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Xdi Series

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
223 views206 pages

Xdi Series

Uploaded by

kadjididie
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK

XDi
fleXible Display indicator

4189350049C

4189350049C 1
Table of contents
1 Useful reference documents ............................................................................................................. 9
2 General information ........................................................................................................................ 10
2.1 Warnings, legal information, and safety ................................................................................... 10
2.1.1 Warnings and notes ........................................................................................................... 10
2.1.2 Legal information and disclaimer ...................................................................................... 10
2.1.3 Safety issues ....................................................................................................................... 10
2.1.4 Electrostatic discharge awareness ..................................................................................... 11
2.1.5 Factory settings .................................................................................................................. 11
2.2 About the Designer's Handbook ............................................................................................... 11
2.2.1 General purpose ................................................................................................................ 11
2.2.2 Intended users ................................................................................................................... 11
2.2.3 Contents and overall structure .......................................................................................... 11
3 Product Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 12
3.1 Virtual indicator library ............................................................................................................. 13
3.1.1 Product profile (PP) ............................................................................................................ 14
3.1.2 Virtual indicator (VI)........................................................................................................... 14
3.1.3 VI-setup profile (VS) ........................................................................................................... 15
3.1.4 Library types ...................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.5 XDi type and related library classes ................................................................................... 15
3.1.6 Upload a new library .......................................................................................................... 16
3.2 Input data for XDi ...................................................................................................................... 16
3.2.1 Object dictionary – Object index table .............................................................................. 16
3.2.2 Data type instance ............................................................................................................. 16
3.3 Sourcing data to the XDi ........................................................................................................... 17
3.3.1 CANopen TPDO or RPDO (1) .............................................................................................. 17
3.3.2 XDi-net as data input (2) .................................................................................................... 18
3.3.3 DAM-MPDO as data input (3) ............................................................................................ 19
3.3.4 SDO data transfer (3a) ....................................................................................................... 19
3.3.5 Analogue data input (4) ..................................................................................................... 19
3.3.6 Digital data input (5) .......................................................................................................... 20
3.3.7 NMEA serial data input (6)................................................................................................. 20
3.3.8 NMEA serial data output (7a and 7b) ................................................................................ 21

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3.4 Change selected input via menu ............................................................................................... 21
3.5 Multi sources and automatic fall-back ...................................................................................... 21
3.5.1 Example – Fall-back function used in the standard heading indicator library. ................. 22
3.6 Menu structure ......................................................................................................................... 26
3.6.1 Installation Wizard ............................................................................................................. 27
3.7 Surveyor info ............................................................................................................................. 27
3.8 General menu structure ............................................................................................................ 28
3.8.1 Soft keys description (left to right): ................................................................................... 28
3.8.2 Submenus .......................................................................................................................... 28
4 Installation ....................................................................................................................................... 31
4.1 Unpacking.................................................................................................................................. 31
4.1.1 ESD ..................................................................................................................................... 31
4.1.2 Box content ........................................................................................................................ 31
4.2 Panel mounting of XDi .............................................................................................................. 31
4.2.1 Cut-out and mounting depth behind panel ....................................................................... 31
4.2.2 Waterproof mounting ........................................................................................................ 32
4.3 Mounting instructions ............................................................................................................... 32
4.4 Installing a CAN bus system ...................................................................................................... 33
4.4.1 XDi CAN bus ports .............................................................................................................. 33
4.4.2 CAN bus system wiring ...................................................................................................... 33
4.4.3 CAN backbone and Termination ........................................................................................ 33
4.4.4 CAN bus cable recommendation ....................................................................................... 34
4.4.5 Shielding and grounding of the CAN bus cables ................................................................ 35
4.5 XDi power supply and CAN connections ................................................................................... 36
4.5.1 Strain relief of cable and termination of cable shield........................................................ 36
4.5.2 Supply voltage monitoring: ................................................................................................ 37
4.5.3 Warning/alert output ........................................................................................................ 38
4.6 First time setup using the wizard .............................................................................................. 38
4.6.1 Rotate the display180O. ..................................................................................................... 38
4.7 Manual setup procedure........................................................................................................... 38
4.7.1 Step 1 - Select CAN Node ID............................................................................................... 38
4.7.2 Step 2 - Select product profile ........................................................................................... 39
4.7.3 Step 3 - Select virtual indicator .......................................................................................... 39
4.7.4 Step 4 - Select VI setup profile ........................................................................................... 40

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 3 of 206


4.7.5 Step 5 – Finish – XDi without NX2 module ........................................................................ 40
4.7.6 Step 5 – NMEA setup – XDi with NX2 module ................................................................... 40
4.7.7 NMEA auto scan and input selection ................................................................................. 41
4.7.8 NMEA auto setup example ................................................................................................ 41
4.7.9 Change NMEA setup .......................................................................................................... 46
4.7.10 Skipping the wizard ........................................................................................................ 46
4.8 Automated XDi setup via CAN................................................................................................... 47
5 Detailed product description ........................................................................................................... 48
5.1 XDi CAN bus............................................................................................................................... 48
5.1.1 Detailed XDi-net/CANopen description ............................................................................. 48
5.1.2 XDi-net for easy integration ............................................................................................... 48
5.1.3 CAN NodeID ....................................................................................................................... 48
5.2 Overall CAN bus parameter settings ......................................................................................... 50
5.2.1 Important XDi-net restrictions: .......................................................................................... 50
5.2.2 The CAN bus mode............................................................................................................. 51
5.2.3 CAN bus changes via menu ................................................................................................ 51
5.3 Error indication ......................................................................................................................... 52
5.4 XL, BW, BRW-2 and TRI-2 with sCAN ........................................................................................ 54
5.5 Extension modules .................................................................................................................... 54
5.6 AX1 analogue extension module .............................................................................................. 55
5.6.1 Reference voltage for potentiometer applications ........................................................... 55
5.6.2 Analogue input types ......................................................................................................... 55
5.6.3 Analogue scaling ................................................................................................................ 56
5.6.4 Analogue multi-point linearisation .................................................................................... 57
5.6.5 AX1 input circuit - principle diagram ................................................................................. 59
5.6.6 Input protection ................................................................................................................. 59
5.6.7 Common mode rejection ................................................................................................... 60
5.6.8 Connecting to the AX1 module .......................................................................................... 64
5.6.9 Configuration of the AX1 module ...................................................................................... 65
5.6.10 Share analogue data via CAN ......................................................................................... 78
5.7 DX1 digital extension module ................................................................................................... 79
5.7.1 DX1 input circuit - principle diagram ................................................................................. 79
5.7.2 Connecting to the DX1 module .......................................................................................... 79
5.7.3 Digital inputs configuration ............................................................................................... 80

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 4 of 206


5.7.4 Digital dimmer input .......................................................................................................... 84
5.7.5 Relay outputs ..................................................................................................................... 85
5.8 NX1 and NX2 NMEA interface module...................................................................................... 87
5.8.1 Connection of the NX modules .......................................................................................... 87
5.8.2 Connection and cable for NMEA........................................................................................ 88
5.8.3 NMEA inputs ...................................................................................................................... 88
5.8.4 NMEA outputs.................................................................................................................... 88
5.8.5 Contact inputs .................................................................................................................... 88
6 XDi menu system and functions ...................................................................................................... 90
7 XDi menu level 1 – short push ......................................................................................................... 90
7.1 Dimmer level up/down (button 2 and 3) .................................................................................. 90
8 Menu level 1 functions only in XDi-N .............................................................................................. 91
8.1 Toggle between screens (button 1) .......................................................................................... 91
8.1.1 Using Screen mode grouping in system integration .......................................................... 91
8.3 Quick menu (only XDi-N) ........................................................................................................... 92
8.3.1 Change unit profile ............................................................................................................ 92
8.3.2 Change unit profile setup .................................................................................................. 93
8.3.3 Change unit profile in a CAN bus system ........................................................................... 94
8.3.4 VI mode group setup ......................................................................................................... 94
8.3.5 Date/time setup ............................................................................................................... 100
8.3.6 Quick access to the user menu ........................................................................................ 103
9 Menu level 2 – Long double push (easy access) ............................................................................ 104
9.1 Surveyor information (INFO) ................................................................................................... 105
9.2 Master reset ............................................................................................................................ 105
10 User menu ..................................................................................................................................... 107
10.1 Dimmer ................................................................................................................................ 107
10.1.1 Normal dimmer function.............................................................................................. 107
10.1.2 Fixed dimmer level ....................................................................................................... 108
10.1.3 Dimmer groups............................................................................................................. 109
10.1.4 Dimmer setup ............................................................................................................... 111
10.2 Day/Night Colour shift ......................................................................................................... 118
10.2.1 Virtual indicator colour modes..................................................................................... 118
10.2.2 Auto Day/Night shift mode .......................................................................................... 121
10.3 Warning and sound ............................................................................................................. 123

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 5 of 206


10.3.1 Warning log .................................................................................................................. 123
10.3.2 Warning setup .............................................................................................................. 124
10.3.3 Warning marks ............................................................................................................. 125
10.3.4 Sound setup.................................................................................................................. 126
10.4 Rotate display ...................................................................................................................... 126
11 Installation menu ........................................................................................................................... 126
11.1 Accessing the installation menu .......................................................................................... 127
11.2 Restart Setup Wizard ........................................................................................................... 127
11.3 Edit virtual indicator ............................................................................................................ 128
11.3.1 Text and units ............................................................................................................... 128
11.3.2 Warning marks/restricted band ................................................................................... 131
11.3.3 Indicators...................................................................................................................... 133
11.4 Adjust input settings............................................................................................................ 135
11.5 XDi-net – input adjust and special use ................................................................................ 136
11.5.1 XDi-net adjust menu – Prop RPM% set point 1............................................................ 136
11.6 CANopen MPDO as data source .......................................................................................... 137
11.7 CANopen TPDO/RPDO input adjust..................................................................................... 138
11.7.1 PDO converter for azimuth/rudder .............................................................................. 138
11.7.2 CANopen Rudder transmitter (for example DEIF RTC 600) ......................................... 140
11.7.3 PDO converter for pitch %............................................................................................ 140
11.7.4 PDO converter for RPM ................................................................................................ 141
11.7.5 Universal PDO converters ............................................................................................ 143
11.7.6 Advanced CAN functions .............................................................................................. 143
11.7.7 CANopen PDO converter synchronisation via XDi-net ................................................. 143
11.8 AX1 analogue input adjust .................................................................................................. 144
11.8.1 AX1 analogue input – azimuth/rudder set point 1 ...................................................... 144
11.8.2 AX 1 Analogue input for RPM set point ....................................................................... 147
11.9 DX1 Digital input adjust ....................................................................................................... 149
11.9.1 DX1 digital RPM from pickup ....................................................................................... 149
11.10 External input for control flags ............................................................................................ 151
11.10.1 AX1 – Analogue input as “digital” control input .......................................................... 151
11.10.2 DX1 - Universal digital input of a control flag .............................................................. 152
11.11 DX1 Relay output adjust ...................................................................................................... 152
11.11.1 Product-related events ................................................................................................ 153

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 6 of 206


11.11.2 Relay mode ................................................................................................................... 153
11.11.3 Relay event mode......................................................................................................... 153
11.11.4 Indicator-related relay setup........................................................................................ 158
11.11.5 Relay activation indication on a VI ............................................................................... 160
11.12 NMEA output using NX1 (or NX2) ....................................................................................... 160
11.12.1 NMEA output in standard virtual indicators ................................................................ 161
11.13 NX1/NX2 NMEA0183 setup menu....................................................................................... 161
11.13.1 COM port setup ............................................................................................................ 162
11.13.2 NMEA output setup...................................................................................................... 163
11.13.3 NMEA input setup (NX2 only) ...................................................................................... 165
11.13.4 When is manual NMEA input selection necessary ? .................................................... 171
11.14 Manual input configuration................................................................................................. 171
11.14.1 Adjust a wind sensor misalignment from a menu ....................................................... 171
11.14.2 Changing filter settings................................................................................................. 173
11.14.3 The other input configuration parameters .................................................................. 174
11.15 CAN bus changes via menu ................................................................................................. 174
11.16 Service menu ....................................................................................................................... 175
11.16.1 NMEA monitor ............................................................................................................. 175
11.16.2 Product information page ............................................................................................ 179
11.16.3 Product configuration page.......................................................................................... 180
11.17 Trouble shooting help ......................................................................................................... 180
12 Appendix 1: Colour calibration - service instruction ..................................................................... 181
12.1 Display colour calibration .................................................................................................... 181
12.1.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 181
12.2 Colour and Backlight adjustment ........................................................................................ 182
12.2.1 Access the new display calibration function ................................................................ 182
12.3 Display calibration ............................................................................................................... 183
12.3.1 Menu functions ............................................................................................................ 183
12.3.2 Colour adjustment........................................................................................................ 183
12.4 Some experience ................................................................................................................. 184
12.4.1 Save or undo your display calibration .......................................................................... 184
12.4.2 What happens if you install a new library package...................................................... 185
12.5 Master reset ........................................................................................................................ 185
12.6 Display calibration step by step (Example).......................................................................... 186

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 7 of 206


12.7 Reservation .......................................................................................................................... 187
13 Appendix 2: Application examples ................................................................................................ 189
13.1 Application 1 - XDi azimuth system, CANopen and XDi-Net ............................................... 189
13.1.1 Azimuth and RPM indicator system with set point ...................................................... 189
13.1.2 Azimuth, Pitch and RPM system with set point ........................................................... 191
13.2 Application 2 – azimuth CANopen and analogue system ................................................... 193
13.2.1 Azimuth and RPM indicator system with set point ...................................................... 193
13.2.2 Azimuth, Pitch and RPM system with set point ........................................................... 194
13.3 Application 3 – azimuth analogue system using XDi-net .................................................... 195
13.3.1 Azimuth and RPM indicator system with set point ...................................................... 195
13.3.2 Azimuth, Pitch and RPM system with set point ........................................................... 196
13.4 Application 4 – azimuth, RPM pickup analogue system using XDi-net ............................... 198
13.4.1 Azimuth and RPM indicator system with set point ...................................................... 198
13.4.2 Azimuth, Pitch and RPM system with set point ........................................................... 199
13.5 Application 5 - XDi rudder system using CANopen and XDi-net ......................................... 200
13.5.1 System overview .......................................................................................................... 200
13.5.2 Setup procedure ........................................................................................................... 201
13.6 Application 6: XDi rudder system, analogue angle transmitter and XDi-net ...................... 202
13.6.1 System overview .......................................................................................................... 202
13.6.2 Setup procedure:.......................................................................................................... 203
13.7 Application 7 – dimmer control........................................................................................... 203
13.7.1 XDi-net, CAN TPDO or analogue dimmer using AX1 .................................................... 204
13.7.2 Push-button dimmer using DX1 ................................................................................... 204
13.8 Application 8 – group dimmer control ................................................................................ 205
14 Terminology, Terms, and abbreviations ........................................................................................ 206

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 8 of 206


1 Useful reference documents

Document name Document no. Link to web page


XDi data sheet 4921250067
XDi-net/CANopen reference manua1 4189350066
XDi standard libraries 4189350067 Link to XDi
XDi quick start guide 4189350046
Rudder systems Application notes 4189350085
XDi supported NMEA sentences 4189350086
Wind system application note with 4189350080 Link to XDi-N (wind)
XDi-N
Application notes, Heading indicator 4189350085 Link to XDi-N (navigation)
system using XDi-N indicators
Note: Some of the documents are found in more than one of the links above.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 9 of 206


2 General information
2.1 Warnings, legal information, and safety
2.1.1 Warnings and notes
Throughout this document, several warnings and notes with helpful user information will be
presented. To ensure that these are noticed, they will be highlighted as follows to separate
them from the general text.

Warnings

Warnings indicate a potentially dangerous situation, which could result in death, personal in- jury
or damaged equipment, if certain guidelines are not followed.

Notes

Notes provide general information, which will be helpful for the reader to bear in mind.

2.1.2 Legal information and disclaimer


DEIF takes no responsibility for installation or operation of the product. If there is any doubt
about how to install or operate the XDi unit, the company responsible for the installation or
the operation of the set must be contacted.

The XDi unit is not to be opened by unauthorised personnel. If opened anyway, the warranty will
be lost.

Disclaimer

The contents of this document are subject to revision without notice. DEIF A/S shall have no
liability for any error or damages of any kind resulting from the use of this document.
DEIF A/S customers using the XDi, may copy and use the information from this manual in own
manuals without additional permission from DEIF A/S.
© Copyright DEIF A/S. All rights reserved.

2.1.3 Safety issues


Installing and operating the XDi unit may imply work with dangerous currents and voltages.
The installation should only be carried out by authorised personnel who is fully capable of
recognizing, understanding and judging the dangers of the task at hand.

Be aware of the hazardous live currents and voltages.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 10 of 206


2.1.4 Electrostatic discharge awareness
The XDi is protected against static electric discharges, but it is recommended to protect the
unit against static electric discharges during the installation and when connected to a PC or
laptop for library upgrade.
Once the unit is installed and connected, these precautions are no longer necessary.

2.1.5 Factory settings


The XDi unit is delivered from factory with a preinstalled indicator library with certain default
parameter settings. These are not necessarily the correct settings for matching the ship
system in question. Precautions must be taken to check the settings before running the ship.

2.2 About the Designer's Handbook


2.2.1 General purpose
This Designer's Handbook mainly includes functional descriptions, presentation of the virtual
indicator library, description of the installation wizard, and the user and installation menus. The
menu functions are supplemented by a number of examples of how to set up and change
parameters.

The general purpose of this document is to provide useful overall information about the
functionality of the XDi and some application examples. It should also help you get a good
understanding of the XDi product series and how you can best utilize it in your own system
solutions. Either using a DEIF standard indicator library or have a custom library made to
exactly match your needs for indicators and input profiles.

Please make sure to read this document before starting to work with the XDi unit and making
system integration. Failure to do this could result in damage to the equipment.

2.2.2 Intended users


This Designer's Handbook is mainly intended for technical users like developers and system
integrators. On the basis of this document, you should be able to copy and paste the relevant
part into your own product documentation.

2.2.3 Contents and overall structure


This document is divided into chapters, and in order to make the structure simple and easy to
use, each chapter will begin from the top of a new page.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 11 of 206


3 Product Introduction
XDi is an illuminated bridge indicator where a high quality display replaces the mechanical scale and pointer
combination. A high number of predefined virtual indicators (VIs) can be stored in the built-in memory. VIs are
organised in a library structure.
This high flexibility is implemented much in line with the way that we handle our traditional XL family of indicators
and in a controlled manor not compromising the ability to make customised indicator libraries and most important,
still securing the needed approvals for relevant indicator applications on the ship’s bridge.
DEIF offers a series of standard libraries with a selection of often-used indicator types and in addition, the
opportunity to have customised libraries designed.
Four push-buttons hidden behind the front frame combined with the installation wizard makes it easy to select the
right indicator during first time installation and to make necessary parameter adjustment via the user or installation
menu.
XDi normally replaces two or more traditional, class-approved, illuminated indicators that are very often part of the
safety system on-board the ship. In an emergency, it is very important that such indicators present exactly the
expected data type, and it is therefore not allowed to change between presentations of different data types on such
indicators during normal operation.
After installation, the front frame is mounted, hiding the four buttons, and the selected virtual indicator will be fixed,
most likely for the rest of its life.
The graphical display allows a high flexibility in both design and configuration. The XDi concept is made with easy
customisation in mind, making it possible to make highly customised indicators, still based on the type-approved
standard XDi platform.

XDi is available in three different physical sizes: XDi 96, XDi 144 and XDi 192, each with performance class:
• Dual, where indicators may present data from a single or two input sources

• Multi, where indicators may present data from multiple data source, normally between 1 and 8.
• Nav, optimized for presentation of navigation related data, but not limited to that
The basic XDi unit is equipped with two galvanic separated CAN ports as standard data interface.
Adding an AX1 extension module, analogue inputs are available, and by adding a DX1 digital I/O extension
module, digital inputs and relay outputs are available.
When other systems like a VDR or integrated navigation system needs data input from an XDi based indicator
system, it is possible to add the NX1 NMEA output extension module to output relevant NMEA data sentences.
With the NX2 NMEA input/output extension module several serial input and/or output ports are available for
reception or transmission of NMEA data. This module is mainly intended for the XDi-N version.

For technical details about the different extension modules, please see the XDi data sheet.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 12 of 206


3.1 Virtual indicator library
All available virtual indicators in an XDi are located in the preinstalled XDi library. For each virtual indicator, there is
also at least one VI-setup profile and one or more product profiles.

Fig.1A Virtual indicator library structure for XDi- Dual or Multi

It is important to be aware that all virtual indicators in an XDi library are predefined and version controlled to make
sure that the requirements for relevant marine approvals are fulfilled. Therefore indicators cannot be changed,
rescaled or redesigned via the XDi menu. However, it is possible to make some adjustments during installation,
such as adjusting input parameter values or change headlines and/or labels, but no change that conflicts with the
marine approvals.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 13 of 206


Fig.1B Virtual indicator library structure for XDi- Nav
The library structure for XDi-Nav is basically the same as for Dual and Multi , but the product profiles (PP) contain
the supported NMEA sentence setup and the default NMEA configuration. The virtual indicators (VI) can contain up
to 4 predefined screens.

3.1.1 Product profile (PP)


A product profile contains products- and system-related parameters with their default settings.
Parameters like: CAN bus settings, dimmer settings, dimmer group, CAN bus settings, sound, and warning
settings.
If NMEA serial data interface is supported by the indicator library, the supported NMEA data types and relevant
setup parameters are also included in the PP.
The PP may also contain a default list of NMEA sentences to be routed from one or more inputs to one of the
NMEA output, but normally this is setup during installation instead.
Up to 50 different product profiles can be predefined in a library. The predefined product parameters can be
changed or adjusted via the XDi menu.
Note: The Product Profile selection is independent of the selection of virtual indicator and VI-setup.

3.1.2 Virtual indicator (VI)


The virtual indicator VI contains drawings of scales and other indicator elements and defines the graphical layout
of the VI, like the example below.

Fig. 2 virtual azimuth indicator

Virtual indicators in an XDi-D or M library presents one fixed indicator layout called a screen.
Where virtual indicator in an XDi-N can have up to 4 screens that can be toggled from one of the front buttons or
via external control.

[Link] Special indicator functions in XDi-N


• Virtual indicators with up to 4 independent screens assigned to a VI mode group.
o Edit the VI screens assigned to the 4 modes in a given VI mode group.
o Toggle between modes either locally in one XDi unit or for a whole group of indicators within a CAN
system.
• Change presentation unit, for example change the wind speed unit between knots, m/s and Beaufort.
• Toggle between 3 unit profiles either locally or globally for a complete CAN system.
• Multi data sources for a presented data type, with automatic prioritised fall-back in case a source is lost.
o Edit the priority order or lock presentation to a given source.
o Present the name of the active data source on the screen.
• Present special data types like LAT/LONG, Date, Time on the virtual indicator screen

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 14 of 206


3.1.3 VI-setup profile (VS)
For each VI, at least one VI-setup profile (VS) will be predefined.
The “Virtual Indicator setup” profile is a predefined list of parameters such as: input settings, data scaling,
selectable headlines, labels, units and more.
Collecting all the vital indicator parameters in a VS profile makes it simple, secure and easy for the installer to
make a complex setup, simply by selecting the right VS.
In the selection menu, each VS has a unique number, name and a detailed help text description that makes the
selection easy.
All input parameters and indicator related output parameters (relay output or NMEA output) are gathered in the
VS profile. The VS profile for the special multi-screen indicator available in the XDi-N version contains input setup
parameters for all screens (up to 4).
Defining several VI-setup profiles is very handy if a virtual indicator is used in different applications, with different
interface requirements, for example presenting data from different propulsion systems with different
combination of CAN and analogue data inputs to the same type of indicator.
It is possible to change or adjust most VS parameters from the XDi installation menu.
It is possible to have up to 50 predefined VS profiles for each virtual indicator.
Note: Only one VI-setup profile can be active at any given time.

3.1.4 Library types


XDi libraries may either be a DEIF standard library, containing a selection of commonly used virtual indicator types.
DEIF standard indicators always include a day- and a night-design optimised for presentation on the XDi display
under all light conditions.
If the DEIF standard design does not fulfil your needs or wants, the XDi concept opens for a flexible pallet of
customisation opportunities from small changes like adding a logo on a standard design, making a customised
interface profile and all the way to a full-customised design fitting perfectly into your company’s overall product
design line.
DEIF stores all libraries in a secure master database, providing the needed version control and design verification
to secure that indicator designs follow the appropriate regulations. Once an indicator is finally approved as part of a
library, it will be available precisely as approved even years from now when a spare part is needed.
The XDi library may contain up to at least 100 virtual indicators depending on the complexity and number of
day/night colour schemes (or even day/dusk/night schemes).
All XDi libraries are defined by a unique owner identification number (Owner ID). DEIF owner ID for standard
libraries are in the range 000001 to 009999.
The owner ID for a customised library is normally the same as the customer’s account number at DEIF.
Each library owner may have up to 999 libraries, each identified by a unique number starting from 1.
A customised library is by default only available for use in XDi units purchased by the library owner, and on
request, DEIF can open for sister companies or sub-suppliers to also be able to purchase XDi units with a
customised library.

3.1.5 XDi type and related library classes


There is a library type for product size XDi 96 and XDi 144/192 and for each performance class.
XDi 144 and 192 both have the same display resolution (WVGA) and can therefore use the same library.
XDi 96 has a QVGA display resolution and thus needs its own library.
In addition to product size, the libraries are also classified as: Single*, Dual and Multi.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 15 of 206


The library needs to be compliant with the size and performance class of the XDi indicator:

Library class
Dual Multi Nav
Dual •
XDi type Multi • •
Nav • • •
This means that an XDi Nav will accept all library classes, where a XDi Multi will only accept Multi or Dual libraries
and a XDi Dual will only accept a Dual library.

Since all library classes can be installed on an XDi Nav, it can be used as a universal service unit, where the needed
library can be uploaded from a laptop or PC whenever needed.

3.1.6 Upload a new library


It is possible to upload a new library via the USB service port on the XDi unit. The library is encrypted and requires
a special “XDi update tool” to be installed on your PC or laptop. The tool is available for download at
[Link]. The zip-package includes a detailed installation and user instruction. If you need further help,
please contact DEIF support.

Be aware that the library package selected for an update must match the XDi size and performance class as
explained in the previous chapter.

3.2 Input data for XDi


Virtual indicators in the XDi library may present data from one or more data sources depending on the XDi
performance class (Dual or Multi). The standard XDi unit is designed to receive data via the two CAN bus ports.
When an extension module is mounted on the XDi, data can also be received from an analogue, digital or NMEA
input. Input data from an extension module may even be shared on the CAN bus, making the XDi act as a data
source for other XDi indicators on the bus.
Utilising this function limits the number of extension modules needed and only one adjustment or calibration of an
analogue, digital or NMEA input is needed in such a CAN base system.
Other devices on the CAN bus may also use CAN data provided by the XDi.
The DEIF XL, BW and BRW-2 indicators with CAN interface and TRI-2 CAN panorama indicator can be integrated
in a system where XDi is providing calibrated CAN data.

3.2.1 Object dictionary – Object index table


All variable input data types are firmly defined and stored in the manufacture specific part of the CANopen object
dictionary. Object index 0x3000 to 0x3FFF.
In the XDi-net specification, all variable data used for indication is structured in a fixed format making it possible to
broadcast data without complicated setup.
Each data type has a name (source name) and data is stored as a value with a defined resolution and with a
standard data unit. When data is shared on XDi-net or CANopen it is the standard data value that is sent.
The detailed description of how XDi utilises CANopen can be found in the “XDi-net/CANopen reference manual”.

3.2.2 Data type instance


To be able to handle several instances of the same data type in a CAN bus system, each defined data type can
support up to either 7 or 15 instances dependent of the data type.
An example: in a large system with 4 azimuth thrusters on the same CAN bus, each thruster is using a different
instance of the data type “azimuth angle”.

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3.3 Sourcing data to the XDi
There are six different ways of sourcing measured data into an XDi for presentation on a virtual indicator, see the
illustration below.
In the VI-setup profile (VS), each virtual indicator input will be predefined to use a defined data type/instance in the
Object index table, and this data type/instance will be pre-set to receive its input data using one of the input
methods described below.

Fig. 3 XDi input output structure

The figure above shows all the different ways input data can be received by an XDi.

The same method applies for dimmer level input data and control for indicator day/(dusk)
/night shift.

3.3.1 CANopen TPDO or RPDO (1)


A TPDO (Transmit Process Data Object) contains up to 8 data bytes. A data type is often located in byte 0 and 1
and the rest is not used, but it is possible to have different data types mapped into one TPDO. TPDOs are often
used by sensors to transmit data. RPDOs (Receive Process Data Objects) are often used by a CAN controller or
master device to send data to a receiving device.
XDi can be set up to use any of the TPDOs or RPDOs as CAN input, but please note that if the XDi-net is active,
there are some restrictions on the use of RPDO1. Please see the XDi-net/CANopen reference manual for details.

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Example:
The DEIF RTC 600 CAN angle transmitter with the default NodeID=1 is used as angle transmitter for an XDi
azimuth indicator.
The azimuth angle between +/-180deg. is transmitted as a signed 16 bit value located in TPDO 1, byte 0 and 1
(TPDO1 for NodeID=1 has COB-ID: 0x180+”RTC600 NodeID”).
The selected VI-setup profile VS 01, for this azimuth indicator, is pre-set to read TPDO1 from node 1.
The relative angle value received as a figure in the range +/-32767 is predefined to be scaled to an absolute value
between +/-1800, equal to 180.0 deg. This value is stored in the Object index table where the VI reads the value for
presentation on both the round azimuth indicator and in the digital readout.

Data received in a TPDO/RPDO can be either absolute data with a predefined resolution (for example 1800 @
resolution 0.1, equal to 180.0deg.) or data can be relative like in the example above.

It is possible from the installation menu to adjust the TPDO/RPDO settings, for example
adjust the zero point, change max/min values, or change direction (CW/CCW) of the data
received from a rudder angle transmitter. It is also possible to select another TPDO or
RPDO as input.

[Link] Synchronisation of adjustments


All XDi units on the same CAN bus have access to read a given TPDO or RPDO.
In case data received in a TPDO needs a correction, for example a zero alignment, this is performed via the
installation menu in one XDi on the bus. If this adjustment must apply to all XDi units on the bus using exactly this
TPDO, simply press “Yes” to accept synchronisation in the pop-up menu, presented when you leave the installation
menu. This will activate a broadcast of changes to relevant XDi units on the CAN bus.
Note: Synchronisation via XDi-net must be set ON in the PP (or via menu) for this to work.

[Link] Self-starting devices


If there is no CAN master in the system to start a transmitting device, then the device should be set up as a self-
starting device. Alternatively, the XDi can be set up to act as a master, in this case by sending a CAN start
command to force passive sensors to start transmitting. Normally, this function is not activated in the product
profile, but it can always be activated via the installation menu.

3.3.2 XDi-net as data input (2)


XDi-net is a predefined way of broadcasting data via CANopen, and it requires no complicated setup or specific
allocation of NodeIDs. Data is broadcasted using RPDO1 in SAM-MPOD mode (Source Address Mode –
Multiplexed PDO). This means that data is sent directly as a defined data type into the Object index table for the
indicator to use for its presentation.
For XDi-net to work, “XDi-net variable data ON” must be activated in the PP or manually via the installation menu.

The XDi-net broadcast format is often used to share data between XDi units, for example analogue input data from
an AX1 analogue extension module.

Independent of the default data source for a given virtual indicator, it is always possible to shift the data source to
XDi-net via the installation menu – “Data adjust”.
The XDi-net broadcast format can also be used to distribute data from a customer CAN controller to all XDi units on
the CAN bus, without any complicated NodeID setup.
More information of the XDi-net broadcast format is found in the “XDi-net/CANopen reference manual”, where
you will also find examples of transmission formats.

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[Link] XDi-net restrictions
When “XDi-net variable data” is activated, all RPDO1s (COB-ID 0x200 to 0x27F) are allocated for XDi-net use and
must not be used by other applications on the CAN bus.

IF “Send XDi-net setup synch data” is active NodeID 127 is reserved and used as parking place for an XDi service
unit and then COB-ID: 0x27F, 0x37F, 0x47F and 0x57F (=RPDO1-4) and 0x1FF, 0x2FF, 0x3FF and 0x4FF (TPDO1-4)
are all reserved for this function.

XDi-net can be disabled in the product profile or manually via the installation menu to release all RPDO1s and
NodeID 127 to be used by other applications.

3.3.3 DAM-MPDO as data input (3)


Destination Address Mode – Multiplexed Process Data Object (DAM-MPDO) is another way of using an RPDO for
transmitting multiplexed data. The format is similar to the SAM-MPDO described above. Only a single bit in front of
the NodeID in byte 0 is shifted to make it a DAM-MPDO.
Data sent in a DAM-MPDO must be in the format given by the Object index location it is sent to, exactly like data
sent using the XDi-net format (SAM-MPDO). Data will be stored directly in the destination Object index/Sub-index
defined in the message.

Since the XDi-net format and the DAM-MPDO format are so similar, they are considered as one data source type,
defined as source “XDi-net”. This means that when the XDi-net is selected as source for a data type presented on
an indicator, then a DAM-MPDO may also be used to input data to this indicator.

To activated DAM-MPDO mode, an RPDO must be assigned for DAM-MPDO communication. This can be pre-set
in the product profile or manually activated via the installation menu.

Select either: RPDO 2, RPDO 3 or RPDO 4 for this. RPDO 1 may only be selected if XDi-net is deactivated.
Please note that “XDi-net” must be selected as source when DAM-MPDO is used, even if XDi-net is deactivated!
The DAM-MPDO format is used by a controller or master to send data to each receiver (CAN node) - one at a time.
Only the XDi unit with the specified destination address (NodeID) will accept and use the data.
This type of communication requires that the master knows each NodeID on the bus, its type and exact need for
data. Obviously, this requires very precise setup of all NodeIDs in a system. Another thing is that the same data
type will often be sent to several indicators one by one. This will load the CAN bus much harder than if data was
broadcasted using either XDi-net or predefined TPDOs (or RPDOs).

3.3.4 SDO data transfer (3a)


Service Data Object (SDO) is a way to open a “service channel” with handshake, between one CAN device and
another. The data format is also a multiplexed format like MPDOs and is normally used to read and write
parameters to and from the XDi Object index table. This format can also be used to transfer variable data, but it is
not meant for this purpose and should only be used for parameter transfer, for example for automated setup.

3.3.5 Analogue data input (4)


When the AX 1 analogue extension module is snapped on the XDi rear plate, analogue inputs are available.
For an AX1 module to work, the analogue input must have been predefined in the selected VI-setup profile (VS).
The VS specifies the data type represented by this analogue input, analogue input type and the scaling of the input
value.
Example:
In the VI setup VS01, the data type RPM instance 1 is defined as input for an analogue pointer, and the source for
this data type is set up to be: AX1 on slot 1, analogue input 1, set up to: 4-20 mA input and scaled to: +/- 200.0
RPM (4 mA = -200.0 RPM, 12 mA = 0.0 RPM and 20 mA=200 RPM).

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Propeller RPM instance 1 is located in Object index/sub-index: 0x3081-0x02 and always
defined as absolute value with a resolution of 0.1 RPM, giving a max. of +/-3276.5 RPM.

AX1 has two analogue input ports that can be configured for either current in the range +/-20 mA or voltage in the
range +/-30 V. In addition, a third analogue voltage input is available.
Input 1 and 2 are always used as instrument inputs, where input 3 is earmarked for analogue dimmer input, if
analogue dimmer is preconfigured in the selected product profile (PP).
All inputs are fully calibrated, so if input 3 is not used for analogue dimmer in the actual XDi product configuration,
this input may be configured as a normal voltage input for a virtual indicator, in the VI-setup (VS) profile.
The AX1 module also includes a voltage reference output that may be used as voltage supply for either a dimmer
potentiometer or a potentiometer providing input for an indicator, for example a rudder indicator.

The pre-configuration of an AX1 module must be available in the selected VS or PP profile for the module to work,
but it is also possible to change some selections and adjust parameters from the XDi menu.

The AX1 electrical details can be found in the XDi data sheet and connection and setup menus are found later in
this document.

3.3.6 Digital data input (5)


The DX1 Digital I/O module has two isolated inputs that can be preconfigured as data inputs. It is also possible to
preconfigure them as control data inputs.
The digital input can be preconfigured in the VS profile as an RPM pickup input, for example for direct connection
to an inductive pickup.
It is either as a single RPM input (one direction) or as a double input (forward/reverse direction). In the VS profile,
the input mode and pre-set parameters for converting the input pulses to an RPM value are predefined.
The scaling parameters can be adjusted via the XDi installation menu.

Alternatively, the two digital inputs can also be used for control of special indicator functions, for example control
input to hide a data readout or activate a predefined label.
It is also possible to configure the two inputs as a dimmer contact pair, making it possible to step dimmer level up
and down and change colour pallet; this must be defined in the PP.

The digital inputs can either be defined as data/control inputs for a virtual indicator in a VS profile or as dimmer
contact inputs for the XDi product as defined in the PP. They can of course only have one function at a time.

The DX1 electrical details can be found in the XDi data sheet, and connection and setup menus are found later in
this document.

