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3 Standard Features

The CXC provides centralized setup, control and monitoring of a communications power system.

3.1Password Security

Two levels of password security are available: User and Supervisor. The same password cannot be used for both. User access (Section 4.7.1) enables navigation through menus, but no changes are permitted.

Supervisor access enables navigation and changes to parameters including Supervisor password, see 0. The Supervisor may change the User password only via the web interface.

3.2Software Configuration Loading and Updates

Factory software updates and adjustments to the configuration file are possible through the RS-232 serial port or Ethernet connection. The Supervisor may exclude settings and groups of settings when applying changes. A partial configuration file may also be generated and sent to CXC (v1.81 and above).

3.3Mixed Rectifier System

The CXC enables the use of one type of Alpha Pathfinder model rectifier working in parallel with one type of Alpha Cordex model rectifier; for example, PFM 48V-10kW or PFM 48V-3kW with CXRF 48-3.6kW. Another example is PFM 24V-3kW with CXRF 24-3.1kW. The menu item Rectifier Protocol is no longer required and has been removed. The load share of each rectifier is based on the percentage of maximum output current of the rectifier; see Rectifier Report (4.4.2). In some cases, e.g. battery test algorithm, the system functionality will be limited to that of the Pathfinder rectifiers while the communications will equal that of the Cordex controller.

NOTE: The Pathfinder rectifiers will not be shown under Upgrade Firmware as that submenu applies to Cordex rectifiers and smart peripherals only.

3.4Safe Voltage

Safe Voltage is the voltage that the rectifiers will default to if the controller fails. In general terms, the open circuit voltage for VRLA batteries is determined to be a point where discharge or over charge will not occur.

The Supervisor can set the default system voltage (Safe Mode) in the event that communications to Cordex rectifiers should fail. This feature has a time delay (a function of the rectifier); the activation value is five (5) minutes. The rectifier manual lists the default parameters.

3.5Power Save

This feature improves operational efficiency when conditions warrant by running only the necessary number of rectifiers. For example, when the load is significantly less than the available system power, the controller will shut down one or more of the rectifiers so that the remaining rectifiers can operate with greater efficiency at a higher current level. A short (one-minute) time delay or hysteresis is included to avoid nuisance alarming and to eliminate changes if the load is fluctuating. Rectifiers are rotated into use on a weekly basis to share the service time.

When Power Save is enabled, it takes effect when a minimum discharge or load current (~2.5% of maximum current of one rectifier) is achieved.

Charge or battery current limit calculations are made based on rectifiers that are running. The Power Save feature is suspended during Battery Test mode, see 4.3.4.6.

NOTE: The remote shutdown setting (Cordex series only) enables the function in the rectifier. The Power Save feature uses this functionality when a Cordex rectifier is commanded to shut down.

The Power Save feature does not work with the Alpha RSM 48/100 series of rectifiers.