WNC1800ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless PDF

WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless
Field Bus System Technical Bulletin
Building Technologies & Solutions LIT-12012356

www.johnsoncontrols.com
2017-02-01 Release 10.1
Contents
Document Introduction...................................................................................................................5
Contents
Related Documentation...................................................................................................................5
Applications.......................................................................................................................................6
Applications to Avoid............................................................................................................................ 7
WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Overview.........................................7
WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series System Component Limits...............................................................8
Network Engines (NAE)......................................................................................................................... 9
The WNC1800 Wireless Network Coordinator Gateway.................................................................10
ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Pro Wireless Router........................................................................................ 10
Wireless Enabled Field Controllers....................................................................................................11
WRZ Series Sensors.............................................................................................................................11
ZFR Checkout Tool (ZCT)..................................................................................................................... 12
ZFR Wireless USB Dongle................................................................................................................... 12
WRZ-SST-120 Wireless Sensing System Tool.................................................................................... 12
Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System.......15
Required Materials.............................................................................................................................. 16
Guidelines for Locating Wireless Devices.........................................................................................17
Guidelines for Locating ZFR Pro Series System Components........................................................17
Guidelines for Locating Thermostats and Wireless Sensors......................................................... 18
Wireless Signal Transmission Range.................................................................................................18
Selecting a PAN OFFSET for a Wireless Network............................................................................. 19
Installing the ZFR Pro Series Devices................................................................................................19
Setting the PAN DIP Switches............................................................................................................ 21
Installing the WNC Gateway.............................................................................................................. 22
Mounting a WNC1800 Coordinator Gateway.................................................................................. 23
Powering the WNC1800 Coordinator Gateway............................................................................... 23
Installing the ZFR Pro Router Used with a Field Controller........................................................... 23
Installing the ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Router as a Repeater..............................................................25

Powering the ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Pro Wireless Router/Repeater and WEFC............................ 25
Installing a WRZ Series Sensor.......................................................................................................... 25
Commissioning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System..................... 27
Connecting to and Downloading the FEC/FAC/IOM/VMA Field Controllers.................................31
Using the ZFR Wireless USB Dongle............................................................................................ 31
Setting ZFR Wireless USB Dongle Parameters in CCT.....................................................................31
Setting ZFR Wireless USB Dongle Parameters in ZCT.....................................................................32
Verifying Wireless Operation...................................................................................................33
Commissioning the WEFCs...................................................................................................... 34
Network Maintenance................................................................................................................... 34
Upgrading an Existing WNC1800 Gateway...................................................................................... 35
Upgrading Field Devices.....................................................................................................................38
Replacing an Existing WNC Gateway/ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio................................................ 39
Replacing an Existing ZFR Pro Router...............................................................................................40
Replacing a WRZ Series Sensor......................................................................................................... 40
Changing the Wireless Active Channel............................................................................................. 41
Optimizing the Network..................................................................................................................... 42
Reforming the Network......................................................................................................................43
Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................. 44
ZFR Pro Coordinator (WNC 1800 Gateway + ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio)....................................45
ZFR Pro Router and WEFCs.................................................................................................................48
WRZ Sensor.......................................................................................................................................... 53
ZFR USB Dongle................................................................................................................................... 55
Appendix A: WNC1800/ZFR182xPro Series Wireless Bus System............................................ 56
Appendix B Wireless Network Mesh Overview.......................................................................... 57
ZigBee Communications Technology............................................................................................... 57
Network Device Types........................................................................................................................ 58
Coordinator................................................................................................................................58
ii WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Technical Bulletin

Router.........................................................................................................................................58
End Device................................................................................................................................. 58
Wireless Mesh Network Topologies.................................................................................................. 58
Parent and Child Devices....................................................................................................................59
Self-Healing, Multi-Hop Network.......................................................................................................59
End Devices, Parent, and Target Routers......................................................................................... 59
ZFR Pro System Mesh Network Technology Implementation....................................................... 60
Physical Layer Channels..................................................................................................................... 60
Wireless Interference..........................................................................................................................61
Wireless Security..................................................................................................................................63
Appendix C: Restricted Hallway Scenario....................................................................................64
Valid Solutions......................................................................................................................................64
Appendix D: Using BBMD to Communicate Across Multiple Subnets.....................................65
WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Technical Bulletin iii
Document Introduction
This document describes how to commission and configure a WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series
Wireless Field Bus System. This document also provides a brief technical background on the
wireless technology used and describes how to test and troubleshoot the ZFR Pro wireless mesh
network.
This document briefly describes how to install the WNC1800 Gateway, ZFR/ZFR1823 Pro
Coordinator Radios, ZFR1821/ZFR1822 Pro Routers/Repeaters, or WRZ Series Sensors. However,
this document does not describe how to install, commission, configure, operate, or troubleshoot
the supported controllers. See Table 1 for more information on related documentation available to
reference.
Related Documentation
Table 1: WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Related Documentation
LIT or Part
For Information On See Document Number
Locating, Mounting, and Wiring Wireless Network Coordinator Part No.
Wireless Network Coordinator Gateway Installation Instructions 24-10737-91
Gateways
Locating, Mounting, and Wiring ZFR ZFR1820/ZFR1823 Wireless Field Bus Part No.
Pro Coordinator Radios Coordinator Installation Instructions 24-10325-96
Locating, Mounting, and Wiring ZFR ZFR1821/ZFR1822 Wireless Router- Part No.
Pro Routers and Repeaters Repeater Installation Instructions 24-1025-126
Locating, Mounting, and Wiring WRZ Occupancy Sensing WRZ Series Part No.24-10332-96
Series Sensors Wireless Room Sensors Installation
Instructions
WRZ-STR0000-0 Wireless Refrigerator/ Part No.
Freezer Temperature Transmitter 24-10332-10
and Probe Assembly Installation
Instructions
Using the WRZ-SST Series Wireless WRZ-SST-120 Wireless Sensing System Part No.
Sensing System Tool with a WRZ Tool Installation Instructions 24-10563-55
Series Sensor to Perform a Site
Survey for Pre-determining Potential
Locations for Installation, and to
Test Wireless Signal Strength In
Advance of Wireless Series System
Installation
Setup, Configuration and day-to-day WNC1800 Wireless Network LIT-12012357
use of the WNC Gateway Coordinator Gateway User’s Guide
Configuring, Commissioning, Controller Tool Help LIT-12011147
2
and Loading Wireless Enabled

Field Controllers (WEFCs) on the
Wireless Field Bus System Using the
Controller Configuration Tool (CCT)
WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Technical Bulletin 5

Table 1: WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Related Documentation
LIT or Part
For Information On See Document Number
Validating and analyzing a Wireless ZFR Checkout Tool Help LIT-12012292
1
Field Bus System ZFR Pro installation

using the ZFR Checkout Tool
Installation and setup of TEC3000 TEC3000 Series Wireless Single- or Part No. 24-
Wireless Controllers models TEC30xx- Two-Stage Economizer Thermostat 10789-13
xx-xxx Controllers Installation Instructions
TEC3000 Series Wireless On/Off Part No.
or Floating Fan Coil and Zoning 24-10787-14
Thermostat Controllers with
Dehumidification Capability
Installation Instructions
TEC3000 Series Wireless Proportional Part No.24-10788-19
Fan Coil and Zoning Thermostat
Controllers with Dehumidification
Capability Installation Instructions
2 These LIT numbers represent a print-friendly version of ZFR Checkout Tool Help and Controller Tool Help.
Applications
The wireless Metasys® products within a Metasys system are ideal for any location where it is cost-
prohibitive, difficult, or aesthetically unappealing to hardwire between Metasys products. Examples
of these locations include the following:
• hospitals, office buildings, university campuses, educational facilities, correctional facilities, and
other commercial structures with brick or solid concrete walls, ceilings, or both that impede hard-
wired applications
• office buildings, retail stores, and other commercial real estate where tenant turnover is frequent
and temporary walls and ceilings are common
• museums, historical buildings, atriums, and other sites where building aesthetics and historical
preservation are important
• stadiums, arenas, gymnasiums, convention centers, airports, zoos, and other locations with
large, open spaces
• buildings with marble, granite, glass, mirrored, wood veneer, or other decorative surfaces that
present challenges to hard-wiring
• buildings with asbestos or other hazardous materials that must not be disturbed
• buildings with occupants sensitive to disruptions to business
• regions with high labor costs
• refrigerator/freezer storage containers
6 WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Technical Bulletin

Applications to Avoid
Some locations or applications are not considered suitable for wireless Metasys products include the
following:
• where cellular telephones or Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) devices are prohibited
• operating rooms or radiation therapy rooms
• validated environments
• UL 864 applications
• Department of Defense applications requiring Information Assurance Certification and

Accreditation Process (DIACAP) certification (for example, military bases and military hospitals)
• Where specifications require annunciation quicker than every 5 minutes for an offline condition,
do not use wireless
• Fast control loops, such as AHU discharge control, or room pressurization.
• Where there is a strong use of IT-related wireless networking and other devices (e.g. smart white
boards, wireless speakers, video).
Do not use the wireless Metasys products in applications that cannot tolerate intermittent
interference, or where:
• critical control features would impact life-safety or result in large monetary loss, including
secondary (backup) life-safety applications
• data centers, production lines, or critical areas would be shut down
• loss of critical control would result from loss of data from humidity or temperature sensor
communications
• operation of exhaust fans or Air Handling Units (AHUs) would impair a purge or pressurization
mode
• missing data would invalidate reporting required by the customer
• security points are monitored
WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus

System Overview
The WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System uses low power 802.15.4 mesh
technology for wireless monitoring of HVAC equipment using the BACnet protocol. The system
creates a wireless mesh network that enhances reliability and provides a resilient self-healing
capability by using automatically updating transmission paths for the data.
The wireless mesh network is independent of any building infrastructure and does not require any
preexisting wireless infrastructure.
The WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System consists of the following wireless
components:

Table 2: WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System
Part Number Full Name Short Name

Wireless Network
Coordinator (WNC)
WNC1800 Gateway WNC Gateway
ZFR1820/ZFR1823 ZFR1820 or ZFR1823 Pro ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio
Coordinator Radio
Varies Wireless Enabled Field WEFC
Controller
ZFR1821/ZFR1822 ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 ZFR Pro Router/Repeater
Pro Wireless Router/
Repeater
TEC30xx TEC3000 Series ZFR Pro Thermostats
Thermostat Controllers
WRZxxxx WRZ Series Wireless ZFR/ZFR Pro Sensors
Room Sensors
Any of the following Metasys field controllers are wirelessly enabled when paired with a ZFR Pro
Router:
• Field Equipment Controllers (FEC)—FEC16 or FEC26
• Advanced Application Field Equipment Controllers (FAC)—FAC26 or FAC36
• Input/Output Module (IOM)—IOM17, IOM27, IOM37, or IOM47
• Variable Air Volume (VAV) Modular Assembly (VMA)—VMA16
• Thermostat Controllers—TEC30xx (these models already have a built-in ZFR Pro Router)
Notes:
• This list of supported field controllers is always growing. Check specific field controller literature
for support of the ZFR/ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System.
• The devices within the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System are designed for
indoor, intra-building applications only.
• The IOMs can be wirelessly enabled on the FC Bus, not on the SA Bus.
One ZFR Pro Router is required for each field controller. This pairing of a field controller and ZFR Pro
Router is a Wireless Enabled Field Controller (WEFC). The wireless components are transparent to
the supervisory controller and require no special setup procedure to discover, map, and integrate
the WEFCs. A WNC1800 and ZFR1820 or ZFR1823 are paired to create a WNC1800/ZFR182x Wireless
Network Coordinator.
A successful WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System installation requires that a
minimum wireless signal strength is maintained between system components. Component location
is an important part of system design. Distance, metal objects, and other obstructions can reduce
or completely block the wireless signal transmissions.
WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series System Component Limits

The total number of ZFR Pro wireless devices allowed on any one PAN (Personal Area Network) or
managed by a single Network Automation Engine (NAE) is dependent on several factors. A typical
ZFR Pro Series system consists of these limits:

• up to eight WNC Gateways for each Network Engine (NAE dependent)
• up to 35 Wireless Enabled Field Controllers (WEFCs) for each WNC Gateway
• up to 100 WEFCs for each network engine, depending on the network engine (50 with NAE35)
• up to nine WRZ Sensors for each WEFC
• up to 100 total WEFC and WRZ Sensors for each PAN
• Additional ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Pro Wireless Routers used as Repeaters can be added as required
without adding to the 100 total WEFC/WRZ limit. A good rule is to keep the number of Repeaters
on a PAN to less than 10% of the overall wireless device count.
An example of a WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System is shown below.
Figure 1: Example WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System
Network Engines (NAE)
Important: A Network Engine reports an offline alarm within a fixed period of time when
an associated field controller goes offline. For a hard-wired FEC, FAC, IOM, or VMA field
controller, this time period is usually 20 seconds. For a wireless-enabled FEC, FAC, IOM, or
VMA field controller within the ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus system, this time period can
be as much as five minutes.
NAE35/45/55s are web-enabled, Ethernet-based, supervisory controllers that connect BAS networks
to IP networks and the web. NxEs provide scheduling, alarm and event management, trending,
energy management, data exchange, dial-out capability, and password protection. With a computer
running Launcher, you can browse to a configured NxE, and monitor and control BAS field devices
in the Metasys Site Management Portal on the NxE.
An NxE interfaces with controllers on a ZFR Pro Network through a WNC Gateway. Depending on
the capacity of the NxE, it can support up to eight WNC Gateways.