3.3.7 NMEA serial data input (6)


When the NX2 NMEA input/output extension module is snapped on the XDi rear plate, NMEA serial input data is
made available. The NMEA interface can be setup to comply with either IEC61162-1 (Normal) or IEC61162-2
(High speed), the data protocol for the 2 standards are the same .
The XDi-N version has support for all NMEA functions described in this document, where XDi-D and XDi-M have
only support for a few data types via NMEA input.
For XDi-D only 2 data types are supported. In addition, the dimmer can also be controlled via NMEA input is a
product profile supporting this is selected.
In general, the XDi-library installed in the XDi must have product profiles that supports the NMEA data types and
sentences for NX2 NMEA input to work.

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3.3.8 NMEA serial data output (7a and 7b)
XDi with an NX1 or NX2 interface attached has the ability to transmit some predefined NMEA serial data
sentences. For example, rudder angle to a VDR (voyage data recorder). The XDi-N version can route NMEA
sentences from one of the NMEA inputs to one of the outputs.

[Link] Share NMEA input data on CAN


All data types receiving data from an NMEA input can also be setup to share those data on XDi-net.
The XDi-net setup can be changed from the NMEA setup menu in the installation menu system. Use the manual
NMEA setup sub-menu.
NMEA data will be shared at the same update rate as they are received. If NEMA input data is received every 100
millisecond, then XDi-net data will also be sent every 100 millisecond.

NMEA data can also be shared in a standard CANopen TPDO, but in that case the VS profile used for the selected
virtual indicator must have a predefined TPDO output function included.
If TPDO output support is not mentioned in the description of the VS profile for a given virtual indicator, this function
will not be available. It is however always possible to include this in a customised library.

3.4 Change selected input via menu


Inputs for indicators and dimmer input are always predefined as one of the 6 input types described and with
parameter pre-sets stored in the respective VI-setup profile (VS) or Product Profile (PP).
In general, a new profile should be defined for every new combination of inputs.
Well-designed setup profiles makes it very easy afterwards to set up the XDi during installation, simply because all
setup parameters are loaded when the basic installation wizard is completed and only some small fine adjustments
may be needed via the installation menu.

3.5 Multi sources and automatic fall-back


In most cases each indicator element in a virtual indicator has a single data source, but in XDi software platform 2 it
is made possible to use the fall-back function to make up to 3 input sources available for a given indicator element.
This function can handle all normal 16bit data types and is not restricted to XDi-N but can also be used in XDi-M
and with some limitations in XDi-D that can only handle 2 inputs. The function was originally made for handling
some types of navigation data where a fall-back from a main source to a backup source can be relevant.
It is also in DEIF standard navigation libraries that this function at present is used, but it can also be useful in
different types of customized solution where a need for selectable data sources or a fall-back to a backup source is
needed.
The functionality is illustrated in the sketch below, where 3 instances of wind direction data is coming from 3 wind
sensors are routed via the Fall-back switch to the indicators wind direction pointer.

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Note: In fact, the fall-back switch delivers
the wind angle to a “Data switch index”
where the direction pointer is getting its
angle value, but it clutters the drawing
unnecessarily .

In the above example the wind speed data will also be routed via a similar fall-back switch. The wind indicator can
also be designed so that the active wind sensor (source name) is shown on the screen. If data is received from the
wind sensor via NMEA the sensor data shown on the screen can be controlled by simply powering the wind sensor
that you want to see data from. Alternatively, a switch on NMEA input data lines can be used to switch between the
3 wind sensors.
Source shift via CANopen. In manual mode it is also possible to control the active source by a CANopen
parameter. Contact DEIF to get the details if you have a need for that. The parameter to used depends on the
selected VI and VS profile in a given library.

To illustrate how the fall-back functions works in more detail, we will look at an example from our standard
navigation library.

3.5.1 Example – Fall-back function used in the standard heading indicator library.
In the XDi 144/192 N Standard heading library it is possible to connect up to 3 heading sources (Gyro1, Gyro2 and
Mag. compass) to the traditional heading repeaters.
The source selection is default setup to be automatic, in this case the 1st priority source is selected if it is available
and if it is unavailable 2nd priority is used and if that one also drops out the 3rd priority is used.
From the XDi menu, it is possible to make a manual fixed selection of a source or change the priority order.

The following example shows the input adjust for VI002 in the standard heading library.

To view or change the multi-source and fall-back function, enter “Adjust input” in the installation menu:

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VI002 is only presenting heading.
In the input adjust menu the name of the active data type is presented (GYRO 1).

Press OK to open the multi-source menu:

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The fall-back mode can be “Auto” or “Manual”.
In manual mode the fall-back source number (shown in the next line) will be locked as the input source.
Fall-back timeout: This parameter defines the time to go before the active source is replaced by the next priority
source, after the active source has lost its data.
When a higher priority source reappears, it will automatically take over as source.

or indicates if the source at present is providing input data or not.

Source priority: It is possible to change the priority order from this menu. It is possible to give 2 fall-back sources
the same priority. In this case, reappearance of the other source with the same priority will not result in a source
shift.

Source name: It is also possible to change the source name.


Be aware that the source name is often presented at the indicator to show which source is active and providing
data.
In the standard heading indicator, the names: GYRO 1, GYRO 2 and MAG. COMPASS is shown on the scale as
illustrated below.

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[Link] Heading indicator VI003 with rate of turn

In the standard heading indicator VI003 the ROT has 2 fall-back sources, the input selected should be consistent
with the selected gyro.
It can also be set to fixed source or the same NMEA source can be selected for both ROT 1 and ROT 2.
(The auto NMEA setup will normally select same source for both).

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3.6 Menu structure
The XDi wizard and menu system are operated by 4 push-buttons placed beneath the display. The buttons are
used to set up the product during installation. After the XDi-D or -M is set up, the buttons are normally hidden away
behind the front frame, and they are not used during daily operation. (See also front button option/accessory
below).

Fig. 4.1 XDi 144 D or M when the front frame is removed – the 4 push-buttons are available

Fig. 4.2 XDi 192 N with the 4 push-buttons available on front

The 4 push-buttons on XDi-N are available on the front frame and are also used for daily operation such as:
toggling between screens, dimming up/down and quick access to user menu.
A front frame with 4 push-buttons is also available for XDi-D and XDi-M. It can be ordered preinstalled as an option
or ordered as an accessory kit to replace the standard front frame on XDi-D or XDi-M. This option will make
dimming up/down available from the front buttons.
Note: This function is only available on XDi with platform 2 software and in some cases, it may require a new or
modified product profile in your custom library, to get support for dimming from front buttons.

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3.6.1 Installation Wizard
XDi has an installation wizard which starts automatically start at power up until the XDi unit has been set up.
After first time setup, the normal menu structure is available offering “Surveyor info display”, “Master reset” and
access to the user and installation menus. Access to these functions requires a simultaneous long push on a
combination of two buttons.
The installation menu system is protected by double access sequence. First a long push on a combination of two
push-buttons to access the user menu and from there a hidden long double push to access the installation menu.
This is part of the required protection against unauthorised changing of vital setup parameters.
The menu structure has therefore 2 levels:
User menu level, where information and basic setup parameters, like dimmer setup, are located. (User accessible)
Installation menu where all vital setup parameters are located. (Limited access)

Fig. 5. Diagram illustrating the overall XDi menu structure.

Note: Single push on front button 2 and 3 can be used for front button dimming on all XDi versions.

3.7 Surveyor info


It should be highlighted that a simultaneous push on button 1 and 2 (from the left) will reveal the “Surveyor info”
page where serial number, MED approval marking, software version and other relevant data are presented.

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3.8 General menu structure
1. The wizard and main menu pages are divided into 2 sections:
the right side where you will find the menu with one menu line highlighted in the blue arrow
2. the left side pane shows detailed information about the highlighted menu

Timeout: All menus except the start-up wizard have a timeout function. When the timer reaches 0 sec, the
system will jump one step back in the menu structure and restart the timer, and in the end the XDi will resume
normal operation. Timeout acts like the “return arrow” soft-key.

3.8.1 Soft keys description (left to right):


Return arrow: will step back to the present menu or from the top level menu return to normal operation.

Up and down arrows: used to navigate between menu lines

OK: open or accept the highlighted menu or parameter.

3.8.2 Submenus
Several submenus are used in the different menu levels and for different functions. The following pages contain
examples of typical submenus and their function.

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Select and press OK to open the line for editing.

View and change setup parameters.

Select from a list.

Virtual keyboard for entering a new text line

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Change a data value

The detailed menu functions are in the relevant chapters. To learn more about XDi functions and menu system
please see the chapter 6 XDi menu system and functions.

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4 Installation
4.1 Unpacking
The XDi indicator is delivered in a cardboard box. To protect the indicator, it is important to store it in the box until it
is being mounted in the panel.
This will also eliminate the risk of dust, or even worse, metal parts, to enter the cabinet through the airgaps in the
rear part of the XDi that may sooner or later damage the unit.

4.1.1 ESD
The indicator is protected against ESD (static electricity). Therefore, no special attention to ESD is needed during
the mounting and wiring of the indicator.

4.1.2 Box content

The cardboard box contains Number


of items
Quick start guide 1
XDi indicator 1
Terminal block 2
Cable tie 1

Some XDi variant includes an extension module as standard and XDi can also be ordered with one or
two extension modules as option. Each extension module is in a small white cardboard box and
packed in the larger cardboard box containing the XDi unit.
Please note that the module must be mounted in the right extension slot on the XDi after unpacking.

4.2 Panel mounting of XDi


XDi is mounted from the front where the mounting screws are located beneath the front frame. The special
mounting clamps make installation easy.
XDi can be mounted in any angle from horizontal to vertical. It is important that there is space in the cabinet for
sufficient airflow around the XDi and that the operating temperature of the unit is not exceeded. Especially when
mounted in top of a horizontal panel, the temperature inside the console may be higher than expected, in which
case forced air circulation inside the console is recommended.
Overheating will reduce the expected lifetime of the unit.

4.2.1 Cut-out and mounting depth behind panel

XDi type Panel cut-out Front size Free depth below Free depth below
panel surface, panel surface,
XDi without XDi with extension
extension module module
XDi 96 92 mm (-0.0/+0.8 mm) 102 x 102 mm Min. 55 mm Min. 90 mm
x (equal to XL96) Rec. >70 mm Rec. >100 mm
92 mm (-0.0/+0.8 mm)
XDi 144 138 mm (-0.0/+1.0 mm) 148 x 102 mm Min. 55 mm Min. 90 mm
x (wide as XL144) Rec. >70 mm Rec. >100 mm
92 mm (-0.0/+0.8 mm)

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 31 of 206


XDi type Panel cut-out Front size Free depth below Free depth below
panel surface, panel surface,
XDi without XDi with extension
extension module module
XDi 192 186 mm (-0.0/+1.1 mm) 196 x 148 mm Min. 60 mm Min. 95 mm
x (wide as XL192) Rec. >75 mm Rec. >105 mm
138 mm (-0.0/+1.0 mm)

See the data sheet for detailed 2D drawings.

3D drawings (step files) for use in CAD systems are available on request, please contact
4.2.2 Waterproof mounting
DEIF support.
The XDi front, front glass and buttons are waterproof. Therefore, the protection around mounting screws and
between the XDi front flange and the surface of the panel where the XDi is mounted are the critical areas to obtain
the required IP protection.
The XDi is available with a factory-installed IP66 option for use in wet rooms, like a thruster room.

To obtain IP protection in general, the panel must be flat and smooth (not curved) where the XDi is mounted, and
please pay special attention to the accuracy of the cut-out and the tightening of the screws (do not overtighten).

In installations where IP protection is important, the IP66 option is required. If the requirement is IP52 or lower, the
standard XDi can be used.
For IP52, the panel surface where XDi is mounted must be completely flat and smooth. In practice, this is often not
the case and therefore a water resistant sealant should be used between the XDi front flange and the panel surface
to obtain the required protection. Alternatively, use the XDi with the IP66 option.

4.3 Mounting instructions


The XDi is very easy to mount:

1. Remove the front frame by gently pulling one corner (the frame is snapped on the front when you receive
the XDi unit)
2. Make the cut-out in your panel (see previous section).
3. Connect wires in connectors according to installation instructions.
4. Mount the connectors in the unit.
5. Use the cable tie to fixate the cables to the XDi unit (use cable support and cable relief on long cables
inside the panel)
6. Insert the unit from the front of the panel
7. Fixate it firmly by tightening the screws on the XDi front (see the smart-grip function on fig. 6 below).
The recommended screwdriver torque is: 0.5 Nm +/- 0.1 Nm
8. Connect power to the unit
9. Follow the setup wizard instructions
10. Write the assigned CAN Node ID number on the white label on the XDi front.
11. If needed, make setup adjustments
12. Mount the front frame again
13. Installation is completed

The detailed information about connections, wiring and setup can be found in the next chapters of this manual.

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Fig. 6. Mounting screws and smart-grip clamps are pre-mounted on the XDi unit

4.4 Installing a CAN bus system


4.4.1 XDi CAN bus ports
The XDi base unit is equipped with two CAN bus ports, and CANopen is the standard interface protocol. The
unique DEIF XDi-net Plug & Play extension to the CANopen protocol is used in all DEIF standard libraries for easy
data sharing and is also used in many custom specific libraries, to make system setup and integration easy.
The following sections describe the basic CAN installation information. For more detailed information, please
consult the “XDi-net/CANopen reference manual.

4.4.2 CAN bus system wiring


The XDi unit can be connected to the CAN bus either by a short drop cable to the backbone or by daisy-chaining
the backbone from unit to unit (see following drawing).

The standard terminal block, with a single row of 5 screw terminals, supplied as standard for the XDi, is most
appropriate for drop cable connection. Daisy chaining will require two wires to be mounted in each terminal
location.
Recommendation: if daisy chain is the preferred installation form, we recommend that you order the XDi unit with
either the double screw terminal option or the double spring terminal option. (See the XDi data sheet for ordering
information)

4.4.3 CAN backbone and Termination


[Link] Termination
The CAN bus must be terminated in each end of the CAN bus cable line by a 120 Ω resistor. To make termination
easy, the XDi has a built-in 120 Ω termination resistor. Set the switch to ON (see drawing) to activate the
termination. Each of the two CAN ports has a separate built-in termination resistor and ON/OFF switch.

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Only two termination resistors can be connected in a CAN bus network. Adding more
terminations will overload the CAN drivers, disturb communication and in the long run
maybe damage the CAN driver circuit.

[Link] Termination example


This example shows a system where it can be considered where to insert the termination.
If the total cable from the CAN angle transmitter to XDi 1 exceeds the max allowed drop cable length (10 m @ 125
kbps), then a 120 Ω termination resistor should be installed in the connection box.

If the cable from the CAN TX (angle transmitter) to XDi 1 is less than the max allowed drop cable length (10 m @
125 kbps), then the CAN bus can be terminated by switching ON the internal termination resistor in XDi 1 (left
side), and the other termination can be made switching ON the internal termination in XDi 3 (right side).

[Link] Backbone and drop cable


The CAN bus backbone is the CAN bus cable between the two end-point terminations. In a practical installation,
terminations should be inserted in a way so that the most cable length will be serial-connected between the two
terminations. This cable will then be defined as the backbone. A cable section connected to the backbone in one
end and to a product in the other end, (without termination), is called a drop-cable. Drop-cables are not part of
the backbone, but the length of all drop-cables must be included in the total allowed CAN bus cable length.

4.4.4 CAN bus cable recommendation


Obtaining the optimal performance and cable length of the CAN bus requires the use of a good shielded CAN bus
cable. It may be a shielded single twisted pair, or it may be a single shielded cable containing 2 twisted pairs for
respectively data and power supply.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 34 of 206


CAN bus Theoretical Recommended max Max. drop cable Max.
bit rate max CAN cable length CAN cable length length accumulated
(optimal installation) (practical installation) drop cable length
250 kbps 250 m 150 m 6m 30 m
125 kbps 500 m 300 m 10 m 60 m
50 kbps 1000 m 500 m 15 m 100 m
20 kbps 2500 m 1000 m *) 20 m 250 m
*) For cable length >1000 m, a CAN buffer or repeaters should be used.

[Link] Specifications of the data wire pair (twisted pair):


Gage: Not less than AWG24/0.205 mm2 (approx. 90 mΩ/m), thicker cable is recommended as long as the entity
parameters are considered.
Characteristic impedance: 120 Ω +/-10 % up to at least 500 kHz
Cable loss: The AC signal attenuation must be less than 24 dB/100 m up to 16 MHz
Propagation delay: Maximum 5 ns/m

[Link] Recommendation for the power wire pair:


Gage: Not less than AWG20/0.5 mm2 (approx. 33 mΩ/m). Where long supply cables are used, thicker wire is
recommended and worst case calculations of supply voltage drop in the cable should be made.
Guidelines for selecting CAN bus cable can also be found in ISO11898-2.

If redundant CAN bus is used, the two CAN bus cables should be routed separately and in a
safe distance from each other to reduce the risk of a single event damaging both CAN bus
cables.

4.4.5 Shielding and grounding of the CAN bus cables


[Link] Cable shield
Where CAN cables are connected, the cable shielded must be interconnected. The cable shield must not be
connected to the CAN GND terminal on the XDi. CAN GND is a “common” terminal that must only be used if there
is an extra “common mode wire” included in the CAN cable (that is the twisted pair for data + one common wire).
This extra wire reduces common mode voltage between CAN devices on the bus, but it is only rarely used in
marine applications.

[Link] Grounding of the CAN bus cable


It is recommended only to connect the shield, of the total CAN bus network, to the ship’s ground in one single
location.

It is important that the ground connection used is free from noise and transients from other devises using the
same ground connection. If a good and noise-free ground connection is not available, it is normally better not to
connect the CAN bus cable shield to ground at all.

Using multiple ground connections on the CAN bus cable may create electrical noise loops
disturbing the CAN bus communication.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 35 of 206


4.5 XDi power supply and CAN connections

Cable relief strip

Connector 2 Termination Connector 1

XDi base unit connectors


Type Terminal Signal Marking Remark
no.
1 CAN 1 CAN 1 GND Common, should not be connected *)
connection
2 CAN 1 LOW
Connector 1 3 CAN 1 HIGH
4 Supply +24 V DC Standard power input
Voltage
5 0V
Dill switch 1 - ON/OFF CAN 1 Term 120 Ω termination
Dill switch 2 - ON/OFF CAN 2 Term 120 Ω termination
6 CAN 2 CAN 2 GND Common, should not be connected *)
connection
7 CAN 2 LOW
Connector 2 8 CAN 2 HIGH
9 Supply +24 V DC Redundant power input
Voltage
10 0V

*) The common wire should only be used if an extra dedicated “common” wire is available in the CAN bus cable.
This terminal may not be connected to cable shield or ground!

4.5.1 Strain relief of cable and termination of cable shield


When the cable and connectors are mounted on the XDi, the cable should be relieved using a cable strip that can
easily be inserted in the small slots (see drawing).

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 36 of 206


If the CAN bus cable is daisy-chained, the shield of the cable must be electrically connected beneath the strain
relief strip and must not be connected to CAN common!

Be aware, that the shield must not touch any other electrical parts or any metal parts around it. It is therefore
recommended to connect the two cable shields up against each other and cover the shield joint with a heat shrink
hose, before it is fixated below the cable strip. The two shields may be soldered together (with great care), but in
protected indoor panels, it should not be necessary.

4.5.2 Supply voltage monitoring:


The XDi has two supply voltage inputs, separated by diodes as shown below.
This allows the XDi to be supplied from two independent power sources. Each input is also protected by a polyfuse
that will disconnect the XDi unit in case of a short circuit in the internal power supply unit.
A single failure in one of the power source lines will not affect the XDi or the source located on the other side of the
separation diodes.
An internal single failure in one of the built-in separation diodes will not affect either the function of the XDi or the
rest of the system.

Each supply voltage input is equipped with an isolated voltage monitor circuit. This circuit will detect if the input
voltage drops below the minimum recommended supply voltage level.
This level is approximately 18 V DC.

In the product profile or via the menu, it is possible to activate supply voltage monitoring of one or both supply
voltage inputs.

If monitoring is active, a warning or alert pop-up will be presented on the display if the input voltage is too low (or
missing).

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 37 of 206


A warning is issued if the only available supply is below the limit and the alert is issued if only one of the two supply
inputs is below the limit (or lost). This is of course in a system with redundant power supplies.
A warning or alert beep audio signal can also be activated. (Only issued once when the warning or alert first
occurs).

It is recommended always to have at least one power line monitored.

4.5.3 Warning/alert output


Not only warnings for power supply faults, but also all other active warnings and alerts will be sent in an emergency
message on CANopen.
In the product profile stored in a customised library, it is also possible to pre-configure one or both relays in the DX1
module to be activated when the XDi detects a warning and/or alert.

4.6 First time setup using the wizard


When the XDi unit is received from factory and has not previously been set up, it will automatically start the setup
wizard when powered up the first time:

Please note that the library owner, performance class, library number and version of this library are indicated below
the headline.
Important: check that the library identification and version are correct before you start to set up the XDi.

4.6.1 Rotate the display180O.


The XDi display has a wide viewing angle. However, depending on the colour pallet used on the virtual indicator, a
change of colour may be observed when the display is viewed from below. To compensate for this in installations
where the indicator is normally looked at from an angle below the centre line, it is possible to rotate the
presentation 180o and install the XDi indicator upside down.
When the recommended DEIF colours are used in the virtual indicator design, the colours are very slightly affected
by the change in viewing angle.
For convenience, it is even possible to have this 180o rotation predefined in a customised XDi library, in which case
the XDi will start up being rotated 180o.

4.7 Manual setup procedure


When you press the “OK” soft-key, the wizard will guide you through the 5 main setup steps.

4.7.1 Step 1 - Select CAN Node ID


First step is to assign a CAN Node ID as soon as it is selected XDi is accessible on the CAN bus.
If you don’t use CAN bus in your system, just select the default CAN NodeID by pressing OK.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 38 of 206


XDi has two CAN ports as standard, and they will always be
assigned a common node ID between 1 and 126. (127 is
reserved).

The XDi library contains a default NodeID number, which will


be the one suggested at start-up. If this NodeID is already in
use, it will be greyed out, and the next available NodeID will
be suggested instead.

After selecting the CAN NodeID, write the number on the white
label on the XDi front, behind the front frame. This will help you
identify the unit in the physical CAN network and be beneficial if
an XDi needs to be replaced in a service situation.

4.7.2 Step 2 - Select product profile

The list of predefined Product Profiles (PP) will


be shown. (In this example, there is only one
PP).
The PP contains the product-related settings for:
dimmer/colour shift, CAN bus, warnings, and
sound.
The parameters in the selected PP may later be
changed via the user or installation menus.
(In this example, there is only one PP).

4.7.3 Step 3 - Select virtual indicator

The XDi is delivered with either a standard DEIF


library or a customer library installed.
The XDi library can contain several predefined
virtual indicators which can be selected from this
menu. Each virtual indicator is identified by a
unique VI-number, and if the indicator is wheel-
marked, it will be shown in front of the VI-
number.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 39 of 206


4.7.4 Step 4 - Select VI setup profile
The Virtual Indicator (VI) setup profile contains pre-set parameters for: input sources, scaling, headlines, labels,
units, indicator behaviour and much more.

Selecting a predefined profile makes complex


setup simple, secure, and easy.
The VI setup is related to the VI selected in the
previous step, and there may be up to 50 VI
setup profiles for each Virtual Indicator to select
from.
(In this example, there is only one VI setup).

4.7.5 Step 5 – Finish – XDi without NX2 module


When the first 4 selections are made, you can
either press OK to finish the wizard and go to
normal operation or select one of the detailed
setup menus.

Installation menu: change or fine-tune the


predefined setup parameters.

User menu: change dimmer, audio, and visual


settings.

Restart wizard: go back to start and make or


change the PP or VI.
In the installation and user menu, it is possible to adjust the pre-set parameters; detailed description of those
menus will follow.

4.7.6 Step 5 – NMEA setup – XDi with NX2 module


In case an NX2 NMEA module is mounted on one of the XDi extension slots, the NMEA setup menu will be
presented as the default selection.

The preinstalled virtual indicator library must


support NMEA input.

Only XDi-N libraries will have full NMEA


functionality and support NMEA input, output
and routing.

Dual and multi libraries may have support for


NMEA output and very limited NMEA input
function. If there is NMEA support, it will be
clearly stated in the library description.

Before you push “OK”, it is a good idea to make

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 40 of 206


sure that all relevant NMEA sensors and system devices are connected to the relevant NMEA inputs on NX2 and
that they are powered up and transmitting data.
Then press OK to select the NMEA setup menu.

4.7.7 NMEA auto scan and input selection


The next step is to select the highlighted “Auto scan and input selection…” by pressing OK. This function will now
scan all input channels and look for all relevant NMEA sentences.

The “Manual input selection…” should first be used after the auto scan routine is performed.
“Manual input configuration…” can be used to configure an NMEA input where no sentence is available when the
input scanning is performed.
If the sensor and other data sources are connected to the correct inputs on the NX2 module, and if there is only
one data source for every relevant data type, then the auto scan function will automatically detect and select them
as source.

4.7.8 NMEA auto setup example


This example is for a main XDi-N wind indicator used in an application where relative wind data is received from the
wind sensor, and the true and geographic true wind data is calculated by the XDi-N.
The XDi-N setup is: NodeID=40, PP01, VI007 (with 4 screens), VS03.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 41 of 206


The wind data is coming from a DEIF WSS 550 wind sensor connected to RX/RTX 2 (RS-485) on the NX2
mounted in slot 2 (in XDi, this input is presented as 2.2).
To calculate the true wind data, speed and heading information is required. In this example speed and heading
data is available on one NMEA output from the ship’s integrated navigation system. This output is connected to the
RX1 input on the NX2 module in slot 2 (in XDi presented as 2.1).

XDi/NX2: NMEA input S2.2 (sensor data):


Wind speed: $WIMWV,220.0,R,028.0,N,A*29

XDi/NX2: NMEA input S2.1 (Nav. data):


Speed data: $VDVBW,06.0,00.0,A,05.0,00.0,A,00.0,V,00.0,A*45
Heading: $HEHDT,194.2,T*21

We select auto scan by pushing the OK button, and the automatic NMEA input scanning is performed.

After a short period of time, the numbers in the right side will be stable. This means that no new data sources are
detected.

“Supported data sources” are all the sources that can be set up for NMEA in the selected product profile. Normally
it covers all data types that the different indicators in the library will use. It also includes the dimmer groups that can
be controlled by NMEA. Normally, this figure is more than what is needed for the selected indicator.
In this case, we have selected one of the most complex wind indicators that is able to present relative wind and
calculated true wind data, and it has found 8 usable data sources and auto-selected all 8.

“Active inputs ([Link])” show the ports that NMEA data is currently receiving from.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 42 of 206


[Link] Stop scan - manual select
To see what is actually selected, highlight “Stop scan – manual select…” and press OK.
You will then get this picture:

RED dot means that no external sources are available, in this case for the dimmer data group.

YELLOW dot means that sources are available for some data in the group, but it should be checked. Some data
types may need manual selection, or some may be missing.

GREEN dot means that all data types in this group have been assigned a source.

We can now look through the automatic selection and check that needed data has a source assigned:

[Link] DIMMER
The dimmer group is red on the above display. That is because the XDi-N does not receive any NMEA DDC
sentences to control the dimmer. If we press OK on the dimmer group, it will open and we can see that no NMEA
sources are available.

In this case, it doesn’t matter since we have chosen a product profile (PP) where dimming is controlled by the front
buttons.
If you want to use NMEA to control the dimmer level you must select a PP that supports NMEA dimming.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 43 of 206


[Link] SPEED
In this example speed data is needed to be able to calculate the true wind data.

The speed group is green, so everything is good.


If we open this group, we can see which port and sentence is used to provide data.

In this case, “Speed through water (STW)” instance 1 and “Speed over ground (SOG)” instance 1, are received
from input port 2.1, provided by talker VD, and sent in sentence VBW.

The XDi only needs one of the speed data to be able to calculate true wind. If STW is available, it will by default be
used. If not, SOG is used. Please note that the default selection can be changed via the installation menu.

[Link] WIND

This data group is yellow, so not all data is selected, or maybe manual setup is needed:

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 44 of 206


Relative wind speed and direction are received from the wind sensor connected to input port S2.2 and contained in
the MWV sentence with talker WI. The selection is made automatically and needs no further attention.

The “Wind speed T 1” and “Wind direction T1” (T= true) are marked in the menu as XDi-net.
The reason for this marking is that the internal wind calculator is active and delivers calculated data as XDi-net
data, for presentation on the indicator as well as transmitted on CAN bus using the XDi-net protocol.
In this way, other XDi-N indicators on the CAN bus that are set up to receive XDi-net data will present the same
calculated wind data.

The geographic wind direction can be calculated both relative to the magnetic north pole and/or to the geographic
true north pole.
In this example, VI007 is selected, and this indicator only presents the geographic true wind direction relative to
true north, therefore only “Wind direction GT 1” is calculated by the XDi-N.
The “Wind direction GM 1” which references to magnetic north is not used and therefore “No NMEA” is indicated.

Please note that there is only one true wind speed parameter. It is the same
independently of the reference point used for the wind direction (ship’s heading or the
north poles.

[Link] COMPASS
In this example compass data is used to calculate geographic true wind inside the XDi.

The compass group is also yellow and should therefore be checked:

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 45 of 206


The magnetic heading of the ship, “Heading M1”, is not available on NMEA, but it is not needed in the actual
configuration, since the selected virtual indicator does not calculate and present geographic wind direction relative
to magnetic north.
The true heading, “Heading T1” is received from the navigation system connected to input port S2.1, provided by
talker HE and contained in sentence HDT.

When the magnetic variation, “Mag. Var. 1” parameter is available on NMEA, the XDi can calculate the magnetic
compass heading based on the true heading (Heading T1) or the other way around. If for example magnetic
heading was calculated based on the HDT data available, it will be shown as HE HDTcc (cc for calculated).

[Link] Finish the installation


The NMEA setup has now been verified and all data needed to show relative wind data and to calculate true wind
data is available, and all left to do is to press the return arrow until the wind indicator is shown on the display and
presents wind data.

When you leave the menu, the NMEA settings will be stored and locked. This means
that only the selected sources will be used by the XDi.

4.7.9 Change NMEA setup


If you make changes in your installation or want to change to another data source, you can always access the
installation menu and make changes.
See the section “NMEA input” for details.

4.7.10 Skipping the wizard


If you have entered the setup wizard by accident and want to leave it again, please push OK on each step to jump
to the next stage without making any changes and end with accepting “Finish Wizard”.

When you make a new selection in the wizard, all previous parameter adjustments made via
menu (or via CAN) will be reset to default settings. For example, if you select a new VI setup
profile for a virtual indicator, then manually entered zero adjustments of input data and selection
of a headline will be reset to the default value!

If you are not completely sure what you are doing, do not make changes using the wizard or
installation menu!

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 46 of 206


4.8 Automated XDi setup via CAN
Instead of making a full manual first time setup, it is possible to use an automated setup via the CAN bus.

To make an automated setup, the XDi must have a unique NodeID assigned, two devices on a CAN bus must
never have the same NodeID. As previously described, it is a good idea to make a “NodeID system” to identify
each physical XDi location in an installation with a unique NodeID.
The “CAN setup controller” must use a list of all NodeIDs in the installation and the combination of virtual indicator
(VI), VI setup (VS) and Product Profile (PP) to auto-setup. If needed, adjustments of default parameters like
selecting another headline from the default headline list can be made. It is even possible to write a new headline
text and activate that.

When the NodeID is selected by pressing OK, the XDi will send a message on the CAN bus that tells the controller
that a new XDi needs setup, and the controller can take over and complete the setup immediately.
The installer will just see the XDi start-up with the selected indicator.

See the “XDi-net/CANopen reference manual” for a detailed description of how to integrate automated setup in
your CAN bus system.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 47 of 206


5 Detailed product description
5.1 XDi CAN bus
All XDi units are equipped with two galvanic separated CAN ports as standard.

5.1.1 Detailed XDi-net/CANopen description


A detailed description of the CANopen and XDi-net implementation is available in: XDi-net/CANopen reference
manual.
It is recommended to consult this document if you intend to fully utilise the CAN bus.
The following is a short introduction to get started using CAN.

5.1.2 XDi-net for easy integration


If CANopen is new to you, using XDi-net for easy plug and play data sharing via CANopen will be the obvious
choice. The only thing you need to do, is to connect the CAN bus according to the guidelines for installation,
remember the termination, assign a unique node ID for each XDi on the bus, and select appropriate setup profiles
that supports the XDi-net. The XDi will take care of the rest.

5.1.3 CAN NodeID


All transmitting devices on a CAN bus must have a unique NodeID assigned to them. Two devices on the same
bus must never have the same NodeID.
The two CAN ports on the XDi will always be assigned the same NodeID, in other words the NodeID is the unique
“name” of the XDi.
In the XDi Library, a default NodeID is stored. This is simply to guide the installer to the desired section of NodeIDs
for indicators.

[Link] Which NodeID should you select?


The importance of selecting a particular NodeID depends very much on the type of CAN communication used by
the virtual indicator and the dimmer system.
If automated installation setup is used, the NodeID is the unique identification of each physical device and should
be connected to a physical location of the actual device, this will be explained later.
XDi function Particular NodeID/COBID of Note:
NodeID is the data source
required for the must be correctly
XDi set up in the XDi
Use only analogue or digital data No No No CAN bus connection.
inputs. Use default Use default However, XDi must be assigned
a NodeID.
Receive and/or transmit data in No No XDi-net is independent of
XDi-net format. (Any will do*) (Not used) NodeID setup.
Receive data in a TPDO or RPDO No Yes XDi must know the COBID of the
TPDO or RPDO containing
source data. COBID is based on
source NodeID.
Receive data in a DAM-MPDO Yes No Data is addressed directly from
a CAN controller (source) to
each XDi identified by their
NodeID.
Automatic setup Yes - A service data channel (SDO) is
established between “Master”
and one XDi identified by its
NodeID, and setup parameters
are transferred.
*) Any will do, but two units on the CAN bus must not have the same NodeID.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 48 of 206


CANopen uses an arbitration process on the 32 bit header of a CAN frame. The smart thing is, that in case of a
data collision, the CAN frame with the lowest header value will continue transmitting, while the one with the highest
header value will redraw and try again later. The NodeID is indirectly part of the CAN frame header, and it is
possible to give a CAN unit higher priority by selecting a lower NodeID. In most indication systems, using CAN bus,
the busload is so low that collisions and thereby priority is not an issue. Anyhow, we recommend that the low
NodeIDs are used for controllers and sensors and higher NodeIDs are used for the indicators themselves.

[Link] NodeID for automated setup


If you now or later want to include an automated installation-setup function in your CAN-based indicator system, it
is a very good idea to make a standardised structure for the use of NodeIDs in your systems.
There are 127 available NodeIDs, which is NodeID = 1 to 126, and 127 is in most cases reserved by XDi-net.
The NodeID structure or list should reflect the selection of virtual indicator, VI-setup and PP for each XDi node.

[Link] Example of a custom NodeID list:


In this example, all indicators are running on the same redundant CAN bus with up to two propulsion systems on
the same bus. Data of the same type (for example azimuth angle 1 and 2) are determined by the data type
instance, which is then pre-configured in the two VI-setup profiles. The dimmer function is also distributed via CAN
bus and is divided into 5 dimmer groups, each pre-configured in a PP, one PP for each dimmer group.

Location Product Virtual VI- Indication NodeID


profile indicator setup
System controller - - - No indication – transmits data and 01
setup parameters.
Azimuth angle transmitter 1 - - - for example, RTC 300 or RTC 600 02
Azimuth angle transmitter 2 - - - 03
Reserved…. …
Pitch angle transmitter 1 - - - for example, DEIF RTC 300 06
Pitch angle transmitter 2 - - - 07
Reserved…. …
Centre console FWD PP1 VI1 VS1 FWD azimuth, RPM, Pitch 1 20
“ “ “ PP1 VI1 VS2 “ “ “ “ 2 21
Reserved…. …
Centre console AFT PP2 VI2 VS1 AFT azimuth, RPM, Pitch 1 24
“ “ “ PP2 VI2 VS2 “ “ “ “ 2 25
Reserved…. …
Portside bridge wing PP3 VI1 VS1 FWD azimuth, RPM, Pitch 1 28
“ “ “ PP3 VI1 VS2 “ “ “ “ 2 29
Reserved…. …
Starboard bridge wing PP4 VI1 VS1 FWD azimuth, RPM, Pitch 1 32
“ “ “ PP4 VI1 VS2 “ “ “ “ 2 33
Reserved…. …
Engine control room PP5 VI1 VS1 FWD azimuth, RPM, Pitch 1 36
“ “ “ PP5 VI1 VS2 “ “ “ “ 2 37
Reserved…. …
Centre console FWD PP1 VI3 VS1 FWD stern thruster % 1 40
“ “ “ PP1 VI3 VS2 FWD stern thruster % 2 41
Reserved…. …
Centre console AFT PP1 VI4 VS1 FWD stern thruster % 1 44
“ “ “ PP1 VI4 VS2 FWD stern thruster % 2 45
Reserved…. …
Engine control room PP5 VI3 VS1 FWD stern thruster % 1 48
“ “ “ PP5 VI3 VS2 FWD stern thruster % 2 49
Reserved…. …
Some NodeIDs are reserved in between for future system expansion.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 49 of 206


5.2 Overall CAN bus parameter settings
Editing the CAN bus parameters list below requires a very good knowledge of CANopen and the special
manufacture specific CANopen functions built on top to obtain the XDi-net functions. It is therefore highly
recommended to consult the “XDi-net/CANopen reference manual” before making any changes in the CAN setup
parameters.
The parameters in the table below are the overall CAN controls, and they will in some cases overrule or limit local
CAN setting predefined in a product profile (PP) or a VI-setup profile (VS).
Example: an analogue input is set up to share data on CAN1 and CAN2, and the overall CAN bus mode in the
table below is set up to be “Single CAN” (CAN1). Then data is only shared on CAN1.

