Orion System Zoning - Manual (Page 9)

Orion Systems 9
Zoning Design Guide
True Network Communications
The Orion uses a three wire, RS-485 loop for commu-
nication between all controllers in the system. This pro-
vides a very reliable form of communication with flex-
ibility of installation. The loop can be wired in a “daisy
chain” or “star” configuration. Many other zoning sys-
tems utilize “home run” wiring that requires all com-
munication cables to be brought back to a central point
adding additional cost to the project and complicating
wiring.
High Integrity Communications
Many communicating control systems are susceptible
to electrical interference. One major manufacturer of
zoning systems recommends that their communication
cable should not be strapped to conduit because of po-
tential interference. The Orion Systems have a com-
munication bus that is almost immune to any noise or
electrical interference problems that can be found in
many commercial facilities.This feature makes instal-
lation problems non-existent and insures the continued
reliability of the controls system.
Microprocessor Controllers
All controllers in the Orion System have an on board
microprocessor. This is what gives the Orion its power-
ful features and capabilities not found in other systems.
Stand Alone Systems
All Orion Systems are true stand-alone and do not re-
quire a computer to operate. Unit controllers maintain
their own 7 day time clock, 365 day holiday schedul-
ing, and setpoints within each controller.
Menu Driven Operators’ Interface
All Orion systems have the ability to be connected to
an operators’ keypad and display terminal. This gives
you access to system status and parameter values with-
out the need for a computer. The Modular Service tool
or the Modular System Manager have 4 line by 20 char-
acter displays that are backlighted making them easy to
read even in low light environments. Function keys and
menu driven programming makes the system extremely
user friendly. In addition, the interface panel is pass-
word protected to keep unauthorized users from access-
ing the system.
Communications Via Optional Modem
The Remote Link is used for achieving remote commu-
nications with the Orion system. It connects to the
CommLink II communications interface and a local
phone line. With the Remote Link, the Orion system
can be programmed and monitored from a remote loca-
tion, using a computer and the Prism graphical com-
puter front end software package. An internet interface
is also available when using the Prism software pack-
age.
Modulating, Heavy Duty Actuators with
Real Time Feedback
All Orion actuators utilize true modulating control un-
like many systems, which are two position. This gives
the system-improved control, which translates, to bet-
ter comfort levels. Our actuators are also rated for 2.5
million cycles, making our actuators some of the most
reliable in the industry. One other critical feature is the
real time feedback. Many other systems have no feed-
back at all. They blindly estimate the travel time of their
actuator, which, in the real world, is not a very repeat-
able estimate. To help correct the problems inherent
with this approach, they recycle all the actuators in the
system once or twice a day. They may save a few dol-
lars by not including feedback but they sacrifice sys-
tem performance. Not so with Orion.
Commercial Grade – Insulated Round
Zone Dampers
Orion Systems utilize commercial grade zone damp-
ers, not cheap, flimsy, “light commercial” or “residen-
tial” style dampers like many other manufacturers. Our
round damper is ARI certified and comes from the fac-
tory fully insulated. Why? When many zone dampers
are installed they are improperly insulated or not insu-
lated at all. This can cause problems with the damper
“sweating” from condensation. With factory insulated
zone dampers, we eliminate a common problem for the
contractor while insuring the end user will not have
problems with condensation dripping down onto the
ceiling.
Rectangular Dampers
Orion uses only top of the line, aluminum air foil rect-
angular control dampers. No other zone system on the
market today utilizes a damper of this quality and per-
formance!