Glossary

Star Symbol Here are a few useful terms used when using Lauritzen Control Systems with a tracker:

  • Clean Mode: is used to force a tracker into a position where it is convenient to clear the panels. Note: only Operational trackers can enter Clean Mode. Clean Mode is asserted by the local Clean switch.

  • Calibration Mode: is an intermediate step while calibrating a tracker. CM is entered via the Calibration button. If CM is mistakenly entered, Reset button may be used to exit CM. IMPORTANT; ONCE A SYSTEM HAS BEEN PROPERLY CALIBRATED, ADDITIONAL CALIBRATION MUST NOT BE DONE UNLESS CHANGES ARE MADE TO LIMIT SWITCHES OR OTHER SENSORS.

  • Master Stop: most controllers are deployed with a local Master Stop switch. When the MS is engaged, the controller is prevented from moving the controller – both automatically and manually. A Stop State is also transmitted to the server. A controller’s Stop State is interpreted as “hands off” because local personal doing maintenance work.

  • Operational Mode: a tracker is operational when it is tracking the sun within its normal operational range and without exceptions or faults.

  • Power Saving Mode: a controller will enter Power Saving Mode (PSM) after 30 minutes of operator inactivity. While in PSM, the controller will continue to be in Operational Mode, but the LED’s will be turned-off and only the APP LED will blink. Upstream communication, depending on traffic, may also be curtailed. Any push button is toggled to exit PSM.

  • Service Mode: a controller may be placed in SM to manually move the tracker with push buttons. SM indicates that it is OK for both a local and remote operator to move a tracker. SM is entered and exited by a quick push and release of the controller’s red Service mode button.

  • Standby Mode: in a field where master/slave controllers are being used, a slave controller may remotely be forced into Standby Mode. When a slave unit is in Standby, operations will cease until Standby exit. To exit Standby, the local Master Stop is toggled. Standby is used to cease operations, and signal that field attention is required to resolve problem.

  • Storm Mode: is used to force a tracker into its storm position. The storm position is usually horizontal, or near horizontal. Note: only Operational trackers can enter Storm Mode. Storm Mode is asserted from one or more conditions:

    • Triggered by high wind speed.

    • Forced by local Storm switch.

    • Forced by remote Storm command.