[PAGE 1]

CM-180-29
ModBus RTU Slave POLON_ALFA
Master

AN-CM-180-29-1-v1_03
Updated:
May 2013

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Contents
General installation and safety guidelines......................................................................3
1. Intended use......................................................................................................... 3
2. Device parameters................................................................................................. 3
2.1 Technical parameters......................................................................................... 3
2.2. Block diagram.................................................................................................. 4
2.3. Connectors...................................................................................................... 5
2.4 Specification of signal diodes.............................................................................. 7
2.5. Dimensions..................................................................................................... 8
3. Installation............................................................................................................ 8
4. Configuration and operation..................................................................................... 9
4.1. Device operation modes.................................................................................. 10
4.2. Configuration software - CM180conf.................................................................13
4.2.1. Menu and toolbar of the CM180conf software...............................................13

4.2.2. Module configuration................................................................................. 15

4.2.3. Reading configuration settings from device...................................................15
4.2.4. Saving configuration parameters to device...................................................16
4.2.5. Read configuration parameters from file.......................................................17
4.2.6. Saving configuration parameters to file........................................................17
4.2.7. Changing the modules firmware.................................................................17
4.2.8. Configuration of the communication ports with the help of DIP switches............19
4.2.9. Reading settings of DIP switches in CM180conf............................................20
4.3. Configuration of CM-180-29 ModBus RTU Slave POLON-ALFA Master...............20
4.3.1. Intended use............................................................................................ 20
4.3.2. Connecting.............................................................................................. 22
4.3.3. Configuration........................................................................................... 22
4.3.4. Operation................................................................................................ 22
4.3.5. Transmitting commands from ModBus to the central station............................23
4.3.6. Setting the timeout parameter of the ModBus communication.......................23
5. Contact............................................................................................................... 24

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Symbols and markings

Tip.
Suggestions that help solving/diagnosing problems. It is not obligatory to
follow these suggestions and not following them will not affect proper
operation of the device.

Note!
Information or action that is important for proper operation of the device.
It is not obligatory to perform this action. Not performing this action will
not cause any harm to people or the device. Not performing this action
can only result in malfunction of the device.

Warning!
Indicates important actions. Not performing these actions may create a
hazard for the operator or/and cause damage to the device.

General installation and safety guidelines

Install the device in accordance with its intended use specified in the documentation. This is
a critical condition of safety and correct operation of the device.
When used improperly or not as intended, the device may create a hazard.
The manufacturer takes no responsibility for damage resulting from using the device
improperly or not as intended. Modification of the device is forbidden and may create a
hazard.

[PAGE 4]

1. Intended use
The CM-180 module is intended for converting different types of communication protocols
that use the RS 232/485 interface. The functions of the module can be adjusted to specific
needs thanks to different firmware versions available. There is a data base of firmware
versions that allow for converting protocols such as standard MODBUS, proprietary protocols
such as EASY transmitter protocol owned by Moeller Electric or for converting any ASCII
protocols.
Available firmware, configuration and operation are presented in section 4.

2. Device parameters
2.1 Technical parameters
Technical data of the module are presented in Table 2.1.1.
Table 2.1.1. Technical parameters of the CM-180 module.
Parameter

Specification

Supply voltage
Maximum power without load
Operating humidity
Storage humidity
Operating temperature
Storage temperature
Rated voltage
Settings memory
Clamp protection class
Housing protection class
Installation
Weight
Dimensions with connectors

7 30 VAC/VDC
2VA
20% 95%
20% 95%
-10C 60C
-20C 70C
3 kV DC
EEPROM
IP-20 acc. to DIN 40050/EC 529
IP-43 acc. to DIN 40050/EC 529
On rails acc. to PN/E-06292 or DIN EN
50 022-35
116 g
52 x 92.2 x 58 mm

[PAGE 5]

2.2. Block diagram

Figure 2.2.1 presents block diagram of the CM-180 module.

Fig. 2.2.1. Block diagram of the CM-180 module.

2.3. Connectors
Figure 2.3.1 shows connectors of the module and Table 2.3.1 shows specification of the
connectors. Pins of the DB9 socket are specified in Table 2.3.2.

[PAGE 6]

Fig. 2.3.1. Connectors of the CM-180 module.

