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This product is no longer available and has been replaced by: CS241DM. Some accessories, replacement parts, or services may still be available.
CS240DM Pt-1000 Class A, Back-of-Module Temperature Sensor with Digital Modbus RS-485 Output
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Free Support Yes

Overview

The CS240DM is a best-in-class smart sensor with a rugged, surface-mountable platinum resistive thermometer (PRT) that measures back-of-module temperature on solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. The CS240DM includes a new Campbell Scientific precision analog-to-digital, smart-sensor module that makes back-of-module temperature measurements that are among the most accurate measurements available today. 

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Benefits and Features

  • Best-in-class measurement accuracy and technology
  • Modbus RTU RS-485 digital serial communications
  • Precision Pt1000 Class A sensing element
  • Compliant with IEC 60751, DIN EN 60751
  • Meets 61724-1 PV System Performance Standard
  • Optional NIST traceable calibration certificate
  • Purchased with any cable length
  • Rugged design proven in more than 4,000 installations worldwide

Images

CS240DM
CS240DM
CS240DM
CS240DM
CS240DM and cable (sold separately)
CS240DM and cable attached (sold separately)
CS240DM options
CS240DM mounted to the back of a solar panel module
Kapton tape (pn 11051) is required for cable strain relief. The tape is also used to fasten the sensor to the back of a solar panel when the temperature may exceed 70°C.

Detailed Description

The CS240DM consists of a Pt-1000 Class A PRT encased in an aluminum disk. The disk protects the PRT, particularly during installation when pulled through conduit, and promotes heat transfer from the surface while minimizing convective heat loss to the surroundings. An adhesive tab on the disk fastens the CS240DM to the measurement surface. If the temperature may exceed 70°C, Kapton tape is also required to secure the probe.

The precision analog-to-digital, smart-sensor module is based on the CR1000X. The module design is optimized for the Class A PRT that minimizes self-heating and lead-wire resistance. Measurement electronics are surge protected, include 1200 V isolation, and are environmentally protected with a rugged over-molding featuring an IP65 rating. Data is differentially transmitted in cabling that is well suited for industrial energy applications with excellent noise rejection and high voltage, NEC outdoor, UV, UL, and NEC ratings.

The CS240DM provides PV stakeholders with highly accurate back-of-module temperature—even at long cable lengths—for use in power-performance modeling and simulation of solar energy applications. Back-of-module temperature is critical for any evaluation of effective irradiance and power conversion.

Specifications

Sensor Platinum resistive thermometer (PRT)
System Uncertainty ±0.3°C
Disk Material Anodized aluminum
Surge Protection 1200 V isolation
Supply Voltage of the Sensor 5 to 30 Vdc
Power Draw 15 mA
Compliance Information
  • UL AWM 2586 1000V 105°C approval
  • CSA AWM 600V 105°C FT approval
Conforms with Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC)
Conforms with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS2)
Disk Diameter 2.54 cm (1.0 in.)
Overall Probe Length 6.35 cm (2.5 in.)
Overmolded Joint Dimensions 5.72 x 1.12 x 1.47 cm (2.25 x 0.44 x 0.58 in.)
Weight 90.7 g with 3.2 m cable (0.2 lb with 10.5 ft cable)

Sensing Element
Precision 1000 ohm Class A platinum sensing element (Pt-1000)
Accuracy ±(0.15 + 0.002T)°C
Temperature Coefficient of Resistance TCR = 3850 ppm/K
Long-Term Stability Maximum Ro drift 0.04% (after 1000 h at 400°C)
Operating Temperature Range -40° to +135°C

Communications
Protocol Modbus RTU protocol (over RS-485)
Format 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, even parity as default (user-configurable)
Baud Rate 19,200 bps as default (user-configurable)
Modbus ID Last two digits of serial number as default (user-configurable)

Cable
Description
  • High-flex construction with jacket for pulling through conduit
  • Weld spatter and oil resistant
Jacket Material Black semi-gloss PVC, UL VW-1 sunlight resistant for outdoor use
Agency Approvals
  • UL AWM Style 2463
  • NEC/CEC CMX outdoor
Nominal Wire Diameter 0.61 mm (0.024 in.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Number of FAQs related to CS240DM: 4

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  1. Why is NIST traceability beneficial for surface temperature sensors, such as the CS240, the 110PV, and the CS240DM?

    NIST traceability provides an assurance of accuracy. This is especially desirable in accordance with IEC 61724, which is a specification for monitoring solar energy generation that requires calibrated sensors.

  2. For the standard (non-NIST) version of the CS240 sensors, how does Campbell Scientific verify the ability of the sensors to measure and that the measurements made are calibrated to provide correct measurements?

    Even when three-pt calibration isn’t ordered, when we build the probes, we perform a final test to verify that they are reading within 0.3°C of our calibrated reference sensor at room temperature.

  3. Is the calibration for the CS240DM NIST traceable?

    Yes, it is NIST traceable.

  4. Are the traditional methods of using RTD to measure the back-of-module temperature not used with the CS240 and CS240DM because these methods may cause hot spots?

    A hot spot is caused if a cell in series is under-producing due to shading and gets reversed bias due to the other producing cells. For bifacial modules, as long as the front face is not shaded, all the cells should be producing and covering a small area on the back side and should not cause a severe mismatch.

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