Notes:
• The NCE Network Engines do not support remote field buses and therefore do not support the
WNC1800/ ZFR182x Pro Series Remote Field Bus System.
• The NAE has to be at version 7.0 or higher to have RFB capability. The NAE has to be at 7.0.2.1300
or higher to have the Dictionary Updates to understand all the Enum Sets of the TEC3000.
The maximum devices, points and change-of-value (COV) rates for supported Network Automation
Engine (NAE) models are the same for hard-wired products, wireless products, or a combination of
hard-wired and wireless products, (see Table 3 for more information).
Table 3: Summary Comparison of Features for NAE Models
2 3 4 5 6
Features NAE85 NAE55 NAE45 NAE35 NCE25
Maximum Number of Objects 25,000 5,000 2,500 2,500 2,500
Maximum Change Of Value (COV) rate from all 500 500 500 500 500
devices
Number of local N2 or BACnet MS/TP Trunks None 2 1 1 1
Maximum Number of IP Routers (Remote Field Bus 16 7 3 3 None
Trunks including WNC1800s and IP/MSTP Routers)
Maximum Number of N2 or MS/TP Devices per n/a 100 100 50 32
local Trunk
Maximum Number of WEFC Devices per WNC1800 35 35 35 35 n/a
on a Remote Field Bus Trunk
Maximum Sum of all N2, BACnet and WEFC devices 1,000 200 100 50 32
on all local and remote field bus trunks
7 All maximum values specified in this table should be used as best practice design guidelines. Exceeding these values in
any one feature may limit other features and may result a negative impact on the performance and online reliability of
the system.
The WNC1800 Wireless Network Coordinator Gateway

A system that has a WNC1800 Wireless Network Coordinator Gateway (WNC Gateway) with a
ZFR1820 or ZFR1823 Pro Coordinator Radio provides a wireless interface between a supervisory
system on an IP network and WEFCs on the ZFR Pro network, similar to a BACnet IP pairing with a
ZFR Pro System Router or any BACnet IP with an MS/TP Router. In addition to providing IP routing,
the WNC Gateway also allows you to view and edit equipment controller configuration parameters,
setpoints, schedules, and alarms through a browser interface.
Every wireless mesh network (for example PAN) requires one WNC1800 Gateway (including
associated ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio), which initiates the formation of the mesh network.
The radio can be remotely mounted regardless of where it is installed, and as a best practice,
mount the WNC Gateway inside a metal panel.The ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio is powered from and
communicates to the WNC Gateway through its RJ12 terminated cable.
ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Pro Wireless Router

A ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Pro Wireless Router is used with any model FEC, IOM, or VMA16 field
controller to provide a wireless interface between a field controller and:
• its associated NAE supervisory controller (by means of a WNC1800 Gateway)
• its associated WRZ Series Sensors

The ZFR Pro Router is powered directly from the connected field controller’s 15 VDC output through
the FC Bus connector. The router can also be powered separately by the repeater power supply
accessory to serve as a stand-alone repeater, extending the range of the BACnet and WRZ data
communications within the wireless mesh network.
Note: The ZFR1822 Wall Mount and the ZFR1821 Conduit Mount (flag) Routers are functionally
the same but provide alternative mounting options.
Wireless Enabled Field Controllers

The ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System enables wireless BACnet connectivity between FAC,
FEC, IOM, VMA16, or TEC3000 controllers and Network Engines, including NAE/35/45/55.
In addition, the ZFR Pro system provides wireless communication between WEFCs and WRZ Series
Sensors. Each wireless-enabled FEC, FAC, or VMA16 controller can support up to nine WRZ Series
Sensors for multi-zone or averaging applications, or for high/low temperature or humidity selection
within a zone.
Only specific models of the TEC3000 series of thermostats support wireless. Non-wireless TEC3000s
cannot be field modified to support wireless. Their applications also do not support WRZ sensors.
Notes:
• The Wireless Enabled FEC, FAC, and VMA16 can use either the ZFR Pro or older ZFR Routers
without any required firmware updates or settings. To be fully compatible, WEFC firmware should
be version 6.2.1054 and later.
• The TEC3000 includes an embedded ZFR Pro Router and can only be used on a ZFR Pro Series
Network.
• You cannot intermix ZFR Pro Series and older ZFR Series wireless devices on the same wireless
PAN. However, you can intermix ZFR Pro and ZFR devices on separate PANs using separate
coordinators.
WRZ Series Sensors

Depending on the sensor model, the WRZ Series Sensors transmit temperature, setpoint, humidity,
occupancy status, and low battery conditions to an associated WEFC. If the field controller is
mapped to the NxE, the wireless sensor data displays.
During normal operation, the WRZ sensors are typically in a suspended sleep mode to conserve
on battery. They periodically wake-up, read their sensor values, and send the sensor data to the
associated controller. The wake-up time varies depending on sensor type and changes in values.
Adjusting the setpoint dial or pushbutton or pressing the Manual Occupancy Override causes the
sensor to wake-up immediately and send its data.
During startup and commissioning or in a power-outage situation, the associated controller may
be shut down for extended periods of time. To further conserve on battery usage, the WRZ sensor
adjusts its wake-up time to much longer periods (once every 30 minutes or once per day after 72
hours of inactivity). This may cause the sensors to be offline to the system until they wake up again.
Adjusting the setpoint or pressing the Manual Occupancy Override causes the sensor to wakeup
and begin its normal update sequence.
Notes:
• Use a WRZ Series Sensors on either the ZFR Pro Series or older ZFR Series wireless networks
without any required firmware updates or settings.
• WRZ sensors must have a factory date code RY11601 and later and the minimum firmware
version shown in Table 4 to include the latest features.

Table 4: Minimum Wireless Product Sensor Name Firmware Filename/Rev.
4843_03.31.00.0000 WRZ-TTR0000-0, WRZ-TTP0000-0, WRZ-TTS0000-0

4844_03.31.00.0000 WRZ-TTB0000-0, WRZ-TTD0000-0, WRZ-TTB0000-5
4845_03.31.00.0000 WRZ-STR0000-0, WRZ-RMT10K-0
4846_03.30.00.0000 WRZ-THN0000-0, WRZ-THP0000-0, WRZ-THB0000-0
4896_03.32.00.0000 WRZ-MNN0100-0, WRZ- MTN0100-0, WRZ- MHN0100-0, WRZ- MTB0100-0
Some applications that support the temperature or humidity control functions do not support the
occupancy/temperature setback function. Refer to a field controller’s commissioning and operation
literature to determine if the application supports occupancy or temperature setback functions.
Notes:
• Configure the Analog Inputs (AIs) on all WRZ Sensors as SA Bus devices (the same as with hard-
wired NS Series Sensors).
• The WRZ Series Sensors are designed for indoor, intra-building applications only.
• The WRZ Series Sensors require two 1.5 VDC AA alkaline batteries. The WRZ sensors minimize
power consumption by transmitting data only once every one or two minutes, which yields an
expected battery life of approximately 4 to 5 years.
ZFR Checkout Tool (ZCT)

The ZFR Checkout Tool is a tool-included with the installation of the Controller Configuration Tool
(CCT), and also available as a download for a stand-alone tool application. This tool allows you to
validate, analyze, and troubleshoot the wireless connectivity and health of wireless devices within
a ZFR Pro Series or the older ZFR Series Wireless Field Bus System, helping ensure that a reliable
mesh network is in place.
ZCT gathers information by discovering the wireless field controllers and wireless sensors on your
network and analyzing their status and wireless communication paths. ZCT provides a simple
report of wireless network performance, including online status verification and wireless signal
strength information. The ZCT also provides wireless device lists, signal strength information, and
diagnostic measurements of the wireless mesh network.
Refer to ZFR Checkout Tool Help (LIT-12012292) for more information.
The ZCT requires a Universal Serial Bus (USB) adapter with ZigBee® driver. For information on this
adapter and how to order it, see ZFR Wireless USB Dongle.
Note: You must connect the adapter to the computer running CCT/ZCT before attempting to
scan the network.
ZFR Wireless USB Dongle

The ZFR-USBHA-0 Wireless USB Dongle is used by the ZFR Checkout Tool to scan the ZFR wireless
mesh. The required USB software driver is installed automatically with ZCT. No additional user
configuration is required. Use the Wireless USB Dongle with CCT to connect to a ZFR or ZFR Pro
Wireless Field Bus for commissioning and downloading to wirelessly enabled field controllers.
Note: The silver integration dongle is no longer supported by Windows 7 or newer. You must
purchase the new dongle using product code ZFR-USBHA-0.
WRZ-SST-120 Wireless Sensing System Tool

Use the battery-operated WRZ-SST-120 Wireless Sensing System Tool with any model WRZ Series
Sensor as a site survey tool. Position the battery-operated WRZ-SST-120 Tool and the WRZ Series

test sensor in potential locations of ZFR Pro or ZFR Series wireless system devices to survey your
application, test the wireless signal strength between potential device locations, and adjust
locations before installing the devices. Refer to the WRZ-SST-120 Wireless Sensing System Tool
Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10563-55) for more information on the tool.
Initially place the products on a copy of the job site building and HVAC plans:
1. Inspect the building plans floor by floor (section by section on each floor if necessary), and
locate your field controller and the intended locations of all WRZ sensors as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Building Floor Plan with ZFR Pro Series System Example
2. Locate the ZFR Pro Routers near their respective field controllers.
3. Highlight all of the obstructions on the building floor plans, such as elevator shafts, metal
equipment, equipment rooms, and duct work. See Figure 2.
4. Locate the WNC1800 Coordinator near the center of the space. See the orange circles in Figure
3.
You must locate the WNC1800 Coordinator Radio on the same floor or building level as the
associated ZFR Pro Routers. The WNC1800 Coordinator’s radio should be in direct, unob-
structed line-of-sight with a minimum of two ZFR Pro Routers.
5. On your floor plans, draw a 15m (50 ft) diameter (7.5 m [25 ft] radius) circle around each
ZFR Pro Coordinator, ZFR Pro Router, Wireless TEC3000, and WRZ Sensor, to help determine
wireless signal range. See the blue circles in Figure 3.

Figure 3: Building Floor Plan with ZFR Pro Series System
and with Circles Representing Wireless Signal Range
6. Add ZFR Pro Routers with repeater accessories to serve as repeaters in order to fill in gaps and
provide multiple wireless transmission paths between products. On your floor plan, if you have
15m (50 ft) diameter (7.5 m [25] radius) circles that do not overlap with each other, add ZFR
Pro Routers (green circles) to serve as repeaters to fill in the gaps so that every 15 m (50 ft)
diameter (7.5m [25 ft] radius) circle overlaps with at least two other 15m (50 ft) diameter (7.5 m
[25 ft] radius) circles. See the green circles in Figure 4.
7. When you have added in the repeaters, it would be best to verify that all devices have multiple
neighbors and each have at least two paths to the coordinator. The device in the lower right
hand corner has a single neighbor and most likely only a single path to the coordinator, which
may be acceptable based on the area that this controller is maintaining control of.
Note: Typical job sites include a number of major and minor obstructions in the final
occupied space. The router/repeater quantity and locations are directly affected by the
number and location of obstructions.

Figure 4: Building Floor Plan with ZFR Pro Series System Including Repeaters Example
Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro

Series Wireless Field Bus System
This section of the document provides general information, guidelines, and a procedure for
determining the optimum location for wireless devices. These guidelines apply equally to the ZFR
Pro Series and the older ZFR Series wireless devices.
Positioning the wireless devices in the optimum locations with direct, unobstructed, line-of-sight
signal paths enhances the wireless signal strength between associated products and typically
reduces the number of wireless repeaters required for your application. Figure 5 shows an
example of a communication path between a wireless TEC3000 controller and a WNC1800 / ZFR Pro
Coordinator.

Figure 5: Communication Path
Important: For special precautions regarding the installation of a ZFR Pro Series system in
long linear applications, see Appendix C: Restricted Hallway Scenario.
Required Materials
To perform the procedures for locating the components of your wireless devices, you need the
following:
• a detailed copy of the job site floor plans for the proposed application site with the wall locations,
column locations, mechanical rooms, elevator shafts, stairwells, metal duct work, chases and
risers, and other large metal obstructions shown. The plans should also include the proposed
mechanical/HVAC zone layout and wireless device locations.
• a copy of the job site architectural and mechanical specifications with the construction materials
defined
• information on the dimensions, materials, and the general location of the furnishings and other
mobile content that is or may be installed later in the occupied application space (for example,
file cabinets, shelving units, partitions, displays, and other large metal items that can obstruct
wireless signals)
• several different colored pens or markers for identifying zone and area boundaries, wireless
product locations, and signal obstructions. Examples of major obstructions (MOs) include:

- interior building features such as elevator shafts, stairwells, mechanical or electrical
equipment rooms, equipment chases for HVAC, plumbing and electrical risers, metal
reinforced walls, concrete walls, cinder blocks, glass walls with metal coating, and large
metal-reinforced columns and pillars
- office equipment and furnishings such as computer racks, many rows of tall file cabinets
and bookshelves, metal partitions, and displays
• Examples of minor obstructions include several rows of cabinets or shelves, metal light
fixtures, multiple small pillars, sheetrock walls with metal or wood studs, and glass walls
without metal coating. For estimating purposes, group several small or minor obstructions
into a single MO.
Guidelines for Locating Wireless Devices

Follow these general guidelines when locating your wireless products:
• Locate the wireless Metasys products so they are easily accessible.
• Locate the wireless products in direct line of sight to as many other wireless products within
the same wireless network. The best distance is calculated by locating the device on the same
vertical plane; however, you can locate the devices in an atrium as long as you maintain proper
line of sight.
- -Avoid metal, concrete, and brick obstructions (including equipment rooms and elevator
shafts) between the wireless products.
• Locate the WNC1800 Coordinator Gateway and Coordinator radio in an elevated secure position
in the space, above furniture, cabinets, shelves, and other obstructions.
• For best signal transmission, all ZFR Pro Routers/Repeaters, and Coordinator Radios should be
located in the same plane if possible. For example, if you are mounting the routers/repeaters
above a dropped ceiling, all routers/repeaters should be mounted above the dropped ceiling.
• Avoid configurations where a microwave oven is located between two wireless devices. Avoid
locating the WNC Gateway, ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio, ZFR Pro Router/Repeater or WRZ Sensor
near areas that may contain a microwave oven, such as an employee break area or cafeteria. At a
minimum, ensure that no microwave ovens are within 6m (20 ft) of a WNC1800 Coordinator.
• For best signal transmission on ZFR Pro Routers, Repeaters, Coordinator Radios, and WRZ
Sensors, which have internal antennas, vertically mount these products with at least 50 mm (2
in.) exposed below and clear of any pipes, duct work, or other metal obstructions.
• Do not mount the wireless Metasys product in recessed areas, metal enclosures, or shelving units
unless the router, repeater, or coordinator radio is positioned outside of the recessed area or
enclosure.
• Locate the wireless Metasys products that are within a wireless network on the same floor or
building level as the associated wireless products in the same wireless network. For example,
locate ZFR182x Coordinator Radios, ZFR Pro Routers, and WRZ Sensors on the same floor.
Guidelines for Locating ZFR Pro Series System Components

Use information in this section to determine the optimum location for the WNC1800 Coordinator,
ZFR Pro Routers, and WRZ Sensors in your WNC1800 Pro Series system applications and to estimate
the number of additional repeaters required.