The default CAN bus parameters are defined in the selected product profile.

CAN function Available XDi-net ON XDi-Net Note


selection OFF
CAN bus mode: Single CAN, 2 x single 2 x single Selecting Single CAN will keep
CAN CAN CAN 1 active and close all
2 x single CAN,
activities on CAN2.
Redundant CAN
Bit rate CAN1 (kbps): 20, 50, 125, 250 125 125 500, 800, 1000 kbps is only for
short distances.
(500, 800, 1000)
Bit rate CAN2 (kbps): 20, 50, 125, 250 125 125 125 kbps is normally used for
marine CANopen application.
(500, 800, 1000)
XDi-net functions: ON/OFF ON OFF All XDi-net functions are
disabled.
XDi-net variable data on: NO, CAN1, CAN1&2 NO Allows for transmission and
CAN2, CAN1&2 reception of XDi variable data
(See “Important XDi-net (not OFF)
between XDi units on the CAN
restrictions”)
bus.
Send XDi-net setup synch NO, CAN1, CAN1&2 NO XDi will be able to synchronise
data on: CAN2, CAN1&2 parameter changes if this
(not OFF)
function is ON.
(See “Important XDi-net
restrictions”)
Send CAN Heartbeat on: NO, CAN1, CAN1&2 NO Must be ON when XDi-net
CAN2, CAN1&2 and/or redundant CAN is used.
(not OFF) (All is OK)
Auto start XDi on the CAN YES/NO YES NO (or Must be ON when XDi-net is
bus: YES) active.
Send CAN start command NO, CAN1, NO NO Used to activate a CAN sensor
on CAN bus: CAN2, CAN1&2 without built-in auto-start.
(All is OK) (All is OK)
DAM-MPDO to be used: NON or RPDO2-4 NONE or NON or Only used if DAM-MPDO data
RPDO2-4 RPDO1- 4 transfer is used.
(See “Important XDi-net
restrictions”)
Bold is the preferred selection.

5.2.1 Important XDi-net restrictions:


When ”XDi-net variable data on” is set to one or both CAN ports, then ALL RPDO1s for all CAN NodeIDs on that
CAN bus are reserved for XDi-net functions, and RPDO1 must not be used for other purposes!
When function “Send XDi-net setup synch data on” is set to a CAN port, then TPDO1-4 and RPDO1-4 are reserved
for node 127. Node 127 is also used as a “parking” node for the XDi’s service units.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 50 of 206


Standard XDi-net is using RPDO1 as mentioned above, but in a custom library, it is possible to move the XDi-net to
one of the other RPDOs: RPDO2, RPDO3 or RPDO4. This should only be considered if there is an unsolvable
conflict in the user system due to the restrictions on RPDO1.

5.2.2 The CAN bus mode


3. Single CAN mode where only CAN1 is activated.
4. 2 x Single CAN mode, used when data is available on separate CAN bus systems.
5. Redundant CAN mode, primary/secondary CAN bus line.

[Link] Two independent CAN lines


This is a very useful feature in applications where two separated CAN busses are used for respectively indication
and control, for example where the actual azimuth angle is available on the “indicator bus” and the commanded
azimuth angle is available on the “control bus”.
It has also proven to be useful in some applications to separate indicator data and dimmer on separate buses. An
example could be a supply vessel with four azimuth thrusters, each with a separate data bus, and with XDi
indicators located in respectively centre bridge, port and starboard bridge wing and aft bridge. In this application,
dimming must be performed centrally via CAN for all the indicators in the same panel (for example starboard bridge
wind).
To achieve this, both CAN ports are used:
CAN1: Handles variable data that is routed individually on separate CAN bus lines to each of the four indicators
(one for each thruster).
CAN 2: Handles dimmer data to control all four indicators in the same location. Data is routed on a separate CAN
bus line between the four indicators.
In this way, the four CAN data lines are independent and isolated from each other and the CAN dimmer line.
See the example in appendix 8.

[Link] Redundant CAN


Redundant CAN requires a CANopen master to control the two CAN bus networks and decide which bus should be
used. By default, CAN1 is the primary line and CAN2 is the secondary (backup) line.

5.2.3 CAN bus changes via menu


The default CAN bus parameters can be changed manually via the XDi installation menu.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 51 of 206


5.3 Error indication
When the XDi detects errors, it alerts attention by the built-in buzzer (can be disabled from the user menu or by
default in custom libraries) and a pop-up message as well as a CANopen message (see XDi-net/CANopen
reference manual for details). If the error is missing data for an indication, the pointer of that indication starts
blinking. It is possible to disable warnings and sounds separately, from the user menu (default is configured in the
product profile), however, even if the warning pop-up is disabled, the pointer will still blink if data is missing.
If an indication is disabled, no error indication is shown when data is missing for that indication. For example, if a
set-point for rudder is disabled (by default or from the install menu) in a virtual indicator, the XDi will not show
warning, when the data for the set-point is missing.
The same applies for CAN bus errors, from CAN bus monitoring that will not be shown if the specific port is not
configured as used.
See chapters 10.3.2 Warning setup, and 10.3.4 Sound setup for information on how to enable and disable the
warnings and sound. Note that the “Alert” type is designated as “Caution” in the menu.
In the XDi there are two types of error messages:
1. Warning which is the more severe type – always shown in orange on the top left of the display. Due to the
severity, the warning is constantly shown until the reason for the warning is no longar active.
2. Alert which is less serious type – always shown in yellow on the top right of the display. The alert is shown
every approximately 10 seconds for approximately 1.5 – 2 seconds. It is blinking (2s on;10s off) to enable
the user to see what is behind it.

Warning Alert

If there are more than one message of the same kind, the XDi switches between the active messages. The
message is shown after a 3s time out for the input where the error persisted.

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The following table lists the errors and how they are displayed (can also be used for troubleshooting):

Display pop-up text Warning Duration Error causes


type

Data lost! Warning On while error • Used CAN data is not received before
persists timeout
• Data from XDi-net or an internal input
converter is not received (for example data
for a digital readout of analogue %
indication)

AX1 S1 Input Error Warning On while error • Data from analogue module in slot 1
persists input is not received
• data value is outside error/range limits
• AX1 module not mounted in Slot 1

AX1 S2 Input Error Warning On while error • Data from analogue module in slot 2
persists input is not received
• Data value is outside error/range limits
• AX1 module not mounted in Slot 2

DX1 S1 Input Error Warning On while error DX1 module not mounted in Slot 1
persists

DX1 S2 Input Error Warning On while error DX1 module not mounted in Slot 2
persists

NMEA S1 Input Error Warning On while error NMEA data on a configured NX2 module
persists mounted in Slot 1 is not received (can also
alternate with Data lost!)

NMEA S2 Input Error Warning On while error NMEA data on a configured NX2 module
persists mounted in Slot 2 is not received (can also
alternate with Data lost!)

Power Low! Warning On while error Single power supply monitoring only.
persists The monitored power supply (1 or 2) voltage is
under 18.5 VDC (±1 V) *

Power 1&2 Low! Warning On while error Monitoring both supply inputs.
persists Both power supplies voltage is under
18.5 VDC (±1 V)*

Power 1 Lost! Alert Blinking while error Power supply 2 voltage is under
persists 18.5 VDC (±1 V)*

Power 2 Lost! Alert Blinking while error Power supply 2 voltage is under
persists 18.5 VDC(±1 V)*

* Provided the XDi is still on

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 53 of 206


5.4 XL, BW, BRW-2 and TRI-2 with sCAN
The traditional DEIF XL indicator with single CAN input (sCAN) is a “listen only” device
on the CAN bus, and it is therefore not necessary to assign a unique NodeID for an XL
on the bus. Instead, the XL indicator needs to know the CAN data source that will
provide the CAN data to be presented. XL with sCAN protocol requires variable data to
be transmitted in byte 0 and 1 of TPDO1 for the CAN source identified by its NodeID
(source ID). The COBID of the used TPDO1 is: 0x180 + ”Source NodeID number”.

The XDi can be configured to use the same sCAN format as the XL family is using.
It is also possible to configure the XDi to act as a sCAN data source, for example
transmitting its analogue or digital input data in a TPDO1 recognised by the XL family as source data.
It is therefore possible to make a combined system where the XL family of indicators and XDi are using the same
CAN data, and the XDi may share additional analogue or digital input data with other XL or XDi units on the bus.
To define such combined system configurations in a combined system requires a good understanding of XL sCAN
and XDi, so it is recommended to require some assistance from DEIF when such systems are designed.
Application notes may be available from DEIF to help you specify indicators for your combined system.

5.5 Extension modules


The input/output capability of an XDi can be extended by adding one or two extension modules on the rear of the
XDi unit. XDi 96 has one extension slot, and XDi 144 and XDi 192 have two slots. This is a very flexible way of
extending the XDi CAN bus interface with additional analogue or digital inputs.

Slot 2 Slot 1

(Drawing – XDi unit - exploded view main unit with options)

The XDi 96 has one slot for an extension module, where XDi 144 and XDi 192 have two extension slots and can
therefore be equipped with two extension modules.

Input can be extended with analogue or digital inputs, and it is possible to have the XDi configured with relay or
NMEA0183 (IEC61162-1) output.
Extension modules are in addition to the two CAN bus ports, and input data from the extension module will be
shared on the CAN bus as defined in the product or VI-setup profile.
The data sharing on CANopen can either use XDi-Net format and/or CANopen TPDO or RPDO.
The selected virtual indicator using the data from the extension module will scale input data and share them on
CAN if it is set up in the VI-setup profile (VS).
This means, that in a system with multiple indicators presenting the same data, only one XDi needs to be equipped
with extension module(s) and sharing data on CAN. The rest of the XDi units can receive those shared data via
CAN.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 54 of 206


If there are more analogue or digital inputs in a system than one XDi can handle, it is possible to make several XDi
units with extension modules work together providing all data on CAN for the rest of the indicators to use. This is
made very easily when the XDi-net protocol is used, but can also be achieved using TPDO/RPDO data sharing.

Please note, that normally only input data used by the selected virtual indicator is shared on the CAN bus. In
customised libraries, it is possible to make an extra invisible input to share a data type that is not used by the virtual
indicator itself, but only shared on CAN.

5.6 AX1 analogue extension module


The AX1 analogue extension module contains two analogue standard inputs (1 and 2). Each can be configured as
voltage (high or low voltage), current (high or low current) or potentiometer input.
In addition, a 3rd voltage input is intended as input for an analogue dimming voltage (range +/-30 V). This input is
fully calibrated and may also be used as an extra indicator input (voltage or potentiometer).
The XDi supports up to 7-point calibration of an un-linear analogue input, normally 2-point is used of 0…X type
data and 3-point for –X…0…X data types.
The number of calibration points is predefined in the selected VS profile and cannot be changed via the input adjust
menu.
It is possible to adjust key parameters for the analogue input via the XDi menu. This can be used to align the input
and scale max/min input correct.

5.6.1 Reference voltage for potentiometer applications


The AX1 module has a very stable reference voltage output +7.3 V DC (7-7.5 V) with a built-in voltage monitor
function. This is intended for potentiometer applications, since the variations in the reference voltage will be
measured and automatically compensated to obtain a very high accuracy. It is even possible to overwrite the
reference voltage output by an external voltage between 7.5 V to 30 V DC still monitored and variations are
compensated.

[Link] Advanced potentiometer load correction


When a potentiometer is used as voltage source, the internal resistance of the analogue input circuit will load the
potentiometer output resulting in a measuring error. The load impact depends of the resistance value of the
potentiometer that is used. If the potentiometer has a low resistance the impact is low, but the higher the
potentiometer resistance is, the more impact the load will have on the measurement.
When the high voltage input type is used it possible to enable a potentiometer compensation function in XDi. It can
be activated and setup in the VS profile, but it can also be activated and setup in the input adjust menu. When this
function is activated with the correct potentiometer resistance value inserted in Ω, then XDi will compensate for the
error caused by the load of its own analogue input resistance (112 kΩ).
The benefit of using this function is most significant for linear potentiometers with high resistance.
Please note: This function is only available on single high voltage inputs (HV1, HV2 or HV3), not for double input
configuration like SIN/COS or Double triangle potentiometers for example used for 360° angle measurements.
Due to the nature of those dual input types, the load impact is much lower and insignificant for potentiometer values
up to at least 5 kΩ.

5.6.2 Analogue input types


The setup and scaling of the analogue indicator inputs are predefined in the selected VI-setup profile (VS).
If input 3 is used as dimmer input, the default setup parameters are defined in the selected product profile (PP).
The analogue input types are shown below. Select the input type and value that best fits your application.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 55 of 206


Input type can be changed from the XDi menu, the highlighted input type, in the example above, is used for a
4-20mA input, one of the most used analogue interface types for indicators.

Input type Input parameter AX1 Input to be Marking Input Note


range used resistance
+/- 7.5 V +/- 7 500 mV High voltage HVI (1,2 112 kΩ Select the range that
input or3) best matches your
+/- 15 V +/- 15 000 mV
input voltage
+/- 30 V +/- 30 000 mV

+/- 10 mA +/- 10 000 µA High current HI (1 or 2) < 65 Ω Select the range that
input best matches your
+/- 20 mA +/- 20 000 µA (50 Ω*)
input voltage
+/- 1 V +/- 1 000 mV Low voltage input LIV (1 or 2) 1 kΩ The low input is used
for both low current
+/- 2 V +/- 2 000 mV and low voltage.
+/- 1 mA +/- 1 000 µA Low current input
+/- 2 mA +/- 2 000 µA
*) The resistance used to measure the current excl. the resistance in the poly-fuse.

5.6.3 Analogue scaling


In the VS profile, each analogue input used is pre-configured to scale the incoming analogue signal to the correct
output values that fit the data type it sources data to.
The example below shows the setup menu for a typical scaling of an analogue RPM 0 to 200.0 RPM input
represented by a 4-20 mA input signal. The analogue input is configured in the VS to use 2 point calibration (or
scaling); this requires 2 sets of scaling points:

Input Value Note


Input point 1 4 000 in µA equal to 4.000 mA
Output point 1 0 0.0 RPM @ x0.1 res.
Input point 2 20 000 in µA equal to 20.000 mA
Output point 2 3000 300.0 RPM @ x0.1 res.
Input point 1/output point 1 defines that 4000 µA (4 mA) is representing 0.0 RPM, and 20 000 µA (20 mA) is
representing 300.0 RPM. Please note that the standard RPM resolution of x0.1.

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The highlighted “Multi point linearization“ above is grey and cannot be changed from the menu. This is intentionally
blocked to avoid unintentional changes that may result in a critical setup error.

5.6.4 Analogue multi-point linearisation


When the analogue input is used for a data type where the output value is type “+/-X“, for example rudder angle,
then at least 3-point calibration is normally used. This means that 3 scaling pairs are active, for example rudder
angle: -45o to 0o to +45o to match 4 to 12 to 20 mA.

Input Value Note


Input point 1 4 000 in µA equal to 4.000 mA
Output point 1 -450 - 45.0o Rudder angle @ x 0.1 res.
Input point 2 12 000 in µA equal to 12.000 mA
Output point 2 0 0o Rudder angle
Input point 2 20 000 in µA equal to 20.000 mA
Output point 2 450 + 45.0o Rudder angle @ 0.1 res.

The scaling of input value for respectively 100 % portside (-) rudder angle and 100 % starboard (+) rudder angle
can now be adjusted individually during installation.

The XDi has a very strong multi-point linearisation function that allows for up to 7 calibration points.
This strong feature makes it possible to calibrate a non-linear input signal to best match a linear output.
Via the installation menu, it is possible to make a very precise calibration and linearisation of such analogue inputs
to obtain very accurate data for the indicator.
By sharing such data via CAN, all other XDi units using the same data will have direct access to those precisely
calibrated data. In this way, it is only necessary to make calibration once in the complete system.

Example:
Using a +/-45 degree rudder angle indicator system as example, it is possible to calibrate a nonlinear rudder angle
sensor to comply with the calibration accuracy requirements in the international standard: ISO 20673 Ships and
marine technology — electric rudder angle indicator systems.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 57 of 206


Example of result of 7-point calibration, the rudder is positioned at every 15 degrees, and the actual current is
entered as the input point value for each.
The function is the same as explained for 3 point calibration above.

The DEIF RTA 602 analogue rudder sensors (4-20 mA) do not need more than 3 linearisation
points to fulfil the accuracy requirements in the ISO standard. That is why DEIF standard
libraries do not support more than 3 linearisation points; this also makes installation easier.

In most installations, it is not necessary to make any adjustments in the XDi menu when the RTA 602 is installed
and set up.

[Link] Pitch application and other


The multi-point linearisation can of course be used for several applications; at present it has been used in a
customised library for a pitch angle indicator where the pitch input was quite un-linear.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 58 of 206


5.6.5 AX1 input circuit - principle diagram

All inputs/outputs on the same AX 1 module are galvanic separated from the XDi’s supply voltage inputs, from both
CAN ports and from input/outputs on other extension modules (XDi 144 and XDi 192 only).
The 2 current inputs (including the low voltage inputs) are differential inputs, but not galvanic separated, so
common mode rejection must be taken into consideration.
The 3 high voltage inputs refer to the same common terminal (AGND).

5.6.6 Input protection


AX1 inputs are protected for over-voltage, and the HI (+/- 20 mA) inputs are over-current protected.
The AX 1 module is protected against accidental connection of 24 V supply voltage between any combinations of
terminals.

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I/Os on the same AX1 module are not galvanic separated, and therefore common mode must
be carefully considered when more than one input is used.

5.6.7 Common mode rejection


The common mode potential between inputs and from one input to the analogue common/ground terminal (AGND)
must not exceed:

AX1 Inputs: High current Low current Low voltage Analogue


input 1 input 1 Input 1 GND
High current input 2 +/-30 V +/-30 V +/-30 V +/-15 V
Low current input 2 +/-30 V +/-30 V +/-30 V +/-15 V
Low voltage input 2 +/-30 V +/-30 V +/-30 V +/-15 V
Analogue GND +/-15 V +/-15 V +/-15 V

Common mode voltage will slightly affect the measurements, but within the limits above, the impact will be less
than 0.3 % and the overall accuracy will be within class 0.5.

If a common mode voltage between a differential input and AGND exceeds 20 V, the input circuit will be forced out
of range, and the measurement will no longer be valid.
Therefore, when more than one type of input is used, it is important to carefully consider the common mode
situation.
Analogue current inputs to the AX1 module sometimes come from different devices that are more or less galvanic
separated and maybe sourced from different power supplies. This may introduce a DC offset, hum and/or electrical
noise between the individual input terminals, and also from the inputs to the common analogue ground terminal.
This type of common mode interference may disturb the measurements made by the AX1 module.
Connecting the AGND (common) to the common terminals on the analogue sources is a way of eliminating such
common mode disturbances.

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[Link] Example: rudder angle indicator system correctly configured (current source)

The RAI system is with a DEIF RTA 602 rudder angle transmitter 4 to 20 mA, and with an external dimmer, all is
supplied from the same 24 V DC source. When connecting the RTA to +24 V DC and the XDi 4 to 20 mA current
input HI1- to AGND (common), the common mode voltage from HI1+ to AGND will in the worst case be
approximately 1.2 V and is well within the +/-15 V common mode limit.

[Link] Example of an incorrect RAI system configured (current sink) and some solutions
In this example the RTA angle transmitter is in a current sink configuration, where the RTA is connected to 0 V
(AGND), and the XDi 4 to 20 mA current input HI1+ is connected to +24 V. The common mode voltage from HI1+
to AGND (common) will be 24 V, and this exceeds the +/-15 V common mode limit, and the system will not work,
and the indicator will constantly be out of range!

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 61 of 206


[Link].1 Alternative 1 – How to solve the common mode problem above
If the dimmer configuration is slightly changed, as shown in the figure below, where the dimmer potentiometer uses
Vref instead, and it is separated from the current loop, then the system will work fine.

This solution will be possible using the DEIF standard rudder library where dimmer and measuring circuit is
configured to be connected to the same AX1 module and it will work for all XDi sizes (96, 144 and 192).

[Link].2 Alternative 2 - how to solve the common mode problem


To fix the problem in the above example it is important rot educe the common mode voltage to below 15V, so you
can either reduce the supply voltage for the current loop to below 15V (instead of 24V).
With the RTA 602 sensor the minimum voltage across the sensor at 20mA must be at least 7V and across a single
AX1 current input the drop will be max. 1.3V (20mA x 65Ω) so the supply must never be below 8.3V at 20mA.
If a 10V to 15V power supply is available for the current loop it will work fine.

It would also be possible to insert a Zener diode in series with the wire going from +24V to HI1+, as shown below,
If the power supply is a stable 24V (not a battery) this will work fine with a 10 to 15 volt Zener diode. The power
rating for the Zener diode should not be below 0.5W (15V and 20mA is 0.3W).

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 62 of 206


If a 10V Zener diode is used resulting in a 14V supply to the current loop. It will be possible to connect 5 XDi units
(7V + 5 x 1.3V = 13,5V) in series and they can all have the dimmer voltage connection as shown above.

Note: If the power source is including a 24V emergency battery with a charger, which means that the voltage range
can be between 18V and 29V this solution cannot be used.

[Link].3 Alternative 3 - how to solve the common mode problem


The above system will work if the current loop and dimmer circuit is connected to 2 separate AX1 modules, since
the two modules are galvanic separated the problem with common mode voltage is solved.
But please note that this solution will not be possible for XDi 96 (only one extension slot) and that the DEIF
standard rudder library for XDi 144 and XDi 192 does not support this configuration either, so a customized library
will be needed.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 63 of 206


5.6.8 Connecting to the AX1 module
Analogue Extension Module AX1
Terminal Marking Remark
no.
1 AGND Analogue common connection (or ground)
2 DIM/HV3+ Dimmer input configurable in the range, max. 30 V DC, port 3
It can be configured as an extra high voltage indicator input (max. +/-30 V DC), if it is
not used for dimmer.
3 REF REF out typ. 7.3 V DC (min. 7 V…max 7.5 V) and max. 10 mA.
This port can also be used as reference potentiometer input, if the external voltage
applied is between 7.5 V and 30 V DC.
4 HI2- Negative input for: High current input (max. +/- 20 mA DC), port 2
5 HI2+/LIV2+ Positive input for: Low voltage, low current or high current, port 2
6 LIV2-/HV2- Negative input for: Low voltage (max. +/-2 V DC) or Low current (+/- 2 mA DC), port 2
7 HV2+ Positive input for: High voltage (+/-30 V DC), port 1
8 HI1- Negative input for: High current input (max. +/- 20 mA DC), port 1
9 HI1+/LIV1+ Positive input for: Low voltage, low current or high current, port 1
10 LIV1-/HV1- Negative input for: Low voltage (max. +/-2 V DC) or Low current (+/- 2 mA DC), port 1
11 HV1+ Positive input for: High voltage (+/-30 V DC), port 1

The input wiring to the AX1 module must be in accordance with this table:

Voltage and current connection


Terminal no Signal Input
+ -
11 1 High voltage (HV1) input range, max. +/-30 V Analogue port 1
Low voltage (LIV1) input range, max. +/- 2 V
9 10
Low current (LIV1) input range, max. +/- 2 mA
9 8 High current (HI1) input range, max. +/- 20 mA

7 1 Hi voltage (HV2) input range, max. +/-30 V Analogue port 2


Low voltage (LIV2) input range, max. +/- 2 V
5 6
Low current (LIV2) input range, max. +/- 2 mA
5 4 High current (HI2) input range, max. +/- 20 mA

2 1 Dimmer input/high voltage 3 (DIM/HV3), max. +/-30 V Analogue port 3


3 1 REF out voltage

Terminal 1, analogue common (AGND), is used as the common connection for input REF,
HV1+, HV2+ and DIM/HV3+ .

IMPORTANT: Only one input signal (voltage or current) must be connected to an input port,
so be careful not to connect 2 different sets of input wires to the same input port!
.

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5.6.9 Configuration of the AX1 module
Analogue input ports used as indicator input are pre-configured in the “VI-setup” profile (VS) defined for a virtual
indicator (VI); this is also the case if DIM/HV3 is used as indicator input.
The configuration of the analogue dimmer input is pre-configured in the selected Product Profile (PP).

If you by accident select a PP and a VS profile that are both set up to configure the DIM/HV3
input port, then the XDi will assign port 3 as dimmer input as defined by the product profile (PP)
and the virtual indicator (VI) will miss the input configuration and indicate that analogue input
data is lost!

Menu access: The default settings of the extension module may be changed/adjusted via the XDi menu system.
Adjustment of dimmer settings is in the “User menu”, and indicator input settings are located in the more protected
“Installation menu”.
Via the installation menu, it is possible to adjust the analogue setup parameters, for example calibrate the zero
point, adjust max/min scaling values, or change direction of the scaling (CW/CCW) and much more.
Please see the “Installation menu” section for detailed information.
The available analogue inputs on the AX1 can be configured as follows:
Type Input Type Note
Sin cos input Port 1 = SIN and High voltage, max. +/-30 V or Input pair
Port 2 = COS High current, max. +/-20 mA
Double triangle Port 1 = input 1 High voltage, max. +/-30 V or Input pair
input Port 2 = input 2 High current, max. +/-20 mA
Single input Port 1 or High voltage, max. +/-30 V or Low current and Low voltage
Port 2 High current, max. +/-20 mA or use the same input connectors.
Low current, max. +/- 2 mA or
Low voltage, max. +/- 2 V DC
Single input Port 3 (Dim) High voltage, max. +/-30 V DC Dimmer input.
Is fully calibrated and can also
be configured as an indicator
high voltage input (3).
High accuracy Port 1, High voltage, default 0 to 7.3 V (= The input to output scaling is
potentiometer Port 2 or Vref) made relative to Vref and
input Port 3 (Dim) Vref is continuously measured and thereby corrected for drift or
may be overwritten by an external fluctuations in the reference
voltage between +7.5 and +30 V DC voltage also if it is overwritten.

[Link] Sin/cos dual input with +/- 10V supply to the potentiometer
Input 1 and 2 can be predefined in the VS as a SIN/COS input pair. This type of input is often used for 360° angle
measurements, and the input signals are provided by a special double potentiometer, supplied by the same voltage
source.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 65 of 206


In the VS profile, the sin/cos max input voltage must not exceed the selected measuring range. If for example the
voltage max. swing is +/-10V (as in above figure) then the selected voltage range for the dual inputs are set to +/-
15V to make sure that the voltage always is within then range. Selecting +/-30V will also work fine but may reduce
the accuracy slightly (but in most cases not noticeable).
Due to the nature of the sin/cos signals, the XDi can compensate for variations in the supply voltage to the
potentiometer at least up to the max input voltage limit and down to a few volt. To obtain a good resolution and not
risking running the input circuit into saturation, the selected input range should be the nearest higher range.

Example: In the DEIF standard library for azimuth thruster indication, it is possible to select a VS for sin/cos
potentiometer input. This input pair has a predefined potentiometer supply voltage of +/-10 V, but this indicator will
also work fine with any potentiometer supply between +/- 6 V and +/-15 V.

The high voltage input resistance of the AX1 module is 112 kΩ, and it is therefore possible to connect the sin and
cos potentiometer wiper directly to the input, without any pre-amplifier.
The sin/cos potentiometer resistance should be as low as possible; this will minimise the influence of the internal
resistance in the AX1 module.
It is recommended to use a SIN/COS potentiometer in the range of 500 Ω to 5 kΩ.

A sin/cos input pair cannot be changed to single input via the XDi menu or vice versa.
DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 66 of 206
[Link] Sin/cos dual input with +24V as potentiometer supply
The SIN/COS potentiometer is supplied form 0 to +24V and the used type of potentiometer will create an artificial
0V point on AGND. From the AX1 input it looks like the potentiometer is supplied by a +/-12V source.
This setup will work fine even if the 24V supply is also used as voltage supply for XDi, simply because the AX1
input circuit is galvanic separated from XDi voltage supply.

In this example XDi is setup to share the azimuth angle measurement with other XDi indicators on the CAN bus.

Note: AX1 in Slot1, DIM/HV3+ can be used for connection of a dimmer potentiometer between AGND and Vref.
However, the potentiometer should be isolated from 0V and also ships ground.
Use of an analogue dimmer voltage from another system is not recommended in this application example, unless
you use a 2nd AX1 module on Slot 2 and connect the dimmer voltage to DIM/HV3+ on this module instead (it may
require a new product profile with analogue dimmer setup from AX1 on slot 2.

[Link] Sin/cos dual input with Vref as potentiometer supply


In the following example the double potentiometer is connected to Vref on the AX1 module.

In this case XDi is setup to use Vref as supply for the potentiometer and it will measure Vref and automatically set
the analogue centre value to ½ Vref. The voltage input range can be setup to +/-7.5V in this case.

Note 1: Input DIM/HV3+ can be used for a dimmer potentiometer between AGND and Vref. Do not to overload the
Vref output, max. current is 10mA.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 67 of 206


To use analogue dimmer voltage from another system connected to DIM/HV3+ is possible. Note that the 0V
reference from the external system will be connected to AGND. If the SIN/COS potentiometer is isolated from all
other systems, the AGND is the only connection to another system and therefore it should work fine.

It is even possible to overwrite the internal Vref by and external supply, for example 24V, connected to AGND and
Vref like this:

In this case XDi will continuously measure the voltage on the Vref terminal and calibrate the measurements
accordingly. It will even be able to eliminate slow fluctuations in the 24 V supply voltage, for example if the system
in an emergency is powered by a 24 V battery that is slowly dropping its voltage over time.

[Link] Double triangle input, external +10V supply for potentiometer


Instead of using a sin/cos potentiometer it is also possible to use a double potentiometer with two tringle shaped
outputs with an angle offset of 90° between the two.

For this angle sensor type, the analogue input 1 and 2 must be setup in the VS profile as a “Triangle input” pair.

Please note that you cannot change from sin/cos to double triangle input type via the Adjust input menu found in
the XDi installation menu. Instead, you must select a VS profile where double triangle input is supported for the
azimuth angle. (If there is no such VS profile for the virtual indicator you are using, please contact DEIF support or
sales, they can help you find the best solution)

In the following example the double potentiometer is connected to a stable external 0-10V power supply.

Connection of the potentiometer


Terminal 1: 0V supply and AX1 AGND
Terminal 2: To AX1 +HV2 input
Terminal 3: +10V supply
Terminal 5: To AX1 +HV1 input

Potentiometer is shown at 0°

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 68 of 206


In this example the potentiometer is supplied by a single +10V DC voltage and the output swing is therefore
0 to 10V. This means that an artificial zero must be inserted as an analogue input centre value. This is to make the
input swing symmetric around this centre point. In this case the analogue centre point is 5.000V =5000 mV.
To make room for the input voltage swing up to 10V the +/-15V input voltage range is selected.
This configuration will automatically adjust to the max voltage range, as long as it is inside the max. input range, but
please note that the measurements will be performed with the input centred at 5.000 V and in this application the
supply voltage must be relatively stable to give an accurate performance.

[Link] Double triangle input, Vref as supply for potentiometer


In the following example the double potentiometer is connected to Vref on the AX1 module.

Connection of the potentiometer


Terminal 1: AX1 AGND
Terminal 2: To AX1 +HV2 input
Terminal 3: AX1 Vref output (app. +7.4V)
Terminal 5: To AX1 +HV1 input

Potentiometer is shown at 0°
In this case XDi will measure Vref and automatically set the
analogue centre value to ½ Vref.
The voltage input range could be selected as +/-7.5V in this case.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 69 of 206


Like in the example with the sin/cos potentiometer it is possible to overwrite the internal Vref by and external
supply, for example 24V, connect 0 V to terminal 1 AGND and +24V to terminal 3 (Vref).
XDi will continuously measure the voltage on the Vref terminal and calibrate the measurements accordingly. It will
even be able to eliminate slow fluctuations in the 24 V supply voltage, for example during an emergency situation
where the indicator system is powered by a 24 V battery source with a slowly dropping voltage.

[Link] Input lost detection on dual potentiometer input


On a voltage or potentiometer input 0 is often a valid value and it is therefore not directly possible to detect if the
input connection is lost since it will just create a 0 input signal. To make it possible to detect a lost connection in
such a system it can be necessary to move the active input range so that it is possible to detect when the input is
lost.
Double potentiometers
In the example below the double potentiometer configuration 2 additional resistors are used to create a minimum
and maximum voltage that is used to detect if one of the connections to the potentiometer is lost.
When you use 2 resistors as shown it is possible to detect not only if one of the inputs (or both) is lost, but also if
the connection potentiometer to 0V or +10V is lost.

This can be either a sin/cos or triangle (double linear) potentiometer.

In the example the low error voltage can be inserted as 400mV (0.4V) and the high error voltage to 9250mV
(9.25V).
In case of a double potentiometer the use of 2 resistors will balance the 0 point to ½ x 10V and that may make
calibration easier, but both for sin/cos and double triangle inputs XDi is able to detect if the difference voltage
between inputs is to low which will happen if potentiometer connection to 0V or +10V is lost. In this case the 250Ω
resistor to 0V will be sufficient to detect if connection to one or both inputs are lost.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 70 of 206


[Link] Single high voltage input
AX1: +HV1 (High voltage 1) on terminal 11, +HV2 on terminal 7 or +HV3/Dim on terminal 2. All 3 with 0V reference
at AGND, terminal 1.
The high voltage input can be configured to use full data resolution within the ranges:
+/-7.5 V, +/-15 V or +/-30 V, this secures a very high accuracy in the analogue measurements.
The input is pre-configured to an input range that is scaled to an absolute data range for the selected data type.
All voltage inputs are measured with a resolution in mV (1V = 1000mV)

Example: A rudder indicator with voltage input, +/- 10 V input is scaled to +/-45.0o rudder angel.
In this case 3-point input calibration is typically used and this means that:
i/o-pair 1: -10 000mV = -450 (=-45.0° (PS)),
i/o-pair 2: 0mV = 0° and
i/o-pair 3: 10 000mV = 450 (+45.0° (SB))

Input load:
The high input resistance (112kΩ) of this input results in an insignificant load of the voltage source. The internal
resistance of the power source and resistance in the signal wires should be as low as possible. If the total source
resistance exceeds 100 Ω, adjustment of the input voltage pre-set may be necessary.
Potentiometer used as input source is covered in a separate section.

[Link] Single high current input


AX1 current loop inputs:
+HI1 (High current 1) on terminal 9, -HI1 on terminal 8 or
+HI2 on terminal 5, -HI2 on terminal 4.
The high current input can be configured to use an input range between either +/-10 mA or +/-20 mA.
The internal current resolution is in µA (1mA = 1000µA)
Very often this input type will be pre-configured to 4 to 20 mA. (4000 to 20000 µA)
The high current input is overcurrent-protected by an auto recovery fuse (polyfuse). This adds slightly to the input
resistance, but has no impact on the measuring accuracy.
The internal resistance is between 55 and 65 Ω, resulting in a max. voltage drop of +/-1.3 V at +/-20 mA. The total
voltage drop must be considered when several current inputs are serial-connected. In the application note for 4 to
20 mA rudder indicator systems, you will find a detailed description of how to design a current loop system.

[Link] Single low current and low voltage input


AX1 current loop inputs:
+LIV1 (Low Current/Voltage 1) on terminal 9, -LI1 on terminal 10 or
+LIV2 on terminal 5, -LI2 on terminal 6.
The low current input can be configured in the range: +/-2 mA (+/-2000 µA).
The same input is also used as a low voltage input and can be configured in the range +/-2 V (+/-2000mV).
Please note that the input resistance is only 1 kΩ. This input is designed to withstand accidental connection to the
24 V supply voltage, at least for a short period of time.

[Link] Input lost detection on a current input


The 4 to 20 mA is still one of the most popular input types for indicators and in XDi it is possible to insert an input
current lost and an over current limit that will flag a AX1 input lost message in case of a wire break or if the supply
voltage for the sensor is lost.
In our standard indicators with 4-20mA input we normally set the low current level to 3500µA (3.5mA) and the over
current level to 21000 µA (21 mA).

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 71 of 206


This can always be adjusted if needed in the installation menu / input adjust.

Note: If you change a 4 – 20 mA input to a voltage input you will of cause need to change the input scaling but also
remember to change or deactivate the input error limits. If you change minimum level to -32000 and maximum level
to 32000 the input error detection is disabled.

[Link] High accuracy potentiometer input


On AX 1 any of the High Voltage inputs can be configured to give optimal performance when it is sourced form a
potentiometer.
When a potentiometer is used as input voltage source for an indicator, there are two important things to be aware
of:
1. The measuring error caused by the input resistance loading the potentiometer output. In the system below,
the max measuring error of 1.1 % due to input load, is reached when the wiper is located in the centre
position (½ rotation angle). If the potentiometer resistance value is doubled to 10kΩ, the max. error is also
nearly doubled.
2. The precision and stability of the voltage source that supplies the potentiometer is important. If this voltage
source is fluctuating, the indication will fluctuate.