Table 2.3.1 Specifications of the connectors and DIP switches of the CM-180 module.
Connectors name
DB9
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14

Specification
Complete RS232(COM1)
A RS485(COM1)
B RS485(COM2)
GND RS485(COM1)
TX-RS232(COM2)
RX-RS232(COM2)
GND-RS232(COM2)
A-RS485(COM2)
B-RS485(COM2)

15
16
17
18
SW1
SW2
SW3

GND-RS485(COM2)
not used
power supply
power supply 10-30V AC/DC
COM1 parameters
COM2 parameters
Switching to configuration/programming
mode

[PAGE 7]

Table 2.3.2 Specification of the DB9 socket of the CM-180 module

Male socket

Pin number
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

Specification
RXD
TXD
DTR
GND
DSR
RTS
CTS
-

2.4 Specification of signal diodes

General specification of signal diodes is presented in Table 2.4.1.

Table 2.4.1. General specification of the signal diodes of the CM-180 module
PWR and status diodes
PWR
RUN
Description
red
Power is being supplied
off/yellow
Program is running
Communication diodes and MOD diodes
MOD
COM1
COM2
Description
off
green
Correct reception on COM1
off
green
Correct reception on COM2
off
orange
Sending frame on COM1
off
orange
Sending frame on COM2
red
orange
Frame error and sending error message on COM1
red
orange
Frame error and sending error message on COM2
red
red
Reception error on COM1
red
red
Reception error on COM2
orange
off
off
Configuration mode (COM diodes dark)
off
green
off
Programming mode (COM2 and MOD diode dark)
green
SW3 button pressed

where: off diode dark; - diode color irrelevant

Tip.
The meaning of the diodes depends on the firmware and may vary from
that given in Table 2.4.1. Detailed specification in included in the
instruction manual of the firmware.

[PAGE 8]

2.5. Dimensions
The dimensions of the CM-180 module are given in Figure 2.5.1.

Fig. 2.5.1. Dimensions of the CM-180 module.

3. Installation
General guidelines for installation of the CM-180 module are shown in Figure 3.1. Installation
steps depend directly on the firmware. Detailed installation guidelines can be found in the
firmware instruction manual.

Fig. 3.1. General guidelines for installing the CM-180 module.

[PAGE 9]

4. Configuration and operation

Configuration and operation of the module depends directly on the installed firmware.
Detailed description can be found later in this instruction in the firmware description.
Available firmware is listed in Tale 4.1.

Table 4.1. Firmware available for the CM-180 module.

No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14

Symbol
CM-180-0
CM-180-1
CM-180-2
CM-180-3
CM-180-4
CM-180-5
CM-180-6
CM-180-7
CM-180-8
CM-180-9
CM-180-10
CM-180-11
CM-180-12
CM-180-13

Name
RS232-RS485 Converter
RS232-RS485 Easy Converter
ModBus RTU Slave ModBUS RTU Slave
ModBus RTU ModBus RTU Converter
ModBus RTU Slave Catch ModBus RTU Master
ModBus RTU Slave SUCOM_A Master
ModBus ASCII ModBus RTU
ModBus RTU Doubler
ModBus RTU Master ModBus RTU Master
EASY Master MofBus RTU Slave
EASY Master ModBus RTU Master
ASCII Master ModBus RTU Slave
ModBus RTU Slave ModBus RTU Master
ModBus RTU Slave SHINKO master

15
16
17

CM-180-14
CM-180-15
CM-180-16

18

CM-180-17

ModBus RTU Slave GazModem Master

RMC/RMS 621 Master ModBus RTU Slave
RMS/RMS 621 Master Advanced ModBus RTU
Slave
ModBus RTU Slave Premier_48_88_168_640
Master

4.1. Device operation modes

Initialization mode
In this mode the device initializes the communication ports, all signal diodes are checked and
all configuration settings are updated. This mode is activated directly after switching the
device on, after exiting the configuration mode or after exiting the programming mode.
Normal operation mode
This is the basic operation mode of the device in which its main functions are executed. This
mode is activated directly after the initialization mode.

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Configuration mode
In this mode the user can adjust all available device parameters. Type and number of the
parameters depend on the modules firmware.
The device enters the configuration mode when the button SW3 is pressed and held for at
least 5 seconds while the device is in the normal operation mode. Entering this mode is
signaled by orange color of MOD diode and dark COM1 and COM2 diodes. Figure 4.1.1.
illustrates the connection of the communication cable to the module.