• ZFR Pro Router locations are determined by the locations of the equipment that are being
controlled, the locations of the associated field controllers and WRZ sensors, the physical
characteristics of the applications space, and the obstructions in the application space.
• Every WRZ Sensor should be within 15m (50 ft) (recommended) of at least two ZFR Pro Routers.
(WRZ Sensors communicate only with routers.)
• Every ZFR Pro Router should be within 15m (50 ft) (recommended) of at least two ZFR Pro
Routers.
• The ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio should be within 15 m (50 ft) (recommended) of at least two ZFR
Pro Routers.
• The ZFR Pro Coordinator should be at the center of the mesh network.
• The maximum distance between the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio and the farthest ZRF182x Router
should be less than 76.2m (250 ft).
• Every wireless TEC3000 should be within 15m (50 ft) (recommended) of at least two other
TEC3000 or ZFR Pro wireless devices.
Important: If any WRZ Sensor, ZFR Pro Router, wireless TEC3000, or ZFR Pro Coordinator
Radio is not within 15 m (50 ft) (recommended) of at least two other ZFR Pro Routers, then
use ZFR Pro Routers functioning as repeaters with applicable accessories to provide multiple
wireless data pathways.
Guidelines for Locating Thermostats and Wireless Sensors

For best temperature sensing and control, follow the same best practices used to locate a hard-
wired temperature control, sensor, or thermostat when locating wireless sensors:
• Avoid enclosed or recessed locations and locations behind curtains, doors, or other obstructions
to the controlled space.
• Avoid locations near entry foyers, doors, windows, supply air ducts, and pipes.
• Avoid locations that are exposed to drafts, direct sunlight, and other sources of heat or cooling.
• Avoid locations where the wireless products could be exposed to excessive vibration.
• Locate the wireless products on an interior wall for easy access, at least 1.4 m (54 in.) above the
floor, in an area where the temperature is representative of the entire zone.
Wireless Signal Transmission Range

The effective transmission range/distance for indoor applications varies because of wireless signal
absorption and reflection due to metal obstructions, walls (or floors), and furniture found in typical
building interiors.
Transmissions may use up to 30 hops to transmit a message to the coordinator. A hop occurs
when a message (information) moves from one wireless device in the network to another wireless
device in the network. The ZRF Pro network allows for 30 hops; but in practicality, this would
not be a well-designed system. The ZFR Pro network might work in certain cases but this setup
is not recommended for the amount of network traffic that would be experienced. In a well-
designed system, the layout design should minimize the required hops based on the recommended
transmission ranges and should typically be kept below five.
Notes:
• When a router joins the mesh, it does so based on the availability and signal quality of other

devices around it at that point in time.
• The TEC3000 thermostats and WRZ sensors list a lower line of sight range because they are
typically mounted in the occupied spaces where there is more attenuation due to occupants and
furnishings.
Table 5: Indoor Transmission Ranges
Transmission Distance
ZFR Pro Coordinator
Radio, WRZ Series
Range Type ZFR Pro Router/Repeater TEC3000 Series Controller Sensor
Recommended 15.2 m (50 ft) 15.2 m (50 ft) 15.2 m (50 ft)
Maximum, Line of 76.2 m (250 ft) 30 m (100 ft) 30 m (100 ft)
Sight
Indoor line-of-sight transmission ranges between products can be less than those shown in Table
5. The effective transmission distances and signal quality can vary for each application because
of wireless signal absorption and reflection due to metal obstructions, walls, ceilings, floors, and
furniture found in typical building interiors.
Transmission ranges between ZFR1820 Pro Series products can be less than the maximum
distances shown in Table 5.
Selecting a PAN OFFSET for a Wireless Network

When selecting a PAN OFFSET for a wireless network, keep these points in mind:
• All devices within one wireless mesh network must be set to the same PAN OFFSET.
• Select PAN OFFSETs that are unique for the site.

Important: To avoid interference, assign a unique PAN OFFSET to each wireless network in a
building. Using a unique PAN OFFSET is particularly important if you have PANs on adjacent
floors of a building. Do not use the same PAN OFFSET on multiple wireless networks in a
building, even if the PANs do not overlap.
Installing the ZFR Pro Series Devices

Ensure that the physical installation of the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio and all the ZFR Pro Routers/
Repeaters have good line-of-sight communication paths, good wired connections, and correct DIP
switch settings described in the following documents:
• ZFR1820/ZFR1823 Wireless Field Bus Coordinator Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10325-96)
• ZFR18201ZFR1822Wireless Router-Repeater Installation (Part No. 24-10325-126)

Pay special attention to these points:
• Mount all ZFR Pro Routers, Repeaters, and Radios in the same horizontal plane where possible.
This could be above the ceiling using the conduit mount (flag) routers, or below the ceiling, using
the wall mount routers. Figure 6, Figure 7, and Figure 8 show the conduit mount (flag).
• TEC3000 are typically not on the same vertical plane.

Figure 6: Mount ZFR Pro Routers/Repeaters in the Same Horizontal
Plane Below Pipes, Duct Work, or Metal Obstructions—OK Configuration
Figure 7: Mount ZFR Pro Routers/Repeaters in the Same Horizontal Plane

Below Pipes, Duct Work, or Metal Obstructions—Better Configuration
Figure 8: Mount ZFR Pro Routers/Repeaters in the Same Horizontal Plane

Below Pipes, Duct Work, or Metal Obstructions—Best Configuration
• For best signal transmission, vertically orient the ZFR Pro Router/Repeater or the ZFR Pro
Coordinator Radio with at least 50 mm (2 in.) exposed below (and clear of) any pipes, duct work,
or other metal obstructions.
• When mounting the conduit-mount style of the ZFR Pro Router/Repeater or the ZFR Pro
Coordinator Radio to an enclosure, mount it to the top, bottom, or side of the enclosure. See
Figure 9, Figure 10, and Figure 11.

Figure 9: Conduit-mount Style—OK Configuration
Figure 10: Conduit-mount Style—Better Configuration
Figure 11: Conduit-mount Style—Best Configuration
Setting the PAN DIP Switches

Once the PAN has been selected and other devices start to join the network, do not change the PAN
switches to another value and then back again. Changing the PAN switches causes that device to
clear its network information, resulting in abandoned children. This can lead to duplicate network
(short) addresses and controller online/offline toggling.

Figure 12: Sample DIP Switch Settings
Installing the WNC Gateway

To install the WNC1820 Coordinator:
1. Select mounting locations for the WNC Gateway and its ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio. See
Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System.
2. Mount the WNC Gateway and its associated ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio. Refer to the ZFR1820/
ZFR1823 Wireless Field Bus Coordinator Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10325-96) and the
WNC1800 Wireless Network Coordinator Gateway Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10737-91).
3. Set the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio’s PAN OFFSET Switch according to the job drawings (for
example, Floor 1 = 1, Floor 2 = 2, and so forth). In Figure 12, for example, the PAN OFFSET is
configured to 13 with values 1, 4, and 8 set to the ON position.
Important: The PAN OFFSET switch setting must be the same for all the wireless devices on
the same wireless mesh network.
Important: To avoid interference, assign a unique PAN OFFSET to each wireless network in a
floors of a building. Do not use the same PAN OFFSET on multiple wireless networks in a
4. Connect the WNC1800 gateway to an available Ethernet switch or hub port. Refer to the

WNC1800 Wireless Network Coordinator Gateway Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10737-91).
5. Connect the power supply to the WNC1800 Gateway, but do not apply power until
commissioning the wireless system.
Mounting a WNC1800 Coordinator Gateway

The WNC1820 Coordinator can be permanently mounted by using the provided bracket. The
mounting bracket allows the unit to be mounted various ways to accommodate the mounting
location and optimize Wi-Fi signal strength.
For more information on mounting the WNC Coordinator Gateway, refer to the Wireless Network
Coordinator Gateway Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10737-91).
Powering the WNC1800 Coordinator Gateway

The WNC182x Coordinator is required to start the ZFR network.
The WNC182x Coordinator needs to be powered, but does not need to be connected to an NAE. In
a stand-alone network, the NAE is not present and configuration is done though the WNC. If an NAE
is present, additional configuration is required at the WNC and the NAE to complete the network.
1. Apply power to the WNC182x Coordinator.
2. Verify that the WNC1820 Coordinator Radio Signal Strength LED Goes ON. If not, see
Troubleshooting.
3. Verify that the WNC182x Coordinator Fault LED goes OFF. If not, see Troubleshooting.
Installing the ZFR Pro Router Used with a Field Controller

The ZFR Pro Router connects to each FEC/IOM/VMA field controller as specified in Table 6. For
additional information on the appropriate connection point, refer to the ZFR1821/ZFR1822 Wireless
Router-Repeater Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10325-136) and the appropriate installation
instructions of each controller.
Important: Switch 128 on the FC Bus address switch block enables the FEC/FAC/IOM/
VMA field controller to operate in a wireless mode using the WNC1820/ZFR182x Pro Series
Wireless Field Bus System. Set the field controller’s Switch 128 to the ON position for
wireless operation. Set the field controller’s Switch 128 to the OFF position for hard-wired
operation.
To install the ZFR Pro Router that is used with a field controller:
1. Select mounting locations for the ZFR Pro Router. Refer to the job plans and see Designing and
Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System and ZFR1820/ZFR1823 Wireless
Field Bus Coordinator Installation Instructions.
2. Set the ZFR Pro Router PAN OFFSET Switch to match the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio PAN
OFFSET according to the job plans (for example, Floor 1 = 1, Floor 2 = 2, and so forth).
Important: The PAN OFFSET switch setting must be the same for all the WNC1820 Series and
WRZ devices on the same wireless mesh network.
Important: Do not connect the ZFR Pro Router to the field controller before setting the PAN
OFFSET switches.

Important: To avoid interference, assign a unique PAN Offset to each wireless network in a
floors of a building. Do not use the same PAN Offset on multiple wireless networks in a
3. Mount the ZFR Pro Router. Refer to the ZFR1821/ZFR1822 Wireless Router-Repeater Installation
Instructions (Part No. 24-10325-126).
4. At each FEC/FAC/IOM/VMA16 WEFC, set the MS/TP Address switch as described in the job
plans. Set the MS/TP Address switch 128 to the ON position. This procedure enables the field
controller’s wireless mode and allows it to work with a ZFR Pro Router.
5. Connect the ZFR Pro Router to the field controller as shown in Table 6.
Table 6: Connecting the ZFR Pro Router to a Field Controller
Use This
Communications
Connection Points
Plug the ZFR Pro Router Port between
for Bluetooth® CVT
Connector Cable into the WEFC and Wired
Commissioning Interface
Field Controller following Jack on the 2
IOMs, WRS
Model Field Controller: and Other SA Bus Products Sensors, or VFDs
FAC26, FAC36 FC Bus RJ-12 jack SA Bus RJ-12 jack SA Bus Terminals
FEC16 FC Bus RJ-12 jack SA Bus RJ-12 jack SA Bus Terminals
FEC26 FC Bus RJ-12 jack SA Bus RJ-12 jack SA Bus Terminals
, SA/FC Bus RJ-12 jack Not available in wireless N/A
IOM17
5 6
mode. Use CCT with ZFR

Dongle.
IOM27
7 8

Dongle.
IOM37
9 10

Dongle.
IOM47
11 12

Dongle.
VMA1610/1620
14
SA Bus RJ-12 jack Use ZFRCBL cable. FC Bus Terminals
VMA1615/1630 FC Bus RJ-12 jack SA Bus RJ-12 jack SA Bus Terminals

15 SA Bus products include the DIS1710 Local Controller Display, the BTCVT Wireless Commissioning Converter, and the
NS Series (RJ-12 connection) Network Sensors, and Balancing Sensors.
16 IOMs cannot be used in wireless mode to extend the IO of a field controller. You must always hardwire IOMs to their
host field controller.
17 Do not connect any device to the SA Bus/FC Bus terminal block when using the IOM with a ZFR Pro Router.
18 On the VMA1610/1620 models, when the 128 bit switch on the address DIP switch is turned on (to enable wireless
operation), the FC and SA Bus are swapped internally. All connections that were SA Bus (RJ-12 and terminal blocks) are
now FC Bus connections. The terminal block connections marked for the FC Bus are now connected internally to the SA
Bus.

