MODEL 13000 Application Guide
3
INTRODUCTION
The model 130 series RF transceivers are designed to provide a
wireless, mesh network RS485/422 interface over an unlicensed
900MHz RF data channel. The application discussed in this
manual utilizes an NI-700 NetLinx Integrated Controller made by
AMX and the Aprilaire model 8870 Communicating Thermostat.
The Aprilaire 8870 thermostat supports a hardwired RS485/422
serial communication channel such as that provided by an NI-700
serial port. Through the NI-700, information can be received from
and commands can be sent to individually addressed thermostats.
As many as 64 thermostats can be connected on a single network.
The model 130 series RF transceiver provides a transparent
wireless communication channel between an NI-700 and its
associated thermostats.
There are two physical configurations of the model 130 as well as
two operating configurations.
Figure 1 above shows a model 130
Remote Communication Node
or RCN, which is located with an 8870
thermostat. This configuration provides two power wires, four
RS485/422 serial communication wires and a 12” long coaxial
antenna. It should be powered by the same 24VAC as the
thermostat. (Black ‘C’ wire MUST connect to the thermostat ‘C’
wire - Red ‘R’ wire MUST connect to thermostat ‘R’ wire.) Figure 2
depicts a model 130SMA Master Transceiver. In this physical
configuration, the four serial communication wires are replaced by
a 9-pin female serial connector. The antenna is replaced by the
SMA style threaded connector which mates to a remote antenna
connector. Operating configuration setup is covered later in this
manual.