Ad.1. The XDi has a special function to eliminate the error caused by the input load. From the adjust input menu in
the installation menu, simply enter the potentiometer resistance value and activate the “Potentiometer correction”
function. XDi will now automatically compensate for this error.

Ad.2. AX1 has a built-in 7.3 V reference voltage that is very stable and is intended to be used as supply for
potentiometer applications.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 72 of 206


The high-voltage input can be pre-configured as a “Vref potentiometer input” type; this means that the input data is
measured relative to the actual measured reference voltage. This means that any drift or fluctuations in the
reference voltage will be corrected.

If there is a need for using another reference voltage than the one provided by the AX1 module, it is still possible to
use the correction function simply by overwriting the reference voltage by an external reference voltage. In the
example below, the 24 V supply is used as external reference voltage. Since the high-voltage input is pre-
configured as a “Vref potentiometer input”, the input voltage will be measured relative to the external reference
voltage and scaled to a value between 0 (input = 0V) and 10000 (input = Vref).
Again, drift and fluctuations in the external voltage supply will automatically be corrected. This makes it even
possible to use a 24 V battery with a charger as the voltage source for the complete system.
In such a system XDi will compensate even when the voltage has dropped down to 18V, when the battery is nearly
discharged, and up to 28-29V when the battery is fully charged again.

[Link] Input lost detection on a single potentiometer input


Single potentiometer

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 73 of 206


In a single potentiometer application, for example when a potentiometer is used for rudder angle measurement.
It is possible to detect if a connection to the potentiometer is lost, it just requires that 0V is not part of the valid
measuring range.
If the complete rotation angle of the potentiometer is needed in the system, it is possible to obtain the above by
adding 2 extra resistors as shown below.

The input voltage from 0.83V to 9.17V shall be scaled to -45 to +45 degrees and the input error detection low level
can for example be setup to 0.5V (500mV) and the high error levels can be 9.3V. If any single connection is now
lost the input voltage will either be 0V or somewhere between 9.5 and 9.9V.
This is due to the 112kΩ input resistance, in worst case when the 0V connection to the potentiometer is lost the
input voltage will raise to 9.53V and activate the input max error detection above 9.3V.
Worst case calculation if 0V connection is lost:
V error max, o =10V(source)*112kΩ/(112kΩ+5kΩ+500Ω)= 9.53V so, the max. error value shall be between this
value and 9.17 that is the max. valid value, therefore 9.3V seems to be a good choice.

If it is a rudder application where the full potentiometer rotation angle is not used it may not be necessary to add
extra resistors to be able to make the detection of lost connection as long as the used voltage level leaves enough
extra voltage range to be able to detect that an input is lost, exactly the same way as in the above example.
The shown external resistors will in that case just be part of the internal potentiometer resistance.

Error detection on a potentiometer connected to Vref


When you use the build in Vref output to stabilize the measurement from a potentiometer, you must be aware that
the input voltage is measured as a relative value to Vref. 0V=0 and Vref=10 000.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 74 of 206


This means that if you insert high and low input error values in this case has to be calculated as the relative value
and inserted as such. The values you insert shall have a small margin to the min and max values, so in this
example you can use 400 for the low error value and use 9300 for the high. Be sure that if you lose 0V connection
to the potentiometer then the input voltage will raise to above max error value.
Worst case calculation if 0V connection is lost:
Rel. error max, o =10000(Vref. relative value)*112kΩ/(112kΩ+5kΩ+500Ω)= 9532 so the max. error value shall be
between this value and 9167 that is the max. valid value. Therefore 9300 seems to be a good choice.

It will be the same also if you connect an external voltage source to the Vref terminal to use a higher supply voltage
for the potentiometer.

[Link] Dimmer input


AX1: +HV3/DIM on terminal 2 with 0V reference at AGND at terminal 1.
The dimmer input is a standard high-voltage input and can be configured as previously described. When used as
dimmer input, the pre-configuration is located in the Product Profile (PP), and changes can be made via the XDi
user menu.
In all DEIF standard libraries you will find product profiles for analogue dimmer connection to the dimmer input on
AX1 located in slot 1. It is important that the AX1 module is located in the correct slot specified in the PP
documentation / help-text. By default, this input is configured for potentiometer operation using Vref to supply the
potentiometer, but the analogue dimmer input can alternatively be re-configured as a voltage input via the user
menu.
This means that the dimmer level will be controlled by the voltage at terminal 2 (+HV3/DIM).
The voltage can be generated by a central dimmer controller or by a potentiometer used as variable voltage
source, as in the example below.
Independently of the analogue dimmer input configuration, the actual dimmer level can be shared via CAN, to
control other XDi units forming part of the same dimmer group as the XDi unit with the analogue dimmer input.

The supply voltage for the potentiometer in this configuration should be relatively stable since changes in this
voltage will directly affect the dimmer level. The potentiometer value is not critical in a dimmer application.
It is recommended to use a potentiometer in the range 1 to 20 kΩ.

[Link] Dimmer input using Vref


To avoid voltage fluctuation affecting the dimmer input, it is possible to use the AX1 Vref output as supply for the
dimmer potentiometer. Configured like that the dimmer level will be stable and independent of the supply voltage,

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 75 of 206


and like previously described for the HV input, it is possible to overwrite the reference voltage by an external
voltage (7.5-30 V) and still get fluctuations corrected.

It is recommended to use a potentiometer in the range from 1 to 20 kΩ.

[Link] Dimmer input using PWM


The XDi does not directly support PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) input for dimmer control, but it is possible to
route the PWM signal through a low pass filter to obtain a DC voltage at the analogue input. The high input
impedance (112 kΩ) of the analogue dimmer input limits the load of the RC filter.
The PWM frequency should be as high as possible to be able to filter hard to avoid backlight flicker and keep a fast
response.

The resistor R should not exceed 5 kΩ, and the capacitor C can be calculated as:
10
𝐶= [µF]
2𝜋 𝐹 𝑅

Where F is the PMW frequency in kHz, resistor in kΩ and the capacitor C in µF, the max/min dimmer input voltage
span should be adjusted via the menu to best match the usable voltage range from the PWM signal.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 76 of 206


To eliminate flicker, it may be necessary to increase the raw data filter value via the XDi user menu by entering the
dimmer source setup menu. Alternatively, the capacity C can be increased.

The raw data filter can be set between 0 and 100 (0 is OFF). The filter value indicates the number of samples used
for averaging.
In the example above, a change of Raw data filter value from 10 to 100 will increase the averaging time from 1 to
10 seconds (100 samples of 100 ms).
Dimmer error handling
In DEIF standard libraries, the default dimmer settings and behaviour are predefined in the available selection of
Product Profiles (PPs). Select a PP that best match the dimmer needs and make necessary parameter adjustments
to match the installation using the XDi user menu.
When a customised library is made, it should be considered how the dimmer must behave when for example the
potentiometer wiper loses its connection, or the dimmer supply fails. If the dimmer input is a traditional input where
0 V equals minimum backlight (0 %) and 24 V is maximum backlight (100 %), then a lost dimmer input will result in
a nearly black display.
It is possible to reverse the XDi dimmer input signal, so that 0 V equals max backlight (100%) and 24 V is minimum
backlight (0%). This secures that the XDi indicator is visible if input is lost.
Alternatively, the dimmer input can be configured with an offset, so that for example 2 V equals minimum backlight
(0%), and if the voltage drops below 2 V, then the backlight will shift to a predefined error stage. This could be pre-
set at for example 50 % backlight.
The default dimmer settings are all predefined in the product profile (PP).
One way of doing this is by connecting a resistor from the potentiometer to 0V as shown below.

In the user menu the standard dimmer configuration can be changed so that 0% = 2000mV and 100% = 24000mV.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 77 of 206


This solution will bring the dimmer level in error stage if the connection to the wiper or the supply voltage is lost,
and it will go to max backlight if the 0V connection is lost (or the resistor is broken). This will be a good solution in
most cases. It can be improved slightly by adding a resistor to +24V as well so that a lost 0V connection also will
bring the dimmer in error stage. For example, 500Ω in top and bottom will decrease the dimmer voltage span to
20V from 2V to 22 V and you will have to adjust the dimmer levels in the user menu accordingly.

5.6.10 Share analogue data via CAN


[Link] XDi-net
All analogue input data for an indicator can be shared on CAN. Data sharing state is predefined in the VI-setup
profile. If sharing is turned off, you may activate it from the installation menu (adjust input).
It is possible to share XDi analogue or digital input data either on: CAN1, CAN2 or CAN1&2 or turn XDi-net sharing
OFF.
Data that is shared is the variable XDi-net data defined in the XDi specific object index table, and is in most cases
2 byte data, a 16 bit signed value. Data is always scaled to an absolute value with a defined unit or a relative %
value in both cases it with be with a predefined data resolution. (Very often the internal data resolution is 0.1, this
means that the data value you will find in the menu is x10 the value presented in the display, for example rudder
angle value 450 is in fact 45.0°.)
The data resolution for different variable data can be found in the XDi-net/CANopen reference manual.
Special data formats
In the XDi-N version there are some special navigation data formats, for example Latitude/ Longitude (position) and
time and data that has special 32 bit data formats and will be transferred via XDi-net it those formats.

[Link] Share data in a TPDO


It is also possible to configure XDi to send variable data from the object index table using a TPDO or RPDO format.
Due to the complexity this feature is something that is added to the indicators VS profile for the data types it is
relevant to send in a TPDO or RPDO. When this is implemented, it is possible to adjust the settings like the COBID
used, transmission rate, CAN bus to use and other relevant parameters via the installation menu / output setup.
Some standard libraries contain virtual indicators with analogue VS profiles where TPDO output is made available.
This is for example the case with the XDi standard rudder libraries.
In most libraries you must activate the TPDO function via the XDi menu, this is simply to avoid that more than one
XDi is transmitting data using the same TPDO, this will violate the CAN protocol and most likely cause serious data
collisions. So only one XDi must transmit a given TPDO on the selected CAN bus !
This TPDO output function is intended for system integration with XL indicators using sCAN format, but may also
be used for other types of system integration.
Standard TPDOs intended for XL integration will have COBID in the range 0x180 to 0x1FF and will have their
variable data located in byte 0 and 1 (I16).
Note: The sCAN integration is available for DEIF XL, BW, BRW-2 and TRI-2 CAN indicators.
In the XDi data structure most data is of type I16, but there are a few XDi-N data types as mentioned that contains
more than 16 bits of data (for example Position and UTC time and date).
Mapping several data types in one TPDO
In customised libraries, up to 4 data types (I16 or U16) may be mapped into the 8 byte data field of any of the
TPDO’s or RPDO’s defined in CANopen.
Please consult the dedicated document: 4189350066A “XDi-net CANopen reference manual“ for details.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 78 of 206


5.7 DX1 digital extension module
The digital extension module has two galvanic separated digital inputs and two general-purpose relay outputs.
The digital inputs are primarily intended for use as direct RPM pickup input(s), but may be configured differently.

5.7.1 DX1 input circuit - principle diagram


The two digital inputs are identical, and the principle diagram below illustrates the main function.

The input circuit is protected for over- and reverse-voltage.


The threshold (or trigger) level is set up in the relevant setup profile (it cannot be changed from menu).
The setup will be one of 4 fixed levels, intended for input signals of respectively 5 V, 12 V, 24 V or 30 V.
The input voltage level must not exceed +/-32 V DC.

Please see the XDi data sheet for specific technical data.

5.7.2 Connecting to the DX1 module


DX1 Digital extension module connector
Pin no. Marking Function
1 OUT2 COM Relay 2 contact, common
2 OUT2 N.C. Relay 2 contact, normally closed
3 OUT2 N.O. Relay 2 contact, normally open
4 OUT1 COM Relay 1 contact, common
5 OUT1 N.C. Relay 1 contact, normally closed
6 OUT1 N.O. Relay 1 contact, normally open
7 IN2 LOW Digital input 2, negative (-)
8 IN2 HIGH Digital input 2, positive (+)
9 NOT CONN. The terminal is not connected internally.
10 IN1 LOW Digital input 1, negative (-)
11 IN1 HIGH Digital input 2, positive (+)

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 79 of 206


5.7.3 Digital inputs configuration
The inputs can be configured as:
• Two independent inputs for single direction RPM measurements.
• Input pair for bidirectional RPM measurement.
• Input pair for dimmer control (up/down and colour shift on simultaneous activation)
• Input pair for control purposes* (modes: 4 stage input or set/reset)
• Two independent control inputs* (modes: H/L control, toggle on flank, 4 stage time-based input)
• [Revolution counter function (New in 2022) not described yet.]

Note*: The digital input can be configured as a control input. This type of function is only used in special
customised libraries, and the function is not described further in this manual.

The DX1 input mode is defined in one of the selected setup profiles.
When the DX module is used as data input for an indicator or mode control of an indicator, the input definition and
its pre-set parameters are defined in the VI-setup profile (VS).
When DX1 is used as interface for external dimmer pushbuttons, the definition and pre-sets are located in the
Product Profile (PP).

Important: Be careful not to select a VS (indicator input) and a PP (dimmer) both using the same DX1 input(s), if
you make such a selection by accident, the PP will have priority and get access to use the DX1 input for dimming,
and the indicator input defined in the VS will be disabled, and the indicator will show “Data lost”.

[Link] Connecting an RPM pickup


The galvanic separation of the digital inputs makes it easy to connect either an NPN or PNP type inductive pickup
sensor. In fact, any type of sensor able to provide digital pulses can be used as RPM input device.
Connecting an NPN type sensor:

Connecting a PNP type sensor:

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 80 of 206


[Link] Recommended sensor types
For the practical test of the DX1 RPM function, we have used two different inductive sensors from BALLUFF
sensor.
• NPN type: BES 516-329-BO-C-02 BES01EF, normally open, 2 mm sensing distance
• PNP type: BES 516-325-BO-C-02 BES01AZ, normally open, 2 mm sensing distance

The full specification of the tested sensors can be found


on [Link] and can be a useful reference for
selecting a suitable RPM pickup sensor to use with
DX1.

The sensor tests were performed using a specially


constructed RPM test machine with a rotary disc where
16 bolts were equally distributed around the edge. One
or two pickups can be mounted depending on the
actual test, see picture. The test machine is able to
rotate the disc at a maximum speed of 5250 RPM, and
with 16 bolts this equals a max frequency of 1400 Hz.

For unidirectional RPM measurements (direction independent) only one sensor is used.
For bidirectional RPM measurements both sensors are used. In this case, the sensors are mounted with a
mechanical offset, meaning that the pulses from the sensors are also offset in time, making it possible to determine
the direction of the movement.

[Link] Mechanical RPM system recommendations


The mechanical RPM pickup system can be made in
several different ways, either with bolts passing the
inductive sensor or using a disc with a number of cut-
outs along the edge to activate the inductive sensor
(see picture).
It is recommended to use a high number of bolts (or
cut-outs) in the disc as possible to obtain the highest
possible RPM resolution, but keep in mind that the
frequency at max RPM does not exceed the max rating
on the pickup sensor or the DX1 input.

The following table contains a guideline for number of bolts or cut-outs dependent on the max. rotation speed.
Max RPM range Number of RPM Max frequency
bolts
resolution
(or cut-outs)
<100 20 0.05 33 Hz
100 to 500 10 to 20 0.05 to 0.10 16.7 to 167 Hz
500 to 5000 6 to 10 0.10 to 0.167 50 to 833 Hz

To get the best possible performance it is important to position the bolts (or cut-outs) with high accuracy on the disc
and mount the disc on the shaft using a stable construction to reduce jitter on the measurements.
Less than 3 bolts or cut-outs on the disc are not recommended.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 81 of 206


[Link] RPM pickup cable recommendation
The galvanic separated inputs are well protected and not very sensitive to electrical noise. It is, however,
recommended to use a shielded twisted pair cable in installations where long cables are used or where strong
electromagnetic disturbance may occur. The shield must only be terminated in one end to a good ground
connection and must not be connected to any of the terminals on the XDi.

Tested cable type and length:


The DX1 system test includes a test of both Balluff sensor types connected to the DX1 input using 110 meter
shielded twisted pair cable type Belden 9841NH. This test was performed using a rotating disc with an input
frequency up to 1400 Hz. (The max available frequency from test machine).
The measurements on input signals and the data presentation on the XDi indicated no problem with this cable
length.
The maximum cable length depends on the cable type and the maximum operating frequency, but the conclusion
of the test was that 110 meter @ 1400 Hz was not even close to the maximum cable length.

[Link] Sharing RPM data from DX1 via CAN


The RPM data calculated based on the pickup signal(s) can be shared on CANopen/XDi-net.
Therefore, it is only necessary to connect the RPM pickup to the first XDi in the indicator system. The rest of the
XDi units will receive their RPM data via CAN; the easiest way is just to use the XDi-net format, but as for analogue
data, the XDi can be configured to send TPDO or RPDO instead or in addition to XDi-net format.
Even XL CAN indicators may be integrated in such a system. It only requires that the XDi unit that is sharing data is
configured to support the XL sCAN data format (TPDO type data).

[Link] Bidirectional RPM pickup system


To measure bidirectional RPM rotation, it is necessary to configure the virtual indicator to use an RPM input pair.
This is defined in the VS profile.

To be able to determine the direction of the


rotation, the two pickup sensors must be mounted
with a mechanical offset.
The optimal position of the pickup sensors is as
illustrated in the drawing.
Sensor no.1 is right at the centre of a cut-out.
Sensor no. 2 is located with a 25 % offset.
For practical reasons, the two sensors are not
located around the same cut-out; this has no
influence on the function as long as the offset is
correct.

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When the disc is rotating clockwise,
the 25 % mechanical offset between the sensors will delay the signal from sensor no. 2 with 25 % of the period
time (90 degree phase shift) as illustrated below.

When the disc rotates Counterclockwise, the 25 % mechanical offset between the sensors will make the signal
from sensor no. 2 arrive 25 % of the period time ahead of the signal from sensor no.1, as illustrated below.

Positioning of the sensors


The signal below is from the test system mentioned before where the
disc has 16 bolts and where the size of the bolt head is only ¼ of the
distance between bolts. This results in a pulse shape with 25 % duty
cycle.
Depending on the location of sensor no. 2, the signal will be more or less
delayed.

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The input offset between sensor 1 (input 1) and sensor 2 (input 2) must be between 5 % (min) and 45 % (max) of
the period time, for the XDi to be able to determine the rotation direction. In the example above, input 1 is ahead of
input 2 and therefore the RPM direction is positive.

To shift the measured direction, simply connect sensor 1 to input 2 and vice versa.
Example:
In the system below there was a wish to move the 2nd sensor (to the right) closer to the 1st sensor (left)

The optimal positioning of the 2nd sensor is with an offset equal to 25% of the distance L at the drawing above. In
the actual layout where there can be some tolerances to take in consideration, we will recommend that the offset
between sensors it between 10% and 30% of the distance L.

5.7.4 Digital dimmer input


The DX1 inputs can also be configured to act as push-button dimmer inputs. The input is only shared on CAN when
it is activated (that is at a change), and therefore it is possible to have more than one push-button dimmer device
controlling the dimmer level in the same dimmer group.
The digital dimmer input must be preconfigured in the selected product profile to be active.

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The digital dimmer uses both inputs as an input pair, making it possible to change the dimmer level up or down by
activating the input by a connected push-button contact.

The function has 2 modes:


A. Dimmer up/down, input 1 up and input 2 down.
B. Dimmer up/down, but with colour shift when input 1 and 2 are activated simultaneously.

[Link] Connection of 2 push-button dimmer controls (Mode A or B):

This connection can be used in both dimmer modes.


Mode A: Dim up/down. Day/night colour shift can be automatic at a defined dimmer level.
Mode B: Dim up/down and make a colour shift by a simultaneous push on both push-buttons.

[Link] Connection of 3 push-button dimmer/colour controls (Mode B):

This configuration is used for digital dimmer mode B, where there are 3 push-buttons for: Up, Down and Colour
shift.

5.7.5 Relay outputs


The relay function makes it possible to design customised virtual indicators with a warning or control function.
The two relay outputs can be individually configured to serve the functions described in this chapter.

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A relay output can be:
a) Predefined in the product profile (PP) as product warning or alert outputs.
b) Predefined in the VI-setup (VS) as an output from a virtual indicator for example set up to be triggered
when the pointer enters a restricted section of the scale.
c) Predefined in the VS to be activated by a control flag.

Please note, that it is possible to activate a relay output function from both PP and VS at the same time. The relay
will when activate if either of the selected criteria are true.

[Link] Relay mode


Each relay can be predefined to one of the activation modes:
0x00= Normal De-energised (ND) = OFF
0x01 = Normal Energised (NE) = ON
Normal energised mode can be used if the relay output must activate a function either when the XDi supply power
is totally lost or when the relay function is true. This function is recommended when the relay functions for warnings
and alerts are used.

[Link] Timer function


It is possible to define a timer function to control the length of the relay activation or periodically repeat the relay
activation if the event is still true. This can be useful if the relay is activating a sound or light signal.
The timing of this function is selectable in steps of 500 msec.
This function can also be disabled.

[Link] Functions activated from product profile (PP)


0x00 = Disabled (PP function disabled)
0x01 = Activate on XDi Warning
0x02 = Activate on XDi Alert
0x03 = Activate on XDi Warning & Alert
These functions are self-explanatory.

[Link] Functions activated from the VI-setup (VS)


0x00 = Disabled (VS function disabled)
0x01 = Activated inside critical band
0x02 = Activate outside critical band
0x03 = Activate below user def. low value
0x04 = Activate above user def. high value
0x05 = Activate on flag-H (Flag AND mask >=1)
0x06 = Activate on flag-L (Flag AND mask =0)

The relay activation related to critical band can be controlled by one, two, three or all four critical bands for a data
type used by the selected virtual indicator.
The alternative to using critical band is to use a single low or high parameter to activate the relay.
Activation using a data flag includes a data-mask where desired flag bit (or bits) is masked “in” using value “1”. The
relay can be set to either activate when one in-masked flag bit is going 1 or by all in-masked flag bits being 0.

See the XDi data sheet for technical specifications of the relays.

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5.8 NX1 and NX2 NMEA interface module
Serial NMEA data is often the primary data source for XDi-N. To receive
and transmit NMEA data the NX2 module must be mounted on the rear
plate of the XDi-N main unit.
To reduce the number of extension modules needed, NMEA data can be
shared with other XDi-N units via the CAN bus using the XDi-net
protocol. Basic numeric data can also be shared with XDi-D/M, but not
the special data formats like for example time/date and position). Other
devices on the CAN bus may also use NMEA data provided by the XDi-
N.
If only NMEA output data is required, the NX1 module can be used.
The NX1 NMEA output module contains one serial output following
IEC61162-1 (NMEA0183) and may be used to supply output data like
rudder angle and RPM to external devises like integrated navigation
system or a VDR.

5.8.1 Connection of the NX modules


Term. no. Signal NX2 NX1 Remark
Label Label
1 COM 3 input RX3 – B Do not connect Opto-insulated serial input
2 NMEA 0183 RX3 – A “ RS-422 (IEC 61162-1 and -2)
3 COM 1 input RX1 – B “ Opto-insulated serial input
4 NMEA 0183 RX1 – A “ RS-422 (IEC 61162-1 and -2)
Push-button input 1 with internal
5 Contact input 1 C-IN 1 C-IN 1
pull-up to +5 V
Push-button input 2 with internal
6 Contact input 2 C-IN 2 C-IN 2
pull-up to +5 V
7 COM 1 output TX1 – A TX1 – A RS-422 Differential output
8 NMEA 0183 TX1 – B TX1 – B (IEC 61162-1)
9 Common GND COMMON COMMON Note1
10 COM 2 in/out RX/TX2 – B Do not connect
RS-485 configured as input or output.
11 NMEA 0183 RX/TX2 – A Do not connect
Dill switch RS-485 See picture No function 120 Ω termination resistor, default OFF.
(red) termination above The red dill switch is located above term. 10.

Note1: Common (Reference GND) for the RS-485 COM port, COM 1 output and the two contact inputs.

Important: The common GND terminal should NOT be connected to the NMEA cable shield, the cable shield
should be connected to a good ground connection in only one point !

NX2 is the extension module enabling the XDi-N to receive and transmit NMEA 0183 serial data (in accordance
with IEC61162-1 and -2).
When the NX2 module is mounted in the extension slot, several input/output ports are available for the serial NMEA
0183 data.

All serial inputs are setup to use the NMEA protocol and default port parameter setup in accordance with
IEC 61162-1.
By changing the bit rate from 4.8 to 38.4 kbps it complies instead with the NMEA high speed standard
IEC 61162-2.

XDi 96 N can have one NX2 module mounted on the rear plate.
XDi 144/192 N can have one or two NX2 NMEA modules mounted on the rear plate at the same time.

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5.8.2 Connection and cable for NMEA
The RS-422 output may be connected to up to 10 standard NMEA inputs complying with IEC 61162-1
(load >1 kΩ). It is recommended to use a shielded twisted pair cable.

5.8.3 NMEA inputs


The NMEA inputs RX1 and RX3 is galvanic separated and fully complies with the two IEC 61162 standards.
The RX/TX2 (RS-485 port) is used to connect a DEIF wind sensor to an XDi-N wind indicator. This port can also be
configured as either an input or an output, in both cases it will use the NMEA data protocol.

Please note that the RX/TX2 connections are marked according to the RS485 standard and therefor A and B is
swapped around compared to the NMEA RS422 terminal markings.
For information of supported NMEA sentences please see “XDi supported NMEA sentences” (separate doc).

5.8.4 NMEA outputs


Only data types used by the selected virtual indicator can transmitted in an NMEA sentence. It requires that the
selected VS profile contains an NMEA output definition for data to be packed in to one or more NMEA sentences
and transmitted via the NMEA output.
Data types may be generated from an AX1 or DX1 module or be received via CAN either using XDi-net data format
or received in a TPDO.
It can also be data received via NMEA that is retransmitted, but in that case, it is often better to use the NMEA
routing function available in XDi-N.
For information of supported NMEA sentences please see “XDi supported NMEA sentences” (separate document).

Example NMEA from a rudder systems:


All DEIF standard rudder indicators contains VS profiles that will support NMEA output.
The RSA sentence that contains actual rudder angle may be used in a CAN-based rudder system to output the
rudder angle to the VDR.

NMEA for dimming:


When a XDi library contains a product profile where the DDC dimmer sentence is supported, it can control the
dimmer level of the backlight and the day/(dusk)/night colour shift can either be automatic based on dimmer level
(for example shift from night to day at 70%) or separately controlled dimmer level and colour pallet.
When a NX1 or NX2 module is mounted on XDi it is possible to activate the dimmer NMEA output using the DDC
sentence. Depending on the Product profile the DDC can contain the dimmer value and the selected colour pallet.
This will be for the dimmer group that this XDi is a part of.
Example: $IIDDC,,49,,R*1C this DDC sentence contains dimmer level 49% (R = status message)

5.8.5 Contact inputs


The two contact inputs on both NX1 and NX2 module is used for connection of two external pushbuttons.
Via the NMEA setup menu/NX Button setup…, the contact inputs can be configured to control either the two centre
buttons (button 2 and 3) or the left and right button (button 1 and 4).
The external buttons will work in parallel with the buttons on the front. If 4 external buttons are connected to two NX
modules on an XDi 144 N or XDi 192 N then full button operation can be achieved from 4 external pushbuttons.
On XDi dual or multi it is only the two dimmer buttons (button 2 and 3) that can be controlled from the contact
inputs.

The external pushbuttons work in parallel with the front buttons on XDi, so you can just shift between operating the
XDi from the front buttons or via the external buttons.

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The contact input setup is found in the installation menu:

A potential free pushbutton connected between contact input C-IN1 (term. 5) and Common (term. 9), on the NX
module in Slot 1, will now work in parallel with button 1 on the front frame and toggle between the screen modes.
If a pushbutton is connected between C-IN2 (term. 6) and common (term. 9) it will work in parallel with front button
4 (right side) and make it possible to remotely change presentation unit (e.g. Wind speed: Knot, m/s…)
if this function is activated in the selected VI.

For remote dimmer use the selection: Button 2&3 setting.

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6 XDi menu system and functions

Overview of the overall menu structure in XDi

7 XDi menu level 1 – short push


A short push on one of the 4 pushbuttons on the front will first role up a soft key menu line and it will not make
any changes to the settings only show the help text line.

Short single push menu for XDi Dual and Multi (requires XDi software platform 2, no such menu in platform 1)

Short single push menu for XDi Nav (N version is always on software platform 2)

The second short push on a button will perform the function stated in the soft key menu line.

7.1 Dimmer level up/down (button 2 and 3)


Use the push-buttons below the symbols (2 and 3) to dimmer backlight up or down:

Press shortly to adjust the dimmer level one step at a time or keep pushing the button to make larger adjustmets.

The actual dimmer level is shown in the right side of the menu bar:
Level 100 is equal to maximum backlight and 0 is the minimum level.
Note: According to IEC 62288 a display based product should not be able to dim the backlight to totally OFF, it
shall be readable in dark night conditions on the ships bridge, without jeopardizing the crew’s night vision.
Backlight level 0 is therefore not 0% backlight but will be slightly illuminated.

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8 Menu level 1 functions only in XDi-N
In this description the DEIF standard wind indicator VI007 is used as example.

8.1 Toggle between screens (button 1)


The XDi-N can have up to 4 screen in a virtual indicator and some of the standard wind indicators have 2, 3 or 4
screens presenting different wind data types or combinations.
By default, each “Screen mode” has one screen assigned. This means that when you toggle between the modes,
the screen will shift.

The screen mode and the screen assigned to this mode is presented in the left side of the pop-up menu:

this indicates that the present screen mode is 1 and the assigned screen is sc. 1 (screen 1).

Press the left button (1) shortly to highlight the pop-up menu bar and then press again to toggle to the next screen
mode.

Pushing several times when the help menu is visible will toggle you through all the available screens.

8.1.1 Using Screen mode grouping in system integration


Normally the mode function is set up as local, which means that only the XDi where you have pushed the button
will shift screen.
In a CAN bus system, the “screen mode” function can be grouped much like the dimmer function, and this means
that all indictors in a mode group will shift screen simultaneously.
In a wind system, this function can be used to shift all indicators to show the preferred wind indicator screen in a
given work situation.
In each XDi within a mode group, the 4 screen modes will have a screen assigned and the assigned screen can be
changed via the quick menu. The same screen can even be assigned to be used in more than one “screen mode” if
needed.
This mode grouping function can be used to make quite advanced systems where a combination of different XDi-N
indicators forms an information system where relevant data for a given work situation is presented on all indicators
with a single push on a button or even controlled from an integrated control system.
In the chapter “VI mode group setup” you can find much more information about how this mode group function
works and see some examples.

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8.3 Quick menu (only XDi-N)
The quick menu opens for the basic user setup functions:
• Unit profile toggle,
• Unit profile setup
• VI mode group setup
• Data and time setup
• User menu (gives access to dimmer, warning and sound setup)

8.3.1 Change unit profile


The XDi-N supports different selectable data units. The default presentation units are predefined in the three unit
profiles. In the standard wind indicators, it is the wind speed unit that is selectable via the unit profiles. Each unit
profile contains default setup for all selectable data units that the XDi-N supports.
Be aware that the unit shift function will only work if the selected virtual indicator is designed to support this function
for the given data type.
The default setup for the wind indicator is:
Profile 1: Wind speed in m/s
Profile 2: Wind speed in knots
Profile 3: Wind speed in Beaufort
The default profile when the XDi-N wind indicator is installed is unit profile 1. This means that wind speed is
presented in m/s.
To shift to knots, you must select unit profile 2. To do that press the right button shortly once to have the soft key
menu presented, and push the right button again to open the quick menu.

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To toggle to Profile 2, push the “OK” button shortly and push the left button to go back to normal operation.
The toggle function on the “OK” front button (button 4) makes it possibel to to change unit using only two buttons -
button 4 and button 1. This means that unit shift can also be performed via two external pusbuttons connected to
the two contact input on the NX module (input: C-IN1 and C-IN2). See also: “How to activate NX external
pushbutton inputs” in connection with chapter “VI mode group setup” in this document.

8.3.2 Change unit profile setup


Wind speed can be presented in the following units: m/s, knot, Beaufort, km/h, MPH. To change the wind speed
unit in one of the unit profiles, select “Unit profile” in the quick menu, and highlight the profile that you want to edit.
Press OK to open the profile for editing.

The active profile can also be changed


from this menu.

Profile mode can be “Local” or “Global”.


In local mode, only this indicator is
affected by a profile shift.
In global mode, this indicator is
synchronised with other indicators on the
CAN bus (see description in the next
chapter).

Highlight and press OK on Profile 2 to open it for editing:

The profile name can be edited by


highlighting and pressing OK. The virtual
keyboard will appear, and a more
informative name for the unit profile can
be typed in.

Highlight “Wind speed unit” and press OK:

It is now possible to select another unit from the list.

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8.3.3 Change unit profile in a CAN bus system
The advanced XDi-net functions allow all indicators connected via CAN to make a simultaneous shift of unit profile.
All XDi-N indicators where you want the unit profile selection to be synchronised must have their “Profile mode”
changed from “Local” to “Global” in the quick menu “UNIT PROFILES” shown in the first menu picture above.
If the unit profile is changed on one XDi, then all other XDi-N units in Global mode and connected to the same CAN
bus, will follow.
If you edit the selection of presentation units in one of the 3 Unit profiles, the change will also be synchronised, via
the CAN bus, with all the other XDi-N indicators that is in “Global mode”.

8.3.4 VI mode group setup


In this quick menu it is possible to reorganize the different screens in a virtual indicator (VI) with multiple screens.
We will use one of the DEIF standard wind indicators (VI007) with 4 screens as example.

By default, Screen 1 is assigned to Mode 1, Screen 2 to Mode 2 and so on as it can also be seen below in the quick
menu picture:

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If you want to change the order in which the screens are toggled when you push the left front button, you can do
it in the Mode Group setup menu:

If you want this XDi to toggle between screen 4, 2, 3 and 1 then you can change the assigned screens for each
mode.

Highlight Mode 1 and press OK:

now highlight Screen 4 and press OK

Highlight Mode 4, press OK, select “Screen 1” in the list above and press OK:

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Now the toggle sequence for this indicator is changed.

Toggle with front button 1

If you for example in the virtual wind indicator above only want to use Screen 1 and 4, then just set the mode 1 to
4 like this:

Now XDi-N will toggle Sc.1, Sc.4, Sc.1, Sc.4 and so on.

[Link] How to fix data lost warning when not all screens are used
If you select not to use a screen in the mode toggle sequence, you may still get a data lost warning from the
screen that is never presented. It can easily be fixed by entering the XDi installation menu and select: Edit virtual
indicator \ Indicators where you select the data type (or types) that is not presented/available and press OK to
access the setup menu where you must set Visible to OFF.

In the following example we don’t have data for the true wind relative to ship (orange arrow pointer), we only
have relative and geographic true wind data. Therefore, we only toggle between screen 1 and 3, screen 2 and 4 is
never used. To avoid a data lost warning for True wind direction relative to ship (Wind Dir TS) we enter the
installation menu and turn the visibility for this parameter OFF. When a parameter is not visible it will not create a
data lost. The following pictures shows how to turn visibility off.

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Now press the several times to return to normal operation where you now can toggle between screen 1 and 3
without getting a data lost warning.

Note: In this case it is only the true wind direction relative to ship that needs to be disabled. The True wind speed is
always the same and independent of which reference is used for the true wind direction (the ships bow or the north
pole).

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[Link] Use of screen mode grouping in a CAN based system
Like dimmer grouping it is also possible to group several XDi-N indicators with multiple screens in a screen mode
group. All indicators in the same group will show the screen that is assigned to the active mode for the group. If
the screen mode on one of the indicator in the group is toggled to a new active mode, then all the other XDi-N
indicators in this group will receive a CAN command to follow.

By default, XDi-N is in “Local mode” (0) so to make a group you must change the active mode group, for example
to group 1:

Press OK to select another group:

highlight Gr.1 and press OK

You can now change the screen assigned to each Mode in Gr. 1 for this XDi indicator or keep them as they are.
You must make this setup in all indicators you want to be in the same mode group.
Note: In a customized library it is possible to make a default mode group setting (e.g. Gr.1) and also make a
different default screen assignment to the group. The default screen mode setup is located in the selected Product
Profile.

[Link] How can you use the screen mode function


Using this Mode group function, it is possible to make an integrated system with 4 working modes, where all the
XDi-N indicators in the same group shifts to the screen that is preselected for this working mode.

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The following picture illustrates this function in an actual system where the mode function is used in the 4 XDi-N
indicators out of the 5 indicators in an overhead panel:

XDi1 (Navigation) XDi 2 (Navigation) XDi 3 (Navigation) XDi 4 (Navigation) XDi 5 (Dual)
VI number VI001 - Weather VI002 – Combi 1 VI003 - Combi 2 VI004 - Combi 3 VI005 – Rudder (MED)
Mode 1
Harbour

Mode1-Sc.4 Mode1-Sc.1 Mode1-Sc.1 Mode1-Sc.1 Mode1-Sc.1


Mode 2 Fixed in all modes
Steaming

Mode2-Sc.2 Mode2-Sc.2 Mode2-Sc.2 Mode2-Sc.1 (Same as above)


Mode 3 Fixed in all modes
Work

Mode3-Sc.3 Mode3-Sc.3 Mode3-Sc.3 Mode3-Sc.2


Mode 4 Fixed in all modes
Info

Mode4-Sc.1 Mode4-Sc.4 Mode4-Sc.4 Mode4-Sc.3

In XDi 1 (Weather) the toggle order of the screen is changed to: Sc. 4, Sc. 2, Sc. 3 and Sc. 1

In XDi 2 and 3 (Combi 1 and 2) the screen order is the default 1, 2, 3, 4

XDi 4 (Combi 3) use VI004 that has only 3 screens and the first screen (Sc. 1) is used in both Mode 1 and 2

XDi 5 (Rudder) is a XDi Dual version with a fixed MED approved rudder indicator, that is independent of mode.