Installing the ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Router as a Repeater
To install the ZFR Pro Router as a repeater:
1. Select a mounting location for each ZFR Pro Router that is to be used as a repeater. Refer to the
job site plans and see Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus
System and ZFR1820/ZFR1823 Wireless Field Bus Coordinator Installation Instructions.
2. Set the ZFR Pro Router PAN OFFSET Switch to match the ZFR Pro Coordinator PAN OFFSET
according to the job plans (for example, Floor 1 = 1, Floor 2 = 2, and so forth).
Important: The PAN OFFSET switch setting must be the same for all the ZFR Pro Series and
floors of a building. Do not use the same PAN Offset on multiple wireless networks in a
3. Mount the ZFR Pro Router acting as a Repeater. Refer to the ZFR1821/ZFR1822 Wireless Router-
Repeater Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10325-126).
Important: Do not connect the ZFR Pro Router to the power supply before setting the PAN
OFFSET switches.
4. Connect the ZFR Pro Router acting as a repeater to the 24VAC repeater power supply. Apply
power and ensure signal strength LED comes on.
Powering the ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Pro Wireless Router/Repeater

and WEFC
1. Apply power to each WEFC.
2. Verify that the Fault LED goes off after approximately 30 seconds. If the Fault LED is on steady
then the WEFC has no application which allows you to connect to the WEFC with CCT and
download an application.
Note: If there is a device defined on the SA Bus that is not present, the Fault LED could be
on for that as well.
3. Verify that the ZFR Pro Router LED flashes a good or average Signal Strength indication
after 10 seconds (see Table 9). If the LED shows poor signal strength or is not flashing, see
Troubleshooting.
4. Verify that the WEFC’s FC/SA Bus LED flashes to show communications (if the supervisory
controller is connected to the WNC1820 Coordinator). If the LED is off or on steady, see
Troubleshooting.
Installing a WRZ Series Sensor

To install a WRZ Series Sensor:
1. Select a mounting location for the sensor. Refer to the job site plans, the Occupancy Sensing
WRZ Series Wireless Room Sensors Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10332-96, Rev. C), and see

Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System.
2. Place the mesh application DIP switch overlay label over the DIP switches. See Table 7 for more
information on WRZ Series Wireless Room Sensors Installation.
Table 7: WRZ Series Wireless Room Sensors Related Documentation
For more Information On See Document LIT or Part Number

Locating, Mounting, and Wiring WRZ WRZ-STRxxxx-0 Series Wireless 24-10332-10
Series Sensors Refrigerator/Freezer Temperature
Transmitter and Probe Assemblies
Occupancy Sensing WRZ Series 24-10332096
Wireless Room Sensors Installation
Instructions
Using the WRZ-SST Series Wireless WRZ-SST-120 Wireless Sensing System 24-10563-55
Sensing System Tool with a WRZ Series Tool Installation Instructions
Sensor to Perform a Site Survey for Pre- WRZ Series One-to-One Wireless Room 12011641
determining Potential Locations for Sensing System Technical Bulletin
Installation, and to Test Wireless Signal
WRZ Series Wireless Room Sensors 24-10332-2
Strength In Advance of Wireless Series
System Installation
WRZ-TTB0000-5 Handheld 24-10724-1
Temperature Room Sensor
WRZ-RMT10K-0 Wireless Remote 24-103320-61
Temperature Transmitter Installation
Instructions
3. Set the WRZ Sensor DIP switches as shown in Table 8.

Table 8: Configuring WRZ Sensor DIP Switches
DIP Switch Setting

Mode Mesh
Zone Set according to application requirements.
Transmit Level 10 mW
MS/TP Address Match the MS/TP address of associated field controller (FEC/IOM/VMA16).
PAN OFFSET Match the PAN OFFSET of associated ZFR Pro Coordinator and ZFR Pro
Routers.
Power OFF
building. This is particularly important if you have PANs on adjacent floors of a building. Do
not use the same PAN Offset on multiple wireless networks in a building, even if the
PANs do not overlap.
4. Verify that the factory calibration jumper is installed. If the jumper is missing, temperature

readings report as unreliable values.
5. Install two AA alkaline batteries (supplied) into the battery compartment on the back of the
sensor. Ensure that you install the batteries in the proper polarity.
6. Secure the sensor to its mounting base. Keep the power off until the wireless field bus system
is commissioned. Repeat these steps for each additional zone sensor.
Commissioning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series

Wireless Field Bus System
Once the wireless system has been planned and installed, use these steps to commission the
system.
Note: Leave power off the wireless field components until ready to begin commissioning the
network. This should aid in forming the network and avoid dead spots and weak signal paths.
1. Power the system and verify wireless communications using the Signal Strength (ZFR Pro
Coordinator Radio and ZFR Pro Router/Repeater) LEDs.
a. Disconnect the IP/Ethernet cable from the WNC to minimize traffic to the WNC from the
supervisor, if recommended during checkout.
b. Power up the WNC/ZFR Pro Coordinator. See Powering the WNC1800 Coordinator
GatewayPowering the WNC1800 Coordinator Gateway.
c. Power up the ZFR Pro Routers/Repeaters. See Powering the ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Pro
Wireless Router/Repeater and WEFC.
d. Do not power up the WRZ sensors.

Note: Turning on the WRZ sensors before the wireless mesh is formed and
operating depletes the battery prematurely as the WRZ sensor tries to find the
mesh network.
e. Wait 5 to 15 minutes for the mesh network to form. After the network forms, the Signal
Strength (ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio and ZFR Pro Router/Repeater) LEDs should show
the three-flash pattern indicating good signal strength.

Table 9: ZFR182x Signal Strength Reference
Signal Strength
2
Name Color Indication Descriptions
Signal Green 3 Flashes - Excellent OFF Steady = No power (or normal operation for
Strengt 2 Flashes - Good more than 2 hours).
h 1 Flash - Weak OFF Steady with 1 Flash every 10 seconds =
OFF for 3 seconds - ZFR Pro Router is not a member of a wireless
None network, invalid PAN OFFSET setting, no ZFR Pro
Coordinators or ZFR Pro Routers in area.
ON Steady with Signal Strength displayed once
every 10 seconds = ZFR Pro Router is a member of
a wireless network.
OFF Steady with Signal Strength displayed once
every 10 seconds = Wireless network is actively
communicating, but ZFR Pro Coordinator cannot be
reached (for example, coordinator lost power).
Rapid Flashes for 5 minutes - rapid flashes occur
for up to 5 minutes:
• When the Reform Network option is initiated to
the network, the ZFR Pro Router disconnects itself
from the network.
• When the PAN OFFSET is changed on the ZFR Pro
Router.
• When the PAN OFFSET is changed on the ZFR Pro
Router after it has already joined another PAN.
• When you change the channel mask using CCT.
For example, you might change the channel
mask to force the network to a specific channel.
It would be better to force the channel change
through the engineering view of the coordinator
at the NAE. However, it can take up to an hour
for all the devices in the PAN to locate the
coordinator on the new channel.
3 The Signal Strength LEDs on all the ZFR Pro routers in a network extinguish after approximately 2 hours of
normal operation, making the ZFR Pro less distracting when installed in an open area. To re-enable the ZFR Pro
LEDs for troubleshooting purposes, perform a scan using the ZCT or push the Network Optimize PushButton on
the ZFR Pro Coordinator for 2–3 seconds.
f. If a WNC182x Coordinator shows poor signal strength, you may need to move the whole
assembly if this is deemed beneficial.
For more information on installing the ZFR Pro Coordinator and Routers, refer to the following
documents:
- ZFR1820/ZFR1823 Wireless Field Bus Coordinator Installation Instructions (Part No.
24-10325-96)
- ZFR1821ZFR1822 Wireless Router-Repeater Installation Instructions (Part No. 24-10325-126)

2. Use the ZFR Checkout Tool (ZCT) to perform a scan of the mesh.
a. Ensure all controllers and repeaters are communicating on the ZFR system mesh.
b. Select the Status tab and ensure everything in the Device Status column is green.

c. Select the Routing tab and verify there are no controllers requiring more than 30 hops to
communicate with the ZFR Pro Coordinator.
d. If new devices are failing to join the network, or if the ZCT indicates abandoned children
or duplicate short addresses, you may benefit from reforming the network using the
Commands > Reform Network menu item. Devices should come on line in 5 to 15
minutes.
e. A reform could also be done if the device list on the WNC does not match the supervisor
on line devices. It is possible that the WNC may have fewer controllers on it, but the non-
listed controllers are communicating to the supervisor. In this case, a rediscovery on the
WNC should be done versus a reform.
Notes:
- Disconnect the WNC from the Ethernet network before initiating a reform. The extra
communication traffic that the NAE attempts while the PAN is in this mode is very
disruptive, since it causes the reform to take longer or fail.
- The Signal Strength LED on the ZFR Routers flashes rapidly for 5 minutes when the
Network Reform command is received to allow the sensors to detect the reform message
was issued, as they were sleeping and would not have received the message.
For more information on the ZCT, refer to ZFR Checkout Tool Help (LIT-12012292).
3. Use the Controller Configuration Tool (CCT) to check addressing and versions of main, boot,
and radio code of all wirelessly enabled devices on the trunk.
Notes:
- Using CCT, select Tools > Controller Information to ensure that the boot firmware, main
firmware, and radio firmware on each associated field controller is current.
- The ZFR Pro Router Radio Firmware updates with the main code download. Ensure
that the ZFR Pro router is connected to the associated controller during the main code
download so that the radio firmware updates.
- CCT also now supports a Radio Only download feature. Refer to the the Controller Tool
Help (LIT-12011147) for more details.
- Remember that an NAE trunk can support a mix of older ZFR Series wireless devices
on its MS/TP trunk or trunks along with ZFR Pro Series wireless devices on Ethernet as
Remote Field Bus devices.
For more information on CCT, refer to the Controller Tool Help (LIT-12011147). For information
on uploading or downloading devices firmware, refer to the Loading Devices chapter of the Con-
troller Tool Help (LIT-12011147).
For information on alternate methods of downloading the controllers, see Commissioning the
WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System.
NAE Point Schedule Tool is not supported on the WNC1800/ZFR182x Wireless Field Bus System.
4. Turn on WRZ Sensors using the DIP switch (see Figure 12). The sensors locate the nearest
parent device on the wireless mesh within 15 minutes.
For more information on WRZ sensors, refer to the WRZ Series Wireless Room Sensors (Part No.
24-10332-2).
5. Use ZCT to perform a scan of the ZFR Pro mesh network to ensure all sensors are online.
a. Check the Sensor Status column to ensure all devices are online and are green.

b. If any sensors have not come online, initiate a signal strength test with the associated
ZFR Pro Router. Press and hold the manual occupancy override button on the WRZ Series
Sensor for 5 seconds or more, then release the button. After you release the button, the
signal strength code displays.
Table 10: WRZ Sensor to ZFR Pro Router Wireless Signal Strength
Flashes Signal Strength

3 Excellent/Sensor has joined network
2 Good/Sensor has joined network
1 Weak/Sensor has joined network
0 None/Sensor has not joined network
Fast Flash Rate Unable to locate associated wireless enabled field controller
(8)
On LCD models, the signal strength is shown on the display on the face of the sensor (callout in
Figure 13).
Figure 13: Sensor LCD (WRZ-MTB, WRZ-STR, WRZ-THB, WRZ-TTB, and WRZ-TTD Models)
For more information on ZCT, refer to ZFR Checkout Tool Help (LIT-12012292).
6. Verify the Ethernet communications.

a. Connect all of the WNC182x coordinators to an Ethernet switch.
b. If an NAE is available, log on to the NAE and check that all controllers and sensors are
online and updating. If no NAE is available, use the CCT Trunk Utility.
c. Also see Verifying Wireless Operation.
7. Continue with your normal system commissioning procedure. Also see Commissioning the
WEFCs.

Connecting to and Downloading the FEC/FAC/IOM/VMA Field
Controllers
To connect to and download the FEC/FAC/IOM/VMA field Controllers, refer to Table 11.
Table 11: Connection Points for Configuring Wireless-Enabled FEC/IOM/VMA16 Field
Controllers:
ZigBee (ZFR or
MS-BTCVT-1 at MS-BTCVT-1 at
ZFR Pro ) Wireless
Hard-wired FC Wireless FEC/IOM/ 2
Bus VMA Connection in CCT
Downloading Application X
4
X X
(using CCT Trunk Utilities)
Downloading Boot and Main X
5
X
Firmware (using CCT Trunk
Utilities)
Downloading Parameters X X X
(using trunk Utilities)
6 Requires CCT Release 4.0 or later and the ZFR USB dongle and a custom driver. CCT release 4.0 also requires a patch
that is available on the Release 4.0 Branch Purchase Package (BPP) site.
7 This action in CCT is accomplished through CCT connected directly to the hard-wired FC Bus or through NAE
passthrough.
1. Start CCT on your computer and connect to the WNC1800 Series Wireless Field Bus System by
one of the methods shown in Table 11.
2. Scan the FC Bus for WEFCs using CCT.
3. Identify the WEFCs to configure and download using CCT Trunk Utilities.
4. Download the Controller Application File (CAF) for each WEFC controller using CCT Trunk
Utilities.
5. Write additional configuration parameters to the FEC/IOM/VMA field controllers using CCT
Trunk Utilities.
Using the ZFR Wireless USB Dongle

An LED on the ZFR USB Dongle is used to indicate communication activity to the ZFR Series or ZFR
Pro wireless mesh network by flashing while wireless communication packets are transferring from
the dongle to a wireless mesh. There is also a small pinhole button on the ZFR USB dongle that is
reserved for future features.
Setting ZFR Wireless USB Dongle Parameters in CCT

Use the Load Device dialog box in CCT to set ZigBee connection parameters.

