Sensor potential-free contact - 5 inputs (5DCS)

AKCP 5 Dry Contact Inputs – Professional Network Monitoring for Critical Systems

The AKCP dry contact sensor with 5 input contacts revolutionizes network-based remote monitoring of signal outputs and relay contacts in critical systems and infrastructure. This innovative solution enables TCP/IP-based monitoring of essential systems with the highest level of reliability and precision.

Advanced Monitoring Capabilities for Maximum Security

In combination with the AKCP sensorProbe2 monitoring system, the dry contact sensor can be used for TCP/IP monitoring of up to 5 dry contact inputs and alarm contacts. The system’s scalability is impressive: by using a second sensor, the total number of IP-connected dry contact inputs can be increased to up to 10.

The dry contact sensors offer various configuration options depending on the controller used:

• Up to 2 sensors on the sensorProbe2
• Up to 4 sensors on the sensorProbe2+
• Up to 8 sensors on the sensorProbe8
• Up to 600 dry contact sensors on the securityProbe

This flexibility makes the system ideal for installations of any size, from small server rooms to large industrial facilities.

Versatile Applications for Critical Infrastructure

The AKCP dry contact sensor is used wherever reliable, IP-based 24/7 monitoring of essential systems and infrastructure is required:

• Power supply systems: Continuous monitoring of main distribution panels, transformers, and switchgear for early fault detection.
• UPS systems: Monitoring of Uninterruptible Power Supplies for critical load and battery status detection.
• Backup generators: Monitoring diesel and gas generators for readiness and operational states.
• Telephone systems: Integration into communication infrastructures for availability monitoring and early fault detection.
• HVAC systems: Monitoring climate control and ventilation units to ensure optimal conditions in server rooms and data centers.
• Fire alarm systems: Integration into security infrastructure for extended alarm forwarding and emergency management.

Technical Specifications and Reliability

The 5 Dry Contact Input Sensor operates within a contact voltage range of 5 volts and uses pulled-up dry contacts for maximum reliability. A high polling rate ensures near real-time monitoring of critical systems.

The compact design with dimensions of 56 x 55 x 33.3 mm allows for space-saving installation. DIN rail and screw mounting options provide flexible installation in various industrial environments.

The communication interface via RJ-45 with UTP Cat 5 cabling supports transmission distances of up to 1000 feet (305 meters) using suitable low-capacitance shielded or UTP cables.

Intelligent Alarm Forwarding and Notification Systems

Forwarding of fault messages via email alert, SMS, or SNMP trap ensures that critical events are immediately communicated to the responsible personnel. The dry contact sensor, equipped with an RJ-45 connector, is easily connected to an available sensor port of the AKCP sensorProbe2 monitoring system.

Thanks to AutoSense technology, the sensor is automatically recognized by the AKCP sensorProbe2 and displayed in the web interface. This plug-and-play functionality eliminates complex configuration steps and significantly reduces installation time.

Incoming signal alerts from connected contacts and relays are forwarded by the sensorProbe2 device via email or SMS (via 3rd party gateway). SNMP support ensures seamless integration into existing network management infrastructures.

Advanced SNMP Integration and Network Management

Systems and equipment connected via alarm contacts can be integrated into network and system monitoring solutions thanks to the comprehensive SNMP support of the AKCP sensorProbe2. The AKCP dry contact sensor with 5 inputs is equipped with an SNMP OID (Object Identifier), enabling direct SNMP walk access to contact status (open/closed).

Integration into network management systems such as OpenNMS, Nagios, HP OpenView, IBM Tivoli, PRTG, and WhatsUp Gold is easily possible thanks to included SNMP MIB files and SNMP utilities. This compatibility enables seamless integration into existing monitoring infrastructures without the need for additional software development.

SNMP traps are automatically generated when sensors reach a critical state, allowing for proactive maintenance and fast response. SNMP polling via SNMPget allows for regular status queries for continuous monitoring.

Interactive Sensor Networking and Automation

Interaction with other intelligent AKCP sensors enables extended automation capabilities. The sensor connected to the AKCP sensorProbe2 can interact with another sensor connected to the second sensor port.

Practical application scenarios include:

• Automatic activation of an alarm siren with strobe light upon fault detection
• Triggering of the AKCP sensor-controlled AC relay for automatic countermeasures
• Cascaded alarm forwarding for multi-level escalation processes
• Automatic system shutdown in case of critical fault conditions

User-Friendly Configuration and Maintenance

The customizable configuration of the dry contact sensors allows for adaptation to specific application requirements. The normal input state can be set via software, supporting both normally open and normally closed contacts.

The intuitive web browser interface provides full configuration capabilities without additional software installation. All sensor parameters can be configured and monitored remotely, greatly simplifying maintenance.

Important Safety Notice: The dry contacts are not galvanically isolated. No voltage sources should be connected to avoid damaging the system.

Economic Benefits and ROI

Power is supplied entirely by the controller unit, eliminating the need for additional power sources. This reduces installation costs and increases system reliability.

With up to 5 dry contact inputs per RJ-45 port, the system provides a cost-effective solution for comprehensive monitoring requirements. The ability to implement up to 10 inputs on a sensorProbe2 and up to 20 on a sensorProbe2+ makes the system highly scalable.

The ALARM/NORMAL status display in the software with detailed fault descriptions and localization enables fast problem identification and resolution, minimizing downtime.

The AKCP 5 Dry Contact Inputs Sensor is a future-proof investment in professional monitoring technology and provides the reliability required for critical infrastructure.