4.1.1. Connecting the module in configuration mode.

Connect the RS232 cable to the RS232 socket of a PC.

The device exits the configuration mode after it is reset (restarting the power supply or via
Device -> Start device in the CM180conf software).
Tip.
The module exits the configuration mode automatically when there has
been no communication with computer for more than 5 minutes.

[PAGE 11]

Programming mode
The programming mode is used for changing the modules firmware. This mode is entered
when the SW3 button is pressed when the power supply is being switched on. Entering this
mode is signaled by green color of the COM1 diode. Figure 4.1.2. illustrates connecting the
communication cable to the module.

4.1.2. Connecting the module in programming mode.

Connect the RS232 cable to the RS232 socket of a PC.

The device exits the programming mode automatically after the firmware has been installed
via the Loader program or after the power supply has been restarted.

4.2. Configuration software - CM180conf

Configuration of the module and changing its firmware can be performed using CM180conf
a software provided by the manufacturer. This software can be downloaded from the
manufacturers website (www.ultima-automatyka.pl).

[PAGE 12]

Dialog box of the CM180conf software is shown in Figure 4.2.1.

Fig. 4.2.1. Dialog box in the CM180conf software.

4.2.1. Menu and toolbar of the CM180conf software.

Menu of the CM180conf software is presented in Table 4.2.1.1. Toolbar is presented in Table
4.2.1.2.

Table 4.2.1.1. Menu of CM180conf

Menu

Description

File
Open configuration open file with ready
configuration for particular modules
firmware
Save configuration save file with current
configuration for particular modules
firmware
Exit exit CM180conf
Device
Select device select device type to be
configured
Auto automatically detect device type and
read parameters
CM-180-X manually select device without
reading parameters
Read parameters from device read
current configuration of selected device
Start device start the configured device
Firmware
Read firmware version read device BIOS
version (not available)
Change firmware change the modules
firmware
Connection
Disconnect end communication with
module
COM 1 communication with module via
computers COM1
COM 2 communication with module via
computers COM2
COM 3 communication with module via
computers COM3
COM 4 communication with module via
computers COM4
View
ToolBar shows/hides the toolbar
Status Bar shows/hides the status bar of
CM180conf
Help
Documentation open documentation
About CM180conf - shows version of the

software
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Table 4.2.1.2. Toolbar of the CM180 conf software

Symbol

Description
Save current module settings to file (Save
configuration)
Read module settings from file (Open
configuration)
Automatically detect software and read
current parameters (AutoDetect)
Read current settings from module (Read
parameters from device)
Write new settings to module (Write
parameters to device)
Connect via computers COM1 (COM1)
Connect via computers COM2 (COM2)
Connect via computers COM3 (COM3)
Connect via computers COM4 (COM4)
End communication with module
(Disconnect)
Open documentation (Documentation)
Read version of the CM180conf software
(About)

4.2.2. Module configuration

To start the configuration of the module enter the configuration mode (see 4.1). After starting
the CM180conf software establish connection via one of the ports (

or

or

or

).

4.2.3. Reading configuration settings from device

For auto-detection of the device type and for reading its configuration, go to Device -> Select
device -> Auto or press

For manual detection of the device type, select the device from Device -> Select device. For
reading its configuration select Device -> Read parameters from device or press

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After selecting the device a dialog box with available configuration parameters will pop up. An
example of a dialog box of the CM-180 module is presented in Figure 4.2.3.1.

Fig. 4.2.3.1. Features of selected device in CM180conf.

The field Name contains the name of the modules firmware. The field Symbol contains the
symbol of the firmware. After reading the configuration data a device identification number
will show up in the field ID and the version of the modules firmware will show up in the field
Program version.
In addition to the above information the dialog box contains also configuration parameters.
Detailed description of these parameters can be found later in this instruction along with
detailed specification of particular software.

4.2.4. Saving configuration parameters to device

Configuration settings are saved to device by selecting the option Device -> Write
parameters to device or by pressing

. When trying to save incorrect parameters the action

will be refused and the incorrect values will be highlighted with the symbol
are marked with the symbol

. Correct values

[PAGE 16]

For the device to operate with new parameters, select option Device -> Start device or restart
the power supply.

