit

aOPA! a<value><CR><LF> Read lower limit
a – sensor address
<value> – [Link] [m] *
– pbbbb [cm] *
– [Link] [ft] *
p – sign (+,–)
b – digit before the decimal point
e – digit after the decimal point
Input/output without leading zeroes!
Value range: –9999.999 … +9999.999 *
Factory setting = +0.000
* dependent on the units set (aOPF<value>!)

Remark: If the units are subsequently changed

(aOPF<value>!), the OTT RLS resets the set limit
to the factory setting.

17
Command Response Description
 4 … 20 mA interface – setting/reading the upper limit

aOPB<value>! a<value><CR><LF> Set upper limit

aOPB! a<value><CR><LF> Read upper limit
a – sensor address
<value> – [Link] [m] *
– pbbbb [cm] *
– [Link] [ft] *
p – sign (+,–)
b – digit before the decimal point
e – digit after the decimal point
Input/output without leading zeroes!
Value range: –9999.999 … +9999.999 *
Factory setting = +0.000
* dependent on the units set (aOPF<value>!)

Remark: If the units are subsequently changed

(aOPF<value>!), the OTT RLS resets the set limit
to the factory setting.

With the commands setting/reading the lower/upper limit you can scale the available measuring range of an OTT RLS to a
smaller range. Where you do not require the whole measuring range, this has the advantage that a higher resolution for the
4 … 20 mA interface can be achieved. Example: 16 mA measurement span stands for 5 m · 16 ft of water level change
available (e.g. lower limit = +10,000 m · +33,00 ft; upper limit = +15,000 m · +49.00 ft; see Fig. 9).

Fig. 9: Scale the measured value

output of the 4 … 20 mA interface
down to a smaller range.

0 m · 0 ft = ^ 4 mA
min. distance: 0.4 m
^ 4.18 mA)
· 1.3 ft (=

10 m · 33 ft
^ 4 mA measured
=
value output
(lower limit)
scaled to
5 meters · 16 ft
15 m · 49 ft
^ 20 mA variation of
=
water level
(upper limit)

^ 20 mA
35 m · 115 ft =
measured
value output
without scaling

with scaling

figure is not true to scale

18
Command Response Description
 SDI-12-/RS-485 interface – set/read offset for level/distance measurement

aOAB<value>! a0251<CR><LF> Set offset value

and after a max. of 25 seconds
a<CR><LF>
aOAB! a<value><CR><LF Read offset value
a – sensor address
<value> – [Link] [m] *
– pbbbb [cm] *
– [Link] [ft] *
p – sign (+,–)
b – digit before the decimal point
e – digit after the decimal point
a<CR><LF> – service request
Input/output without leading zeroes!
Value range: –9999.999 … +9999.999 *
Factory setting = +0.000
* dependent on the units set (aOPF<value>!)

With this command, you can add a linear offset (positive/

negative) to a level/distance measurement. After setting the
offset value, the OTT RLS automatically starts a measure-
ment. After receiving the service request, check the measured
value with command aD0!. If input is unsuccessful, the
radar sensor replies with a new service request.
Please note: This command overwrites any set
reference value.
Example
Measurement = +10.040 m
Offset = –0.200 m
Output = +9.840 m
Remark: If the units are subsequently changed
(aOSU<value>!), the OTT RLS resets the set offset
 SDI-12-/RS-485 interface – set/read reference value for the offset for level/distance measurement

aOAC<value>! a0251<CR><LF> Set reference value

and after a max. of 25 seconds
a<CR><LF>
aOAC! a<value><CR><LF> Read reference value
a – sensor address
<value> – [Link] [m] *
– pbbbb [cm] *
– [Link] [ft] *
p – sign (+,–)
b – digit before the decimal point
e – digit after the decimal point
a<CR><LF> – service request
Input/output without leading zeroes!
Value range: –9999.999 … +9999.999 *
Factory setting = +0.000
* dependent on the units set (aOPF<value>!)

With this command, you can establish a reference to a level

zero, for example, by entering a reference value for level/
distance measurement. After setting the reference value, the
OTT RLS automatically starts a measurement.