Figure 14: CCT Load Device Screen
1. Insert the ZFR USB dongle in an available USB port.
2. Because the dongle does not connect to the mesh at the WNC1820 Coordinator, you should
locate the laptop near a router or repeater with an available address. Depending on the mesh,
you may need to relocate the laptop to another location to connect to the mesh.
3. Select the ZigBee connection type.
4. Enter the PAN ID of the wireless mesh you want to join.
5. Click Next.
The ZFR USB dongle LED flashes rapidly (approximately three times a second) until it success-
fully joins the mesh. The LED illuminates solid after successfully joining the mesh. The LED
flashes during communication with wirelessly enabled field controllers.
If the ZFR USB dongle cannot join the mesh after 1 minute, the LED turns off. See ZFR Wireless
USB Dongle to diagnose why the ZFR dongle could not join the wireless mesh.
Setting ZFR Wireless USB Dongle Parameters in ZCT

Use the main screen of ZCT to set wireless connection parameters.

Figure 15: ZCT Load Device Screen
1. Insert the ZFR USB dongle in an available USB port.
2. Because the dongle does not connect to the mesh at the WNC1820 Coordinator, you should
locate the laptop near a router or repeater with an available address. Depending on the mesh,
you may need to relocate the laptop to another location to connect to the mesh.
3. Click Start Scan. The Scan Configuration dialog box appears.

Note: Refer to ZFR Checkout Tool Help (LIT-12012292) for further information about the
options available in the Scan Configuration dialog box.
4. Enter the PAN ID of the wireless mesh you want to join.
5. Select the ZFR system mesh channel number if it is known. Otherwise, leave this parameter set
to Auto.
Entering a known channel number can decrease the amount of time it takes to connect to the
wireless mesh.
6. Click Scan to connect to the mesh. The ZFR USB dongle LED flashes rapidly (approximately
three times a second) until it successfully joins the mesh. The LED illuminates solid after
successfully joining the mesh.The LED flashes during communication with wirelessly enabled
field controllers.
If the ZFR USB dongle cannot join the mesh after 1 minute, the LED turns off. See ZFR Wireless
USB Dongle to diagnose why the ZFR dongle could not join the wireless mesh.
Verifying Wireless Operation

To verify wireless operation:
1. Using a computer with Launcher, browser and log on to the NAE using the Metasys Launcher.
2. From the Metasys Site Management Portal (SMP), perform a discovery of the remote field bus.
3. Verify that all WEFCs have been discovered.

Note: When you first power up the wireless network, there is a potential for a few field
controllers to toggle online and offline for a short period until the entire trunk has
finished its startup procedure. This is a normal operation.
4. To check the performance of the wireless mesh network, including online status and wireless
signal strength, you can use the ZFR Checkout Tool (ZCT) within CCT.
Notes:
• ZCT requires the use of a USB dongle with a custom driver that gets installed along with ZCT.
• To purchase the ZFR USB dongle, use product code ZFR-USBHA-0.
• ZCT can also be downloaded and run outside of CCT.
Commissioning the WEFCs

To commission the WEFCs:
Table 12: Connection Points for Commissioning WEFCs
CCT using the

IP Bus pass-
through or MS-BTCVT-1 at ZFR Wireless
router WEFC Connection in CCT
General Checkout and X X X
Commissioning (using CCT)
Box Flow Test (using CCT) X X X
Balancing (using CCT) X X X
Balancing using a Handheld VAV X
2
Balancing Tool (MS-ATV7003-0)
3 The Handheld VAV Balancing Tool (MS-ATV7003-0) connects in place of the MS-BTCVT-1.
1. Start CCT on your computer and connect to the WNC1800 Series wireless network by selecting
one of the methods shown in Table 12
2. Perform general equipment checkout as required.
3. (VMA16 only) Invoke the Box Flow Test on the VMA16 Controller using one of the connection
options in Table 12.
4. (VMA16 only) Locally balance the wireless enabled VMA16 Controller using one of the
connection options in Table 12.
5. After balancing is complete, upload parameters and/or CAF Files using CCT using one of the
connection options in Table 12.
Network Maintenance
Use this section when you need to upgrade or replace an existing WNC1800 Gateway, replace an
existing ZFR Pro wireless device (ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio, ZFR Pro Router or WRZ Sensor), or
change the active wireless channel or optimize the ZFR Pro network.

Upgrading an Existing WNC1800 Gateway
You can upgrade the WNC1800 Gateway by choosing the upgrade feature and selecting the
upgrade package to be installed.
To upgrade an existing WNC1800 Gateway:
1. Identify the current version of the WNC1800 Gateway by checking the Settings About value.
Figure 16: WNC Upgrade Step 1
2. Upgrade the package in the WNC1800 Gateway as follows:

a. Go to Settings and select Software Upgrade.

Figure 17: WNC Upgrade Step 2a
b. Select a software update file to upgrade to the system.
Figure 18: WNC Upgrade Step 2b
c. Wait for upgrade to reach 100%
Figure 19: WNC Upgrade Step 2d
d. Select Install to perform the upgrade.

Figure 20: WNC Upgrade Step 2d
e. Wait until the RED LED is off on the WNC to verify the upgrade was completed
successfully.
Figure 21: WNC Upgrade Step 2e
f. Check the network connect to the WNC Gateway has been confirmed after the RED LED
is extinguished (no longer flashing).
g. Go to the WNC Settings, > About to verify the upgrade version was installed properly.

Figure 22: WNC Upgrade Step 2g
Notes:
- Only the required software components are updated during a software update.
- The attached ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio is also upgraded as part of the upgrade
process.
- If a different ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio is attached to the WNC1800 and a

software mismatch is detected, the WNC1800 automatically updates the Radio
Code in the coordinator.
Upgrading Field Devices

After upgrading the WNC182x Wireless Field Bus Coordinator, the next step in the upgrade process
is to upgrade the field devices. To complete the upgrade process for a trunk, you can upgrade both
wireless and wired devices at the same time.
Note: After upgrading firmware in a Field Controller, the old applications may no longer fit
into the controller’s physical memory. The file size of some objects increases from revision to
revision and subsequently requires more memory in the controller. If an application download
fails after upgrading, use the System Capacity meter in CCT to determine how much controller
memory the application uses. If the meter reads that the application takes greater than 90% of
the controller memory, you may encounter controller resets or problems loading applications.
If this scenario occurs, large applications for controllers may need simplification or may need
to be distributed across multiple controllers.
In CCT 10.2, follow this high-level procedure to upgrade field devices:
1. Go to Tools > Trunk Utilities > Download Multiple Controllers. Allow the wizard to auto-
discover devices on the trunk. Click Next.
2. The next window displays device information. Select or deselect the devices as needed.
3. Click Finish to begin downloading the CAF files.

Note: The main code download, which also downloads the radio code, requires a
verification of the download status for each controller since failures may occasionally
occur.

4. You can also update radio code only. Refer to Controller Tool Help (LIT-12011147) the following
sections Enabling the Radio Code Load Option and Download Multiple Radio Trunk Utility of
Controller Tool Help (LIT-12011147) for more information.
Figure 23: Download Multiple Radios
Notes:
- You may receive an error stating the downloaded radio version was not updated but
once you check the user screen, it indicates the download was performed correctly. But
the error was incorrectly reported.
- When performing the Download Multiple Radio, you may see a message that “Radio
code not accepted.” This is due to an issue in CCT and be ignored.
- Instead check the Radio Firmware Version column to verify that all the radios have the
desired version.
Replacing an Existing WNC Gateway/ZFR Pro Coordinator

Radio
To replace an existing ZFR Pro Coordinator:
1. Prepare the new ZFR Pro Coordinator by setting its PAN OFFSET Switch as described in the job
drawings.
Important: Do not connect the new ZFR Pro Coordinator to the WNC Gateway before setting
the PAN OFFSET switches.
Important: Make sure all devices are online to the network before initiating this procedure.
You can do this from the NAE supervisory engine or by using the optional ZFR Checkout Tool
(ZCT) in CCT.
2. Turn off power to the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio that you wish to replace.
3. Remove this ZFR Pro Coordinator.

4. Install the new ZFR Pro Coordinator. Plug the ZFR Pro Coordinator into the WNC Gateway and
apply power.
5. Once the WNC Gateway is operational, the WNC Gateway automatically updates the firmware
on the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio if required.
6. Allow up to 15 minutes for the WEFCs to rejoin the network.
7. Use the Metasys Site Management Portal to verify that all devices on the wireless network
report online to the NAE. If one or more devices are not online, see Troubleshooting.
Replacing an Existing ZFR Pro Router

To replace an existing ZFR Pro Router:
1. Prepare the new ZFR Pro Router by setting its PAN OFFSET Switch as described in the job site
drawings.
Important: Do not connect the new ZFR Pro Router to the FEC, IOM, or VMA field controller
before setting the PAN OFFSET switches.
2. Unplug the ZFR Pro Router from the field controller and remove the router.
3. Install the new ZFR Pro Router and connect the field controller to the router. The ZFR Pro
Router joins the network as indicated by its Signal Strength LED.
4. Allow up to 30 minutes for the system to recognize that the ZFR Pro Router has been replaced.
5. Verify that the ZFR Pro Router reports online to the NAE. If this device is not online, see
Troubleshooting.
Replacing a WRZ Series Sensor

To replace a WRZ Sensor:
1. Prepare the new WRZ Sensor by applying its mesh application overlay and setting its DIP
switches as shown in Table 8.
Important: The PAN OFFSET switch setting must be the same for all the ZFR1800 Series and
2. Turn off power to the WRZ Sensor that you wish to replace.
3. Remove this WRZ Sensor.
4. Install the two AA alkaline batteries (supplied) in the new WRZ Sensor.
5. Move the POWER switch to the ON position.
6. Mount the new WRZ Sensor.
7. Wait 1 to 3 minutes for the sensor to find the network. Press and release the Occ button. Wait
for the flash reply. Ensure that there is at least one flash. If not, see Troubleshooting.
8. Secure the sensor to its mounting base.

Changing the Wireless Active Channel
The channel selection for the PAN is determined by the ZFR Pro Coordinator when it initially starts
the network. The ZFR Pro Coordinator attempts to find a channel with the least interference at that
time and then locks into that channel. However, RF environments can change over time, so you
should manually adjust the channel as described in this section.
Note: This action can only be performed at the WNC1800 and at the supervisor as with the
older ZFR series system.
To change the Wireless Active Channel:

1. Go to the WNC device home page.
2. Click on the Active Channel and a selection box to choose a channel appears.
3. Select the desired channel. (Typically 15, 20, and 25 are the preferred channels to avoid Wi-Fi
interference.)
4. When you save the channel change, it takes effect immediately. In most cases, all the
controllers and sensors also immediately adjust to the channel change and there is no
disruption to the system. However, if the selected channel is noisy, or if some of the routers
missed the channel change message, it can take up to 60 minutes for all the controllers and
sensors to come back online.
Note: If a reform is performed, the coordinator may choose a different channel when it
performs a channel scan on startup. If you require a specific channel after a reform, you
will need to manually change it back to the desired channel.

Figure 24: Changing Wireless Active Channel
Optimizing the Network

When you optimize the network, the WNC182x Coordinator:
• clears its internal (persisted) routing tables
• initiates a re-learn sequence to all ZFR Pro Routers

During this re-learn sequence, the ZFR Pro Routers also clear their routing tables and attempt to
find better signal paths to the WNC182x Coordinator.
This action is initiated from the WNC UI.
1. Select the WNC device and go to Network Commands.

Figure 25: Optimizing the Network Step 1
2. Click on the Network Reform selection and choose True and then Save.
Figure 26: Optimizing the Network Step 2
Reforming the Network

You can also initiate a network reform function, which affects the ZFR Pro Coordinator and all of the
ZFR Pro Routers operating on the PAN.
This action is initiated from the WNC UI.
1. Select the WNC device and go to Network Commands.

Figure 27: Reforming the Network Step 1
2. Click on the Network Reform selection and choose True and then Save.
Figure 28: Reforming the Network Step 2

1.
Important: When you initiate the network reform function, the wireless network reforms,
and field controllers may go offline for approximately 60 minutes. If a ZFR Pro Router
does not come back online after a network reform, set all PAN OFFSET switches on the
ZFR Pro Router to ON, cycle power, then set the switches back to their original settings.
For details on the manual reset, see Troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting tables are divided into categories related to hardware, and the possible cause
codes are structured as shown in Table 13.

Table 13: Possible Cause Codes
Second
First Letter System Component Letter Category
C WNC Gateway, ZFR Pro H Hardware
Coordinator Radio
R ZFR Pro Router/WEFC M BACnet IP Network
S WRZ Sensor W Wireless Communication
P Parameter Communication
ZFR Pro Coordinator (WNC 1800 Gateway + ZFR Pro

Coordinator Radio)
Use Table 14 to identify symptoms and possible causes. Use Table 15 to identify the possible causes
and steps to remedy the causes.
Table 14: Identifying Symptoms and Possible Causes
Symptom Identification Possible Cause Code

The ZFR Pro All WNC1800 Gateway LEDs are OFF. CH1, CH3
Coordinator does not
start the network.
The ZFR Pro The SIGNAL STRENGTH LED is ON, but shows CW3, CW4, CW5,
Coordinator Radio does no flashes every 10 seconds. CW6
not have a wireless
The ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio Signal Strength CH1, CH3
signal.
LED is OFF.
The NAE cannot The Power LED on the WNC Gateway is OFF. CH1, CH3
discover the WEFCs on
The FAULT LED on the WNC Gateway in ON. CH3, CH4
the Remote Field Bus
The Ethernet LED on the WNC Gateway is OFF. CP1
The Wireless LED on the WNC Gateway is OFF. CH3, CP2
Table 15: Taking Corrective Action
Possible
Cause
Code Possible Cause Troubleshooting Step and Remedy
CH1 The WNC Gateway • Confirm the transformers are plugged into the WNC Gateway
is unpowered when and power supply.
power supplied by a • Measure the output of either 120-240VAC or 24VAC
120-20VAC or 24 VAC transformer to ensure 15-18VDC is available for WNC
transformer. Gateway.
CH2 The ZFR Pro Confirm the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio is connected to the
Coordinator Radio Wireless port on the WNC Gateway.
is unpowered when
power supplied from
the WNC Gateway
Wireless Port.