The above example is not from a real ships application, but the XDi demo system used on several exhibitions.

[Link] Screen mode input / control options


There are several ways to control the screen mode function, Locale on one XDi-N or for a group of XDi-N indicators
on a CAN bus.
1. The basic way to make a screen toggle is via push button 1 (left) on the front panel.
2. It is also possible to control the active screen mode using a CANopen command from an external device.

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3. It is possible to use the external contact input C-IN 1 on a NX2 (or NX1) NMEA extension module to toggle
the mode. You must in that case make sure that contact input 1 and 2 (C-IN1 and C-IN2) is setup to control
button 1 and 4. (see how in the example below)

Note: The contact inputs are normally off. In a custom library they can be activated in one or more PP’s.
4. In a customized library it is also possible to make a setup for a VI so that the two digital inputs on the DX1
extension module can control each of the 4 screen modes by a 2 bit BCD code.
For example:
DX1 in 2 DX in BCD Screen mode
1 Value
0 0 0b00 Mode 1
0 1 0b01 Mode 2
1 0 0b10 Mode 3
1 1 0b11 Mode 4

The DX1 setup is made in the VS profile for the virtual indicator where this function is relevant.
Also in this case it is only necessary to have one XDi with DX1 extension module to control a defined group of XDi
indicators. The XDi with DX1 can share its active mode via XDi-net with all other indicators in that mode group via
the CAN bus connecting the XDi units.

8.3.5 Date/time setup


XDi does not have an internal real time clock, so to be able to show time and date it is depending on external UTC
time and date received via either NMEA or via XDi-net (CAN bus).

[Link] Local time offset via NMEA


To be able to show local time the local time offset is required.
In many cases the local time offset will be included in the NMEA ZDA sentence that is also providing time and date.
In that case all time/date data can also be shared via XDi-net (CAN) with other XDi units without the NMEA access,
but connected to the same CAN bus.

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NMEA is normally the default source setup for date and time:
This source setting is correct for the XDi-N where the NMEA time data is connected and selected in the initial
NMEA setup procedure.
Note: You can always go into NMEA input setup and see the actual NMEA data and time setup.

[Link] Local time offset shared via NMEA


If other XDi-N units needs the local offset via CAN bus, then “Send on CAN” and “Send interval” must be setup.

Now local time offset is shared via CAN 1 every 30 sec. It is also possible only to make it on a change instead, but
making transmissions periodical secures that all XDi units are synchronized regularly, even when they were
powered down at the latest change of the local offset.

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[Link] Local time offset received via XDi-net
XDi indicators that needs local time offset via XDi-net (CAN) must be setup so that “Source input” is changed to
XDi-net:

Change the source input to XDi-net:


The local time offset parameters that XDi-needs, is now received via XDi-net and it is not possible to change any of
the other parameters since it is not relevant (they are greyed out in the menu).

[Link] Local time offset – manual setup


If the local time offset is not available via NMEA or via XDi-net, it is possible to manually insert a local time offset.
The time offset that can be inserted is relative to UTC time.
The source input for local time offset shall then be changed to Manual:

In manual mode the local “Time offset” parameters: hours and minutes can be setup and are then used to
calculate the local time that may be presented on another XDi-N virtual indicator on the CAN bus.

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In this example the offset is 3:00h.

The manually inserted local time offset can also be shared via CAN with other XDi unit’s setup to manual time
offset and one of the indicators (kind of master) is setup to share on CAN like above, manual data is sent in sub
index 0x07). So manual local offset is different from NMEA generated offset (or offset from normal XDi-net data)
both sent in sub-index 0x02.
To share data in CAN the “Send on CAN” and “Send interval” must be setup, for example like in the picture above
where offset value is shared on CAN1 every 30 sec. The receiving XDi must in this case also be setup with source:
Manual.
Note: If you select to use “On change” data will only be transmitted on CAN and thereby the system is
synchronized only when the offset value is changed. It may be a good idea to use a fixed time interval instead.
However, if you want to be able to change a manual offset from different XDis on the bus, then activate CAN on all
and set data to be sent on a change, then the system will automatically be synchronized when you make a change.
If you use CAN sharing with periotic manual local offset data only one unit should be transmitting periodically
(master) where other units can send new offset on a change, if you only let the “master XDi” synchronize manual
offset data every 30 sec. you should be fine.

8.3.6 Quick access to the user menu


In XDi-N the quick menu gives you also easy access to the “User menu” where you can find all the user related
setup possibilities. It is the same user menu that can also be accessed by a long double push on button 1 and 4.

Press OK to enter the User menu and get access to user setups like dimmer, warnings, sounds.

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9 Menu level 2 – Long double push (easy access)

The three main menus are accessed by pressing a combination of two push-buttons simultaneously for
approximately 5 seconds. When the display writes “Loading”, your selection has been accepted.

The table below shows the valid push-button combination to use to access a menu from normal operation mode.

Menu/Function Button 1 Button 2 Button3 Button 4


Surveyor Info • • - -
Master reset • - • -
User Menu • - - •
Pop-up menu *)

*) The pop-up menu shows which push-buttons to press simultaneously to access the related menu.

Access to the installation menu requires a “secret” double push-button combination from user menu, see the
Installation menu chapter.

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9.1 Surveyor information (INFO)
Press button 1 and 2 for more than 5 seconds, and the surveyor page will provide information about the XDi and its
configuration.

1 Serial number and software information


2 CAN bus settings
3 Information about extension modules (if mounted)
4 Library owner and library number
5 Active virtual indicator number
6 Thumbnail picture of the active virtual indicator
7 Wheel-mark if the active virtual indicator is MED-compliant.
The figures to the right of the wheel-mark indicates the notified
approval body no. (0098 – DNV GL) and the production year of the
actual XDi unit (in the screen above it is 14, corresponding to
2014).

9.2 Master reset


Press button 1 and 3 for 5 seconds, and the master reset menu will appear.

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There are 3 levels of master reset:

1. Reset: will bring all system and indicator related parameters back to factory settings, but it will not change
display colour calibration made in connection with a previous setup. The setup wizard will be started after a
reboot sequence.
2. Factory reset: resets all XDi selections and parameters back to the predefined settings it had when it left
the factory. The setup wizard will be started after a reboot sequence.
3. Reset as a service unit: in this mode, the unit will be reset to factory settings and parked on the service
NodeID 127, ready for fully automated configuration via CAN.
Master reset requires an extra user confirmation (YES) before reset is performed. It is possible to skip without
making the master reset, simply push the return soft-key.

Activating the master reset will erase all selections and input adjustments made
during installation, and all such settings will be lost!

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10 User menu
The user menu gives access to change the predefined basic setup parameters, where advanced installation
settings are located in the special installation menu.

The user menu is used for adjusting:


• Dimmer (Fixed dimmer level, Dimmer group, Dimmer setup, Day/Night colour)
• Warnings and sound
• Rotate display (Rotate the display screen 180°)

10.1 Dimmer
The XDi provides different ways of controlling the dimming of the backlight:
• Dimer level can be set at a fixed level (see note below).
• Dimmer control value between 0 % and 100 % backlight level sent via the CAN bus.
• Dimmer voltage input via the analogue dimmer input on the AX1 extension module .
• Dimmer step up/down via the digital inputs on the DX1 extension module.
• Dimmer control via NMEA input on NX2 extension module (sentence DDC).

Note: Fixed dimmer was often used when a XDi unit (platform 1) was located in the engine control room, to set a
reduced backlight level and thereby increase the lifetime of the display. With the new direct dimmer function on
front button 2 and 3, only available in XDi platform 2, this function is no longer used in practise. But it is still
important to reduce the backlight level when XDi is used in a location where the backlight is permanently turned on.
Reduction from 100 to 85-90 will more than double the expected lifetime.

There are also different ways of controlling the Day/(Dusk*)/Night colour:


• Fixed colour
• Automatic colour shift determined by the dimmer level
• Colour shift controlled by an input (normally via CAN)
• Colour shift controlled by DX1 digital inputs
• Colour shift control via NMEA input on NX2 extension module (sentence DDC)

*) In most cases, the XDi only uses day/night colour designs, but in customised libraries “Dusk” may be used.
The dimmer and colour settings are predefined in the selected product profile and may be adjusted from the user
menu.

10.1.1 Normal dimmer function


The maximum XDi backlight level range is from 0 to 250.

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In normal dimmer mode (without auto colour shift), the dimmer level from 0 to 100 % controls the backlight level
range from “Min backlight level”. This must be set at the lowest backlight level where the display is still readable in
dark night conditions (typically level 10) to “Max backlight level”, which is the level used in full daylight. Typically for
XDi 96 and 144 this parameter is set to the max. level 250.
In XDi 192 the max. level is automatically reduced to 225 when the library for this version is generated, this is to
extend the backlight life expectation.

Min and max. backlight level can be used to align backlight on several XDi indicators controlled by the same
dimmer source, for example adjust a new XDi to match another XDi with a slightly aged display.
(see dimmer setup description below).
In case of very aged displays, it may also be necessary to adjust/calibrate the display colours of a new XDi, please
see the chapter on Display colour adjust.

10.1.2 Fixed dimmer level


When the XDi is installed in a location where dimmer adjustment is not needed, for example Engine Control Room
(ECR), the fixed dimmer function should be used to set the backlight level to a fixed level.
It is often a good idea to use the local group setting for indicators using fixed dimmer level, but if a number of XDi
units in the ECR are connected via the same CAN bus, it makes sense to place them in a dimmer group and then
you only need to adjust the level on one unit to get all of them synchronised.

Reducing the backlight level will increase the lifetime of the backlight LEDs. When the XDi is
used in the engine control room or other locations where a fixed dimmer level is used, it is
recommended to reduce the dimmer setting to 75-85 %. This will more than double the
expected lifetime of the backlight.

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In XDi with library with version 2000 or higher, meaning that it is running on XDi software platform 2, the fixed
dimmer function is not that important since the dimmer level can easily be adjusted directly from the front using
pushbutton 2 and 3.
In all DEIF standard libraries and many customized libraries you will find a special ECR product profile.
It is highly recommended to use that profile in applications where the backlight always is turned ON, you can easily
adjust the level using the pushbuttons or in platform 1 libraries (version 0001 or higher) use this fixed dimmer menu
to fine tune the level.

Press OK to enter “Fixed dimmer level”, and a new menu will appear showing the actual virtual indicator together
with a new soft-key menu for adjusting the fixed dimmer level:

Using the actual indicator design when adjusting


the backlight level makes it easier to find the
desired level.

10.1.3 Dimmer groups


9 dimmer groups (Gr. 1 to 9) can be controlled via CAN and in addition a “Local” mode, which will not be controlled
via CAN.
Parameters for all dimmer groups including the default selected dimmer group are predefined in the Product Profile
(PP). Parameters may however be changed and adjusted via the user menu.

The dimmer level will be set to the same for all units in the group. The control method is defined in the PP.
A dimmer group can be preconfigured to be controlled by:
1. An XDi-net command
2. A CANopen TPDO or RPDO
3. An analogue dimmer input on one XDi shared using XDi-net protocol (requires AX1 module)
4. A digital input dimming on one (or more) XDi units shared using XDi-net protocol (requires DX1)

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A popular system dimmer method is to connect an analogue dimmer control output (for example a potentiometer)
to one XDi in the group (3) and then set up the rest in the group to use dimming via XDi-net (1). This is a simple
plug and play method.

It is important that only one XDi with analogue dimmer control is used in a dimmer group.
The analogue dimmer level is shared using periodic transmissions, and if 2 units are
controlling the same group, the dimmer level will jump up and down between the 2
incoming levels.

If more than one unit must be able to control a dimmer group, then the digital input (DX1) can be used. This
up/down dimmer system will only send a new level on a change (when the input is activated), and it is therefore
possible to have two or more XDi units controlling the dimmer level in the group.

The shift between Day/(Dusk)/Night colour scheme is also part of the dimmer group function.

[Link] Changing dimmer group


Highlight the “Dimmer group” menu and press OK:

Highlight the “Dimmer group: 1. STBD WING” and press OK.

Select another dimmer group, for example “PORTSIDE WING” by pressing OK.

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[Link] Local mode
In “Local” mode, the XDi will respond to a dimmer command sent to the local dimmer group index or get the
analogue or digital dimmer input from an extension module mounted on this XDi unit. In local mode, the XDi will not
share analogue or digital dimmer data via XDi-net.

[Link] Edit the dimmer group name


In addition to the dimmer group number, each dimmer group may have a describing name.
The name will normally be predefined in the PP, but it can also be added or changed via the “Edit dimmer group
name…” menu, using the onscreen virtual keyboard.

Highlight a key using the arrows and press OK to select.

SAVE: remember to finalise the editing process by


selecting the SAVE button, or your changes will be lost.

If this display reaches time-out, it will step one level back and changes will be lost.

10.1.4 Dimmer setup


The predefined dimmer settings from the selected product profile (PP) may be changed via the user menu.

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Min backlight level (local) is the backlight level that equals a dimmer value of 0 %. This setting should never be
set to 0 since it turns the backlight totally off, and it will no longer be in accordance with regulations for a display-
based bridge product. The valid value range is 0-100 out of the total of 250 backlight steps.
This is a local setting for the XDi itself and can be used to level minimum backlight level between several XDi units
placed next to each other.

Max backlight level (local) is a function that makes it possible to fine-tune the max backlight level equal to 100 %.
This is useful to equalise the light level on different XDi units sitting next to each other or to match other screen-
based equipment using the same dimmer control input. Default is 250, and valid value range is 50-250 again out of
the total of 250 backlight steps.
Note: To extend backlight life on the XDi 192 display this value is automatically reduced to 225 in all XDi 192
libraries, when the library package is generated / released.

Start-up/Menu dimmer level is the default dimmer level % if no dimmer input is available and also the minimum
level when the menu structure is entered. This should not be set to a value below 20 %.

Global min offset level: this function offers the possibility to adjust the minimum backlight level for all XDi units in
a dimmer group on the CAN bus. This global minimum level is added to the local minimum dimmer level.

Display calibration: This function makes it possible to adjust the display colours, so that it is possible to adjust a
brand new service unit to an aged XDi where the display colours has changed.
Please see “Appendix 1: Colour calibration - service instruction” for a detailed explanation and service instruction.
This function is only available in XDi libraries with version number 2000 or higher with a release date after
25.03.2020.

[Link] Dimmer source


The dimmer input source is preconfigured in the selected product profile (PP), but it may be manually adjusted
during installation.
The dimmer source can be preconfigured in PP to be:
• Digital option (DX1) push-buttons connected to the digital inputs.
• Analogue input (AX1) voltage source is connected to the Dim/HV3+ input.
• XDi-net dimmer signal is received in XDi-net data format via CAN
• NMEA (NX2) a NMEA DDC sentence is received on one of the NMEA inputs.
• CANopen PDO converter is used to convert and un-map TPDO or RPDO dimmer data
• Front buttons up/down adjustment on front.

It is always possible to shift from a preconfigured dimmer source to XDi-net as dimmer source (and back to
the default source). Shifting to another source type than XDi-net requires selection of a PP supporting this
type of source.

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[Link] Analogue or digital dimmer input
When the XDi-net function is enabled the analogue or digital dimmer level used by an XDi unit will normally also
be shared via XDi-net with all XDi units being part of the same dimmer group and of course connected to the
same CAN bus.
An XDi unit with analogue or digital dimmer input can only control the dimmer group that it is part of via XDi-net.
(Dimmer sharing can be on CAN1, CAN2 or CAN1&2)

Source Receive Transmit Note


from XDi- on XDi-net
net
Analogue [Yes3*] Yes Only one XDi with analogue dimmer and sharing data on XDi-net must
be part of a dimmer group*)
Digital Yes Yes Data is only sent on a change, and several dimmer controllers can be in
the same dimmer group. **)
XDi-net Yes No If “XDi-net variable data on” is active, then an XDi unit can receive
dimmer data in the normal XDi-net data format using COBID 0x201 to
0x27F.
If only “XDi-net function” is enabled, dimmer data can only be received
using XDi-net format using COBID 0x27F (node 127).
PDO converter [Yes3*] No All devices on CAN have access to the dimmer data, and they are not
(Synch) (Synch) retransmitted in XD-net format.
All devices in the group must therefore use PDO converter instead of
XDi-net. Setup changes in the PDO converter may be synchronised via
CAN.
Front buttons Yes Yes XDi can share the front button dimmer adjustment with other XDi units
in the same dimmer group and on the same CAN bus.
NMEA [Yes3*] Yes One XDi can share dimmer data for received via the NMEA DDC dimmer
data sentence. One XDi can in fact control a group it is not part of and it
is even able to control more than one dimmer group if the selected
product profile (PP) supports it and several DDC sentences is available
on different inputs or with different talker ID.
*) Please note that if more than one XDi in a dimmer group shares its analogue dimmer data via CANopen or
XDi-net, then all XDi units in that group will receive different dimmer levels from 2 sources, resulting in a flickering
backlight.
**) The above (*) is not the case with XDi units using the digital dimmer input option, since the dimmer command
can be configured so that it is only sent when there is a change, that happens when the digital input for example
connected to a push-button, is activated.
3*)
The XDi is always able to receive XDi-net data when the XDi-net is active, but data will be overwritten
immediately by the analogue dimmer input value.

The dimmer source setup menu is only available if the selected source has parameters that may be changed via
menu.

[Link] Digital dimmer source setup


Requires a DX1 module to be mounted on the XDi at the specified slot.

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Dimmer function: defines the function of the two digital inputs used for dimmer. Selections are UP/Down or
UP/Down/Colour. The functions are described in the DX1 section.

Detection: defines how the signal on the digital input must be detected, either trigger the function on a “Low to
High” transition or on a “High to Low” transition. Default is low to high equal to detection when a serial connected
contact is pushed to close the circuit.

Update rate on XDi-net: is the repetition rate of dimmer messages being sent on XDi-net (CAN).
The DX1 has a setting called “On change”. This setting should be selected if more than one XDi controls the
dimmer group in parallel.

The analogue module does not have the setting “On change,” and therefore only one XDi with analogue input can
control a dimmer group.

Use CAN interface: if a CAN port is selected, dimmer data is shared on the selected port(s) using XDi-net protocol
and at the repetition rated above.
The settings are: NO, CAN1, CAN2 or CAN1&2

[Link] Analogue dimmer source setup


For analogue dimmer input, an AX 1 extension module must be mounted in the extension slot specified in the
product profile, for example Slot1.
In the example below, the XDi is set up to be part of dimmer group 1 and therefore all the dimmer settings,
including the dimmer source setup, relates to this dimmer group.

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Use Vref output as:
This setting can be used when a dimmer potentiometer is connected using the V ref output as supply
(typically 7.3 V). The reference voltage Vref is internally monitored.
When “[Link]” is selected, the measured reference voltage will automatically be used as the maximal dimmer
voltage, and the dimmer input voltage will be measured relative to this reference. This means that fluctuations in
Vref will be corrected.
It is even possible to connect an external voltage source Vext (Vref <Vext<30 V) from Vref to AGND (in parallel)
overwriting the internal ref. voltage. Vref is still monitored, and measurements are corrected accordingly.
If the dimmer potentiometer is supplied from a battery source, where the voltage is varying over time, it is
recommended to use the “Vref mode” to eliminate fluctuations in dimmer level caused by this.

The setting can also be: “[Link]”. In this case, the reference voltage is equal to 0 % dimmer and 100 % can be
set to 0 V in which case the dimming will be reversed. The backlight will be a max when the dimmer voltage is 0 V.
This setting is useful to avoid the XDi to go black when dimmer input is disconnected.

Setting “Not used” indicates that the automatic scaling to reference voltage is not in use, and the dimmer input is a
normal input.

Dimmer min/max settings:


The min and max dimmer input voltages may be set between 0 and 30 V DC.
Dimmer min. (0 %) voltage and dimmer max. (100 %) voltage can be set up individually, so that the dimmer input
can be defined within a range of for example 7 V to 24 V DC.
If V(Dimmer min) > V(Dimmer max), then the dimmer input function is reversed (the higher the dimmer voltage - the
lower is the backlight level).

Dimmer error handling:


There are 2 ways that the XDi can be set up to handle a disconnection of the analogue dimmer input (for example
the wiper inside the potentiometer losing its connection to the resistive layer).
1. Set up analogue dimmer in reverse mode as described above, and the dimmer level will go to 100 % when the
input voltage drops to 0 V.
2. Define the input as a voltage range for example from 1 V to 10 V and add a fixed resistor (1.2 kΩ) from the
potentiometer (10 kΩ) to analogue ground (terminal 1) to raise the minimum voltage to 1 V. If the dimmer input
loses connection, the voltage will drop to 0 V, and the XDi will activate the dimmer error backlight level at for
example 50 % (see below).

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The dimmer error level: this is the dimmer level used if the dimmer voltage drops more than 2% outside the
defined dimmer low level. When this level is set to 50 %, the backlight will shift to 50 % in a fault situation,

Raw data filter: is an averaging filter that can be adjusted to reduce noise and fast fluctuations on the input
voltage. This filter is useful to reduce flicker when a PWM signal with external LP filter is used as analogue dimmer
input. The filter range is 0 to 100, and the normal default is 10. Increase this value to reduce flickering.

Update rate on XDi-net: is the repetition rate of dimmer messages being sent on XDi-net (CAN).
The AX1 analogue module does not have the setting “On change”, and therefore only one XDi with analogue input
can control a dimmer group.

Use CAN interface: See digital dimmer setup above

[Link] XDi-net dimming (or DAM-MPDO)


This source type does not need a setup menu.
Dimmer values are received and routed directly into the object index table as defined in the table below, where the
actual dimmer value is located in sub-index 0x02 as an unsigned 8 bit parameter (U8).
The data range is 0 to 100 representing the dimmer level of 0-100 % (100 % being max. backlight).

Dimer Group no. Object index Sub-index


1 0x3501 0x02
2 0x3502 0x02
3 0x3503 0x02
4 0x3504 0x02
5 0x3505 0x02
6 0x3506 0x02
7 0x3507 0x02
8 0x3508 0x02
9 0x3509 0x02
Local (0xA) * 0x350A 0x02
*) When XDi is in Local group the dimmer data is not sent on XDi-net, but XDi will be able to receive data via CAN
from an external CAN source.

How to send XDi-net data (or DAM-MPDO data) is described in details in the “XDi-net/CANopen reference
manual”.

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[Link] Dimmer PDO converter setup
This requires that a PDO converter is defined in the Product Profile (PP) as input source for each dimmer group
that must be supported by the selected PP. In most cases, a TPDO data value is defined for each of the 9 dimmer
groups.
Data can either be sent in a separate TPDO for each dimmer group or they can be mapped into one or two TPDOs.
The Dimmer TPDO converter can handle input values from 8 to 16 bytes mapped into a TPDO or RPDO.
One TPDO can max handle 8 dimmer groups each using 1 data byte. To support all 9 groups, at least two TPDOs
must be used.

PDO value at DIM level 0 % defines the input value that must be converted to 0 %.
PDO value at DIM level 100 % defines the input value that must be scaled to 100 %.
The PDO converter makes a linear scaling of the input value range received to the XDi dimmer range from 0 to 100
%.

Do not change any of the following advanced settings if you are not familiar with CANopen.

Conversion mode: the defined PDO can be received from CAN1, CAN2 or CAN1&2. If the conversion mode is
turned off, then the TPDO converter is disabled.
Be aware that the XDi can receive dimmer data sent in XDi-net format even when it is set up to receive dimmer
data in a TPDO or RPDO, but since dimmer data from a PDO is not retransmitted on the XDi-net, problems will not
occur.

Source TPDO/RPDO: the default COBID of the TPDO or RPDO (0x1A0 in the example above), can be changed.
PDO data format: unsigned/signed, in this case it should not be changed.
PDO data field length (8-16 bit): the PDO converter can receive and convert any Unsigned or signed data
package between 8 and 16 bit and convert the content to a dimmer value between 0 to 100 %.

Mapped data, LSB located at bit no.: this value indicates the location of the least significant bit in the data
package defined above and mapped into either a TPDO or RPDO. This makes the PDO converter able to identify
the mapped data package to use.

[Link] Synchronise dimmer group


Changes of dimmer parameters in the PDO converter may be shared with all other XDi indicators in the same
dimmer group. Accept synchronisation in the pop-up menu when leaving the setup menu.

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10.2 Day/Night Colour shift
In the XDi library, each indicator will normally be defined with at least day and night colour designs, but it is even
possible to add a design for dusk conditions if needed.

The intension of the colour shift in combination with the backlight dimming is to optimise visibility and contrast in
any ambient light condition on a ship’s bridge.
For example, in daytime: black text, scale and pointer boundary on a white background and full backlight will
provide a very clear readability. Where during nighttime, white text and scale, orange pointer on a black
background combined with the right dimmer level, provides a clear view even in the darkest night conditions and
without jeopardising the night vision of the officers on the bridge.
Dusk may be used to optimise the readability in the grey twilight, but if the virtual indicator is well designed, it is
really not necessary.

10.2.1 Virtual indicator colour modes


The indicator colour mode can be set to:
1. Separate Dimmer & Colour
2. Auto Day/Dusk/Night
3. Auto Day/Night

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[Link] Colour shift source in mode 1
In mode 1, the source used to make the colour selection can be:
NONE-fixed colour! Select this setting if a fixed design is needed (Day, Dusk or Night).
Digital I/O option Parameter is received from digital input, when the digital input
dimmer mode supporting colour shift is selected.
XDi-net (DAM-MPDO) Parameter is received via CAN using XDi-net format or received in a
DAM-MPDO.
PDO converter Parameter is received via CAN in a TPDO or RPDO, and has to be
predefined in the selected PP.
Front buttons Reserved for future XDi-N version (Not available in this version)
Front b.& Digital opt.

[Link].1 Colour shift using XDi-net or DAM-MPDO


This selection has no setup menu. The colour pallet selection is received in sub-index 0x03 of the dimmer group
object index range in the table above. The selection is located in an unsigned 8 bit field using only 2 bits (LSBs).
The 2 bit selection values are:
00 = Day
01 = Night
10 = Dusk
11 = Reserved
See the “XDi-net/CANopen reference manual” for details.

[Link].2 Colour shift using PDO converter


If the colour shift is defined in the Product Profile (PP) to be received using a TPDO or RPDO, then a PDO
converter is used as the input source for colour shift. The PDO converter can select any 2 bits in the 8 byte data
package and use them as colour shift input. This means that it is possible to map colour shift parameters for all 9
dimmer groups in one TPDO using only 3 data bytes with data for up to 4 groups in each byte.

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The following menu is available:

The PDO may be received via CAN1, CAN2 or


both
The COB-ID of the PDO used for data transfer
may be changed.
Also, the mapping of the 2 input bits in the 64 bit
data frame of the TPDO may be changed via
menu.

Example 1:
TPDO containing all 9 colour shift parameter set in the 3 first bytes
Byte 0 Byte 1 Byte 3 Byte4 Byte5 Byte6 Byte7
Gr1 Gr2 Gr3 Gr4 Gr5 Gr6 Gr7 Gr8 Gr9 - - - - - - -
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 - - - - - - -

Byte 0: Gr. 1 with LSB located at bit 0, Data in bit 0 1


Gr. 2 with LSB located at bit 2, Data in bit 2 3
Gr. 3 with LSB located at bit 4, Data in bit 4 5
Gr. 4 with LSB located at bit 6, Data in bit 6 7
Byte 1: Gr. 5 with LSB located at bit 8, Data in bit 8 9
Gr. 6 with LSB located at bit 10, Data in bit 10 11
Gr. 7 with LSB located at bit 12, Data in bit 12 13
Gr. 8 with LSB located at bit 14, Data in bit 14 15
Byte 2: Gr. 9 with LSB located at bit 16, Data in bit 16 17
Example 2:
It is also possible to combine dimmer level and colour shift data in the same TPDO. In this example, data for
dimmer group 1 to 4 is located in byte 0 to 4:

Byte 0 Byte 1 Byte 2 Byte 3 Byte4 Byte5 Byte6 Byte7


Dimmer Gr.1 Dimmer Gr.2 Dimmer Gr.2 Dimmer Gr.2 Gr1 Gr2 Gr3 Gr4 - - -
0000 0000 0000 0000 0000 0000 0000 0000 00 00 00 00 - - -

Byte 0: Dimmer Gr. 1 with LSB located at bit 0, Data in bit 0 to 7


Byte 1: Dimmer Gr. 2 with LSB located at bit 8, Data in bit 8 to 15
Byte 2: Dimmer Gr. 3 with LSB located at bit 16, Data in bit 16 to 23
Byte 3: Dimmer Gr. 4 with LSB located at bit 24, Data in bit 24 to 31
Byte 4: Colour sh. Gr. 1 with LSB located at bit 32, Data at bit 32, 33
Colour sh. Gr. 2 with LSB located at bit 34, Data at bit 34, 35
Colour sh. Gr. 3 with LSB located at bit 36, Data at bit 36, 37
Colour sh. Gr. 4 with LSB located at bit 38, Data at bit 38, 39

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10.2.2 Auto Day/Night shift mode
“Auto Day/Night shift” and “Auto Day/Dusk/Night shift” modes are basically the same mode. The only difference is
that Day/Night mode does not have a dusk indicator design implemented in the library.
If Day/Dusk/Night is selected in a library without dusk design, the night design will be used instead of the dusk
design.

In normal dimmer mode without auto shift, the dimmer level from 0 to 100 % controls the backlight level from min.
(typically 10) to max. (typically 250). Where the backlight level range is 0-250.
The Auto Day/Night colour shift function makes the dimmer work slightly different, by using the dimmer value from
0 to 100 % to control not only dimmer level but also the display colour.
For each display colour (Day/(Dusk)/Night), the XDi is programmed to generate the optimal backlight range.

[Link] Auto Day/Night Colour shift


This function is quite advanced and may best be explained by the illustration below:

Figure description:
The Day/Night shift point is in this example located at 60 % with a hysteresis of 2 %.
The hysteresis secures that the display will never be flickering between day and night presentations.
When the dimmer level is increased gradually from dimmer level 0 % to 61 %, the indicator will use the black night
design, and the backlight will be increased from 10 to the “Night max” level of setup to 200.
When the dimmer level reaches 62 %, the indicator will shift to the white day design and reduce the backlight level
to 50.
Continuing the dimmer level from 62 % to 100 % will increase the backlight level again from 50 to the maximum
level setup to be 250.

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[Link] Auto Day/Dusk/Night Colour shift
This function works similar to auto Day/night shift, but has an extra step for dusk.

[Link] Auto shift setup menu


If auto colour shift is activated, the menu below will be available for fine-tuning the parameters. For example, adjust
the backlight levels to best match the actual location of the indicator.

In the example above, the indicator is in Auto Day/Night mode, and the shift is at 70 % with a hysteresis at 2 %.
This means that the shift will happen at 70 % +/- 2 % depending on the direction of the dimmer adjustment.
(The dusk setting is 0 % because it is not used in this mode.)
Day min. backlight level at 150 means that the backlight level at dimmer level 70 % will be 150, that is just before
the shift to night colour.

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When shifted to night colour, the backlight level will automatically be increased to 250 and dimmed down to min.
when dimmer level reaches 0 %.
Only the day min. backlight level and the night max. backlight level is used in this example, but if a dusk design is
available in the installed XDi library, then the dusk min. and max. levels will also be pre-set and available for
editing.

10.3 Warning and sound


In addition to the safety functions in the XDi, as data lost indicated by a flashing pointer, bar graph or digital readout
or the display watchdog that blanks the display if the micro process freezes, the XDi has some supplementary
warning functions that can be activated. This is either as a pop-up or a beep sound when a warning is issued. The
default setting of warnings and sound is located in the selected product profile (PP) and may be reconfigured via
the user menu.

The XDi is a basic indicator without push-buttons being available in normal operation mode (front frame is in place),
and it has no alarms as such. It has 2 levels of warnings, respectively called a warning or a caution.
Warnings (most important) are indicated by a small amber-coloured pop-up box in one of the display corners
and/or a long beep sound when the error occurs. The pop-up box will stay on the display as long as the error
condition exists.
Cautions (least important) are indicated by a small yellow pop-up box in a display corner (not used by warning type
pop-up). It will only be visible for a few seconds every 10 seconds and/or sound 3 short beeps the first time it is
shown.
There are 4 submenus in the alarm and sound: warning log page, warning setup, warning marks and sound setup.

10.3.1 Warning log


This page contains a list of all registered warning and cautions with a time stamp. Since the XDi does not have a
built-in real time clock, the running hour timer is used as time stamp. The actual running time is indicated in the
right side above the log list, so it is relatively simple to calculate how long time ago the fault occurred.

In the present XDi version, there is no additional fault information when OK is pressed.

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10.3.2 Warning setup
The menu below makes it possible to adapt the need of warnings to the actual application.

CAN bus error warning indicates a problem on


the CAN bus and should be set OFF if CAN bus
communication is not used.

Supply voltage monitor is mostly used in


systems where redundant power supply is used.
In systems with only one power supply,
monitoring of the used input should be ON.

Data lost pop-up is a supplement to the flashing


pointer, bar graph and/or digital readout. It
provides information of the type of problem (see
chapter 0

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Error indication) and is recommended to be ON always.

10.3.3 Warning marks


In indicators where warning marks are implemented in the virtual indicator for example warning marks on a tank
level indicator.
The following example is from DEIF standard library for XDi 96 D that is containing tank level indicators.

Normal level Low level High level

This function is using critical bands to control the limit lines and the colour shift. (XDi can handle up to 4 critical
bands pr. data type)

In the menu it is possible to change the low level limit and the high level limit value, defining where the lines are
located, and it is also possible to change the Warning colours. In this indicator:
• Normal colour: Bar graph is blue and digital readout is white (black in day mode).
• Caution colour: Yellow for both bar graph and digital readout.

• Warning colour: Red for both bar graph and digital readout.
If you don’t want bar graph and text colour to shift just select Normal colour instead of Caution or Warning colour.
To disable the critical band function and remove one or both warning lines, simply set the high and low value to the
same figure, that will disable the function.

Note1: Band 2 critical high value is set to 200 because the digital readout on this indicator can show a value up to
200%.
Note 2: The user menu point “Warning marks” may be empty if the warning mark function is disabled.
Release note:
It is only possible to see this menu in libraries released after October 2021 and with a library version 2000 or
higher.
Access to this menu was originally in the installation menu where access is also still available.

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10.3.4 Sound setup
The XDi has a built-in speaker that can provide different sound signals.

In this menu, it is possible to activate or


deactivate beep on key-press. The beep
response makes it much easier to operate the
menu system during installation and setup.
You should keep this function ON.

Warning sound indicates an important fault


situation and should be ON if no other systems
are monitoring such faults.

Acoustic caution indicates a less important


incident, and it may be turned OFF.

10.4 Rotate display


Rotating the display 180o is used to optimise the viewing angle when the XDi is mounted in a location where the
viewing angle is not optimal.

This function is the same that is available on the start page of the setup wizard where you will also find more
information about this function and where to use it.

11 Installation menu
The Installation menu is dynamic and contains vital setup parameters for the product, system and selected virtual
indicator. The dynamic behaviour means that the menu structure will adapt to the actual selection of virtual
indicator and product profile made using the “Setup Wizard”, and it will change if a new product profile or virtual
indicator is selected. If a menu selection is not active or selectable, it will be greyed out. Some of the grey menu
lines present fixed information and are never active. Occasionally, a parameter may only have one valid parameter
value and cannot be changed, even if it is not greyed out.
In general, it is only the functions that is actively selected or used in each product profile or virtual indicator
(including VS profile) that you can setup via the installation menu. It is therefore always a good idea to look into the
library description PDF to see if a given function is used.

Due to this dynamic behaviour of the menu structure, not all menu combinations can be covered in this document.
This chapter contains a number of menu examples representing some of the most used menu types.
Based on this, it should be relatively simple to use other similar menu types that may be used in your customised
library.

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IMPORTANT: The installation menu must only be accessed by trained or skilled personnel
who know the XDi system and the detailed operation of the XDi device. If CAN bus is used,
it is also recommended to consult the “XDi-net/CANopen reference manual”.

Warning: Changing mode or parameters may jeopardise the operation of the XDi.

11.1 Accessing the installation menu


The installation menu is protected by a “secret” button combination that is only active from the user menu; secret in
the way that there is no pop-up help menu to guide you. This is simply to protect the installation menu form
unauthorised access.
In other words, the installation menu is a submenu to the “USER MENU” and must be accessed by the secret
double-press from a user menu page.

Double press for more than 5 sec.:


Button 1 Button 2 Button 3 Button 4
- • • -

11.2 Restart Setup Wizard


This menu point will restart the setup wizard and make it possible to change CAN NodeID, select a new Product
Profile (PP) and/or Virtual Indicator (VI), or maybe change the default input setup by selecting another VS for the
selected VI.