19
Command Response Description
After receiving the service request, check the measured value
with command aD0!. After an unsuccessful entry, the radar
sensor replies with a new service request.

Please note: This command overwrites any set offset

value.

Example
Measurement = +2.100 m
Reference value = +1.500 m
Output = +1.500 m
(offset calculated by the OTT RLS and applied to all other
measured values = +0.600 m)

Remark: If the units are subsequently changed

(aOSU<value>!), the OTT RLS resets the set
reference value to the factory setting.
 Set/read error indicator

aOSI<value>! a<value><CR><LF> Set error indicator

aOSI! a<value><CR><LF> Read error indicator
a – sensor address
<value> – error indicator that the OTT RLS outputs
an invalid measurement
– pbbbbbbb or [Link] [m] *
– pbbbbbbb [cm] *
– pbbbbbbb or [Link] [ft] *
p – sign (+,–)
b – digit before the decimal point
e – digit after the decimal point
Value range: – 9999999 … +9999999 [m] [cm] [ft] or
– 9999.999 … +9999.999 [m] [ft]
Factory setting = +9999999
* dependent on the units set (aOSU<value>!)

 Set/read measuring time

aOXM<value>! aOXM<value>! Set measuring time

aOXM! aOXM! Read measuring time
a – sensor address
<value> – bb
b – digit
In-/Output without leading zeros!
Value range: 2 … 20 [s]
Factory setting = 20
In one second the OTT RLS makes approx. 16 single mea-
surements of waterlevel. Depending on roughness of the
water surface, wind influence, precipitation, turbulences and
other factors, these single measurement values are subject to
some variance. Occasionally, it might not be possible to
obtain measured values due to insufficient reflexion. Averag-
ing single values over a longer time (measuring time) will
though provide measured values within the specified accuracy.
For special applications it is possible to reduce the measur-
ing time according to your individual needs. Please take into
account that this could impair the measuring accuracy!

20
7 Carrying out maintenance work

The OTT RLS radar sensor is almost maintenance free. No setting or calibration
work is necessary. There are likewise no parts that need replacing regularly.

Carry out the following maintenance work at regular frequencies based on the
local circumstances:
 Check the OTT RLS for dirt (e. g. thick, dewy spider's webs or insect nests can
lead to impairment of the measured results). In this case, carefully clean the
sensor (if necessary use commercial, gentle and non-erasing cleaners and a
soft sponge). At the same time, ensure that the setting of the swivel mount does
not change.
 Check for obstructions in the measurement beam (for example, for flotsam or
branches of trees and bushes growing into this area). In this case, remove all
obstructions.
 Check the plausibility of the measured values by comparing with a second sensor
or with a staff gauge.

Please note: Never open the housing of the OTT RLS (exception: connection
area)! There are no adjustment or operating elements inside the housing.

8 Repair

 With a device defect, use Chapter 9, Troubleshooting to see if you can resolve
the problem yourself.
 In case of device defects, please contact the repair center of OTT:
OTT HydroMet GmbH
Repaircenter
Ludwigstrasse 16
87437 Kempten · Germany
Telephone +49 831 5617-433
Fax +49 831 5617-439
repair@[Link]

Please note: Only have a defective OTT RLS checked and repaired by
the OTT HydroMet repair center. Never make any repairs yourself under
any circumstances. Any repairs or attempted repairs carried out by the
customer will result in the loss of any guarantee rights.

21
 9 Troubleshooting

Sensor does not respond to the SDI-12 interface

 Fuse in the power supply input side defective?
➝ Replace fuse.
 Sensor correctly connected to a datalogger with SDI-12 input?
➝ Correct connection assignment.
 Polarity of the power supply reversed?
➝ Correct connection assignment.
 Power supply < 5.4 VDC or > 28 VDC?
➝ Correct level of voltage supplied (check the length and cross-section of the
connection cable).
 Is the power supply direct current?
➝ Only operate sensor with direct current.

4 … 20 mA signal not present

 Sensor correctly connected to a datalogger or peripheral device to 4 … 20 mA
input (check polarity)?
➝ Correct connection assignment.
 4 … 20 mA current loop correctly supplied through datalogger or OTT RLS
(internal/external supply)?
➝ Correct connection assignment.
 Power supply < 9.6 VDC or > 28 VDC?

