HR-E LCD 4-20 – High Resolution 4-20 Encoder

The High Resolution 4-20 encoder (HR-E LCD 4-20) is a fully electronic, solid-state encoder with no moving parts. It is designed for use with all current Badger Meter® Recordall® Disc Series,  Turbo Series, Compound Series, Combo Series and Fire Service meters and assemblies. These solid-state units produce a standard encoded output as well as a 4-20 mA DC output signal through a dual output wire design. The HR-E LCD 4-20 encoder provides connectivity with Badger Meter ORION® AMR/AMI endpoints and other AMR/AMI technology solutions approved by Badger Meter.

Description

Field Programmable: The HR-E LCD 4-20 encoder comes standard as factory programmed, with the option for field programming the unit of measure, meter type, meter model, digit resolution from the encoder, billing units, rate-of-flow time and units, and the analog output. Programming is performed through the IR port via a computer using the Programmer software, version 2.0.0 or greater. Output

Resolution: Standard encoded output is 9 digits. The 4-20 signal from the encoder is proportional to the flow of fluid passing through the meter. Power for the 4-20 output signal device can be obtained from a 9…50V DC control loop. The default 20 mA setting of the signal is defined in the resolution chart.

Status Indicators: Icons on the encoder face indicate encoder status and alarm conditions. Status indicators are sent as part of the encoder extended message to AMR/AMI systems such as ORION Cellular, Fixed Network and Migratable endpoints that are capable of receiving an extended message. The details can also be read through an IR interface.

Mounting: The fully potted encoder assembly has a bayonet mount compatible with all Recordall Disc, Turbo Series, Compound Series, Combo Series and Fire Series meters and assemblies. The bayonet mount positions the encoder in any of four orientations for visual reading convenience. The encoder can be removed from the meter without disrupting water service.

Magnetic Drive Communication: The encoder detects movement of the wet side meter magnet with magnetic sensors to provide reliable and dependable meter monitoring.

Tamper-resistant Features: Unauthorized removal of the encoder is inhibited by a tamper-resistant Torx seal screw. Torx seal screws are provided as standard accessories. Optional proprietary  tamper-proof screws are also available.

In addition, the encoder is resistant to magnetic tampering. The encoder detects an attempted tamper—as well as encoder removal—and displays a tamper alarm in either situation. Approved endpoints capable of receiving the alarms, such as ORION Cellular, Fixed Network and Migratable endpoints, can then report the tamper condition to the meter reading software.

Construction: The housing of the HR-E LCD 4-20 encoder is constructed of an engineered polymer enclosure and a polycarbonate lens. For long-term performance, the enclosure is fully encapsulated, weatherproof, and UV-resistant to withstand harsh environments and to protect the electronics in flooded or submerged pit applications. A patented epoxy potting comprises the encoder bottom. Due to this unique sealing, the HR-E LCD 4-20 exceeds all applicable requirements of AWWA Standard C707.

Wire Connections: The encoder is available with dual output wire connections. The encoder side wire is available with an in-line connector for easy connection to AMR/AMI endpoints, or a flying lead for field splice connection. The 4-20 side is available with a flying lead for easy connection in the field. Operating

Characteristics: The encoder is shipped in storage mode so a meter status alarm is not triggered. In storage mode, the meter model screen is displayed. Upon sensing two revolutions of the meter magnet, the encoder goes into normal operation mode. The display then automatically toggles between these four modes:

  • 9-digit consumption displays for 45 seconds.
  • 6-digit consumption (segmented leak detector in this mode) displays for 5 seconds.
  • Rate of flow displays for 5 seconds.
  • Meter model displays for 5 seconds.

Additional information

Encoder Type

Straight reading, permanently sealed,
electronic LCD absolute encoder with
field-programmable option

Encoder display

Status indicators, unit of measure, billing units,
automatic toggle between 9-digit and 6-digit
consumption (segmented leak detector in this
mode), rate of flow, meter model

Unit of Measure

U.S. gallons, Imperial gallons, cubic feet, cubic
meters and liters

Flow rate

Seconds, minutes, and hours

Numerals

7 mm (0.28") high

Weight

11 ounces

Humidity

0…100% condensing

Temperature

Storage: –40…140° F (– 40…60° C)
Max. ambient for 1 hr: 150° F (66° C)
Electronics & Display: 14…140° F (–10…60° C)

Status indicators

Electronic and visual icons for:
meter functioning correctly, meter alarm
(indicates temperature limits exceeded,
magnetic tamper or encoder removal), reverse
flow, suspected leak, 30-day no usage, end of
battery life

Encoder Output

Industry standard ASCII format
Three-wire synchronous for AMR/AMI solutions
Red = clock/power; Black = ground; Green = data

Analog Output

Two-wire/passive

Input Voltage Range

9…50V DC supply

Current

4…20 mA

Max. Load Resistance (Ohms)

50 Ohms + 50 Ohms (supply voltage – 9V)

Battery

Lithium thionyl chloride AA cell, fully encapsulated
within encoder housing

Battery Life

20 years (calculated)