IMPORTANT: Restarting the “Setup Wizard” from the installation menu, the previous selections will be
theHANDBOOK
DESIGNER’S new default and the wizard
4189350049C EN will not change any selection or parameter setup, Pagebut
127if of
a 206
new
change/selection is made manually in the wizard, all changes made previously via user or Installation
menu will be erased!
Please note, that it is not possible to skip the wizard directly using a soft-key (push-button) if it is started by
accident.
You can remove the power when the wizard is in start screen, and the XDi will start up in normal operation mode
again when repowered.
Alternatively, you can just step through all steps pushing “OK”, then no changes will be made.

See the chapter describing the setup wizard functions for more details.

11.3 Edit virtual indicator


This menu opens for editing elements in the virtual indicator.

The following elements must be implemented in the selected virtual indicator for the editing function to work.

11.3.1 Text and units


This menu opens for changing or adding headlines, labels or units (text only) on the selected virtual indicator.
Only selectable text lines (text boxes) embedded in the virtual indicator and predefined in the VI-setup profile (VS)
can be changed or new text added.

It is possible to implement a text box for units in the virtual indicator, but it should be
noted that only different representations of the presented unit can be selected; for
example, RPM, rpm, min-1 or 1/min.

Example: Change of temperature unit from oC to F is not possible using the “Change unit” feature.
In XDi-D and XDi-M different data units can only be made available by implementing 2 different virtual indicators,
one indicator using oC and another using F, you will then have to decide which one you prefer during installation.
In XDi-N it is possible to make virtual indicators with support for shift of active data units. If the unit shift function is
activated in the VI, there is fast access to shift a set of units defined in one of the 3 unit profiles. Please see the
separate chapter on unit profiles.

[Link] Headlines labels and units


A headline, label or unit is a text element that is predefined in the graphical design of the virtual indicator (VI).

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Each VI in a library can have several headlines, labels, or units.
The first headline is Headline 0, Next Headline 1 and so on.
In the following we will use headline as an example.
In each VS profile for a VS the will be a list of up to 32 predefined headline texts to easily select from during
installation setup. There is always one text in the headline list that is defined as the default selection. The default
text will automatically be selected when the VS profile is chosen via the setup wizard. After the wizard is completed,
you can change the default selection as described below.
Quit often it is the same headline list that is copied to all VS profiles for a given VI, but depending on the nature of
the indicator it is different text lines that is selected as default headline for a given VS.

For example, in a customer library using CAN data input for up to 4 tunnel thrusters on the same CAN bus, we
have most likely defined four VS profiles for respectively TT 1, TT 2, TT 3, TT 4 with their respective instance of
CAN input data. If we use a standard headline list like this:

Headline # Text Default XDi-net


selected in: index
Headline 0 Bow Thruster 1 VS01 0x4101:11
Headline 1 Bow Thruster 2 VS02 0x4101:12
Headline 2 Stern Thruster 1 VS03 0x4101:13
Headline 3 Stern Thruster 2 VS04 0x4101:14
Headline 4 Tunnel Thr. 1 0x4101:15
Headline 5 Tunnel Thr. 2 0x4101:16
Headline 6 Tunnel Thr. 3 0x4101:17
Headline 7 Tunnel Thr. 4 0x4101:18
Headline 8 Tunnel Thr. 5 0x4101:19
Headline 9 Tunnel Thr. 6 0x4101:1A
…..

We have used the same headline list in all four VS profiles (VS01 to 04), but the default selection is set differently
in each VS profile so that it is the match the normal system setting, used in most installations. But it is always
possible to make a change from the installation menu as we will see in the next chapter.

[Link] Select a new headline


The following example is an azimuth indicator where we will see how to select or add a new headline text.

To see or select a new headline, press OK.

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To select or add a new headline, press OK.

A headline is predefined in the virtual indicator design and each VI in a library can have several headlines, the first
is Headline 0, Next Headline 1 and so on.

Select a new headline from the list and press OK.

Each headline in a VI has a list of up to 32 predefined headline texts to choose from.


It is always possible to hide the headline by selecting “Invisible”.
To add a new headline, press OK on “Add new text”, and the virtual keyboard will appear.

You may add up to 32 new headlines before the “user headline list” is full.

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[Link] Select new label or unit
If one or more text boxes with labels or units are embedded in the selected virtual indicator, it is also possible to
select a new label or unit from a list or to add a new text from the virtual keyboard. The procedure is exactly the
same as explained for headlines.

Please note, that the added “user headlines” are stored in the permanent memory of the XDi, but
if you restart the setup wizard and select a new VS, the added headlines will be erased.
11.3.2
Warning marks/restricted band
XDi supports up to 4 restricted bands for each data type presented on an indicator. The restricted bands can be
used to indicate warning sectors on the scale of an analogue indicator.
Application example: on the RPM indicator for a two-stroke MAN engine, the “Red sector” indication is implemented
in the RPM bar graph. The red sector is configured during installation and sea trails, indicating the RPM range
where the engine should not normally operate (these restrictions could be due to resonances causing heavy
vibrations).

One red sector is activated and shown on the RPM scale.

In the virtual indicator, it is also possible to define that the bar graph will shift colour when the input value enters
a restricted band, as in this example where the bar graph shifts from green to yellow when RPM is within the
restricted band. This can help make it very visible that you are now operating your engine in a restricted RPM
range and should only be in this range for a short time. In the above picture the small yellow pointer is showing
that you are actually commanding the engine to go to 128 RPM.

The warning marks must be designed into the virtual indicator to be operational.

[Link] Edit warning marks and related critical bands


Below is shown an example where the Propeller RPM indicator has up to 4 critical bands defined.

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Select warning marks for Prop RPM 1, press OK.

The critical band is inactive since the high and low value is both 32767 (largest positive value = not available).
A critical band is disabled when high and low is the same value.
To activate the band, you must insert the critical band boundary values. If the critical band is from 238 to 276 RPM,
and keeping in mind that standard RPM values internally in XDi is defined with a resolution of 0.1, the value you
have to enter is:
Critical high value: 2760 (=276.0 RPM)
Critical low value: 2380 (=238.0 RPM)

Warning colour:
The warning colours are defined when the virtual indicator is designed. There are 3 warning levels, each with a
predefined colour. The colours may be different in Day, Dusk and Night mode.

The colours for the 3 warning levels are defined for the Bar-graph as:
Normal (Green)
Caution (Yellow)
Warning (Red)
The colours in ( ) are only examples of colours and is in this case the same in both day and night mode.

The warning marks open for configuration of quite flexible scale markings during installation.

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Note: This warning mark menu is also accessible from the user menu, please see the relevant chapter under
“Warning and sound”.

[Link] Different applications for the critical band function


Critical bands may also be assigned to control the colour of the pointer of an analogue indicator type, the colour
of a bar graph or the colour of a digital readout, but this type of functionality has to be included in the virtual
indicator design that is stored in the XDi library and you are not able to change the predefined colours from for
the different element from the installation menu.

When a DX1 digital i/o module is mounted on the XDi, the critical bands can also be used to control one or both
relay outputs on that module, but only if support for DX1 relay output is included in the selected VS profile.
This is for example used to activate the wind speed alarms in some of the wind indicators available in the DEIF
standard wind indicator library.

11.3.3 Indicators
The indicator menu makes it possible to change the visibility of each indicator element included in the virtual
indicator.
The example VI has 6 indicator elements as shown on the menu. To make a change to the azimuth set point
pointer (AZISET), highlight it and press OK.

Press OK to open AZISET for editing.

The indicator is set up to be visible (ON).


Press the OK button to open the visibility settings.

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The visibility function has 5 modes:
On: The pointer and/or digital readout is always visible.
Auto: The pointer/readout is controlled by a flag defined in the VS.
Off: The pointer/readout is always invisible and inactive (OFF).
Inside: The pointer/readout is only visible when data is inside the set visibility band.
Outside: The pointer/readout is only visible when data is outside the set visibility band.

IMPORTANT: When a pointer and/or digital readout is invisible, it is also disabled. This means that data
lost will not be detected. When the indicator is visible again, all functions are reactivated, and data lost
will be detected.
Visibility band:
The boundaries of the visibility band used in the last two modes (inside/outside) are defined by the parameters:
Max visible input value and Min visible input value.

To make the azimuth set point pointer and readout only visible when the commanded angle is between +/- 45o, the
mode inside must be selected, and the Max visible input value set to +450 (+45.0 o), and the Min visible input value
set to -450 (-45.0o).

IMPORTANT: Pointers, bar graphs and digital readout are an integrated part of the virtual
indicator design, and editing might therefore be more or less disabled. This may also be due to
MED or other regulations and approvals.

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11.4 Adjust input settings
The XDi 192 Multi-indicator with DEIF standard azimuth library shown below is used as an example. The virtual
indicator below is a multi-type with 6 data inputs: azimuth angle, pitch % and RPM / %RPM. The set point
(commanded) values are also presented by orange triangle pointers and orange digital readouts.

Please note, that set points can be disabled from the installation menu.

The data inputs for the standard indicator used in this example depend on which VI-setup profile (VS) is selected.

In this chapter the input setup menu examples are based on the above azimuth indicator. The intention is to cover
the input adjust menus for the most important types of analogue, digital and CAN indicator inputs.
The menu principles can be used in general, also for other data types than the ones in the examples.

Each input source for the selected virtual indicator will be available in the “Adjust input” menu and submenus will be
active if setup parameters can be adjusted via menu.

In this example, the virtual indicator has 6 inputs,


one for each data type indicated on the virtual
indicator (XDi type Multi).
The predefined setup parameters for all 6 inputs
are defined in the selected VS profile.

In this example the inputs are defined with


different types of input sources to illustrate the
different type of adjust menus.

Input data sources can be: XDi-net (CAN), DAM-MPDO, PDO converter (CANopen TPDO or RPDO), Analogue
input (AX1 is required), Digital input (DX1 i/o module is required).

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In some cases, NMEA0183 input is available as input source (requires NX2 NMEA i/o module). NMEA is however a
little special and requires its own dedicated setup menu. In the adjust input menu, that we are looking at now, data
sourced from an NMEA input will be presented in the same way as XDi-net data.

11.5 XDi-net – input adjust and special use


11.5.1 XDi-net adjust menu – Prop RPM% set point 1
Variable data is stored in the XDi unit as absolute values in a predefined location in the CAM object index table.
Details can be found in the XDi-net/CANopen reference manual.
Data in XDi-net format is transmitted in a Multiplexed PDO (SAM-MPDO), automatically addressed to the right
predefined object index location, and received by the XDi as a data broadcast.
Using XDi-net format, data is shared on a CANopen network without the need for a CANopen master or any
complicated NodeID setup.
The device acting as a data source is just broadcasting XDi-net data, and any XDi indicator (receiver) is simply
listening for the broadcasted data they need.
This means, that there are no parameters to set up via menu when XDi-net is used as input.

In this menu the only thing you can change is the name of the input source, in this case Prop RPM% setp. 1.
Note: In some virtual indicators (especially in XDi-N) we use the special input fall-back function, the name of the
active source is often presented on the indicator screen and in that case, it can be useful to be able to change the
source name to match a given installation.

[Link] Data from more than one data instance on the same CAN bus
When for example several azimuth thrusters are on the same CAN bus, each with one or more XDi indicators
connected, it requires a separate VS profile for each data instance that the indicator must support.
For example, if there are two azimuth thrusters on the same CAN bus, each with one or more XDi units for
indication, then the selected VI must have a separate VS profile for data instance 1 and another for data
instance 2. But often the CAN busser are physically separated, one CAN bus line for each thruster.

[Link] Special use of XDi-net as source


XDi-net is also used as input type if two different data types are generated based on the same input value.
This is for example the case when the following data inputs are used to generate 2 or more data types:

Input type Data type 1 Data type 2 Data type 3 Data type 4
AX1 analogue input RPM % RPM % Trust % Power

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Rudder angle % Rudder
Pitch angle % Pitch
TPDO converter RPM % RPM % Trust % Power
Rudder angle % Rudder
Pitch angle % Pitch
DX1 digital input RPM % RPM % Trust % Power

There can be other data types where the input device is set up to generate both an actual value and scale this
value to a % value in addition.
Data is routed internally in the XDi as if it was XDi-net data. To adjust such inputs, it is necessary to enter the
adjust menu where the data is generated.

A similar situation can be seen where a data type is presented both on an analogue indicators and also presented
in a digital readout, where the digital readout is able to show values exceeding the max value on the analogue
screen.

Standard RPM indicator with set point.

In this RPM indicator example, the max value on the analogue scale is 300, but the digital readout can present
values up to 999 RPM. So, in this indicator there will be defined 2 RPM sources with different max value, at least
one of those sources will be defined as a XDi-net source and may be visible as such in the input adjust menu.
Note: In a resent main software release it is made possible to create VS profiles where the input adjust menu is
disabled, in cases where it is not needed, but in many of the existing libraries the source line will still be visible in
the adjust input menu.

11.6 CANopen MPDO as data source


When XDi-net is selected as source, it is also possible to send variable data to an object index/sub-index by use of
a DAM-MPDO instead of the XDi-net broadcast format.
This requires that an RPDO is selected for MPDO communication in the CAN setup parameters list (in PP or via
CAN setup menu).
Destination Addressed Mode Multiplexed PDOs (DAM-MPDO) means that data is separately sent directly
addressed to each XDi identified by its NodeID (address) and then stored in the object index/sub-index defined in
the MPDO.
This option is sometimes preferred in networks with a CAN Master controlling all data distribution on the CAN bus
network. This method is a point to point communication and requires much more of the available bus bandwidth.
The data content of the DAM-MPDO is the same as the XDi-net format. The only difference is bit 7 in byte 0
defining the type of MPDO (1=DAM or 0=SAM), see the XDi-net/CANopen reference manual for more details.

IMPORTANT: If RPDO1 is used for DAM-MPDO communication, XDi-net must be disabled (in PP or via
CAN setup menu). If instead RPDO2, 3 or 4 is selected for DAM-MPDO transmission, then XDI-net can be
active and run in parallel.

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11.7 CANopen TPDO/RPDO input adjust
11.7.1 PDO converter for azimuth/rudder
The azimuth angle in the virtual indicator used in this example is predefined in the VS profile to come from an angle
transmitter (encoders) with CANopen interface (for example DEIF RTC 300 or RTC 600). The transmitter sends the
measured angle between +/-180o represented by a signed 16 bit relative data value packed into a TPDO in byte 0
and 1. This means that the input data value range is: -32768 to 32767.
To receive a TPDO or RPDO, the built-in tool called a “PDO converter” is used to convert the incoming relative
angle value to an absolute angle value between +/-180.0o. That will then be presented on the XDi azimuth
indicator. A PDO converter input is only available if it is defined as the data source in the selected VS profile.

This type of input can be used for any standard angle transmitter (encoder) with CANopen interface according to
“CiA 406 Device profile for encoders”. It will be possible to adapt to most of those CAN transmitters by adjusting the
standard parameters in the TPDO converter as explained below, but if this is not possible due to a special
configuration of the CANopen angle transmitter, it may be necessary to make a customised VS profile.

Most transmitters on CAN are delivered with auto-start. If the sensor does not use auto-start on
CANopen, then XDi can be set up to send out the CANopen start command after boot up. This function
is located in the CAN setup menu.

Data type: defines the data type that is


used for this indicator and is fixed (cannot
be changed via menu).

Data instance: is used to separate


multiple azimuth transmitters on the same
CAN bus. It is a fixed defined number
typically between 1 and 15.
The “Data type” and “Instance” defines
the [Link] where data is stored.
(See the XDi-net/CANopen reference
manual for details)

Name: is a unique name for this data type and instance. It makes it easier to identify the data source. The name
may be edited from the menu, using the virtual keyboard and can be synchronised via XDi-net.

Source: is the input source type that is defined in the selected VS. It is fixed for PDO converters, and if XDi-net and
XDi-net variable data are active, it will also be possible to send data using the XDi-net data protocol. This makes it
possible to use either PDO or XDi-net format even if the source is a PDO converter. Do not send XDi-net data to
this data type/instance in parallel with the TPDO specified in the converter. This will make the azimuth indicator
jump between the received values. This function can be useful to establish a backup function in a system, for
example if the PDO transmitter fails, a CAN master/controller can send backup data in XDi-net format.

Zero ref.: makes it possible to insert a zero reference (or offset) to the received angle value.

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Often you will however make the zero angle calibration of the CAN azimuth or rudder transmitter (encoder) instead;
it is always good praxis to adjust or calibrate the data source if possible.
To zero-adjust DEIF RTC 300 or RTC 600 angle transmitters, please see the quick start guide or the detailed
installation instructions.

Either set the azimuth physically to 0


degree and press OK to accept the actual
value as the new zero reference input
value, for example 255 as shown in this
case, press OK when “Use actual input
value:” is highlighted to accept that actual
value 255 is set up as the new zero
reference.
Please note that it may take a few
seconds before the actual value is
updated.

Alternatively, select “Enter value manually…” by highlighting and pressing OK.


This function can be used if it is not possible to physically set the azimuth at 0 degree, but the offset between
physical and transmitter zero is known.

Use the softkeys to enter a new zero


reference value. The actual parameter
value is also presented in this case for
information. This is sometimes very useful
when a new value must be entered.
Please be aware, that the min/max values
that the “value input tool” handles
exceed the relevant input values for this
data type. In this example, using a signed
16 bit, all values above +32767 are not
relevant.

Direction: makes it possible to change the measuring direction of the angle transmitter (encoder) between
clockwise (CW) and counter clockwise (CCW). In praxis, the sign of the absolute angle will be shifted. This is very
useful if the angle transmitter is mounted upside-down.

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Angle value equal to + or – 100 % and
related encoder values for + or – 100 %
are predefined as +/-1800 (+/-180° with
0.1° resolution). In azimuth mode, this
should not be changed.
If this was a rudder angle input, these
menu entries are used to scale the angle
transmitter input to an actual rudder
angle, and if needed also a %Rudder
value.

If there are more than one CAN based angle encoder on the same CAN bus, the TPDO COB-ID can easily be
changed via the menu above. If for example a DEIF RTC 600 CAN angle transmitter is programmed by wire to use
NodeID 2 instead of the default NodeID 1, you must change the Encoder TPDO/RPDO hex value to 0x0182 and
XDi will now receive angle data from the 2nd angle encoder (transmitter) instead.

11.7.2 CANopen Rudder transmitter (for example DEIF RTC 600)


If the rudder transmitter was providing input for a +/-45.0 degree rudder angle indicator, the default settings would
be:

Angle values equal to +100 %: 450 (that is 45.0° with the standard resolution for a rudder that is x0.1° ).
Angle values equal to -100 %: - 450 (again x0.1° resolution).
The encoder (or CAN rudder transmitter) values must be scaled accordingly, in this case:
Encoder value at +100 %: 8191 (This equals 45.0o shaft angle on a 16 bit encoder – for example RTC 600)
Encoder value at -100 %: -8191 (equals – 45.0o).

If the mechanical rudder system needs calibration, this can be performed using the following procedure:
1. Set Zero: position rudder at 0o and either zero set the encoder acting as source or make zero set via the menu
(see Zero reference above).
2. Set rudder to 45o starboard and set the new encoder value (if you are not able to move rudder to 45 deg, just
adjust the figures manually. You may also adjust the “Angle value equal to +/-100 %” to for example +/- 40o if
the rudder can be physically positioned at this angle, and adjust the encoder values by selecting actual value.
3. Set rudder to 45o portside, and adjust the encoder value at -100 % accordingly.

11.7.3 PDO converter for pitch %


The pitch sensor is also in this example a 16 bit encoder with a CANopen interface. As for the azimuth and rudder
described before, this data source is also a PDO converter. The function is similar to the PDO converter described
for the rudder above:

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 140 of 206


Zero ref.: it is recommended to calibrate the pitch angle transmitter (encoder) if possible. Alternatively, the zero
reference can be used to offset the angle transmitter input.
Direction: Works as previously described, it shifts the direction (sign) of the pitch values.
The scaling is set up so that the angle transmitter (encoder) input +/-8191 (equal to +/- 45o rotation angle for a 16
bit transmitter) is scaled to +/-45.0o. Please note, that the data resolution for pitch angle is x0.1, and that it is
unfortunately not presented like that in the menu; 450 means 450x0.1=45.0 degrees.
The PDO converter will also output +/- 100.0 % pitch-scaled based on the same inputs.

Very often, only % pitch is presented in the virtual indicator, and the absolute pitch angle in degree is
not used. It is however still the pitch type PDO converter that is used, and therefore the “Angle value
equal to +100 %” (or … -100 %) is the same as the % values. In such cases, they are often set up to +/-
1000 equal to +/- 100.0.

11.7.4 PDO converter for RPM


The RPM PDO converter follows the same principles as already described. This converter type is also able to
calculate actual RPM and %RPM, but in addition it can also calculate: %Thrust = (%RPM) 2 and %Power =
(%RPM) 3 if the virtual indicator needs to be able to present those data types. The selected VS profile will then
contain parameters to configure the PDO converter to make this calculation. (This is similar to what is described for
the AX1 RPM input adjust a little later in this document)
RPM as well as most data types in the internal object index table are defined with 0.1 resolution (see the XDi-
net/CANopen reference manual for details).

The following example is taken from “DEIF standard azimuth library” where the virtual indicator VI003 is selected,
and the setup profile VS02 for CANopen TPDO is selected.

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In this example, the default scaling setting in the VS02 profile is changed, so that +/-200 RPM is equal to 100 %
(110 % is 220 RPM).

Default setup.

Default VS02 settings:


In the VS02 profile, the actual RPM values are set up to be scaled 1:1 (still with resolution 0.1, meaning that the
RPM value in the menu is presented as RPMx10).
With the 100 % at 29785, the %PRM bar graph indicator will be at 110 % when the input value is +32765 (the
largest valid value – equal to 3275.5 RPM).

Change RPM settings:


To obtain the desired RPM settings of +/-200RPM equal to 100 % and still use the 0.1 RPM resolution of the input
value (PDO value), the RPM settings must be changed like this:
RPM value equal to +100 %: 2000
RPM value equal to -100 %: -2000
PDO value equal to +100 %: 2000
PDO value equal to -100 %: -2000

If the RPM value is sent in the TPDO with 1RPM resolution instead, the PDO value setting must be changed to:
PDO value equal to +100 %: 200
PDO value equal to -100 %: -200

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In this case, the XDi will scale the input values still using 0.1RPM data resolution internally for the RPM data type.
You cannot change the internal resolution.

The PDO converter will not stop the scaling at 100 %. It will make a linear scaling as long as the result is within the
valid limit for actual the data type, in this case RPM.
The presentation can however be limited. In the DEIF standard indicator used as example, the bar graph is limited
to 110 % and the digital readout will stop at 200 %. But in a customised indicator, this can be made differently, but
the setup procedure and scaling principle is the same.

11.7.5 Universal PDO converters


A number of universal PDO converters are available in the XDi, which can be used to generate any other data type
from a TPDO or RPDO. Electrical power could be an example.
The universal converters use the same principles as already described and are also able to calculate both actual
and a relative (%) data value.

11.7.6 Advanced CAN functions


The advanced settings should only be changed by system experts who have detailed knowledge of the CAN bus
system, protocol and the XDi-net specification. Via this menu, it is possible to adapt the PDO converter settings to
other CAN sensors, for example angle transmitters with slightly different CAN settings.

Conversion mode: defines which CAN bus contains the azimuth angle TPDO. It may be set to CAN1&CAN2 ON,
CAN1 ON, CAN2 ON or OFF. If the converter is set up to OFF then the XDi-net function previously described can
be used as input instead. Without interference from the defined TPDO, that maybe is used for something else in
this CAN system.

Encoder TPDO/RPDO: defines the COBID of the TPDO or RPDO that the PDO converter is receiving data from,
all valid COBIDs for TPDOs and RPDOs is basically supported. But please note the restrictions on all RPDO1s
(COBID 0x200 to 0x27F) when XDi-net is active. Please see the XDi-net/CANopen reference manual for details.

PDO data format: can be either type “Signed” or “Unsigned”. For CAN angle transmitters (encoders), this defines
where the zero point reference point is located after a “zero set” is performed. Transmitters using signed will have
zero reference in 0, and unsigned will have zero reference in ½ data range. For example, an encoder transmitting a
unsigned 12 bit value will have zero at 2047, and the full data range is 0 to 4095.
In some cases, the control system will transmit the angle data as an absolute angle e.g. +/-1800 in a in a TPDO, in
that case you must adjust the PDO converter settings accordingly.

CAN data field length: this must match the CAN data resolution of the used angle transmitter. The XDi supports
any resolution from 10 to 16 bits. (DEIF RTC type angle transmitters use full 16 bit resolution for optimal accuracy)

Mapped data. LSB located at bit no.: defines where the 10 to 16 bits of data are located in the 8 byte data frame
of a TPDO or RPDO. If data is located in byte 0 and 1, then data is not mapped, and this value is 0. If data however
is located in byte 2 and 3, then this parameter must be set up as 16. This makes the converter read data of the
specified length starting at bit 16 (LSB location of the 2 byte data).

11.7.7 CANopen PDO converter synchronisation via XDi-net


Data sent in a PDO is already available for all XDi units on the CAN bus and can be received by all XDi units each
using a PDO converter. However, if the received data need to be corrected via menu, for example the zero set of

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 143 of 206


the incoming azimuth angle, the change made will in the first place only affect the XDi where the adjustment is
made, even though several XDi units on the network need the same adjustment.
To avoid the need of making the same adjustment individually on all the XDi units in a system using the same
encoder, XDi has a built-in synchronisation function. When leaving the adjust menu, you will be asked via a “Synch
select menu”, where you want the XDi to send a synchronisation message to all other XDi units on the CAN bus to
make exactly the same adjustments on all.

Highlight YES and press OK to synchronise.

This function will only work when XDi-net and “Send XDi-net setup synch data” are both active on the CAN bus.
This is activated in the Product Profile or may be set up via the CAN setup menu.
This is a very useful function which reduces the time it takes to adjust a full system containing several XDi
indicators.

IMPORTANT: If you do not know how the CAN system is set up and configured, you should
select NO to only make the setup locally. That is also why the default selection is NO.

11.8 AX1 analogue input adjust


11.8.1 AX1 analogue input – azimuth/rudder set point 1
In this example, the selected VS profile defines the input for azimuth set point to be an analogue 4-20 mA input, but
this can be changed via the installation menu below. The detailed description of the inputs and functions are found
in the AX1 Chapter.

Data type and instance is always fixed


defined in the VS profile.
Name of the data type (source) may be
changed using the text virtual keyboard
(highlight and press OK).
The following is fixed defined in the VS:
Source: type of data source
Location: the slot where AX1 extension
module is installed (or must be installed).
Mode: input mode is in this case Analogue
input 2.
Status: active (must be active or else the
interface is not working)

Data value equal to + or – 100 % defines the angle value equal to + or - 100 % rudder angle. %Rudder is not
used in this azimuth indicator. In some cases, when the % data is not used, the value 0 or 1000 is pre-set for both.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 144 of 206


Direction is quite useful if the analogue
input is reversed in the actual installation.
But be careful using it on 4-20mA input
since it is the +/- sign on the input that is
changed when direction is changed !
Input type: can be changed (see below).

Input error value min and max: by


setting a valid input range between min
and max, it is possible to get an AX1 input
error message and data lost indication
when input value is outside the range.

Multi-point linearisation: indicates the


number of calibration points that are
activated for the input in this VS profile
(fixed). In this case, it is 2 point calibration
that makes 2 sets of in/out calibration
parameters active.
Note: For an azimuth 180° = -180° you
should only scale to -179.9° as shown in
this example.

[Link] Analogue single input types


The analogue input types are shown below. Select the input type and value that best fit your application.

Detailed description is found in the chapter describing the AX1 module.

If the input type is changed, then all used input points must be re-entered, and make sure also to edit the
input error min/max values.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 145 of 206


The input types are described in more details below and in the chapter regarding AX1 module.

[Link] Analogue input with multi-point linearisation


The azimuth angle input is only using 2 point linearisation (scaling) as shown below.

Input point 1: when input type is +/-20 mA, this parameter is the input current in µA that must be equal to the
Output point 1: in this case, the angle -1799 at the standard resolution of x0.1°.
Input point 2: is the input current in µA equal to the
Output point 2: in this case, the angle 1800 at the standard resolution of x0.1°.
(See also AX1 chapter)

Analogue rudder input voltage


When the analogue input is used for rudder applications, 3-point linearisation of the analogue input is normally
used. Below is a 0-10V input signal from the rudder sensor calibrated in the actual system.

As it can be seen in the screen picture:


This VS profile use 3 point calibration.
Input point 1 is 1250mV (1.25V), that is
equal to
Output point 1: max PS rudder -450 (-45.0°)
In/out 2: 5000mV (5.0V) is the centre 0° and
In/out 3: 8750mV (8.75V) is the max SB
rudder 450 (+45.0°).

In XDi it is possible to make customised VS profiles with analogue input that has up to 7-point linearisation
(see description in the AX1 chapter).

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Potentiometer correction: this function
is only active if the input is a single high
voltage input (HV). When active, the XDi
will compensate the measurements for
the impact of the AX1 input resistance on
the potentiometer output voltage.
The potentiometer value is ohm.

Sampling rate is default 100 ms. It may


be changed in fixed steps (50, 100, 200,
300, 400, 500, 1000 msec.).

The analogue input data is filtered to avoid fluctuations due to signal noise.

[Link] Analogue data filter


Filter mode: is the type of filter algorithm used: off, linear or circular.
Linear: is used for normal linear data type where the value is 0 to X or +/-X.
Circular: is used for angular data types where the data range is circular, meaning that there is a “wraparound”
between +X and –X, for example the azimuth type indicator input where the +180 and -180 degree is the same
value.
In this example, the input current will change abruptly from 20 mA to 4 mA in a split second when the angle is
moved from 180o to -179.9o. To handle this, the special circular filtering algorithm is used to have a smooth
transition with normal filter function, also when this point is passed.
Filter size: this parameter defines the number of samples used to calculate the average data value.
Filter size can be set between 0 and 100, where 0 means no filtering and 100 means that the data value is
calculated based on an average of the last 100 samples. If data presentation is fluctuating, the filter value should
be increased, but be aware that the higher the filter value, the slower the indicator will react on a change.

[Link] Data sharing on XDi-net


CAN communication
The scaled data provided by the analogue interface we have looked at may be shared on CANopen using the XDi-
net protocol. In all DEIF standard libraries this function is by default set to CAN1 & CAN2, so data is automatically
shared with another XDi “repeater” on the same CAN bust that is setup with a XDi-net input profile (usually VS01).

XDi-net update rate: can be used to change the repetition rate on data sent on the CAN bus. Available settings
are: 50 ms, 100 ms (default), 200 ms, 300 ms, 400 ms, 500 ms or 1000 ms. Where 100ms is the default selection.

Use CAN interface: defines if and where XDi-net data is transmitted, settings are: OFF, CAN1, CAN2 or
CAN1&CAN2. XDi will share the data that the analogue module is calculation also if it is more than one value.
For example if the AX1 interface in a given indicator is setup to calculate all the four RPM-based data types: RPM,
%RPM, %Thrust and %Power, then all 4 types will be shared on CAN using XDi-net protocol if the CAN interface is
set active, for example to CAN1.

11.8.2 AX 1 Analogue input for RPM set point


The AX 1 module has 2 input channels that can be set up in the VS profile to represent any type of data available
as an analogue voltage, current or potentiometer input signal type. In this example, input 1 on slot 1 is set up as a
4-20 mA input for propeller RPM set point (commanded RPM). The RPM set point is +/-300 RPM equal to +/-100
% RPM, both represented by the 4-20 mA input signal.

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Name: identifies the input parameter, and
it may be changed.

Source: analogue input (single). This is


fixed defined in the selected VS.

Data value equal to +100 %: is used to


calculate the %RPM set point value (and
also %Thrust (%RPM) 2 and %Power
(%RPM) 3. If those data are used by the
indicator and set up in the VS).

Direction: CW/CCW can also be set up to change the conversion direction of the analogue input, but please note
that it is the sign of the input signal the CW/CCW function is changing, so it is not of any use in a 4-20mA system.

Input error value min/max: See the description for azimuth / rudder

Input type: can be changed. See


previous description of AX1 for azimuth.

Multi-point linearisation:
RPM is +/- type; therefore 3-point
linearisation is used.
Input point 1: 4000 µA (4 mA) equals the
output point 2: -3000 res. x0.1 that is
equal to -300.0 RPM.
Input point 2: 12000 µA is 0 RPM
Input point 3: 20000 µA is set to output
300.0 RPM.

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Potentiometer correction: if a
potentiometer is used for the analogue set
point, this feature may be useful (see
previous chapter for details).

Filter mode: in this case, the normal


linear filter type is used.

Filter size: can be set between 0 and


100. Increase the filter value to reduce
noise and fluctuations in the presentation.

See previous chapter (AX1 used for azimuth set point) for more details.

11.9 DX1 Digital input adjust


11.9.1 DX1 digital RPM from pickup
A virtual indicator can be configured to receive digital signals directly from one or two RPM pickups as previously
described in the DX1 chapter of this document.
The DX1 extension module can be preconfigured in the VS to support either a digital input pair (bidirectional RPM)
or as one or two single direction RPM inputs.
In this example, the RPM is a single direction.

The digital RPM function calculates both the actual RPM value based on pulses per 100 revolutions, and it is also
able to calculate %RPM value based on a positive or negative RPM scaling value.
The digital RPM function can also calculate %Thrust as (%RPM) 2 and %Power as (%RPM)3; this is a predefined
setting in the VS, only relevant if one of those parameters are used in the virtual indicator.
(No special setup is needed for %Thrust and %Power).

The above RPM-based calculations are handled by one calculator function in the XDi, and therefore adjustments
are handled by one setup menu, described below.

Data type and Data instance have the


same function as described for the
azimuth; they define the data type and
instance to use.
Name of the data type may be changed
via virtual keyboard.
Source is in this case the digital input from
the DX1 module located in slot 2 on the
XDi.
Mode: is in this case single RPM input
D1, where D1 is short for digital input 1 on
the DX1 module.

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RPM value equal to +100 %
This input is also controlling the %RPM bar graph, where the default scaling is set up to 3000 RPM with a 0.1 RPM
resolution. In the DEIF standard library, the default 3000.0 RPM is equal to a 110 % RPM scale value. This means
that 100 % must be set up to 27273 (x 0.1 RPM = 2727.3 RPM).
If the normal max. RPM in this actual installation is 400 RPM equal to 100 %, then the “RPM value equal to +100
%” must be changed to 4000 (x0.1) RPM. The %RPM bar graph will then be able to show RPM overrun up to 440
RPM.

RPM value equal to -100 %


In this case, it is a single direction input, so this parameter is not used. In case of an RPM bidirectional pair, this
value scales the negative %PRM values.

RPM scaling: defines the number of pulses from the pickup that equals 100 revolutions. In this case, there are 10
bolts in the disk on the shaft, so for each revolution of the propeller shaft, 10 pulses will be generated, which equals
1000 pulses per 100 revolutions.
RPM scaling can be set between 60 and 65535.

RPM direction: defines the direction of the rpm. In practise, this function shifts the sign of the RPM value.
The settings are Normal or Reversed.

[Link] Advanced functions:


Sampling rate: function should be self-explanatory. It can be set in predefined steps from 50 ms to 1 sec.
Filter size: this parameter defines the number of samples used to calculate the average data value.
Filter size can be set between 0 and 100, where 0 means no filtering and 100 means that the data value is
calculated based on an average of the last 100 samples. If data presentation is fluctuating, the filter value should
be increased, but be aware that the higher the filter value, the slower the indicator will react on a change.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 150 of 206


CAN communication
The RPM data provided by the digital RPM calculator may be shared on CANopen using the XDi-net protocol.

XDi-net update rate: can be used to change the repetition rate on data sent on the CAN bus. Standard settings
are: 50 ms, 100 ms (default), 200 ms, 300 ms, 400 ms, 500 ms or 1000 ms.

Use CAN interface: defines if and where XDi-net data is transmitted, settings are: OFF, CAN1, CAN2 or
CAN1&CAN2. (It is controlling all RPM-based data types setup to be calculated: RPM, %RPM, %Thrust and/or
%Power).

[Link] Digital RPM data shared in a TPDO


It is also possible to preconfigure the XDi to share digital RPM data using a CANopen TPDO or RPDO, but it must
be defined in the VS as a special PDO output. In a customized library it is even possible to get different data types
mapped into the same TPDO or RPDO to reduce the data communication load on the bus.

11.10 External input for control flags


The XDi is able to make some changes of indication based on the status of a control flag. Functions like control of
the presentation of a data type, for example shift between presenting set point data (visibility flag ON) and
turning set point data presentation OFF (visibility flag OFF = invisible). This has also been used to control a text
label or shift text label. The flag can be directly controlled using the XDi-net on CAN, but can also be controlled
using other input devices such as: analogue input, digital input or CANopen TPDO or RPDO as input.

11.10.1 AX1 – Analogue input as “digital” control input


It is possible to configure an analogue input to act as input for a control flag, for example set up AX1 input1 to be
scaled so that for example 0 V is equal to flag value 0, and input voltage >5 is scaled to a flag value 1 (for example
input voltage 0 to 4.99 V will give flag value 0, and input 5 to 10 V will give flag value 1).
Using this method, even control flag with several control levels can be controlled by one input where the voltage
has several steps.
If needed, it can be combined with the multi-point linearisation function to scale the analogue input in up to 7 steps.
This can for example be to externally control the visibility of set point data presented on the virtual indicator, so that
set point data is externally controlled to only be shown when there is a change, and then turned off again after a
short while or when actual data has reached the set point. This has to be controlled via the analogue input by the
external control system; it is not performed by the XDi.