Measured value varies or is not present

 Sensor (front plate) dirty?
➝ Carefully clean the sensor; see Chapter 7, Carrying out maintenance work
 Obstruction in the measurement beam?
➝ Remove obstructions.
 Sensor aligned at right angles to the water surface?
➝ Correct sensor alignment.
 Mounting location of the sensor steady (e.g. bridge movement)?
➝ Optimize mounting location.
 Large metal surfaces near the sensor beam (e.g. piling)?
➝ Optimize mounting location.

Status messages/output of interfaces

SDI-12 1) 4 … 20 mA Status message/output
+0 measured value measured value OK
+2 3.0 mA no target recognized
+4 3.1 mA internal error ➝ device defect; see Chapter 8, Repair
+8 3.2 mA variance of individual measurements too large
+16 3.3 mA SDI-12 interface break (infringement of SDI-12 inter-
face protocol, e.g. communication via SDI-12 interface
between the commands aM! and aD0!)
– 3.4 mA value below or above measuring range
+32 3.5 mA internal error ➝ device defect; see Chapter 8, Repair
1) response to commands aM!, aM1! and aD0!

22
10 Note about the disposal of old units

 Dispose of the OTT RLS properly after taking out of service.

 Observe the regulations valid in your country for the disposal of electronic
devices.
 Never put the OTT RLS into the normal household waste.

Used materials
see Chapter 11, Technical Data

23
11 Technical Data

Measuring range 0.4 … 35 m 40 … 3500 cm 1.3 … 115 ft

Resolution SDI-12 interface 0.001 m 1 cm 0.01 ft
Accuracy (SDI-12) 1)
0.4 … 2 m · 1.3 … 6.6 ft ±10 mm · ±0.03 ft
2 … 30 m · 6.6 … 98.5 ft ±3 mm · ±0.01 ft
30 … 35 m · 98.5 … 115 ft ±10 mm · ±0.03 ft
Average temperature coefficient 0.01 % of full scale/10 K
(range: –20 …+60 °C · –4 … +140 °F)
Accuracy (4 … 20 mA) 1) ±0.1% of full scale
Average temperature coefficient (at +20 °C · +68 °F) 10 ppm of full scale/K
Possible deviation at the 4 ... 20 mA output due to strong,
high-frequency electromagnetic fields relating to the
Standard "CENELEC EN 61000-6-2" < ±180 μA
Measuring time 2…20 seconds; factory setting: 20 seconds

Power supply 5.4 … 28 VDC, typ. 12/24 VDC

Power consumption 2)
Measurement operation < 180 mW (< 15 mA at 12 V)
Rest mode < 0.6 mW (< 0.05 mA at 12 V)

Interfaces 4 … 20 mA (measurement update every 20 seconds); SDI-12;

RS-485, two-wire (SDI-12 protocol)

Beam angle of antenna 12 ° (±6 °)

Transmission frequency 24.1 GHz
Transmission power < 5 mW

Materials
Housing ASA (UV-stabilized ABS)
Radom (front plate) TFM PTFE
Mounting 1.4301 (V2A)
Weight (including mounting) approx. 2.1 kg · 4.63 lb
Cable gland sealing range
with inlet (min. Ø … max. Ø) 4.0 … 7.0 mm · 0.16 … 0.28"
without inlet (min. Ø … max. Ø) 7.0 … 11.0 mm · 0.28 … 0.43"
Connection capacity of screw terminal strip
Solid conductor 0.25 … 2.5 mm2 · AWG 24 to 12
Wire with end cap and plastic collar 0.25 … 1.5 mm2 · AWG 24 to 16
Terminal assignment screw terminal strip
Terminal 1 power supply
Terminal 2 RS-485 B
Terminal 3 RS-485 A
Terminal 4 4 … 20 mA –
Terminal 5 4 … 20 mA +
Terminal 6 SDI-12 DATA
Terminal 7 GND

Rotation range of swivel mount

Lateral axis ±90 °
Longitudinal axis ±15 °
Type of protection at horizontal installation IP 67 (submersion depth max. 1 m · 3.3 ft;
Submersion duration max. 48 h)
Dimensions L x W x H 222 mm x 152 mm x 190 mm · 8.74" x 5.98" x 7.48"