Possible
Cause
CH3 WNC Gateway or Replace the WNC Gateway or ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio.
ZFR Pro Coordinator
Radio is defective.
CH4 WNC Gateway Download the WNC Gateway software using the Browser UI and
needs a software WNC device Software Upgrade procedure.
download.
CH5 WNC Gateway is not Confirm the Ethernet cable from the associated Ethernet switch
wired properly to the is connected to the Ethernet port on the WNC Gateway.
Ethernet Network.
CH6 The Ethernet Securely connect all Ethernet cable connections (WNC Gateway
cable between to, Ethernet Switch, and NAE to, Ethernet Switch). You can use
the WNC Gateway your laptop to PING each device on the IP network to verify
and the NAE is communications.
loosely connected
or incorrectly
terminated.
CH7 Problem is Refer to the Remote Field Bus section of Communications Bus
intermittent BACnet Technical Bulletin (LIT-12011034)
IP Communications
CH8 The WNC1820 Securely connect the power cable from the 120-240VAC or
Gateway has a loose 24VAC transformer.
power connection.
CM1 A Network address Verify that the Wireless Field Buss Network Address is unique
conflict exists in and not shared by another network.
which there are two
WNC Gateways on
the same trunk with
the same Remote
Field Bus Trunk
address.
CM2 WNC Gateway is not The NAE has to be at version 7.0 or higher to have RFB
recognized as a valid capability. NCE does not support remote field bus.
device.

Possible
Cause
CW1 Another ZFR Pro 1. Find any ZFR Pro or ZFR Coordinator Radio that is within
Coordinator Radio a 100 ft radius of (or one floor above and below) any ZFR
with the same PAN device in the network.
OFFSET is (or was) 2. Verify that the PAN OFFSET is unique for each ZFR /ZFR
within radio range. Pro Coordinator Radio and all of the ZFR devices in their
respective wireless networks.
3. Change the PAN OFFSET of all the devices in one of the
wireless networks.
4. If WEFCs in an existing network go offline, use the Reform
Network function to repair the network.
Note: Be careful with network reforms. Sensors may go
offline for several hours after a reform.
CW2 A wireless Identify sources of wireless interferences. These can include,
interference source radio antennas, microwave ovens, Wireless TEC devices, wireless
(such as microwave security devices, wireless LAN access points, paging systems,
oven or 2.4 GHz and cordless phones.
cordless phone) is Locate the ZFR Pro Series device 3 m (10 ft) nominally from
installed near the wireless devices operating at 2.4 GHz.
Avoid locations where a microwave oven is located between two
toggling ZFR Pro
wireless devices.
router or the ZFR Pro
Coordinator Radio.
CW3 No powered WFECs 1. Check the job plan drawing to ensure that a ZFR Pro
or ZFR Pro Repeaters Coordinator Radio is within 50 ft of a ZFR Pro WEFCs. If
are in range of the necessary, add a ZFR Pro Repeater between the ZFR Pro
ZFR Pro Coordinator. Coordinator Radio and the outlying WEFC.
2. Check to see if any ZFR Pro Router/Repeater within 50 ft
of the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio is powered, if the WEFC is
unpowered, apply power.
3. Check that any ZFR Pro Router within 50 ft of the ZFR
Pro Coordinator Radio is configured with the correct PAN
OFFSET. If necessary, change the PAN OFFSET switches to
match the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio’s PAN OFFSET.
4. Attempting to use a WNC Gateway on a ZFR Series
network. The WNC Gateway only works with ZFR Pro series
compatible devices.
CW4 The ZFR Pro Securely and properly connect the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio
Coordinator Radio cable to the wireless port on the WNC Gateway.
is unconnected Note: Avoid any repeat removals and re-insertions as
or is connected this may impact wireless connection integrity and unit
improperly. performance.

Possible
Cause
CW5 A mismatch exists 1. Ensure that the PAN OFFSET switches on the ZFR Pro
between the PAN Routers match the PAN OFFSET switches on the ZFR Pro
OFFSET settings Coordinator Radio.
on the ZFR Pro 2. Ensure that the PAN OFFSET switches on the WRZ Sensors
Coordinator Radio match the PAN OFFSET switches on the ZFR Pro Coordinator
and the ZFR Pro Radio.
Routers associated
with the WEFCs.
CW6 The ZFR Pro Move the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio external.
Coordinator Radio Note: Placing the WNC in an enclosure may also affect the
is installed inside a WI FI AP portion of the WNC.
metal enclosure.
CP1 The Ethernet Verify Settings. Ensure that the Ethernet settings are configured
settings are not correctly in the WNC.
properly configured
in the WNC.
CP2 The ZFR Pro 1. Verify ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio is plugged into the WNC
Coordinator Radio is Gateway.
not working. 2. Verify ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio PAN OFFSET switches are
set correctly.
3. Verify ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio Signal Strength LED is
blinking.
ZFR Pro Router and WEFCs


All WEFCs toggle The Metasys Event Log indicates one or more RW1, RM2, RH1
offline to the Metasys offline events for all of the WEFCs.
system.
A single WEFC is The Metasys Event Log indicates one or more RM1, RM4, RM5, RM6
toggling offline to the offline events for the WEFC.
Metasys system. The SIGNAL STRENGTH LED on WEFC’s ZFR RM5, RW8, RW9, RW10,
Pro Router (or any router in the path of the RW11
coordinator) indicates a weak signal (one
flash) or no signal (no flashes).
The NAE cannot Metasys system cannot discover the WEFC. RH1, RM1, RM2, RM3,
discover the WEFC. RM4, RM5, RM6, RW12


WEFCs do not come ZFR Pro Router LED is steady OFF. RH1, RH2, RH3, RM2
online.
The ZFR Pro The SIGNAL STRENGTH LED on WEFC’s ZFR RM6
Coordinator Radio Pro Router is OFF steady.
Wireless LED shows ON The SIGNAL STRENGTH LED on WEFC’s ZFR RW11
steady or OFF steady. Pro Router is ON steady.
The ZFR Pro Router The ZFR Pro Router LED flashes once every RW12, RM3, RW10
does not join the five seconds.
wireless network.
The ZFR Pro Router The SIGNAL STRENGTH LED indicates a weak RW4, RW7, RW10
signal quality is weak. signal (one flash) or no signal (no flashes).
All WEFCs in an • All WEFCs report OFFLINE at the NAE. RW13, RW14
existing, running • Affected ZFR Pro Router’s Signal Strength
network suddenly go LEDs indicate not a member of a network
offline. (off steady with one flash every 10
seconds)
• WEFCs lose control of temperature in
controlled space.
The WEFC’s FC/SA BUS The WEFC’s FC/SA BUS LED flashes and then RH1, RH2, RH3, RM6
LED flashes and then stays OFF.
stays OFF.
The WEFC’s FC/SA BUS The WEFC’s FC/SA BUS LED is steady ON. RM6
LED is steady ON.
Possible
Cause
RH1 The ZFR Pro Router is 1. Check the drawing to see if devices near each other are
unplugged from (or has all offline.
a poor connection to) the 2. Start at device closest to ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio
WEFC. and determine if that ZFR Pro Router is unpowered.
3. Wait up to 15 minutes for the mesh network to reform
without an unpowered router.
4. Install a ZFR Pro Router in the area to increase mesh
density.
RH2 The WEFC is not Apply 24V power to the 24V power terminals on the WEFC.
powered.
RH3 The ZFR Pro Router or Replace the unit.
TEC Radio is defective.

Possible
Cause
RM1 Field devices installed on Each field controller and coordinator on the FC bus must
the trunk have duplicate have a unique MS/TP address. Cycle power to the controller
MS/TP trunk addresses. to force the controller to start communicating with its
Note: An address unique address.
conflict can
exist between a
coordinator and
field controllers
within the address
range of 4 through
119.
RM2 There is a mismatch of 1. Ensure that the PAN OFFSET switches on the ZFR Pro
PAN OFFSET settings. Routers match the PAN OFFSET switches on the ZFR Pro
Coordinator Radio.
2. Ensure that the PAN OFFSET switches on the WRZ
Sensors match the PAN OFFSET switches on the ZFR Pro
Coordinator Radio.
RM3 In CCT, the controller Use the Network Reform command.
information (or device Or
discovery dialogue) 1. Locate the devices with duplicate addresses.
shows an incorrect 2. On one of the devices, change the PAN OFFSET setting
MS/TP address for a to another setting, or change the MSTP address to the
controller. correct unique value.
3. Wait for 10 seconds.
4. Change the PAN OFFSET setting to the former setting.
RM4 WEFC does not have 1. Ensure that the firmware revision of the WEFC is at
Address Switch 128 set Release 7.0 or later or Metasys release version 6.2 or
to ON. higher. If necessary, download new code to the WEFC
over a wired or Bluetooth connection.
2. Check that the last switch on the Address DIP switch
block (Switch 128) is set to ON. If necessary, set Switch
128 to ON.
RM5 The Metasys System has Map the WEFCs in the Metasys Site Management Portal.
not mapped any WEFCs. The controller should still be online to the WNC even if not
mapped to the supervisor.
RM6 The NAE is offline. If the NAE is offline, then there may be no Ethernet
connection to the supervisor or an issue might exist with
the WNC Gateway.
RW1 Wireless mesh is Wait for 15 minutes.
reconfiguring to
optimize routes.

Possible
Cause
RW2 Another ZFR Pro Router Wait for 15 minutes.
has been disconnected
or failed, forcing wireless
mesh to reconfigure.
RW3 Newly commissioned Wait up to 45 minutes.
wireless network is still
in the configuration
process.
RW4 The ZFR Pro Router is Compare installation of affected router with guidelines
not installed following in Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series
recommended System Wireless Field Bus System.
Location Guidelines.
RW5 A wireless interference • Identify sources of wireless interferences. These can
source (such as include, radio antennas, microwave ovens, Wireless TEC
microwave oven or 2.4 devices, wireless security devices, wireless LAN access
GHz cordless phone) points, paging systems, and cordless phones.
is installed near the • Locate the ZFR Pro Series device 3 m (10 ft) nominally
toggling ZFR Pro from wireless devices operating at 2.4 GHz.
Router or the ZFR Pro • Avoid locations where a microwave oven is located
Coordinator Radio. between two wireless devices.
RW6 Too many WEFCs are 1. Identify all devices associated with this wireless
installed as part of this network.
system. 2. If more than 35 WEFCs are installed, remove the ZFR
Pro Router from the field controller that is farthest from
the ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio.
3. Repeat removing ZFR Pro Routers until the system is
stable.
Note: Each ZFR Pro Coordinator can support up to 35
WEFCs.
RW7 The ZFR Pro Router is Orient router correctly. Orientation typically does not
oriented incorrectly, has as much effect as signal strength. See Designing and
limiting the effectiveness Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus
of its antenna. System.
RW8 The ZFR Pro Router is too See Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series
far from the other ZFR Wireless Field Bus System.
Pro Routers.
RW9 The WNC Gateway and See Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series
ZFR Pro Coordinator Wireless Field Bus System.
Radio’s are not installed
following recommended
System Location
Guidelines.

Possible
Cause
RW10 One or more ZFR Pro See Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series
Routers are too far from Wireless Field Bus Systemand follow these steps.
the ZFR Pro Coordinator 1. Check the job plan drawing to ensure that a WNC1820
Radio or another ZFR Pro Coordinator is within 50 ft of a ZFR Pro Router. If
Router. necessary, add a ZFR Pro Repeater between the
WNC1820 Coordinator and ZFR Pro Router.
2. Check to see if any ZFR Pro Router/Repeater within
50 ft of the WNC1820 Coordinator is unpowered. If
necessary, power the ZFR Pro Router
3. Check that any Pro Router within 50 ft of the WNC1820
Coordinator is configured with the correct PAN OFFSET.
If necessary, change the PAN OFFSET switches to match
the WNC1820 Coordinator’s PAN OFFSET.
RW11 The ZFR Pro Coordinator Reform the wireless network.
Radio has lost
communication with all
WEFCs.
RW12 ZFR Pro Router’s signal 1. Check the ZFR Pro Router’s LED for poor or no signal
strength is Weak. strength.
2. Add another ZFR Pro Router between the existing ZFR
Pro Router and the next closest ZFR Pro Router.
Note: Use additional repeaters if ZFR Pro Routers are
still 50 ft apart or more.
RW13 WNC Gateway was Use the Rediscover Device button on the WNC Gateway
already started or the Network Reform function in the Metasys Site
somewhere out of range Management Portal.
(like in a training/sales
demonstration unit,
or when the existing
network was powered
off) with the same
channel and have the
same PAN setting,
and then brought into
range of an existing,
functioning network.