In some cases, it can be useful to be able to use a spare analogue input as a digital control input, but it will
normally be in connection with a customized library solution. If you have special wishes, please contact the experts
at DEIF to get help to find the best solution for your application.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 151 of 206


The control flag function setup and default settings must be predefined in the VS for the actual virtual indicator.
The setup menu is the standard analogue input adjust menu, presented in another section of this document.

More complex control of a flag may require digital input(s) on the DX1 module instead.

11.10.2 DX1 - Universal digital input of a control flag


Control flags may also be externally controlled using a digital input (DX1). The input can be defined to control a flag
in the object index table.
This can be used to control visibility of a data type as described for the AX1 module or other similar control
functions. Two digital inputs can also be set up as a pair to control 4 flag levels.
In XDi-N this function can for example be used to externally control the shift between several screens on the XDi or
even screen shift on a complete group of XDi-N indicators connected via CAN and using the screen mode group
function (see separate description).
The digital flag setup can set a defined object index to a predefined internal control flag value.
This function may be used in customised libraries, and the function depends on the actual indicator application.
Therefore, it is not described in more details in this manual.

11.11 DX1 Relay output adjust


The two relay outputs on the DX1 module can be configured to be controlled either by product-related event, pre-
set in the selected PP and/or by an indicator-specific event predefined in the VS profile for the selected virtual
indicator.
The product related relay functions are available when a DX1 module is mounted. If the function is disabled in the
PP, it can be activated from the installation menu.
The virtual indicator (VI)-related relay functions must be preconfigured in the VS profile for the relay function to be
available in the menu. If menu lines are greyed, out it is because they cannot be selected or edited.
It is possible to activate both PP and VI relay control at the same time. If both are active, the XDi performs an “or”
function, and if one of the events is true, the relay will be activated. This means that the relay can be activated both
if the indicator pointer is within a critical band and if data is lost (warning).
To enter the Relay setup go to Install menu-> Adjust output-> Relay setup, and select the relay:

In this example, relay 1 is set up to be activated when a warning or caution event is present in the XDi. The actual
warning or caution that will activate the relay depends on which warnings or cautions are activated in the selected
PP or set up via the XDi user menu.
The grey functions in the menu will first be active if the “VI relay active” is activated. In this example, the VI-related
functions are not predefined in the VS, and the “VI relay active” is therefore greyed out too.

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11.11.1 Product-related events
The “PP Relay active” function defines which product-related events the relay must be controlled by (control event).
The following event selections are available: disabled, XDi warning, XDi caution or XDi warning & caution.
It is the same warnings that the XDi presents in an amber (orange) pop-up on the display, and cautions are the
ones presented periodically in a yellow pop-up.
Warnings are the reporting of more important issues like CAN bus errors and data lost, but it can also be if the
power supply is low in a system with single power supply.
Where cautions are minor issues that may become important if not acted on, for example if one of the power supply
lines in a redundant powered system is low or missing. This is not an important problem as long as the second
power supply is OK.
Some of the warning/caution functions can be set ON/OFF in the user menu, and this will affect the relay function
accordingly. (Turning off sound on warnings and cautions does not affect the relay function).

11.11.2 Relay mode


The relay mode defines the relay idle state. There are two modes:
- Normal de-energised (ND); the relay is not activated as long as the control event is “False”.
- Normal energised (NE), the relay is activated as long as the control event is “False”.

When NE is used, the relay contact will be activated when the XDi is powered up and for as long as the relay
control event is “False”. This means that both supply power dropout and control event “True” will change the relay
state. This is often used where the relay is used for important warnings or even in some cases alarms, I a
customized XDi is designed into a system using this functionality.

11.11.3 Relay event mode


The relay mode defines how the relay acts on the event that is set up to activate the relay function. Selecting the
right mode and timing parameters can adapt the function to different applications.

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[Link] Normal mode
The relay will act directly on the event. When the event occurs (true), the relay will be activated and stay activated
as long as the event is true and first deactivate when the event disappears (false).

Relay in ND mode

[Link] Timer mode


This is a function that runs every time the event occurs, but only once, so the event has to disappear, before the
timer function will be able to run again.

The two timing parameters “Relay timer MIN” and “Relay timer MAX” can be predefined or changed via menu to
one of the following selections: disabled, 500, 1000, 1500,… 30000 ms (steps of 500 ms until 10000, 1000 ms from
10000 to 30000).

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Relay in ND mode.

The timer mode can be used to make a short event activate a longer relay output. This can be useful in several
situations where the relay is driving a warning lamp or an acoustic alarm. If the short event happens again after
“Timer min.”, then the sequence will reappear.

Relay in ND mode.

In this example, the event lasts longer than “Timer Min.”, but it is not longer than the (Timer Min + Timer Max) limit,
so the relay output will be equal to the length of the event.

Relay in ND mode.

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In this example, the event lasts longer than “Timer Min.+Timer Max” time limit, and the relay output will switch OFF
when the time limit is reached.
In general, the timer function can be used to secure a minimum length of the relay output, but also to shorten a very
long event.
If “Timer MAX” is disabled (it is the same as 0 msec.), then the relay output will always have the same ON time
whenever triggered.

Example: the XDi is set up to monitor power supply 1 and 2 and provide a caution if power is not OK. The DX1
Relay 1 is set up to act on the event “XDi caution” and timer mode is used with setting: Timer Min.: 3000 msec. and
Timer Max.: 10,000 msec.
The XDi power supply 1 is shortly interrupted for approx. 1 sec, the XDi issues a caution on the display, and at the
same time relay 1 is activated and is ON for 3 sec. before it goes OFF again.
Later that day power supply drops totally out and again the caution is issued, but this time the relay 1 will stay on
for 3+10 seconds before it goes OFF again. If the power supply 1 lost event is still there, the caution will be
indicated periodically on the XDi display, but the relay output will not go on again before the event has disappeared
for a short while and then re-appear.
The timer function will only react once on a given event.
In the above example, if you desire the relay output to periodically repeat the activation for as long as the event
lasts, then the “Toggle mode” is the right choice, and it will be described in the following.

[Link] Timer mode with acknowledge


This timer mode works like the normal timer mode. When the Relay time min and max is setup, and the relay is
activated by an event. When the relay is activated, it is possible for a person to deactivate it again, by simply
pushing any of the front buttons shortly.

This function was implemented in connection with the XDi upgrade to platform 2 (including XDi-N). In that
connection front frame with pushbuttons was made available for all XDi models and with front pushbuttons a
manual acknowledge function can sometimes be useful.

In the above example a rudder angle indicator is activating the timer function when the value is inside 300 to 400
(equal to outside SB 30.0° on this 40 degree indicator). The relay activates when the event happens, and it stays
on for minimum 0.5 seconds even if the rudder again moves below 30°. If the rudder continues to be >30° then the
relay is disabled after 10 seconds.
If you don’t need a minimum time, you can disable “Relay timer MIN”.
Acknowledge (Normal): The operator can disable the relay within the activation timer frame above, by shortly
pushing any of the buttons on the XDi front frame.
Note: If external pushbuttons are connected via an NX1 or 2 module then acknowledge can also be performed from
an external pushbutton.

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Special acknowledge setup 1
In this mode you can set the Relay timers to “Disabled”,
If you disable both “Relay timer MAX” and “Relay timer MIN”

The relay will activate immediately when the rudder angle exceeds 30° and it will stay active until you make an
acknowledge by pushing any of the front buttons.
Even if the rudder again moves into the normal sector below 30° the relay will stay activated.

Special acknowledge setup 2


The “Relay timer MIN” has a slightly different function when “Relay timer MAX” is disabled, the minimum timer will
act as a delay.

In this example with Relay timer MIN at 2000ms the relay will first activate when the rudder has stayed at, or above,
30° for the 2 second period and it will then stay active until you acknowledge by pushing any of the front buttons.
Note: Even if the rudder again moves into the normal sector below 30° the relay will stay activated until it is
acknowledged.

[Link] Toggle mode


The toggle mode is another way of controlling the relay output timing when it is triggered by a given event.
For events shorter than “Timer Min.”, the relay output acts like in normal mode event and relay output have the
same length. But if the event is longer than “Timer Min.”, then the relay output will be forced OFF when the “Timer
Min.” limit is reached.

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If the event continues after “Timer Min.” +” Timer Max.” time limit, then the timer will be reset and restarted when
this time limit is reached. This activates a new output pulse of a length defined by “Timer Min.”.

This function will periodically activate the relay output as long at the same event still exists.
If the event is shortly interrupted, the toggle function will restart and act as if it was a new event.

11.11.4 Indicator-related relay setup


The relay can also be configured to react on event(s) predefined in the virtual indicator setup profile (VS). The “VI
relay function” is only accessible for adjustments in the “Relay source” menu when it is predefined in the selected
VS.
The VI relay functions that can be selected in the “VI relay active” menu line are:
• Disabled (the function is inactive)
• Activate inside Critical band
• Activate outside Critical band
• Activate below user def. low value
• Activate above user def. high value
• Activate on flag-H (Flag & mask >=1)
• Activate on flag-L (Flag & mask =0)

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When the “VI relay active” is set up, the “Name” and the “Index, Sub-index” defines which data type or flag is
controlling the relay output. Example: we want the relay 1 to be controlled by Propeller RPM instance 1, then the
object index will be 0x3081 (Prop. RPM instance 1), and the sub-index 0x02 (actual data) or in the notation used in
the menu: 0x3081:0x02. If the relay should instead react on set point data for propeller RPM 1, then the sub-index
must be 0x07.

[Link] Activate inside critical band


All normal variable data (like RPM) has up to 4 critical bands where Max and Min. can define warning marks on the
indicator scale as previously described. But the same critical bands can also be used to define boundaries for relay
functions.

If for example “VI relay active” is set up to “Activate inside critical band” and critical band 1 is set to “ON”, then the
relay will activate when the data value is within the boundaries (max/min) of critical band 1. The relay event mode
(ND/NE) will define how the output will act as previously described.
More than one critical band may be activated at a time.

[Link] Activate outside critical band


This function works similar to the function “Activate inside critical band”. In this case, the relay is activated when the
data value is outside the active critical band(s).
More than one critical band may be activated at a time.

[Link] User-defined relay activation band


It is also possible to insert one additional custom relay activation band. The user defined band is activated by
inserting the required low and high value defining the band boundaries.

If the low and high values are the same (for example 0), the user-defined band is disabled.
The user-defined band may be used separately or in addition to the 4 critical bands.

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[Link] Relay controlled by internal flag:
If the predefined index/sub-index is an internal flag, the flag mask is used to determine which bits in the flag the
relay must react on. The flag mask value is multiplied with the flag value (using logic “AND” function), and the
result controls the relay. This is also a function that must be preconfigured into the VS for a given virtual indicator,
and the detailed description will be in the library specification document.

11.11.5 Relay activation indication on a VI


The extended relay function in software platform 2 open also for indication of the relay status on the indicator
screen. It can for example be a text label that is presented when the relay is activated and another when it is
deactivated. For example, the text: Normal and Overload.
It can of cause also be a text that is only shown in case the relay is activated for ex. WIND WARNING !
The text line can for example be made as a text label that is controlled by the relay status flag function.

It can also be a graphical symbol that is shown in the VI indicator screen when the relay is activated,

for example, like this:


If you need a special warning or alarm function in your customized library, please take contact with the experts at
DEIF.

11.12 NMEA output using NX1 (or NX2)


Some data types, generated by the XDi via analogue or digital input, may be necessary for external systems, such
as Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) or the integrated navigation system. XDi is able to share such data on NMEA0183
with the same high digital data accuracy used in the XDi system. The XDi must have the NX1 NMEA output or NX2
NMEA in/out module installed, and the set up profile (VS) for the selected virtual indicator must be preconfigured to
support the NMEA output for the actual data type.
This function obviously requires a free slot for the NX module, but if data is shared to other XDi units using CAN
(for example XDi-net), then one of these other XDi units can be set up as an NMEA output source.

The NX1 module has one NMEA output port and the NX2 module has one standard NMEA output but the RS485
type output can also be configured as an output if it is not used as a NMEA input.
The NX module can be mounted in one of the two slots available on XDi 144/192 (only one slot on XDi 96). It is
possible to mount two NX modules on XDi144/192 at the same time and route data to each output individually. The
same data type can even be shared on both. This can be beneficial if the two systems need galvanic separation of
the outputs. (Note that normally, galvanic separation is obtained on the input side).

Example: in an RPM indicator system, the XDi with DX1 extension module is located in the engine control room
(ECR) and calculates the RPM value, based on the inductive pickup input signal. RPM data is shared on XDi-net
(CAN) with 2 XDi indicators on the bridge.

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One of these indicators is located in the centre console close to the VDR, which requires the RPM data from the
indicator system. This XDi unit in the centre console is therefore equipped with a NX1 module connected to the
VDR and is set up to output RPM data on the NMEA serial data output (RS422 according to IEC61162-1).
The combination of input modules, data sharing on CAN and outputting NEMA data close to where they are
needed, makes this a very flexible system solution.

11.12.1 NMEA output in standard virtual indicators


In most cases DEIF standard indicators are prepared for NMEA output support it there are a spare slot for a NX
extension module. If it is standard propulsion indicators showing RPM, like the type we looked at in the previous
example, then the NX module with NMEA are supported and preconfigured in the relevant VS profiles. Please note
that the NMEA output by default is set to OFF.
To activate the output after you have installed the NX1 extension module on the recommended slot (often slot 2)
you must go into the installation menu and select “NMEA setup”.

11.13 NX1/NX2 NMEA0183 setup menu


XDi can be extended with two different types of NMEA interfaces. NX1 contains a single NMEA0183 (RS422) type
output and the more advanced NX2 module has also one standard NMEA output, but in addition two standard
NMEA inputs (RS422) with galvanic separation (opto-insulation) and one RS485 serial data channel that can be
configured either as an input or as an output using NMEA0183 protocol, (but not both input and output at the
same time).

Depending on the type of NX extension module and/or the combination of NX modules installed on the extension
slots of the XDi unit, more or less of the NMEA setup menu is activated.

If no NX module is mounted on the XDi, the NMEA setup menu line can be selected by pushing OK, but all the
content in the opened menu is greyed out.

NMEA input setup is available for XDi (D, M or


N) that has a NX2 module and where NMEA
input is enabled in the library.
XDi output setup is available for XDi (D, M or N)
with a NX1 or NX2 module and where the
selected VI/VS profile contains a NMEA output
setup.
Routing NMEA in -> out is only available in XDi-
N with at least one NX2 module connected.
NX Button setup is available on XDi (D, M, N)
with at least one NX1 or NX2 mounted.

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No NX module is mounted on the XDi above all menu lines are grey.
Note: Remember to disconnect the power supply before you install a NX module on you XDi unit.

When a NX module is mounted on the XDi, in the following it is a NX1 module mounted on a XDi 192D on Slot 2.

11.13.1 COM port setup


With the NX1 module mounted on the XDi you can enter the menu lines that is relevant for this XDi configuration:

Please note that NMEA input 1 (RX1) and output 1 (TX1) is using the same UART and is therefore setup as one
port, that is COM1.
RX2 and TX 2 is a RS485 port that can be configured as either a NMEA input or NMEA output, there is therefore
also in this case one setup for the COM2 port.
RX3 use a separate UART and can be setup independent of the other 2 ports, this is COM 3.

[Link] Standard NMEA input/ output


In DEIF standard libraries all the RS422 (and RS485) NMEA COM ports are by default set up according to IEC
61162-1/NMEA0183 standard:

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It is possible to change the settings for each COM port independently. A XDi-N with two NX2 modules mounted will
have 6 COM ports that can be configured independently.

Changing bitrate can be used to increase the data bandwidth, default NMEA0183 is 4800 bps.

[Link] High speed NMEA input / output


To comply with IEC 61162-2 you must change the Baud rate to 38.400 bps.
In a customized library the default NMEA bitrate can be setup differently for one or more input ports, this can
sometimes be useful to connect a Gyro-compass that often have a high speed NMEA output port.

[Link] NMEA talker ID


NMEA ID is the NMEA0183 talker ID. This can be changed to one of the other valid NMEA talker IDs.
In some cases, the connected system requires a specific talker ID to accept the NMEA data sentence.

XDi supports all the relevant talker IDs defined in the IEC 61162-1 standard.

Please note that XDi can send NMEA data with different talker IDs depending on which COM port is used. This can
be useful in cases where different data of the same type (same sentence name) is transmitted on the same NMEA
communication line and where the receiver must be able to distinguish between different data of the same type.

11.13.2 NMEA output setup


XDi can be setup to transmit some of its internal data in a NMEA0183 sentence format on a serial output on the
NX1 or NX2 extension module. You can find a list of data types that can be supported if setup in the VS profile for
the selected virtual indicator. It can for example be an XDi 144D with standard RPM library and analogue 4-20mA
input that is setup to be able to share the NMEA $xxRPM sentence if a NX module is attached. Where xx is the
NMEA talker ID for the COM port that is used to transmit the sentence.

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To change the default settings of the supported NMEA sentences shown in the menu below, simply highlight the
sentence line and press OK to open the setup menu.

If no NX1 module is mounted on the XDi, the NMEA output setup menu line cannot be selected (greyed out).
If you press OK on the highlighted menu above:

It is only the data types that is relevant for the selected indicators that you can enter and activate.

The NMEA sentence RPM is opened for editing by highlighting “RPM – Revolutions…” and press OK.

NX1 has only one NMEA output port, Port 1. The greyed out Port 2 is only available if NX2 module is used.
In this example, you can only select to send RPM data on “Slot2 Port1”.

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If the NX1 module was mounted in Slot 1, then “Slot1 Port1” can be selected.

The transmit interval can be changed in fixed steps from 50 ms to 1 s (or output can be Disabled).

You must consider the very limited bandwidth of the NMEA0183 port running at 4800 bps. Update every 1 sec. is
often used for data not changing that fast. Where compass data in some cases is transmitted every 50msec (20
times per second), in such cases the high speed NMEA standard IEC 61162-2 with 38400 bps is often used.

11.13.3 NMEA input setup (NX2 only)


If you make changes in your installation or want to change to use another NMEA input source or adjust the setup
parameters, you must access the installation menu and make the changes.

[Link] Change NMEA input source using the NMEA installation menu
Press button 1 and 4 simultaneously for approximately 5 seconds to open the user menu.

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When the user menu is open, press the “secret button combination” 2 and 3 for more than 5 seconds to open the
installation menu.

In the installation menu highlight “NMEA setup” and press OK

Select NMEA input setup….

If a new NMEA source is added or a source is moved to another input port, you must run the auto scan again to
update the list of available data sources.
Please note that XDi is not allowed to make source changes automatically, even if a source is no longer available.
So XDi will keep the locked source selection until you change it manually.
To change a source, you must enter the manual input selection menu, open the data group where you want to
make a change and then open the actual data type to select another source.

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[Link] Example: the standard heading repeater
This standard heading repeater (compass indicator) is able to use 3 instances of heading data:
Primary: Heading True 1 (with the default source name: GYRO 1)
Secondary: Heading True 2 (with the default source name: GYRO 2)
Backup: Heading Magnetic 1 (with default name MAG. COMPASS)
To select the data type it is using the special fall-back function that we will look into in a later chapter ([Link].3 A
look in the NMEA input setup menu may help us).

DEIF standard heading repeater, using the rotating “endless tape” indicator for excellent readability even on a long
distance. This indicator also has a rate of turn indicator (ROT) in the top part.

[Link].1 The NMEA COMPASS data


The NMEA compass angle data is in this example received in the following NMEA sentences:
GYRO 1: $HEHTD,A,0.0,L,M,T,45.0,25.0,0.5,3275.0,200.0,1.0,250.0,T,A,A,A,270.0*67
[Link] 1: $HEHDG,265.5,03.0,E,25.0,E*44
GYRO 1: $HEHDT,293.5,T*22
ROT 1: $HEROT,14.0,A*1E (ROT is only sent once and the controller decides the source)
GURO 2: $IIHDT,271.6,T*20

All are transmitted on the same NMEA input coming from a central heading control unit.
to be able to distinguish between Gyro 1 and Gyro 2 that is both using HDT, the control unit change the NMEA
talker ID for Gyro 2 to II (integrated instrumentation). Note: A north seeking gyro normally use HE.

In this system the operator can change source on the indicator simply by selecting source on the control system
that is only transmitting the NMEA sentence for the heading source that the indicator is supposed to show.

We have stepped through the installation wizard and in the end made an automatic NMEA scan for available
sources and were making sure that all the above NMEA data sentences were transmitted at some time from the
heading control unit when this search for sources was running. (For example, by shifting between the 3 headings
on the controller.)

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In this case XDi has found sources for all 6 NMEA data types that is supported by the selected product profile and
used by the heading indicator we have selected from the standard heading indicator library.
As we will see later the number of usable sources does not necessarily need to be 6 it depends on the indicator we
have selected, and the data needed for that indicator.

[Link].2 Test of the heading system


On the surface everything looks OK after we have made the auto setup and XDi has returned to normal operation,
but when we now test the system by shifting between the 3 heading sources on the controller between Gyro1,
Gyro2 and Mag. Compass and the controller is only transmitting the relevant NMEA sentences from respectively
Gyro 1 $HEHTD (and $HEHDT), Gyro 2 $IIHDT and Mag. Compass $HEHDG.
We would expect XDi to use the fall-back function to automatically shift source depending on the received heading
data. But it turns out that only Gyro 1 and Mag. Compass are working when we select Gyro 2 we get a NMEA data
lost message.
Something in the Gyro 2 setup is not correct.

[Link].3 A look in the NMEA input setup menu may help us

Select NMEA input setup….

In this case we have not made any changes of the NMEA data so a new Auto scan is not needed, so we will go
directly to “Manual input selection…” menu:

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RED dot means that no external sources are
available, in this case for the dimmer data
group.

YELLOW dot means that sources are available


for some data in the group, but it should be
checked. Some data types may need manual
selection or some may be missing.

GREEN dot means that all data types in this


group have been assigned a source.

Even if the dot is green, it is a good idea to look through the automatic selection and check that needed data has
the right source assigned.

In this case the compass group is green, so everything looks to be good. All data types in the group have a source
assigned, but in some cases where there are multiple instances of the same data type, it may be necessary to
change some of the automatic selections made.

If we press OK on the highlighted compass group to open it, we can see which NMEA port and sentence is used to
provide data.

In this case, GYRO 1 using “Heading T1” (True heading instance 1) and GYRO 2 using “Heading T2” (True
heading instance 2), are both automatically selected to use the same input source.
The HTD sentence received from input port 2.1, provided by talker with ID: HE.

[Link]. 1: $HEHDG,265.5,03.0,E,25.0,E*44
GYRO 1: $HEHTD,A,0.0,L,M,T,45.0,25.0,0.5,3275.0,200.0,1.0,250.0,T,A,A,A,270.0*67
GYRO 1: $HEHDT,293.5,T*22
GYRO 2: $IIHDT,271.6,T*20

Why has XDi made this selection of HTD for both?


When XDi makes an automatic selection, it has a priority list of sentences to choose from.
For True heading the sentence priority list is: HMR, THS, HTD, VHW, HDT.
Because the HTD sentence has a higher priority than HDT it is automatically selected even though there is other
heading sentences of type HTD.

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If only HDT was sent, one sentence from each of the two gyro compasses, then XDi would detect 2 usable sources
for both Heading T1 and Heading T2 and ask you to make a manual selection.

In this case we can see that Heading T2 is also using HE HTD, so what you need to do is highlight Heading T2 and
press OK to open it for editing:

In the list you can see all the sources that XDi has detected as potential sources for “True heading”.
Note: XDi-net is always a possible selection, and it can also be used if you want to disable a NMEA input.

In the actual case “Heading T2” shall be setup to use II HDT, so just highlight this source and press OK to change
the selection.

[Link].4 Calculated data - HDG cc:


When the magnetic variation, “Mag. Var. 1” parameter is available on NMEA, then XDi is able to calculate the true
heading based on the magnetic heading (from true to magnetic if that is relevant).
In this example true heading can be calculated based on the magnetic heading and the magnetic variation both
available in the HE HDG sentence and it is shown in the selection list as HE HDGcc (cc for calculated).
In the standard library the following is the priority list for the True heading sentence:
HMR, THS, HTD, VHW, HDT, HMRcc, HDGcc, HTDcc, VHWcc
The calculated sentences have the lowest priority, so if the real data is available XDi will prefer to use that, but you
can always change the automatic selection for a given parameter if an alternative is available.

[Link].5 Finish the installation


The NMEA setup has now been verified and all data needed is available, and all left to do is to press the return
arrow until the heading indicator is shown on the display and starts to present data.

When you leave the menu, the NMEA settings will be stored and locked. This means
that only the selected sources will be used by the XDi.

[Link] Alternative NMEA input configurations for the heading example


Instead of using data from a central control unit the, NMEA data could also be connected directly to 2 NMEA input
ports on the NX2 module and in that case both Gyro 1 and Gyro 2 can use $HEHDT since XDi will differentiate
between the physical input ports as well as the talker ID.
In the example the magnetic heading data is also coming from the heading controller unit with talker ID: HE, but the
magnetic compass could also be connected directly to a NMEA input port on a NX2 module and in that case the
talker ID would most likely be HC ($HCHDG,265.5,…), this will also work find and XDi will automatically detect this
source on a separate input, even if it still was using talker ID HE it will work fine.

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[Link] Possibilities in a customized library
The DEIF standard heading library we have used as example is made for general purpose use and the room for
auto-selection of NMEA sources are therefore relative wide. In customized libraries it is possible to limit the auto
selection to specific hardware ports and sentences, but also change sentence priority so that it fits directly into the
customers system and so that auto source scanning will automatically find the correct NMEA sources without need
for manual setup via the NMEA menu.

[Link] Troubleshooting the NMEA auto scanning and selection


If you cannot find a given NMEA sentence in the list and you know it is active on one of the input ports, you can try
to run the auto scan function again. If it is still not showing up there can be different reasons why it is not detected
as source, some typical situations are:
• The RX A and B wire is swopped around, especially if RX2 (RS485) is used since the A/B convention for
marking is opposite the RS422/NMEA way of marking inputs. So just swop the wires and run the scanning
again, it this wiring is correct the sentence will be detected.
• Not so common problem is that the sentence format used by the transmitter device is not quite correct, if
the format is not according to the IEC standard or from a very old NMEA0183 standard, XDi will not accept
the sentence as valid.
• In some cases a problem can also be that a given sentence does not contain the actual type of data, the
data field may be empty (,,) or data may be marked as invalid (typically status V = invalid and A = valid )
XDi has a strong service tool for NMEA, where you can check if a NMEA sentence is actually received on one of
the inputs or not. The NMEA monitor tool is available in the Service menu (see the separate chapter).

11.13.4 When is manual NMEA input selection necessary ?


It is necessary to scan the NMEA inputs again and make a manual setup:
• if you move the data source to another input port.
• if you change the transmitting unit (data source) to a new type with another talker ID.
• If you change the transmitting unit to a unit with same talker but use another NMEA sentence to transmit
the data. For a given data type, XDi normally supports all relevant sentences from the IEC standard and
automatically selects the sentence that has the highest priority (see document: XDi supported NMEA
sentences).
• or if you make several of the above changes at the same time.

[Link] Master reset to clear it all


If you lose the overview and you can’t find sources or make the correct setup manually, it may be a good idea to
start from scratch. To do that you must make a “Master reset” (button 1 and 3 at the same time in 5 sec.) to clear all
NMEA source lists and input selections and make a completely new setup.
It may be a good idea to make a master reset and start from the beginning:
• I If you have made big changes in the NMEA installation
• Has moved the XDi from one system to another
Master reset is the only way to completely clear the source selections and start over from scratch.

11.14 Manual input configuration


11.14.1 Adjust a wind sensor misalignment from a menu
If the wind sensor was incorrectly aligned when it was mounted in the mast top, it is easier to make an angle
correction in the XDi instead of climbing the mast again.
Enter the installation menu and select “NMEA input setup” menu where you find this:

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Select “Manual input configuration…”

You will see a list of the NMEA data groups that this XDi is able to support.

Note: The dimmer is red because there is no NMEA data available for dimming in this system.
The Wind group is yellow because not all data in the group has a source assigned, in the below picture we can see
that it is the Geographic wind direction relative to the magnetic north pole that is not available. It is not a problem
since the VI we have selected does not show this type of wind direction.

Select the “WIND” data group

To correct the relative wind angle for the sensor’s misalignment, select the “Wind direction R 1”
(the relative wind direction instance 1).

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Select the “Offset:” line and insert the angle correction. Be aware that XDi is using 0.1 resolution of the angle
values, so a positive angle correction of +10.0 degrees must be entered as 100.
The offset is added to the received wind angle.

If the received wind angle is +70 degrees (700), then the correction of 100 (=10.0 degree) is added and the wind
indicator will show a relative wind direction of +80.0 degrees.
The corrected wind angle is distributed on CAN using the XDi-net protocol, and all XDi wind indicators on the CAN
bus will automatically present the correct wind angle.

The corrected wind angle will also be used if the XDi is set up to output relative wind on one of the NMEA outputs.
However, if the NMEA routing function is used to distribute the relative wind data, this angle correction will not be
included. The received wind sentence will just be routed directly to the output without any change.
It is possible to make an offset on all normal data types, but be aware of the resolution. It can be different from data
type to data type. You can find the resolution in the “XDi-net CANopen reference manual 4189350066 [Link]”.

11.14.2 Changing filter settings


All standard parameters can be filtered to reduce fluctuations.
The filter function is calculating the average of the latest received input values, and the filter value indicates the
number of values used to calculate the average value.

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When the wind direction is received every second from the wind sensor, the filter value 8 means that data is
averaged over the last 8 measurements or over 8 seconds.

Please note that relative wind speed and wind direction both by default have a filter
value. It often makes sense to filter harder on the wind direction than on wind speed.

11.14.3 The other input configuration parameters


The hex value 0x39F1:0x02 in the top line is the data index and sub-index used to distribute data on XDi-net, it is
only for information and cannot be changed from the menu.

In the last menu line, you can change or stop the distribution of this data type on XDi-net (CAN).

In this input configuration menu, it is also possible to manually set up the input channel, the talker ID and the
sentence. You should only set up or change those parameters if you know what you are doing.
It can however be useful in the situation where an NMEA sentence is not available when the auto scan and setup
process is performed during installation. Maybe the sensor is not added until later, but the sentence and input port
are known.

11.15 CAN bus changes via menu


The default CAN bus parameters is defined in the product profile you have selected during setup, and they can be
changed manually via the XDi installation menu.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 174 of 206


Before you make changes in the CAN bus setup, it is recommended to read relevant parts of the
XDi-net/CANopen reference manual.

11.16 Service menu


The service menu consists of two pages, containing product information and setup status that may be quite
important to have on hand in case DEIF is contacted in relation with service or support.

11.16.1 NMEA monitor


XDi has a built-in monitor function that can present all NMEA sentences received (RX) from devices connected to
one of the NMEA inputs on an NX2 module.
The monitor will also present NMEA sentences sent out (TX) on one or more of the NMEA outputs.

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The first monitor is monitoring the NMEA sentences sent on all COM ports both inputs and outputs.
When two NX2 extension modules are mounted on the XDi, there can be up to 6 active ports, that can result in a
lot of NMEA sentences to look at in the monitor.
If you are only interested in what is send or received from one of the COM ports, you can select the monitor only for
that port. Monitor COM 1.1 will only show communication on NX2, Slot1.COM1 (RX1 input and TX1 output).

In the following it is NMEA data from a wind indicator system that is used to illustrate the function of this monitor
tool, it is the Monitor all COMs that is opened.

In this case Heading , speed and wind data are received correct (RX) and the wind data sentence MWV is also
retransmitted (TX) to the NMEA output Slot 2.COM2 (TX2 output).

In a fault situation, the NMEA monitor can be a great help determining whether a given NMEA sentence is available
or not.
If you know the structure of an NMEA sentence, you can also see if data is valid or invalid.

The NMEA monitor presentation is explained in the table below.


Count Time COM Sentence
Number of Interval Slot number and RX: received NMEA sentence
received/transmitted between last 2 COM port on NX2 content
TX: transmitted
sentences since the sentences module receiving or
logging started transmitting data
(in seconds)

For easy analyse of the NMEA sentence content, it is possible to freeze the screen on the NMEA monitor. Press
the OK button once to freeze and once more to return to normal mode showing every received sentence.

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In some case the same NMEA sentence can contain different data types, it can for example be MWV that is sent
one time with relative wind data and shortly after again but now with true wind data. To see one or the other it can
be useful to be able to freeze the screen. XDR is another example where this function can be quite useful.

In the upper right corner of the screen, you find the total number of received sentences and the error counter that
shows the number of faulty sentences that have been received since the monitor was started. Errors can occur if
the NMEA line is connected and disconnected in a running system, bad connections or it can be caused by a faulty
NMEA transmitter.

If the received data in the first line for a given input port looks strange and has no Count and Time registered, it is
because the sentence format is not in accordance with NMEA standard format. Every faulty string will be registered
as an error. It can be caused by the same bad conditions as mentioned above, but it can also be due to wrong
polarisation of the A and B input terminals. Try to swap the A and B wires around.

Strange looking sentences can also be caused by input data with an incorrect bit rate. The default bit rate on all
NMEA inputs is 4800 bps, but it can be changed via the comport setup located in the INSTALL/NMEA setup menu.

[Link] NMEA sentence example


The wind sensor is connected to the XDi, but relative wind speed and direction is flashing, and the data lost pop-up
is shown on the indicator.
Enter the service menu and select the NMEA monitor to see the received NMEA sentences.
The NMEA monitor shows:

25 1.0 2.2 RX $WIMWV,70,R,14.6,N,V*2E

This means that 25 sentences are received since you started the monitor, and the MWV wind data sentence is
received (RX) every 1.0 second from COM port 2.2 (Slot 2, NMEA input RX2).

$ is the start sign of the NMEA sentence


WI is the talker ID for a weather system.
MWV is the weather sentence
70 is the wind angle (wind angle can be from 0 to 359 degrees)
R means that it is relative wind, it can also be T=true wind
14.6 is the wind speed
N means that wind speed is in knots (other valid units: K=km/h and M=m/s)
V is the data status flag, V = data is invalid and A = data is valid.
*2E is the termination and checksum

Note: You can find the standardised NMEA sentences with explanation of the actual sentence content in the
IEC 61162-1 standard or in the NMEA0183 standard.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 177 of 206


In this example, the missing wind data is caused by the status flag V indicating that the wind sensor is not able to
calculate the wind data. The data sent from the sensor is invalid.
If there are no communication errors registered and no strange looking sentences without count and time, then it
looks like the communication with the senor is fine, so the fault must be found in the sensor and not in the
installation / wiring.

[Link] Trouble shooting NMEA input faults


No. Situation Result on the XDi indicator Cause of problem
1 The NMEA sentence looks The NMEA data from the The standard library expects the
fine and is coming from port sensor is not auto selected, so heading sensor data to be
2.2 the indicator shows data lost. connected to RS-422 port 2.1 or
2.3. In this case, it is port 2.2 RS-
485 so you must manually select
this input port.
2 The status flag in the The NMEA sentence is The heading sensor is not able to
sentence is V selected as source, but the measure heading data and is
indicator shows data lost. sending data marked invalid.
(not A = valid)
3 Data on port 2.1 is shown as No NMEA heading source is The A and B wire is most likely
a string of random letters, and detected, and the indicator incorrectly connected. Check that it
the error counter is increasing shows data lost. is the NMEA wires and try to swap
them around.
4 Data sentence is OK, but Periodic data lost pop-up Bad connection, in which case
sometimes the indicated time errors and an incorrect sentence
jumps from 1 to 5 seconds. from this slot/port will also often be
registered.
5 The time jumps from 1.0 to The heading indicator seems to The time jump indicates that data
2.0 seconds and the error work OK are lost. It may be due to a bad
counter increases. connection or electrical
interference.

6 The heading sentence looks No data source is indicated, WA is not a valid talker ID and the
OK, but the talker ID is WA and data is missing. sentence is therefore rejected.
(not HE)
If you know the sentence is OK,
you can manually set the talker ID
to “don’t care” and the sentence
will be accepted.

8 The heading sentence is Data lost is indicated. The Bad interface cable connection.
dropping out periodically pointer and digital readout is
Bad cable shield connection or
flashing.
grounding of the sensor.

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11.16.2 Product information page

The product information page contains information of the product software and installed library:

MED approved indicator

Not MED approved indicator

Please note, that the library version uniquely identifies the full software (Platform, Qt App. and C-App)
and library installed in an XDi unit.

The software version of the installed extension module is also listed.


The library revision number is only of interest as long the library is under development and where several draft
versions may have been generated, before the final version is approved.
When an XDi library is released, the revision number is locked, and when the library is then opened for new
additions, the library version will be increased by one, and the revision number is reset to 0000.

If the selected indicator is MED approved, a Wheel-mark approval symbol is shown. The figures to the right of the
symbol indicate the notified approval body no. (0098: DNV GL), and the production year of the actual XDi unit (in
the screen above it is 18, corresponding to 2018).

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 179 of 206


11.16.3 Product configuration page

This page contains the main XDi setup:


• CAN Node ID
• Product Profile (PP) number
• Virtual indicator (VI) number
• Input setup profile (VS) number

11.17 Trouble shooting help


If you contact DEIF to get help with solving some installation and configuration problems, then it is always a great
help if you take a picture of the Product information and the Product configuration page and attach that to your
request for support. This gives our supporters very much information and makes it much easier to give you good
support and help you to solve the problem fast.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 180 of 206


12 Appendix 1: Colour calibration - service instruction
The menu function in this document is available in all XDi library packages released
after the date 25.03.2020 - but only if the version number is v2000 or higher.