1)
at +20 °C · +68 °F ambient temperature: 1013 mbar · 29.9 inHg air pressure; 45 % to 65 % relative humidity; ideal reflector; without interfering reflector
in the sensor beam; measuring time: 20 seconds
2) power consumption of OTT RLS with SDI-12, RS-485 or externally supplied 4 … 20 mA interface

3) condensation on the front plate of the antenna (Radom) can disturb measuring accuracy

24
Temperature range
Operation –40 … +60 °C · –40 … +140 °F
Storage –40 … +85 °C · –40 … +185 °F
Relative humidity 0 … 100 % 3)

Performance classification in accordance with DIN EN ISO 4373

Measurement reliability Performance class 1
Temperature range Temperature class 1
Relative humidity Class 1

25
Annex A – Connecting the OTT RLS via SDI-12 or RS-485 interface to OTT netDL

There are two ways to connect the OTT RLS:

 Method A: using the SDI-12 interface
(protocol and physical interface: SDI-12).
 Method B: using the RS-485 interface
(SDI-12 protocol via physical RS-485 interface).
Recommendation: method B (longer range, more resistant to faults)

Method A: Connecting the OTT RLS via the SDI-12 interface (protocol and
physical interface: SDI-12). The maximum length of the connecting cable is 100 m ·
330 ft. Recommended wire cross-section: 0.5 mm2 · AWG 20:
 Connect the OTT RLS to the IP Datalogger OTT netDL as shown in Figure 10
(left). Take note of the operating instructions for the OTT netDL.

Method B: Connect OTT RLS using the physical RS-485 interface (SDI-12 protocol
via physical RS-485 interface). Refer to Chapter 5.3 for the maximum connecting
cable length and the recommended wire cross-section:
 Connect the OTT RLS to the IP Datalogger OTT netDL as shown in Figure 10
(right). Take note of the operating instructions for the OTT netDL.

Fig. 10: Connecting the OTT RLS to

OTT netDL using an SDI-12 interface.
OTT netDL OTT netDL
The letters above the screw terminal C C
strip identify the possible connections
on the OTT netDL. SDI-12 RS-485
Input Input
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
+5.4 … 28 V

+5.4 … 28 V
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

OTT RLS OTT RLS

Configuring the OTT netDL for the OTT RLS with SDI-12 interface
 Create an OTT netDL channel with SDI-12 Recorder or OTT SDI RS485 function
block (serial sensors tab).
 Apply the following settings:

Fig. 11: Adjusting the operating

parameters of the OTT netDL
SDI-12 Recorder function block.
The function block OTT SDI RS485
is set in the same way.

26
 Terminal block – OTT netDL OTT SDI RS485: C 1-2 (default)
– OTT netDL SDI-12 Recorder: C 3-4 (default)
Terminal block (screw terminal strip) of the OTT netDL
to which the OTT RLS unit is connected.
 Sensor address SDI-12 bus address. Each address may only be allo-
cated once to an SDI-12 bus feed! (Checking/setting:
see operating instructions OTT netDL, Chapter SDI-12
transparent mode; alternatively with OTT USB/SDI-12
Adapter). Factory setting of the OTT RLS: 0
 Value no. Identifies which value from the OTT RLS is recorded in
this channel.
– In M! Measurement Mode: Level/Distance value = 1,
Status of the last measurement = 2
– In M1! Measurement Mode: Status of the last
measurement = 1,
Signal/noise ratio = 2
 Measurement mode – M! for Level/Distance value and Status of last
measurement or
– M1! for Advanced status of the last measurement
 Concurrent Mode The OTT RLS unit does not support Concurrent Mode!
 Instantaneous value ☑: Upon an instantaneous value request (via LCD dis-
play and jog shuttle), the OTT netDL unit sends a com-
mand to the OTT RLS unit to start a current measure-
ment. Until this measurement is complete, the LCD
display refers to the last measured value (or the instan-
taneous value last displayed, whichever is the most
recent one). On the display, this is identified by an "s"
to the right of the channel number (sensor number).
After completing the measurement, the new measured
value appears without additional identification.
☐: Shows the last measured value of the sensor (mea-
sured value of the last sample interval) for an instan-
taneous value request. On the display, this is identified
by an "s" to the right of the channel number (sensor
number), (also refer to the OTT netDL IP Datalogger
Operating Instructions, Chapter 9.1). For an OTT RLS
unit (extended measuring time), the setting is useful for
a short sample interval.
 Value no./ Allocation of the additional OTT RLS measured values –
Virtual terminal ID those not recorded on this channel – to virtual terminals.
 In the relevant Channel function blocks, adjust the required units and number of
digits after the decimal place (m: 3; cm: 0; ft: 2; status information: 0).