4.2.5. Read configuration parameters from file

It is possible to read the configuration parameters of a particular device from a file.
Configuration files have the extension .conf. Files with default settings of all available devices
are stored in the conf catalogue in the folder where CM180conf has been installed. Settings
can be read from file by selecting the device type from the Device menu and by selecting File
-> Open configuration or by pressing
configuration file.

. When a dialog box pops up choose the desired

Tip.
When trying to read a configuration file that does not contain
configuration settings of the device that has been selected from the
menu, an alert will pop up and the file will not open.

4.2.6. Saving configuration parameters to file

Current settings can be saved to a configuration file (.conf). To do this select File -> Save
configuration or press

. Then enter file name and select its localization.

4.2.7. Changing the modules firmware

The firmware of the module can be changed when the module is in programming mode and
is connected to computer (see 4.1). Firmware change is performed with the help of the
Loader software that is started by selecting Firmware -> Change firmware in CM180conf.

[PAGE 17]

Note!
Before starting the Loader software select the option Connection ->
Disconnect in the CM180conf software or press

The dialog box of the Loader software is shown in Figure 4.2.7.1.

Fig. 4.2.7.1. Dialog box of the Loader software.

When Auto is ticked the program will automatically detect the computers port to which the
CM-180 module is connected. Otherwise the COM port should be selected manually. When
the program connects to the module the diode in the dialog box will turn green, Connected
will appear and the Upgrade button will become active, as shown in Figure 4.2.7.2.

4.2.7.2. Dialog box of the Loader software informing about connection with module.

After clicking Upgrade a dialog box will pop up where the firmware file can be selected (.ulti).
This is shown in Figure 4.2.7.3.

[PAGE 18]

4.2.7.3. Dialog box for selecting the modules firmware

After selecting the firmware the Loader software will automatically start installing it to the
module, as shown in Figure 4.2.7.4.

Fig. 4.2.7.4. Installing firmware to the module

After the installation has been finished the CM-180 module is reset and starts executing the
installed program.

4.2.8. Configuration of the communication ports with the help of DIP switches.
The module has two DIP switches located under the cover of its case. These switches are
used for configuration of the transfer rate of the respective communication ports COM1
(SW1) and COM2 (SW2).

[PAGE 19]

In some devices these switches are also used for configuration of the network address on
the respective port. Configuration of the port COM1 parameters is shown in Table 4.2.8.1.
The parameters of COM2 (SW2) are configured in the same way.

Table 4.2.8.1. Configuration of the COM1 port using the DIP switch SW1 on the CM-180
module
1*

1**
0
1
0
1
0
1

0
1
1
0
0
1
1

0
0
0
1
1
1
1

0
0
0
0
0
0
1

0
0
0
0
0
0
1

Slave
addres
s
1
2
3
4
5
6

31

0
1
0
1
0
1
0
1

0
0
1
1
0
0
1
1

0
0
0
0
1
1
1
1

Transfer
rate
[bit/s]
1200
2400
4800
9600
19200
38000
57600
115200

* - number of the pin in the DIP switch; ** - 0-pin is in OFF position, 1-pin is in ON position

Tip.
In some devices the DIP switches can have additional functionalities.
These functionalities are specified later in this instruction along with
detailed specification of particular device.

4.2.9. Reading settings of DIP switches in CM180conf

To read current settings of DIP switches press Refresh in the field COM parameters or in the
field Slave parameters of the device dialog box, as shown in Figure 4.2.9.1.

[PAGE 20]

Fig. 4.2.9.1. Reading settings of DIP switches in CM180conf.

Tip.
The Refresh button is active only when the CM180conf software is
connected via a communication port (COM,

or

or

or

).

[PAGE 21]

4.3. Configuration of CM-180-29 ModBus RTU Slave POLON-ALFA Master

4.3.1. Intended use
The CM-180-29 module allows to connect the POLON 4000 fire signalization system to the
ModBus RTU network. CM-180-29 operates as a ModBus slave when on COM1, and
operates as master device of the POLON_ALFA communication protocol when on COM2.