Possible
Cause
RW14 Another ZFR Pro Use the Rediscover Device button on the WNC Gateway
Coordinator Radio is or the Network Reform function in the Metasys Site
started out-of-the-box Management Portal.
with same channel and
PAN settings as (and
in radio range of) an
existing, functioning
network.
WRZ Sensor
Depending on the sensor model, the WRZ Series Sensors transmit temperature, setpoint, humidity,
occupancy status, and low battery conditions to an associated WEFC. If the field controller is
mapped to the NxE, the data sent by the wireless sensor displays.
During normal operation, the WRZ sensors are typically in a suspended sleep mode to conserve
on the battery. They periodically wake-up, read their sensors values and send the sensor data to
the associated controller. The wake-up time varies depending on the sensor type and changes in
values. Adjusting the setpoint dial or pushbutton or pressing the Manual Occupancy Override also
changes the sensor to wake up immediately and send its data.
During startup and commissioning or in a power-outage situation, the associated controller may be
shut down for extended periods of time. To further conserve on battery, the WRZ sensor adjusts its
wake-up time to much longer periods (once every 30 minutes up to once a day after 72 hours). This
may cause the senors to be off-line to the system until they wake up again.
Important: The ZFR Pro Series is only supported on WRZ sensors that have a factory code of
RY1 1601or later, with minimum fimware of RY11601.

Wireless signal strength is ZRF Pro Router’s Signal Strength SH1, SM1, SW1
not indicated after a WEFC’s LED does not flash after the sensor’s
associated WRZ Sensor’s Occ Occ button is pressed.
Button is pressed.
The WRZ Sensor cannot find a The WRZ Sensor LED turns off after SH1, SH2, SH11 SW2,
wireless network or has not yet the Occ button is pressed. SW3
joined the network.
The WRZ Sensor cannot find its The WRZ Sensor LED flashes eight SH11, SH3, SM1
associated WEFC. times rapidly.
The WRZ Sensor signal quality is The WRZ Sensor LED flashes once SW1, SW3
weak. after the Occ button is pressed.
The WRZ Sensor values are Metasys Site Management Portal SH4, SH5, SH6, SW1
unreliable. indicates an unreliable value.


The WRZ Sensor LED does not The WRZ Sensor LED does not turn SH7, SH8, SH9, SH10
light when the Occ Button is on.
pressed.
Possible
Cause
SH1 A WRS Series Sensor is 1. Remove the cover of the sensor.
installed instead of a WRZ 2. On the inside of the plastic cover, read the product
Sensor. code. If it does not start with WRZ, the sensor does
not work in this system.
3. Replace sensor with an equivalent WRZ model.
SH2 The PAN OFFSET switch of the 1. Ensure that the PAN OFFSET switches on the ZFR
WRZ Sensor does not match Pro Routers match the PAN OFFSET switches on the
the PAN OFFSET switch of a ZFR Pro Coordinator.
ZFR Pro Router. 2. Ensure that the PAN OFFSET switches on the WRZ
Sensors match the PAN OFFSET switches on the ZFR
Pro Coordinator Radio.
SH3 The ZFR Pro Router on the 1. Check the MS/TP device address on the sensor,
associated WEFC is not and the WEFC match.
installed, powered, or on the 2. Check that the router is installed/connected.
PAN.
3. Check that the router and WEFC are powered.
SH4 The WRZ Sensor battery Replace the batteries.
power is low and its batteries
need to be replaced.
SH5 The WRZ Sensor is not Install the sensor and ensure settings are correct.
installed.
SH6 The factory calibration Ensure jumper is installed correctly on both pins.
jumper (J5) is not installed.
SH7 The WRZ Sensor batteries are Install the batteries.
not installed.
SH8 The WRZ Sensor batteries are Replace the batteries.
dead.
SH9 The WRZ Sensor is defective. Replace the WRZ sensor.
SH10 The power switch on the WRZ Turn the power switch ON.
Sensor is off.
SH11 The WRS Series Sensor has Ensure that the WRZ Sensor has a factory date code of
old firmware. RY1 1601 and later.

Possible
Cause
SM1 The MS/TP address of WRZ 1. Ensure that the MS/TP address of the WRZ Sensor
Sensor does not match the matches the MS/TP address of the WEFC.
MS/TP address of the WEFC. 2. Change the MS/TP address switches on the WEFC
and associated sensors to match.
3. Ensure all DIP switch settings (PAN settings, MS/
TP address settings) are correct on the WRZ sensor,
the ZFR Pro Router, and the WEFC.
SW1 The WRZ Sensor is not in See Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro
range of any ZFR Pro Router. Series Wireless Field Bus System.
SW2 The wireless network is not Start the wireless network.
started.
SW3 The WRZ Sensor is not See Designing and Planning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro
installed following the Series Wireless Field Bus System.
recommended System
Location Guidelines.
ZFR USB Dongle

Use Table 20 to identify possible causes if you cannot connect to a ZFR Pro wireless mesh.
Table 20: ZFR USB Dongle
Symptom Cause Solution

LED on ZFR Dongle never Incorrect USB driver Verify CCT Release 7.0 or higher is
illuminates. installed on computer installed on computer.
Two or more USB ZFR Unplug all extra USB ZFR Dongles
Dongles plugged into the from laptop USB ports and
same computer. restart CCT and or ZCT software
applications.
Defective USB Dongle Replace the defective ZFR USB
dongle.
LED on ZFR USB Dongle Incorrect PAN ID entered Verify the PAN ID entered within CCT
flashes rapidly (three times from CCT or ZCT wireless or ZCT matches the PAN ID of the
a second) for 1 minute then connection dialog boxes. ZFR system mesh you are attempting
extinguishes. to join.
Incorrect wireless channel Verify the channel number entered
number entered from ZCT within ZCT matches the wireless
main screen. channel of the ZFR system mesh you
are attempting to join. If you do not
know the correct channel number,
select Auto for the channel number
within the ZCT.

Table 20: ZFR USB Dongle
Symptom Cause Solution

Attempting to connect to Move to the nearest wireless-
the wireless mesh through enabled field controller on the
the ZFR Pro Coordinator. mesh you want to join. The ZFR
USB Dongle does not connect
to a wireless mesh through the
coordinator.
Too far away from the Move closer to the wireless mesh
wireless mesh you are you are attempting to join.
attempting to join.
LED on ZFR USB dongle ZFR USB Dongle is in boot If the pinhole button is pressed
flashes slowly (once a mode. on the ZFR USB Dongle while it is
second) continuously. plugged into a USB slot, the USB
module enters factory boot mode.
If this happens, reinsert the dongle
in the USB slot without pressing the
button.
Note: This is an unusual
circumstance as the button is
recessed in the surface of the
ZFR USB Dongle package.
Appendix A: WNC1800/ZFR182xPro Series Wireless

Bus System
The WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System builds on the existing ZFR1810 Series
Wireless Field Bus System, and provides the following performance enhancements:
Table 21: ZFR Pro Series Benefits
Feature ZFR Pro Series Benefit

Mesh Addressing Stochastic Addressing No running out of network
addresses as with Tree Addressing.
Address Conflicts Automatic No need to Reform to fix network
addressing issues.
Depth Limits 20 Add to spread out the mesh further.
Hop Limit 30 Less issues with “Picket Fence”
scenario.
Performance Continuously monitoring Faster mesh repair and reaction to
neighboring nodes. device faults.
Faster healing of broken Fewer offline retries
routes
Improved radio Sensitivity Better coverage
TEC / FEC Compatibility TEC3000 and FEC share Reduced number of networks
wireless network

Table 21: ZFR Pro Series Benefits
Feature ZFR Pro Series Benefit

Diagnostic ZCT Plus WNC equipment Improved ZCT Checkout Tool, Mobile,
views. Browser status, and Commissioning.
In addition to the performance benefits referenced above, the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series
Wireless Field Bus System use of the WNC1800 Gateway as part of the coordinator and provides a
Wi-Fi access to remotely monitor and adjust WEFC (BACnet exposed) settings independent of access
to an NAE:
• Alarms
• Setpoints
• Schedules
• Wireless Characteristics
Note: The TEC3000 is equipment model based while FEC/VMA controllers are object type
based. Figure 29 provides a visual example of what can be seen remotely:
Figure 29: TEC and FEC Configuration Screens
Appendix B Wireless Network Mesh Overview

The ZFR Pro Series wireless network is based on a global open networking standard that defines a
low-cost, low-power, two-way wireless communication system. Its development reference comes
from the ZigBee Alliance, an organization of manufacturers devoted to providing a cost-effective
wireless networking technology for use in commercial and residential applications. The primary
advantages that this ZigBee Alliance technology brings to the marketplace include the following:
• high reliability and security
• low power with multi-year battery life
• low complexity at an economic cost
ZigBee Communications Technology

The ZFR Pro Series wireless network is a Personal Area Network (PAN) based on the Institute of
Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) 802.15.4 standard for low power, low duty-cycle wireless

transmitting systems. Devices on the network use Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS)
wireless technology and operate on the 2.4 GHz Industrial, Science, Medical (ISM) band.
Devices on the ZFR1820 Pro Series wireless network are different from Bluetooth devices and
wireless Universal System Bus (USB) devices in that they form a mesh network between nodes.
Mesh networks are a type of daisy chaining from one device to another. This technique expands
the typically short range of an individual node into a much larger, widespread network consisting of
multiple nodes.
The Media Access Control (MAC) layer uses a Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance
(CSMA/CA) mechanism. This layer transmits beacon requests, synchronizations, and message
retries. The physical layer of the ZFR Pro Series wireless network uses the 2.4 GHz radio band.
Channels 11 to 26 are available in this band.Figure 32 illustrates the details and provides a
comparison of the ZFR Pro Series wireless and Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) network channel spacing.
Network Device Types

The ZigBee Alliance specification defines three kinds of devices that are part of the mesh network: a
coordinator, one or more routers, and one or more end devices.
Coordinator
A coordinator is a required network component. Up to eight coordinators are associated with a
single NAE. The coordinator acts as a parent device, initiating network formation, which involves
channel selection and network. identification. Each Wireless PAN contains one and only one
network coordinator.
Router
A router is an optional network component. One or more routers are permitted on each wireless
network. Routers act as parent devices, participating in multi-hop message routing; they relay
messages between nodes and allow child nodes to connect to them. Routers can talk to other
routers and to end devices.
End Device
An end device is an optional network component. One or more end devices are permitted on each
wireless network. End devices are low-power, child devices that are typically battery powered.
They do not communicate directly to other devices but rely on their parent to forward and buffer
messages for them.
Wireless Mesh Network Topologies

A ZFR Pro Series wireless network based on the ZigBee Alliance protocol can adopt one of three
topologies: star, tree, or mesh (Figure 30). The topology defines how a message is routed from
one node to another. A star network has a central node through which all messages pass. A tree
network has a top node with a branch and leaf structure below in which messages travel up and
down the tree as necessary. A mesh network is a modified tree network in which some leaves are
linked, enabling messages to travel across the tree when a suitable route is available. The ZFR Pro
Series Wireless Field Bus System uses a mesh network
.

Figure 30: Topologies for Wireless Network
Parent and Child Devices

In the ZFR Pro Series wireless network, a parent is a device that assigns unique network addresses
to other child nodes as they join the network. Any coordinator or router can be a parent to other
routers and end devices, but the coordinator is always a parent device. When a router or end device
joins the network, it selects a parent from a group of routers or the coordinator. The selected
parent may not always be the closest node because the router or end device selects a parent based
on signal strength and its proximity to the coordinator. Once the router joins the network, it no
longer relies on its parent for communication; however, once an end device joins, it continues to
rely on its parent for all two-way communication.
In a ZFR Pro Series wireless network, each coordinator and router can assign up to 20 addresses to
give other routers that want to join the network and 14 addresses for end devices. Once a device
has given out all of its available addresses, the device cannot give out more addresses to add other
devices to the network.
Self-Healing, Multi-Hop Network

The ZFR Pro Series wireless network is further characterized as a self-healing, multi-hop network. If
a wireless communication path experiences interference or drops out, the network automatically
reroutes the message through an alternate path to form a new wireless communication path. Each
message is received, then retransmitted as it hops along from node to node until it reaches its final
destination. Within ZFR Pro Series wireless network, a single message is allowed to hop 30 times
between the source and destination node.
End Devices, Parent, and Target Routers

An end device communicates through its parent router. This parent may also be the target of the
data. To illustrate, consider the partial wireless system shown in Figure 31. The following parent
and target relationships exist:
• Coordinator A is the key device on the mesh network that all devices ultimately pass information
to either directly as a parent router, or if acting as a child device, through a parent router.
• For WRZ Sensor C1, Router C is both the parent and target node.