Note: Library ver.2xxx means that the library package includes the needed XDi platform 2 software.
Libraries with version v0xxx or v1xxx must first be moved to software platform 2 and released as a platform 2
library to get the new functions.

12.1 Display colour calibration


12.1.1 Introduction
When an LCD colour display with LED backlight ages it is not only the backlight level that is reduced, but also the
colour temperature of the backlight LEDs that may change. The actual aging seems to be different from type to
type, and also under which conditions the aging takes place.
The worst case scenario is installations where the display is running with a constant full backlight level and at high
ambient temperatures. In such installations the aging process is accelerated, and the colour change seems to be
more visible, and the illumination level is also decreasing faster.
We have experienced some XDi 192 displays where the backlight colour over time goes from warm white to a more
bluish white.
In the following example two XDi 192 rudder indicators has been running for a long time at a very high temperature
and with full backlight all the time. This has resulted in a degradation of the backlight and the white colours are now
turned blueish as illustrated on the pictures below.
PORT RUDDER STBD RUDDER

If the starboard indicator now fails and is replaced by a new XDi 192 directly from production, it may look like this:

PORT RUDDER STBD RUDDER

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The nature of the backlight degradation makes it impossible to adjust an old unit to match the warm white screen
colour on the new unit. Instead, the new unit must be adjusted to match the background colour of the old indicator,
and maybe also reduce the backlight slightly to make a good match.

12.2 Colour and Backlight adjustment


It is now possible to adjust a new service unit to appear as the rest of the indicators in the existing indicator system.
A new menu function that makes colour adjustment of the screen picture possible, and also adjust the max
available backlight level at dimmer level 100%.
Any library built with QTapp v. 3.03.0 and CApp v.3.03.0 or higher will have this function( typically all libraries made
after 2020/03/25 with library version no. 2000 or higher). See chapter 11.16.2 Product information page how to
check the QT and Capp versions (will have this function.)
In the following the new colour/backlight calibration menu will be explained and how to use this new tool in praxis,
to obtain the right appearance.

12.2.1 Access the new display calibration function


The new colour calibration function is located in the User menu / Dimmer setup.
To access the new colour /backlight adjustment tool in XDi, first open the user menu by pushing button 1 & 4 (left
and right button) at the same time for more than 5 sec. to enter the user menu.

Select the “Dimmer setup” menu and press the OK button:

Highlight “Display calibration” and press OK to open the new menu page.

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12.3 Display calibration
When the calibration menu is entered the adjustment display will look like below.

Display calibration screen


The selected parameter to be adjusted is marked with the black cursor frame.

12.3.1 Menu functions


The calibration menu has 2 main functions:
1) Adjust the red, green and blue colours
2) Adjust the max backlight level at 100% Dimmer setting (max level is 250)

12.3.2 Colour adjustment


You can adjust red, green and blue colour individually by highlighting the field:

Using the front button ˄ or ˅ you can adjust the red colour from 0 to 252. (Steps size is 4)
You will immediately see the change on the white background colour on the calibration screen.
When you have a new unit all colours are at level 252.

If you want to match an old display where the white background is bluish then you must reduce the red and green
colour to get the same blue colour appearance on the new service unit.
This can be quite time consuming to adjust the 2 colours independently.

Based on our experiments with manual colour adjustment, we have made a “smart function” on each colour
When you for example has a bluish display, you can select the blue “smart function” by pushing the “SEL” button
several times until you have this field highlighted by the black frame cursor, as shown:

You will now be able to adjust the blue appearance of the display and not necessarily the blue colour itself.
When you have a new XDi service unit, all colours are at 252.

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When you now want the white screen to be more bluish, you push the ˄ front button to increase the blue colour.
Since blue colour is already at max 252 the red and green colours are both reduced one step for each push on the
˅ button, this will make the white screen turn bluer for each push.
Use the ˄ or ˅ button to find the best possible colour match between old and new screen.
If the blue colour has already been adjusted down to a value below 252, the “smart function” will first increase blue
to max level before it will start to reduce red and green level.

[Link] Max backlight adjustment


In some cases, it will also be necessary to reduce the max backlight level to make the new service unit match the
overall backlight level of the existing indicators.
To do this highlight this field:

Using front button ˄ or ˅ you can adjust the max backlight level and see the result immediately on the calibration
screen.
IMPORTANT: By default, the max backlight of XDi 192 is set to 225 to reduce the aging that a high backlight level
tends to accelerate.
This small 10% reduction will reduce heat dissipation in the backlight LED’s with more than 50% !
This reduction is especially important if backlight is always at 100%, for example in an engine control room, where
we recommend to adjust the fixed dimmer level or max backlight to the minimum acceptable level.

12.4 Some experience


The few examples we have seen where the aging has changed display colour, it seems that the XDi 192 display
backlight LED’s ages toward blue colour and the XDi 96 backlight ages more towards red.
But with the “smart function” it is relatively easy to match either of the two situations following the procedure
described in the next chapter.

12.4.1 Save or undo your display calibration


When you have made the best possible match between the old and the new indicator displays, press the OK button
to move to the following menu screen:

Highlight and press OK on:


Cancel (default): Then all changes you have made will be deleted and previous calibration values will be used.

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Accept: to save your new adjustment
Reset: to go back to original factory settings, this can be very useful if you have lost the overview of your changes.
After resetting you can go back and make a new attempt to match the colours and backlight level.

12.4.2 What happens if you install a new library package

If you have calibrated the display and accepted to saved calibration values, they will be present even after
installation of a new library package.
You can however bring back the original display settings (Factory settings) by performing a master reset, see next
chapter.

12.5 Master reset


When you want to reset an XDi unit or bring it totally back to factory settings, you must use the “Master reset”
function. Push button 1 and 3 at the same time for more than 5 seconds to open this menu:

In this menu we have added a new “Reset” function that is bringing all back to factory settings except the colour
calibration made via the “Display calibration” menu.

To restore all parameters to factory settings including colour and backlight level adjustments, you must select
“Factory reset” instead.

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12.6 Display calibration step by step (Example)
On a vessel equipped with double rudder, we have replaced a faulty XDi192D in their engine control room with a
brand new service unit. After normal setup both indicators are again running as they should, but the high
temperature in the ECR panel and the fact that the old indicators has been operating constantly at max backlight
for years, has aged the backlight LED’s so that the white background on the old display appears to be more blue
than the new unit with a warm white backlight, as you can see in the pictures below:

PORT RUDDER STBD RUDDER

You shall select 100% backlight and the day design (white background) on both XDi indicators.
The next task is now to calibrate the colour and intensity of the display on the new STBD indicator.

IMPORTANT: When you make the calibration you must look at the indicators from the position where the system is
normally operated, this is because the viewing angle has an impact on the display colours.

1) On the XDi showing STBD RUDDER, enter the “USER” menu and open “DIMMER SETUP” and then “Display
calibration” (as described in the previous section):
PORT RUDDER STBD RUDDER

2) Now highlight the blue arrows with the frame using “SEL” (select) button:

3) Push the ˄ button to increase the blue colour (by reducing the red and green)

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if the white background gets too blue, just push the ˅ button to reduce it again.

4) Since the backlight is too bright on the new unit compared to the old indicator, we reduce the max backlight level
to get a better match. (You can’t see this on the pictures above only on the real displays)

Now the scale background colour is calibrated to match the old unit.

5) Press OK to leave the calibration menu and save your new settings:

Highlight “Accept” and press OK.


XDi will now calibrate the graphics it normally takes a few seconds before it returns to normal operation with the
new colours.

6) In this installation in the ECR where backlight is set on a fixed level, we will recommend that you adjust both
indicators to as low a level that you find acceptable, preferable below 80% dimmer level.
This will extend the backlight life on both the old and the new unit.

12.7 Reservation
The display aging is related to the white backlight LED’s. Over time the backlight level decreases and will also
sometimes change colour temperature.

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The colour adjust tool in the XDi software, is not able to adjust the colour of the backlight LED’s in a new service
unit, but it is adjusting the colours of the indicator graphics instead, to best possible match the colours of the old
and aged indicator display. The most important is the batch of the white background colour typically used in the day
designs of most virtual indicators.
In many situation this is a good way to make a replaced indicator fit into an existing indicator system, with many
years of continuous operation behind.
The colours of a new XDi unit with a display that has been colour calibrated to match an old display, will be more
sensitive to different viewing angles then the old, aged display. Unfortunately, that is the nature of this phenomena.
If the colour calibration is not sufficient in a given installation, it can be necessary to upgrade the other old
indicators with a new display to get a unified look.

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13 Appendix 2: Application examples
In the following is a collection of typical XDi application examples based on XDi indicators using DEIF standard
libraries for propulsion indication. Due to the high configuration flexibility of the XDi; this will only be an appetiser.
At [Link] you can also find some dedicated application notes for:
• Rudder systems
• Wind indicator systems
• Heading repeater system
• and more will come over time.
The application notes refers to the use of DEIF standard libraries, but can also give you some inspiration to
possible custom designed library solution. XDi is very flexible and often it is your imagination and the class rules
that limits the possible solutions.

13.1 Application 1 - XDi azimuth system, CANopen and XDi-Net


The azimuth indicator system below is fully CAN-based. When a CAN angle transmitter (encoder) is used as
azimuth angle source, data is transmitted in a TPDO.
Data sent from the CAN control system can either be sent in a TPDO, RPDO or as an XDi-net broadcast (plug and
play solution). All XDi indicators in this example are using the XDi144/192 Dual or Multi DEIF XDi Standard
azimuth library no. 001.

Default setup for the DEIF XDi standard library is to use both CAN 1 and CAN 2, which means that you can select
on which bus you want to transmit CAN data. CAN settings can be changed via the XDi installation menu, and each
data type can be limited to only one bus, also from the menu.

Select a different NodeID for each of the 3 XDi indicators, and be sure that it is not already used by another CAN
device on the bus.

If presentation of set point (commanded value) data is activated in the virtual indicator, data is sent by using either
a TPDO or the XDi-net broadcast protocol.

If you do not want set point (commanded value) data to be presented on the selected virtual indicator,
you must select “Visible: OFF” in the installation menu “Edit virtual indicator/indicators”.

Consult the XDi-net/CANopen reference manual for more information about the use of CANopen and XDi-net.

13.1.1 Azimuth and RPM indicator system with set point


The above system is configured for azimuth angle and RPM/RPM%, with set point (commanded value) for azimuth
angle and RPM presented. In this case, it is VI007 Pulling azimuth type with dynamic azimuth pointer and indicating
+/- RPM/RPM%.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 189 of 206


(Orange set points can be disabled from menu).
XDi units in this system are all multi-versions, but if there is no need for set point (orange) the Dual version can be
used instead.

[Link] Dynamic azimuth pointer


The dynamic azimuth pointer is used when the direction of the thrust shifts depending on either RPM or %Pitch.
The symbol is only used on indicators, on which the thrust direction can be reversed.

Thruster type Forward No RPM or %Pitch Reverse


RPM or %Pitch (<2 %) RPM or %Pitch

Pushing azimuth
thruster

Pulling azimuth
thruster

The dynamic azimuth pointer may also be used in azimuth indicators where +/- %thrust,
+/-power or +/-%power controls the arrow in the pointer symbol.

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[Link] CAN angle transmitter (TPDO) and RPM via XDi-net
XDi Selected azimuth CAN TX Control sys. Select
indicator
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * VS profile
Actual Set point Actual Set
point
XDi 1 VI007 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01
XDi 2 VI007 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01
XDi 3 VI007 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01
In the XDi-net broadcast protocol, all data is sent separately using the XDi-net SAM-MPDO format.
If all data comes from the CAN control system, it may just use the XDi-net format instead of a TPDO.
From the installation menu, it is also possible to set up the XDi to use an RPDO instead of the default TPDO.

Then CAN angle transmitter must use XDi-net protocol (data format +/-1800). Alternatively,
the azimuth input should be adjusted to match the selected angle transmitter (encoder).
This can be performed via the installation menu.

[Link] CAN angle transmitter (TPDO) and RPM via TPDO


XDi Selected azimuth CAN TX Control sys. Select
indicator
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * VS profile
Actual Set point Actual Set
point
XDi 1 VI007 TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO VS02
XDi 2 VI007 TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO VS02
XDi 3 VI007 TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO VS02

When RPM data is sent in a TPDO, then %RPM is calculated based on actual RPM.
From the installation menu, it is also possible to set up the XDi to receive data in an RPDO instead of the default
TPDO.

13.1.2 Azimuth, Pitch and RPM system with set point


The same system is now set up to support azimuth angle, pitch% and RPM/RPM%, all with set point if required.
In this example, it is VI015 Pushing azimuth type with dynamic azimuth pointer, indicating RPM/RPM% and
+/- %Pitch.

All XDi units in this system must be the Multi-version.

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[Link] CAN angle transmitter (TPDO), RPM and Pitch via XDi-net

XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Control sys. Select


azimuth
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * Pitch/%Pitch * VS profile
indicator

Actual Set point Actual Set point Actual Set point


XDi 1 VI015 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01
XDi 2 VI015 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01
XDi 3 VI015 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01

In the XDi-net broadcast protocol, all data is sent separately using the XDi-net SAM-MPDO
format. If all data including azimuth comes from the CAN protocol system, it makes sense to send
all data using the XDi-net format instead of TPDO for azimuth. When the XDi is pre-configured to
TPDO, it will also be able to receive data in XDi-net format, because the XDi-net is default active
in all DEIF standard libraries. The CAN angle transmitter must use XDi-net protocol (data format
+/-1800).

From the installation menu, it is also possible to set up the XDi to use an RPDO instead of the
default TPDO.

[Link] CAN angle transmitter (TPDO), RPM and Pitch using TPDO

XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Control sys. Select


azimuth
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * Pitch/%Pitch * VS profile
indicator

Actual Set point Actual Set point Actual Set point


XDi 1 VI015 TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO VS02
XDi 2 VI015 TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO VS02
XDi 3 VI015 TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO TPDO VS02

When data is sent in a TPDO, then %RPM is calculated based on actual RPM, and pitch is either sent as a %Pitch
value or the %Pitch value can be calculated based on a pitch angle.
From the installation menu, it is also possible to set up the XDi to receive data in an RPDO instead of the default
TPDO.

In all DEIF standard libraries, XDi-net is default on. This means that as long as the CAN function
“XDi-net variable data on CAN1 & 2” is not deactivated, the XDi unit will also be able to receive
data in XDi-net format, in addition to the defined TPDO.

In a fully TPDO- (or RPDO-) based CANopen system where XDi-net functions are not used, it is recommended to
disable XDi-net or just the functions not used.
(Normally, XDi-net will just coexist and not affect the CAN system).

Recommendation: it is recommended to read the relevant sections in the XDi-net/CAN open reference manual if
you use other CAN devices or controllers on a network, on which the XDi-net is active.

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13.2 Application 2 – azimuth CANopen and analogue system

The azimuth angle is received from a CAN angle transmitter. All other data types are analogue and are supplied
from the control system to the AX1 extension module(s) mounted on the XDi 1.
Analogue inputs are default 4 to 20 mA, but this can be changed from the XDi installation menu.

The standard library is set up to share the analogue data via the XDi-net; this means that if analogue signals are
connected to one XDi, it will transmit the data on CAN, using the plug and play XDi-net protocol. This makes
system integration quite easy: select the right input setup profiles according to the table below and fine-adjust the
analogue input on the XDi, to which the analogue signals are connected; then the complete system is set up and
ready.

Default setup for the XDi standard library is to use both CAN 1 and CAN 2, which means that you can select on
which bus you want to transmit CAN data. CAN settings can be changed via the XDi installation menu, and each
data type can be limited to one bus, also from the menu.
If presentation of set point (commanded value) data is activated in the virtual indicator, the additional analogue
inputs must be connected.
Select a different NodeID for each of the 3 XDi indicators, and make sure that it is not already used by another
CAN device on the bus.

If you do not want set point (commanded value) data to be presented on the selected virtual indicator,
you must select “Visible: OFF” in the installation menu “Edit virtual indicator/indicators”.

13.2.1 Azimuth and RPM indicator system with set point


This is the system above configured for azimuth angle and RPM/RPN% and with all set point data presented.
In this example, it is VI007 Pushing azimuth type with dynamic azimuth pointer and indicating +/- RPM/RPM%.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 193 of 206


(Orange set points can be disabled from menu).
XDi units in this system are all multi-versions, but if there is no need for set point (orange), the Dual version can be
used instead.

[Link] CAN azimuth encoder, analogue RPM and set points


XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Select
azimuth
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * VS profile
indicator

Actual Set point Actual Set point


XDi 1 VI007 TPDO 4-20 mA 4-20 mA 4-20 mA VS03
XDi 2 VI007 TPDO XDi-net** XDi-net** XDi-net** VS02
XDi 3 VI007 TPDO XDi-net** XDi-net** XDi-net** VS02
*) The analogue RPM input can calculate %RPM based on actual RPM.
**) You can disable the TPDO input in VS02 to make it only listen on XDi-net (it will function with TPDO active).
All analogue data is default shared via the XDi-net.

13.2.2 Azimuth, Pitch and RPM system with set point


The same CAN/analogue system is now set up to support azimuth angle, pitch% and RPM/RPM%, all with set
point if required.
In this example, it is VI015 Pushing azimuth type with dynamic azimuth pointer, indicating RPM/RPM% and
+/- %Pitch.

(Orange set points can be disabled from menu)


All XDi units in this system must be the multi-version.

[Link] CAN azimuth, analogue RPM and Pitch


XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Control sys. Select
azimuth
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * Pitch/%Pitch * VS profile
indicator

Actual Set point Actual Set point Actual Set point


XDi 1 VI015 TPDO 4-20 mA 4-20 mA XDi-net 4-20 mA 4-20 mA VS03

XDi 2 VI015 TPDO XDi-net** XDi-net** 4-20 mA XDi-net** XDi-net** VS04


*** (VS02
***)
XDi 3 VI015 TPDO XDi-net** XDi-net** XDi-net** XDi-net** XDi-net** VS02

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 194 of 206


*) The analogue RPM input can calculate %RPM based on actual RPM, and analogue pitch input is scaled to a
%Pitch value. (From the installation menu, an analogue pitch angle input can be scaled to %Pitch for indication). All
analogue data is default shared via the XDi-net.
**) You can disable the TPDO input in VS02 to make it only listen on XDi-net (it will function with TPDO active).

***) An AX1 module is needed on the XDi 2 to get the RPM set point. If the RPM set point is not used, then VS02
must be used for the XDi 2.

Presentation of set point (commanded value) for each data type must be activated via the menu; it
is by default OFF.

13.3 Application 3 – azimuth analogue system using XDi-net

All inputs for this system are analogue, default they are 4 to 20 mA. All data is shared using the XDi-net protocol for
easy plug and play system integration.
Select a different NodeID for each of the 3 XDi indicators. Make sure that it is not already used by another CAN
device on the bus.

If you do not want set point (commanded value) data to be presented on the selected virtual
indicator, you must select “Visible: OFF” in the installation menu “Edit virtual indicator/indicators”.

13.3.1 Azimuth and RPM indicator system with set point


This is the system above configured for azimuth angle and RPM/RPN% and with all set point data presented.
In this example, it is VI007 Pushing azimuth type with dynamic azimuth pointer and indicating +/- RPM/RPM%.

(Orange set points can be disabled from menu).

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 195 of 206


XDi units in this system are all multi-versions, but if there is no need for set point (orange), the Dual version can be
used instead.

[Link] Normal analogue azimuth and RPM


XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Select
azimuth
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * VS profile
indicator

Actual Set point Actual Set point


XDi 1 VI007 4-20 mA 4-20 mA 4-20 mA 4-20 mA VS04
XDi 2 VI007 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01
XDi 3 VI007 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01

[Link] SIN/COS azimuth angle and normal analogue RPM


XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Select
azimuth
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * VS profile
indicator

Actual Set point Actual Set point


XDi 1 VI007 sin cos 4-20 mA 4-20 mA 0 to 10 V* VS05
XDi 2 VI007 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01
XDi 3 VI007 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01

*) sin cos requires two analogue inputs, and therefore voltage input 3 (dimmer) on the second AX1 module (slot
2) is used as RPM set point input. (Voltage input 3 (dimmer) on AX1 in slot 1 is always reserved for dimmer in the
DEIF standard libraries).

13.3.2 Azimuth, Pitch and RPM system with set point


The same CAN/analogue system is now set up to support azimuth angle, pitch% and RPM/RPM%, all with set
point if required.
In this example, it is VI015 Pushing azimuth type with dynamic azimuth pointer, indicating RPM/RPM% and
+/- %Pitch.

(Orange set points can be disabled from menu).


All XDi units in this system must be the multi-version.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 196 of 206


[Link] Normal analogue azimuth, RPM and Pitch
XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Control sys. Select
azimuth
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * Pitch/%Pitch * VS profile
indicator

Actual Set Actual Set Actual Set point


point point
XDi 1 VI013 to 020 4-20 mA 4-20 mA 4-20 mA XDi-net 4-20 mA XDi-net VS05

XDi 2 VI013 to 020 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net 4-20 mA XDi-net 4-20 mA VS08
** ** ** *** ** *** (VS01***)
XDi 3 VI013 to 020 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01

*) The analogue RPM input can calculate %RPM based on actual RPM, and analogue pitch input is scaled to a
%Pitch value. (From the installation menu, an analogue pitch angle input can be scaled to %Pitch for indication). All
analogue data is default shared via the XDi-net.
**) You can disable the TPDO input in VS02 to make it only listen on XDi-net (it will function with TPDO active).
***) An AX1 module is needed on the XDi 2 to get the RPM and pitch set point. If the RPM and pitch set point
presentation is not used, then VS02 must be used for the XDi 2.

[Link] SIN/COS azimuth and normal analogue RPM and Pitch

XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Control sys. Select


azimuth
device azimuth angle * RPM/%RPM * Pitch/%Pitch VS profile
indicator

Actual Set Actual Set Actual Set


point* point point
XDi 1 VI013 to 020 sin cos 0 to 10 4-20 mA XDi-net 4-20 mA XDi-net VS06
V*
XDi 2 VI013 to 020 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net 4-20 mA XDi- 4-20 mA VS08
net**
** ** ** *** *** (VS01***)
XDi 3 VI013 to 020 XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net XDi-net VS01

*) sin cos requires two analogue inputs, and therefore voltage input 3 (dimmer) on the second AX1 module (slot 2)
is used as azimuth set point input. (Voltage input 3 (dimmer) on AX1 in slot 1 is always reserved for dimmer in the
DEIF standard libraries).
**) You can disable the TPDO input in VS02 to make it only listen on XDi-net (it will function with TPDO active).
***) An AX1 module is needed on the XDi 2 to get the RPM and pitch set point. If the RPM and pitch set point
presentation is not used, then VS01 must be used for the XDi 2.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 197 of 206


13.4 Application 4 – azimuth, RPM pickup analogue system using XDi-net

Select a different NodeID for each of the 3 XDi indicators, and make sure that it is not already used by another
CAN device on the bus.

If you do not want set point (commanded value) data to be presented on the selected virtual indicator,
you must select “Visible: OFF” in the installation menu “Edit virtual indicator/indicators”.

13.4.1 Azimuth and RPM indicator system with set point


This is the system above configured for azimuth angle and RPM/RPN% and with all set point data presented.
In this example, it is VI007 Pushing azimuth type with dynamic azimuth pointer and indicating +/- RPM/RPM%.

(Orange set points can be disabled from menu).


XDi units in this system are all multi-versions, but if there is no need for set point (orange), the Dual version can be
used instead.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 198 of 206


[Link] Normal analogue azimuth and RPM
XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Select
azimuth
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * VS profile
indicator

Actual Set point Actual Set point


XDi 1 VI007 TPDO 4-20 mA Digital in 4-20 mA VS06
XDi 2 VI007 TPDO XDi-net** XDi-net** XDi-net** VS02
XDi 3 VI007 TPDO XDi-net** XDi-net** XDi-net** VS02
*) The analogue RPM input can calculate %RPM based on actual RPM. All analogue data is default shared via the
XDi-net.
**) You can disable the TPDO input in VS02 to make it only listen on XDi-net (it will function with TPDO active).

The DX1 module has two inputs. Only one RPM pickup is needed to detect RPM without direction. When
the RPM is bidirectional, two RPM pickups are needed, and both digital inputs are required on the DX1
module.

13.4.2 Azimuth, Pitch and RPM system with set point


The same CAN/analogue system is now set up to support azimuth angle, pitch% and RPM/RPM%, all with set
point if required.
In this example, it is VI015 Pushing azimuth type with dynamic azimuth pointer, indicating RPM/RPM% and
+/- %Pitch.

(Orange set points can be disabled from menu).


All XDi units in this system must be the multi-version.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 199 of 206


[Link] Normal analogue azimuth, RPM and Pitch
XDi Selected CAN TX Control sys. Control sys. Select
azimuth
device azimuth angle RPM/%RPM * Pitch/%Pitch * VS profile
indicator

Actual Set point Actual Set point Actual Set point


XDi 1 VI015 TPDO 4-20 mA Digital in XDi-net 4-20 mA XDi-net VS07
XDi 2 VI015 TPDO XDi-net** XDi-net** 4-20 mA XDi- 4-20 mA VS08
net**
*** *** (VS02***)
XDi 3 VI015 TPDO XDi-net** XDi-net** XDi-net** XDi- XDi-net** VS02
net**
*) The analogue RPM input also calculates %RPM based on actual RPM, and the same for analogue pitch where
%Pitch is calculated. (From the installation menu, an analogue pitch angle input can be scaled to %Pitch for
indication).
**) You can disable the TPDO input in VS02 to make it only listen on XDi-net (it will function with TPDO active).
***) An AX1 module is needed on the XDi 2 to get the RPM and pitch set point. If the RPM and pitch set point
presentation is not used, then VS02 must be used for the XDi 2.

The DX1 module has two inputs. Only one RPM pickup is needed to detect RPM without direction.

13.5 Application 5 - XDi rudder system using CANopen and XDi-net


The system below is a CAN-based rudder indicator system using the DEIF Standard XDi Dual rudder library.
The indicators are presenting actual rudder angle and the commanded rudder angle.
(See DEIF standard XDi rudder libraries for indicator details).

13.5.1 System overview

Select a different NodeID for each of the 3 XDi indicators, and make sure that it is not already used by another
CAN device on the bus.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 200 of 206


[Link] System setup overview

Unit Description Node VI VI type VS VS input PP PP description


ID no. description
no
RTC 600 CAN angle TX 1
using
COBID 0x181
XDi 144 XDi 1 located in e.g. 003 +/-45O 03 Angle: TPDO1 06 ECR fixed
D ECR FWD dimmer.
30 Comm.: 4-20
mA XDi-net active
XDi 144 XDi 2 e.g. 003 +/-45O 02 Angle: TPDO1 02 Analogue dim.
D FWD gr.1
31 Comm.: XDi-
net XDi-net active
XDi 192 XDi 3 in overhead e.g. 003 +/-45O 02 Angle: TPDO1 01 XDi-net dim. gr.1
D panel FWD
32 Comm.: XDi- XDi-net active
net
By selecting from the standard virtual indicators and standard setup profiles, the system can be configured.

The CAN angle transmitter is preconfigured to NodeID 1 and use TPDO1 for periodic data transmissions (COBID
0x181). All XDi units are using angle data directly from the CAN transmitter by listening for this TPDO1.
The commanded angle value from the steering control is analogue and is connected to AX1 on the XDi in the
engine control room (ECR). This XDi is set up to share commanded rudder via XDi-net.
The XDi in the ECR is using a fixed dimmer profile since it is mounted below deck where dimming is not needed
(artificial light).
The bridge indicators are dimmed from the analogue input on XDi 2 and shared with XDi 3 via CAN, using dimmer
group 1.

A combined power and CAN cable (four wires) can be used to make installation easier.
Please follow the guidelines for correct CAN bus installation in this manual.
Especially remember to make correct bus termination in each end of the CAN bus.

13.5.2 Setup procedure


When powered up the first time:
1. Follow the installation wizard to select can Node ID, Product profile (PP), Virtual indicator (VI) and setup
profile (VS), and finish the wizard on XDi 1, XDi 2 and XDi 3 (see selection in table).
2. Follow the instructions for electric zero set of the rudder angle transmitter.*)
3. If the min/max rudder angle is inaccurate, it may be due to mechanical inaccuracy or gearing between
rudder and transmitter. Choose one of the XDi units and enter the installation menu and select the “Adjust
input” menu, and then the rudder angle input (PDO converter adjust). Use the setup menu to calibrate the
endpoints one by one (zero should be adjusted first if point 2 was not successful). To share this new
calibration with all other XDi units on the CAN bus, you must remember to synchronise parameters when
you leave the adjust menu:

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 201 of 206


Please see chapter “PDO converter for azimuth/rudder” for detailed information on how to make this calibration
from menu.

4. If the commanded rudder (set point) needs adjustment, select the rudder set point from the “Adjust input”
menu. The calibrated data is shared on XDi-net.
5. Setup is completed.

*) If it is difficult to physically reach the rudder transmitter, the alignment can be made in the indicator itself via the
setup menu. The alignment will automatically be shared with all other XDi rudder indicators.

13.6 Application 6: XDi rudder system, analogue angle transmitter and XDi-
net
The system below is using an analogue 4-20 mA rudder transmitter (for example RTA 602) and three XDi units
using the DEIF Standard XDi Dual rudder library.
The indicators are presenting actual rudder angle and the commanded rudder angle.
(See DEIF standard XDi rudder libraries for indicator details).

13.6.1 System overview

Select a different NodeID for each of the 3 XDi indicators, and make sure that it is not already used by another
CAN device on the bus.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 202 of 206


[Link] System setup overview
Unit Description VI no. VI type VS VS input PP PP description
description
no
RTA 600 Analogue angle TX
with 4-20mA output
XDi 144 XDi 1 located in 003 +/-45O FWD 04 Angle: 4-20 mA 06 ECR fixed
D ECR dimmer.
Comm.: 4-20
mA XDi-net active
XDi 144 XDi 2 003 +/-45O FWD 01 Both XDi-net 02 Analogue dim.
D gr.1
XDi-net active
XDi 192 XDi 3 in overhead 003 +/-45O FWD 01 Both XDi-net 01 XDi-net dim.
D panel gr.1
XDi-net active
By selecting from the standard virtual indicators and standard setup profiles, the system can be configured.

The system is similar to the system in APP.1, but the angle transmitter has analogue output.

13.6.2 Setup procedure:


When powered up the first time:
1. Follow the installation wizard to select can Node ID, Product profile (PP), Virtual indicator (VI) and setup
profile (VS) and finish the wizard on XDi 1, XDi 2 and XDi 3. (See selection in table.)
2. Follow the instructions for electric zero set and min/max adjust of the rudder angle transmitter.*)
3. If the min/max rudder angle is inaccurate, it may be due to mechanical inaccuracy or gearing between
rudder and transmitter. Open the installation menu on the XDi where the analogue input is connected,
select the “Adjust input” menu, and then the rudder angle input (analogue input adjust). Use the setup
menu to calibrate the zero point and endpoints one by one. This XDi shares angle data on XDi-net, so you
should select NO to synchronise parameters; it has no effect in this case.

See chapter “AX1 analogue input – azimuth/rudder set point” for a detailed description on how to make this
calibration from menu.
4. If the commanded rudder (set point) needs adjustment, select the rudder set point from the “Adjust input”
menu and make the adjustments; again, the calibrated data is shared on XDi-net.
5. Setup is completed.

13.7 Application 7 – dimmer control


The dimmer control is independent of the selected virtual indicator, and the dimmer input options are controlled
by the selected product profile. The XDi handles nine dimmer groups via CAN, and the local group that is not
controlled via CAN.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 203 of 206


In DEIF standard libraries, voltage input 3 on the AX1 module in slot 1 is always reserved for analogue dimmer and
is not used as input for any of the virtual indicators.

13.7.1 XDi-net, CAN TPDO or analogue dimmer using AX1

Dimmer XDi-net Analogue TPDO


control
All controlled from control of XDi units on Bridge controlled from
type
central dimmer bridge, fixed dimmer central dimmer
level in ECR
(AX1 not needed) ECR is local analogue
XDi device Dimmer Select PP Dimmer Select PP Dimmer Select PP
input input input
XDi 1 XDi-net PP01 Fixed PP06 Voltage ** PP05
XDi 2 XDi-net PP01 Voltage * PP02 TPDO PP03
XDi 3 XDi-net PP01 XDi-net PP01 TPDO PP03

*) The input is default set up to use a potentiometer connected to the Vref output on
AX1 module terminal 3, but it can easily be reconfigured to a dimmer voltage input instead.
The analogue dimmer value is shared on CAN for the actual dimmer group, and since the XDi 3 is part of group 1
(default), its dimmer level will be controlled from the XDi 2 via the XDi-net.
**) This will require an AX1 module mounted on the XDi 1 located in the ECR.

13.7.2 Push-button dimmer using DX1

Dimmer control Push-button control of XDi units on bridge


type
Fixed dimmer level in ECR
XDi device Dimmer input Select PP
XDi 1 Fixed PP06
XDi 2 Digital input 1&2 PP04
XDi 3 XDi-net PP01

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 204 of 206


13.8 Application 8 – group dimmer control
The system in this application note consists of two azimuth thrusters, each with an XDi indicator located in the
control panel and one in the overhead console. CAN data is distributed on two separate CAN lines, both use CAN
input 1 on the XDi.
One XDi in the console and one in the overhead panel are equipped with an AX1 module for dimmer input. Dimmer
level data is shared on CAN 2.

By using the dimmer grouping function, it is possible to individually control the dimmer level of XDi units in the
bridge control panel (gr.1) and XDi units in the bridge overhead panel (gr. 2) on the same CAN bus.

Dimmer Analogue control of XDi groups on XDi dimmer group Dimmer source
control type the bridge selection via user
setup
menu

XDi device Dimmer input Select PP Dimmer group Send analogue


dimmer value on
XDi 1 THR 1 XDi-net PP01 (Default Gr. 1) -
XDi 2 THR 2 AX1 voltage PP02 (Default Gr. 1) CAN 2 *
XDi 3 THR 1 AX1 voltage PP02 Gr. 2 CAN 2 *
XDi 4 THR 2 XDi-net PP01 Gr. 2 -
*) The DEIF standard libraries are by default set up to share analogue dimmer data on CAN 1 and CAN 2. As long
as dimmer groups are used, it is not necessary to change to CAN 2.
In this example, however, it may be more practical only to connect CAN 2 on the two XDi units in the bridge
console and similarly only CAN 2 on the two XDi units in the overhead bridge console. If the default dimmer group
1 is used in both locations, it is important to change the default setting of data sharing on the XDi-net, so that
analogue dimmer data is only shared on CAN 2, since the indicators are also interconnected on CAN 1.
Fault symptom: If dimmer data is shared on both CAN 1 and CAN 2, and all XDi units are in group 1, then the
backlight level will jump between the two dimmer levels and make the backlight flicker.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 205 of 206


14 Terminology, Terms, and abbreviations
Abbreviation Full text Explanation
(short text)
XDi Flexible Display Illuminated indicator based on display technology and with a library
indicator architecture offering very flexible indicator design, interfaces and
CANopen network handling.

CANopen CANopen Standard but relative open protocol for communicating via the CAN
bus network layer. Contact CiA (CAN in Automation) for more
detailed information.

XDi-net XDi-net DEIF-specific way to use CANopen and the manufacture-specific


section of the object index.

PP Product profile Collection of default product specific parameter values like dimmer,
CAN-bus settings, sound and visual warnings and alike.

VI Virtual indicator Predefined indicator stored in the XDi library.

VS VI-setup Collection of default indicator parameter values like input setup


parameters for the selected virtual indicator.

Extension Module Extension module Physical module to be mounted in one of the extension slots on the
rear side of the XDi unit. The XDi 96 only has one extension slot,
where XDi 144 and XDi 192 both have 2 extension slots.

AX 1 Analogue input Analogue interface module that can be snapped on the back of the
extension module XDi indicator to add: 2 analogue inputs, 1 dimmer/universal voltage
input and a reference voltage output.

DX 1 Digital I/O extension Digital interface module that can be snapped on the back of the XDi
module indicator to add: 2 digital input (often used for RPM pickups) and 2
relay outputs.

NX 1 NMEA output extension NMEA interface module that can be snapped on the back of the XDi
module indicator to add: 1 RS422 NMEA output IEC 61162-1.

L-pan Left menu pane The left part of the standard XDi menu screen, often containing
added information to the highlighted menu.

R-pan Right menu pane Right part of the standard XDi menu screen, often containing the
actual menu structure.

Slot Extension slot The extension slot is used when mounting an extension module on
the XDi, see Extension module.

NMEA NMEA NMEA is a serial communication standard using RS422 and in this
product compliant with IEC 61162-1.

MED Marine Equipment MED-approved products are compliant with relevant standards in
Directive the Marine Equipment Directive.

Open source software


This product contains open source software licensed under for example GNU General Public License (GNU GPL)
and GNU Lesser General Public License (GNU LGPL). The source code for this software can be obtained by
contacting DEIF A/S at support@[Link]. DEIF A/S reserves the right to charge for the cost of the services.

DESIGNER’S HANDBOOK 4189350049C EN Page 206 of 206

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