Available ModBus functions and their constraints are presented in Table 4.3.1.1.
Table 4.3.1.1. ModBus functions available for CM-180-29.
Number of function
Max number of registers
Features
3
120
Read editable registers
4
5
Read non-editable registers
* - maximum number of registers that can be processed with single ModBus command

The module has an implemented error handling process that is compliant with ModBus
protocol. Errors that can be handled are shown in Table 4.3.1.2.

Table 4.3.1.2. ModBus error codes handled by the CM-180-29 device

Error code
1
2

Description
Invalid function
Invalid register address

[PAGE 22]

The memory map of ModBus slave for CM-180-29 is shown in Table 4.3.1.3.

Table 4.3.1.3. The memory map of ModBus slave for CM-180-29.

Register address
1

Function*
4

1-7
3
8-14
3
15-21
3

980-986
3
*- ModBus functions that can be applied for given registers

Features
Number of received
POLON_ALFA data blocks
Address constant of the
youngest record stored in
CM-180 memory
Flag confirming sending data
block to the central station (0
data sent; 1 data being
sent)
Memory status flag (0
memory not full; 1 memory
full)
Record 1
Record 2
Record 3

Record 140

[PAGE 23]

4.3.2. Connecting
The method for connecting the CM-180-29 device is shown in Figure 4.3.2.1.

Fig. 4.3.2.1. Method for connecting CM-180-29

4.3.3. Configuration
The configuration software is available on our website. Available transfer rates are listed in
section 4.2.8.

[PAGE 24]

4.3.4. Operation
After supplying power the CM-180 module sends the message Status control. Then it
enters the monitoring mode. Having received a data block the module saves it to the memory
and controls the RAM space indicators accordingly. Data is saved as records of 7 registers.
Record syntax is presented in Table 4.3.4.1.

Table 4.3.4.1. Record syntax for CM-180-29.

Address of register in the

record
1
2
3
4

High nibble of the register

Low nibble of the register

Number of the central station

Month
Hour
Second

Low nibble of the line

number
Local input/output number
High nibble of the zone
number

Year
Day
Minute
High nibble of the line
number
Number of the element

6
7

Type of status/event
Low nibble of the zone
number

After saving a record to the memory, the indicator of the number of received data blocks
(register 1) is incremented and the address of the youngest record (register 2) is set
accordingly. The user, by basing on this information, is able to verify if new messages have
appeared and where they are located in the memory of CM-180.
The device can store 140 records. When this number is exceeded, the device stops receiving
new data blocks and each incoming data block is responded with DC3 message (0x13). A
buffer overflow flag is set in register 4. In order to resume the reception of data, the value of
0 must be sent to register 1 via function no. 6 of the ModBus protocol.

4.3.5. Transmitting commands from ModBus to the central station

The CM-180-29 module allows for transmission of a command to the central station from the
level of ModBus network. This is done by sending via function no. 16 the values of 7
registers, starting from register 1, using the syntax shown in Table 4.3.4.1.

[PAGE 25]

Having received this function the CM-180-29 module sets the send command to the central
station flag in register 3. Then it sends a remote command to the central station and waits for
confirmation. After the confirmation has been received the flag in register 3 is deleted.

4.3.6. Setting the timeout parameter of the ModBus communication

The timeout parameter is set via the CM180conf software. View of configuration parameters
is shown in Figure 4.3.6.1.

Fig. 4.3.6.1. Configuration parameters of CM-180-29.

Description of parameters and buttons:

- COM parameters:
Parity parity control. Available settings: none (no control), even (controls even values),
odd (controls odd values), 2 bits stop
Baudrate transfer rate. Available settings [kbit/s]: 1.2; 2.4; 4.8; 9.6; 19.2; 38.4; 57.6;
115.2. Configured via DIP switches (see section 4.2.8.).

[PAGE 26]

Refresh read current settings from DIP switches (see section 4.2.8).

- Slave parameters:
Network address network address of the slave device assigned to specific COM port. It is
configured with the help of DIP switches (see section 4.2.8).
Order time out value of the time out parameter

5. Contact
Address:

ULTIMA
Ul. Okrna 1
81-822 Sopot
Phone / Fax: +48(058) 341 16 61
Phone: +48(058) 555 71 49
E-mail: ultima@ultima-automatyka.pl
Web: www.ultima-automatyka.pl