Figure 31: Illustrating Parent and Target Routers
ZFR Pro System Mesh Network Technology Implementation

The ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus system implements mesh technology as follows:
• The ZFR Pro Coordinator is the coordinator, which does not accept end devices as child nodes.
The ZFR Pro Coordinator is a parent to ZFR Pro Routers.
• The ZFR Pro Router is the router. The ZFR Pro Router can serve as a child to a ZFR Pro Coordinator
or other ZFR Pro Routers, and a parent to other ZFR Pro Routers and WRZ Sensors.
• The WRZ Series Sensors are the end devices. The WRZ Sensors are battery-operated devices that
serve as children to ZFR Pro Routers but are never also children of the ZFR Pro Coordinator.
Physical Layer Channels

The ZFR Pro Series System is based on an Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE)
802.15.4 ZigBee network definition.
This network has 16 channels available for use (Channels 11 through 26, shown in Figure 32). In
North America, the ZFR Pro Series System uses channels 11 through 25. By default, the WNC182x
coordinator is configured for use in North America, and uses channels 15, 20, and 25.
These channels were selected for the ZFR Pro Series System because they do not overlap with
channels used on an IEEE 802.11 Wi-Fi network unless 802.11 A or N is used. To illustrate, Figure

32 compares the channel spacing of the ZFR Pro and Wi-Fi networks. Notice that the IEEE 802.15.4
channels of operation used by the wireless Metasys systems do not overlap and, therefore, avoid
interference with the Wi-Fi network.
The WNC preselects a suitable subset of channels for the country that the WNC is sold into. These
channel subsets were selected because they do not overlap or interfere with commonly used on Wi-
Fi channels used in those regions. To illustrate, Figure 32 is a diagram showing the channel spacing
of the ZFR Pro and typical Wi-Fi networks for North America.
Not all Wi-Fi is coordinated within the building. Wi-Fi can be rotated or varied so that the same
channel does not exist directly above or below a specific PAN. Wireless standards defined by IEEE
802.11, A, and N create a 40MHz channel and can potentially “step” on the reserved space of the
IEEE 802.15.4 and cause potential for more communication errors.
Branch knowledge of commonly available Wi-Fi tools, such as WiSpy, might be required to properly
evaluate a site as a wireless candidate or to troubleshoot challenging sites. Details on how to
effectively use these third-party tools are beyond the scope of this literature, but you can adapt
these basic concepts presented here to most of these tools. Always remember to investigate and
plan around building space usage plans, building Wi-Fi management policy, and channel selections
such as systematic versus automatic.
Figure 32: Comparing Channel Spacing of the ZFR Pro and Wi-Fi Networks
Wireless Interference
The ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System is designed to minimize the potential for wireless
interference with other wireless applications. In most commercial environments, the ZFR Pro Series
System does not encounter or generate wireless interference, even in environments with cell
phones and competing Wi-Fi applications.
ZFR Pro Series wireless transmissions use different modulation schemes than Wi-Fi applications and
use frequencies between popular Wi-Fi bands, enabling Wi-Fi and ZFR Pro Series wireless networks
to exist in the same areas.
The system should not interfere with other wireless systems for the following reasons:

• No common frequencies exist between the cell phone bands and the 2.4 GHz Industrial,
Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band where the wireless system operates; therefore, interference
should not occur with cell phone transmissions.
• The 802.11 Wi-Fi standard and the 802.15.4 standard used by the wireless Metasys systems both
use Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) wireless technology and are specified and required
by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to be simple noise sources to each other.
These standards are major advantages for DSSS technology, as each system’s transmissions
typically result in only a slight increase in background noise. The message is spread across
multiple frequencies and the noise allows reconstruction of the entire message where the noise
is virtually undetectable.
• The ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System operates on the same frequency band as IEEE
802.11 Wi-Fi networks, but uses different channels unless using 802.11 A or N. The ZFR Pro Series
System automatically selects non-overlapping, quiet channels (for example, 15, 20, and 25). See
Figure 32.
• The ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System uses clear channel assessment to listen to the
channel before transmitting on it. This detail means that before transmitting wireless data on the
channel, the device first listens to determine whether any another device is already transmitting
on the channel. Various wireless technologies also use clear channel assessment, which further
helps to minimize the potential for interference.
• ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System devices transmit at a low transmission power of 10 mW.
802.11 Wi-Fi devices typically transmit at 40 to 100 mW. As a result, when both an 802.11 versus
a Wi-Fi device and a ZFR Pro Series System device transmit simultaneously, the ZFR Pro Series
System device only appears as low-level noise to the Wi-Fi device.
• The ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus devices transmit data using several short messages
that are collected and reconstructed at the destination. These smaller messages can transmit
between the larger Wi-Fi messages. The short messages have less chance of colliding with other
messages and a better chance of transmitting successfully. If a piece of the ZFR Pro wireless
message is transmitted at the same time as a Wi-Fi message, the ZFR Pro device retries until it
can transmit at the next available gap (Figure 33).
Figure 33: Message Transmission

Other wireless systems should not interfere with the ZFR Pro Series wireless system for the
following reasons:
• Cell phones do not operate on the 2.4 GHz ISM band; therefore, cell phone transmissions should
not interfere with the wireless Metasys systems.
• When a wireless system encounters Wi-Fi transmissions in the 2.4 GHz ISM band, most of
the transmissions appear merely as noise, with insignificant or no impact on wireless system
communication.
• Wireless interference and transmission failures are minimized by maintaining an adequate

distance between wireless transmitting devices. If a wireless device operating at 2.4 GHz (for
example, a Wi-Fi access point) with a standard antenna is located at least 3 m (10 ft) from the ZFR
Pro components, there should not be any interference. Likewise, if a wireless device with a high-
gain antenna is located at least 6 m (20 ft) from a wireless Metasys system, there should not be
any interference.
• Tests indicate that Wi-Fi channel 11 transmissions should not significantly interfere with a
wireless system unless the Wi-Fi access points are within 3 m (10 ft) of the wireless Metasys
products, and the access points are transmitting at full power almost continuously.
• Although the compatibility of Wi-Fi and ZFR Pro products is based on standards and good design,
other sources can interfere with both Wi-Fi and the wireless system by overloading the bands
with continuous transmissions at very high levels. Many consumer 2.4 GHz wireless products,
such as cordless phones and some older phone headsets, can cause wireless interference and
should not be used anywhere near a wireless system or other Wi-Fi applications. Additionally,
some camera and sound systems are continuous frequency modulation transmitters, and they
must be kept out of the Wi-Fi environment to ensure optimal operation.
• The wireless Metasys systems automatically choose the best channel of operation at initialization.
you can override the channel with a manual command.
Wireless Security
The ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System is secure for the following reasons:
• ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System devices transmit at a low transmission power of 10
mW preventing outside sources from accessing the system. You must be physically within the
building to access and transmit on the system.
• The ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus devices transmit data using several short proprietary
messages that are collected and reconstructed at the destination. If a piece of the message is
intercepted, it is indecipherable to the outside source.
• The WNC1800 Gateway requires authentication for user access with an audit log to track log-ins
and commands.
• The WNC1800 Gateway Wi-Fi functionality allows access to the wireless network configuration,
but it does NOT create a Wi-Fi hotspot to the Internet.
Important: Change the WNC1800 Wi-Fi password from the default at its initial setup and
configuration and useing standard guidance to create a strong and secure password.
Important: The ZFR Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System does not implement the full
security functionality as defined in the ZigBee Alliance PRO protocol.

Appendix C: Restricted Hallway Scenario
Do not use a linear or daisy-chain arrangement instead of a mesh because those arrangements
can create a scenario where a single point of failure results in disrupted network communications.
Some installations require this linear configuration, such as in a building wing or long hallway,
where signals need to cover long distances, but building restrictions (architectural, appearance,
owner preference) limit use of (or prevent installing) repeaters in hallways. This scenario often
requires extra repeaters, that result in excessive address depths and an increased number of signal
hops.
Figure 34 shows this sort of scenario. If you plan the wireless system only on the basis of
transmission distances and transmission hops, you might think that this scenario should work,
because there is no more than 50 ft between each device and its neighbor and because the WRZ
sensor associated with the ZFR Pro Router labeled K uses less than 30 hops to transmit the signal to
the coordinator. However, only part of this system works because this network design ignores the
limit of the twenty-depth short address assignment. When a wireless mesh network forms, it uses
up to five layers in assigning short addresses required for network communication.
In Figure 34, the ZFR Pro Router labeled E is at Address Depth 19, and is the last device that can
assign a subaddress to an associated WRZ sensor. The ZFR Pro Router labeled F is at Address Layer
20; and although it can join the network, it cannot assign an address to a WRZ sensor. The ZFR Pro
Routers labeled G through K do not get short addresses, and cannot join the mesh network.
The WRZ sensor associated with the ZFR Pro Router labeled D can use four hops to send the signal
to the ZFR Pro Coordinator. The ZCT may show five hops because the network may route the signal
through the ZFR Pro Router labeled A.
Figure 34: Hallway Scenario
Valid Solutions
There are two solutions to the problems presented by a hallway.
• Centrally locate the coordinator in the hallway to avoid exceeding the maximum twenty-depth
addressing limit (Figure 35).
• Locate a coordinator at each end of the hallway, using two separate wireless networks with
separate PAN OFFSET instead of one wireless network with a single PAN OFFSET (Figure 36).

Figure 35: Hallway Scenario - Valid Solution 1
Figure 36: Hallway Scenario - Valid Solution 2
Appendix D: Using BBMD to Communicate Across

Multiple Subnets
IP Routers typically block broadcast messages from bridging from one subnet to another. This
stops messages from flooding throughout an IP network. However, BACnet systems rely on
broadcast message to discover and manage devices on those networks. To deal with this, BACnet
has defined a BACnet Broadcast Management Device (BBMD).

Figure 37: BBMD Subnet Communications
When a BBMD receives a BACnet broadcast message from a device on its subnet, it forwards
(unicasts) that message directly to another BBMDs in its Broadcast Distribution Table (BDT). Upon
arrival at the destination BBMD, it rebroadcasts on that subnet.
Each BBMD keeps a BDT that contains a list of the IP addresses of all the other BBMDs, including
itself, in the network. In a Metasys system, all NAE devices include BBMD capability and their BDT
are automatically populated with other NAEs in the system from the Site Director. However, the
WNC Gateway needs to be manually added into the Third-Party BBMDs, BDT attribute of the Site
Director's Site Object. See Figure 38.

Figure 38: Site Object Third-Party BBMD BDT
Likewise, the WNC Gateway also includes BBMD capability and the WNC needs its supervisory
device’s IP address to be manually configured into its BDT.
Figure 39: BBMD IP Configured

Note: The WNC Gateway only allows one entry. This restricts peer-to-peer communications
between ZFR Pro devices to other devices on the same subnet as the WNC Gateway or the
subnet of the associated NAE.
If there are multiple WNC Gateways on the same subnet, only one of them needs to be configured
into the NAEs, BDT (for example only 10.10.3.4 and not 10.10.3.5), but each WNC Gateway needs
to be configured with the associated NAE’s IP address of the device that holds the BBMD for
the subnet that the associated NAE is a member of. In some cases, the subnet’s BBMD is on the
associated NAE, but not always.
Depending on how the Ethernet system is managed on a given site, it is not always apparent
whether a BBMD is required by looking at the IP address of the device itself. If the Ethernet Default
Gateway on the WNC and the Network LAN IP Router Address are different, then the BBMDs need
to be configured.
If you are using Static IP (Auto DHCP = OFF), then an IT department assigns these addresses.
Figure 40: BBMD IP Configured

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WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless

Field Bus System Technical Bulletin

Building Technologies & Solutions LIT-12012356

WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Overview.........................................7

WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series System Component Limits...............................................................8

Network Engines (NAE)......................................................................................................................... 9

The WNC1800 Wireless Network Coordinator Gateway.................................................................10

ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Pro Wireless Router........................................................................................ 10

Wireless Enabled Field Controllers....................................................................................................11

WRZ Series Sensors.............................................................................................................................11

ZFR Checkout Tool (ZCT)..................................................................................................................... 12

ZFR Wireless USB Dongle................................................................................................................... 12

WRZ-SST-120 Wireless Sensing System Tool.................................................................................... 12

Guidelines for Locating Wireless Devices.........................................................................................17

Guidelines for Locating ZFR Pro Series System Components........................................................17

Guidelines for Locating Thermostats and Wireless Sensors......................................................... 18

Wireless Signal Transmission Range.................................................................................................18

Selecting a PAN OFFSET for a Wireless Network............................................................................. 19

Installing the ZFR Pro Series Devices................................................................................................19

Setting the PAN DIP Switches............................................................................................................ 21

Installing the WNC Gateway.............................................................................................................. 22

Mounting a WNC1800 Coordinator Gateway.................................................................................. 23

Powering the WNC1800 Coordinator Gateway............................................................................... 23

Installing the ZFR Pro Router Used with a Field Controller........................................................... 23

Installing the ZFR1821 or ZFR1822 Router as a Repeater..............................................................25

Installing a WRZ Series Sensor.......................................................................................................... 25

Commissioning the WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System..................... 27

Connecting to and Downloading the FEC/FAC/IOM/VMA Field Controllers.................................31

Using the ZFR Wireless USB Dongle............................................................................................ 31

Setting ZFR Wireless USB Dongle Parameters in CCT.....................................................................31

Setting ZFR Wireless USB Dongle Parameters in ZCT.....................................................................32

Verifying Wireless Operation...................................................................................................33

Commissioning the WEFCs...................................................................................................... 34

Upgrading an Existing WNC1800 Gateway...................................................................................... 35

Upgrading Field Devices.....................................................................................................................38

Replacing an Existing WNC Gateway/ZFR Pro Coordinator Radio................................................ 39

Replacing an Existing ZFR Pro Router...............................................................................................40

Replacing a WRZ Series Sensor......................................................................................................... 40

Changing the Wireless Active Channel............................................................................................. 41

Optimizing the Network..................................................................................................................... 42

Reforming the Network......................................................................................................................43

ZFR Pro Router and WEFCs.................................................................................................................48

ZFR USB Dongle................................................................................................................................... 55

Appendix A: WNC1800/ZFR182xPro Series Wireless Bus System............................................ 56

Appendix B Wireless Network Mesh Overview.......................................................................... 57

ZigBee Communications Technology............................................................................................... 57

Network Device Types........................................................................................................................ 58

ii WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Technical Bulletin

Wireless Mesh Network Topologies.................................................................................................. 58

Parent and Child Devices....................................................................................................................59

Self-Healing, Multi-Hop Network.......................................................................................................59

End Devices, Parent, and Target Routers......................................................................................... 59

ZFR Pro System Mesh Network Technology Implementation....................................................... 60

Physical Layer Channels..................................................................................................................... 60

Appendix C: Restricted Hallway Scenario....................................................................................64

Appendix D: Using BBMD to Communicate Across Multiple Subnets.....................................65

and Loading Wireless Enabled

WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Technical Bulletin 5

Field Bus System ZFR Pro installation

• buildings with occupants sensitive to disruptions to business

• regions with high labor costs

• refrigerator/freezer storage containers

6 WNC1800/ZFR182x Pro Series Wireless Field Bus System Technical Bulletin