27
 Remarks:
 To record the measurements and status information of an OTT RLS, two channels
in the OTT netDL are thus necessary. The first channel contains the function
block SDI-12 Recorder or OTT SDI RS485 as the input signal. The second chan-
nel contains a function block Virtual Sensor (V02) as the input signal. If the
recording of status information is not required, no entry is necessary in the
Value no./Virtual terminal ID field.
 The measuring mode M1! supplies extended status information. If required,
this can also be recorded in an additional channel with function block SDI-12
Recorder/OTT SDI RS485.
 You will find further information on the used SDI-12 commands and responses
in Chapter 6, SDI-12 commands and responses.

Please note: The OTT RLS makes the measurement results available a maximum
of 25 seconds after the SDI-12 command aM!!

28
Annex B – Connecting the OTT RLS via 4 … 20 mA interface to OTT netDL

 Connect the OTT RLS to the OTT netDL IP Datalogger as shown in Figure 12.
Take note of the operating instructions for the OTT netDL. Maximum connecting
cable length/recommended wire cross-section: depending on the amount of
voltage supply. Please note that the ohmic resistance of the connecting cable
does not exceed the max. allowed load resistance (see Chapter 5.7)!

Fig. 12: Connecting the OTT RLS to

OTT netDL using a 4 … 20 mA interface
OTT netDL
The OTT netDL unit requires the
G … K1) / G … M2)
optional Analog Input Card.
The letters above the screw terminal 4 … 20 mA
strip identify the possible connections Input 1 2 3 4
on the OTT netDL.

1)
OTT netDL 500
2)
OTT netDL 1000

+9.6 … 28 V
7 6 5 4 3 2 1

OTT RLS

Configuring the OTT netDL for OTT RLS with 4 … 20 mA interface

 Create an OTT netDL channel including a U/I/Pt100/… functional block
(Analog sensors tab).
 Apply the following settings:

Fig. 13: Setting operating parameters of the

OTT netDL function block I 4-20 mA.

 Terminal block OTT netDL 500: G…K

OTT netDL 1000: G…M
terminal block used (screw terminal strip)
of the OTT netDL.
 Measuring mode Set to I 4-20 mA ext.
 Sensor lag time (s) switches on the OTT netDL input 1 second
before the actual measurement process
 ☑ Error code if range overflow if required: record error codes on range
overflow
 Insert a 2-point scaling function block into this channel and adjust the relating
distance values for the outputed current values (e. g. Point 1: 4 ➝ 0; Point 2:
20 ➝ 35 m · 115 ft). This function also enables the referencing to a level zero.
 In the Channel function block, set the unit and number of digits after the decimal
place (m: 3; cm: 0; ft: 2).

29
Annex C – Dimensions of wall bracket/position of fixing bores

0.16"
4 35 mm · 1.38"

12 mm
0.47"
7
0.28"

222 mm · 8.74"
137 mm · 5.39"

Ø
17
mm
·0
.67
"
0.33"
8.5

23 mm
0.91"

67.5 mm · 2.66"

152 mm · 5.98"

30
Annex D – Declaration concerning to the health of the user

If necessary, you can download the current version of the "Declaration concerning to the health of the user" of the OTT RLS
from our website as PDF file: "[Link]/resources"!

31
 OTT HydroMet GmbH
Ludwigstrasse 16
87437 Kempten · Germany
Phone +49 831 5617-0
Fax +49 831 5617-209
Document number euinfo@[Link]
63.108.001.B.E 04-0124 [Link]