How to Use OXY-LC Interface Board: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The OXY-LC Interface Board (OXY-LC-485), manufactured by SST Sensing, is a specialized circuit board designed to facilitate communication between the OXY-LC oxygen sensor and other electronic systems. It enables seamless data transfer and control functions, making it an essential component for integrating oxygen sensors into a variety of applications.

• Industrial process control and monitoring
• Environmental monitoring systems
• Medical equipment requiring oxygen level measurement
• Laboratory instrumentation
• Automotive and aerospace oxygen sensing

The OXY-LC Interface Board is designed to provide reliable communication and control for the OXY-LC oxygen sensor. Below are the key technical details:

The OXY-LC Interface Board features a straightforward pinout for easy integration. Below is the pin configuration:

The OXY-LC Interface Board is designed for easy integration into electronic systems. Follow the steps below to use the board effectively:

1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a 5 V DC power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. Sensor Connection: Attach the OXY-LC oxygen sensor to the SENSOR_IN pin.
3. RS-485 Communication:
   • Connect the TX+ and TX- pins to the RS-485 transmit lines of your system.
   • Connect the RX+ and RX- pins to the RS-485 receive lines of your system.
4. Configuration: Use the CONFIG pin to set communication parameters, such as baud rate, if required.

• Ensure the power supply voltage is stable and within the specified range (5 V DC).
• Use proper termination resistors for RS-485 communication lines to minimize signal reflections.
• Avoid exposing the board to temperatures outside the operating range (-20°C to +60°C).
• Keep the board away from sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI) to ensure reliable communication.
• Verify the sensor is securely connected to the SENSOR_IN pin to avoid data loss or inaccuracies.

The OXY-LC Interface Board can be connected to an Arduino UNO for data acquisition and processing. Below is an example code snippet for reading data from the board:

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

// Define RS-485 communication pins
#define RX_PIN 10  // Arduino pin connected to RX+ of OXY-LC Interface Board
#define TX_PIN 11  // Arduino pin connected to TX+ of OXY-LC Interface Board

// Initialize SoftwareSerial for RS-485 communication
SoftwareSerial rs485Serial(RX_PIN, TX_PIN);

void setup() {
  // Start serial communication with the OXY-LC Interface Board
  rs485Serial.begin(9600); // Set baud rate to 9600 (adjust if necessary)
  Serial.begin(9600);      // Start serial monitor for debugging

  Serial.println("OXY-LC Interface Board Communication Initialized");
}

void loop() {
  // Check if data is available from the OXY-LC Interface Board
  if (rs485Serial.available()) {
    String oxygenData = rs485Serial.readString(); // Read data from the board
    Serial.print("Oxygen Sensor Data: ");
    Serial.println(oxygenData); // Print data to the serial monitor
  }

  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before reading again
}

Note: Ensure the RS-485 transceiver module is used between the Arduino and the OXY-LC Interface Board to handle differential signaling.

1. No Data Received from the Board

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or loose connections.
   • Solution: Verify all connections, especially the RS-485 lines and the sensor input.

2. Communication Errors

   • Cause: Mismatched baud rate or improper termination resistors.
   • Solution: Check the baud rate settings and ensure proper termination resistors are in place.

3. Sensor Data is Inaccurate

   • Cause: Faulty sensor connection or environmental interference.
   • Solution: Ensure the sensor is securely connected and shield the board from EMI.

4. Board Overheating

   • Cause: Operating outside the specified temperature range.
   • Solution: Ensure the board is used within the -20°C to +60°C range.

Q: Can the OXY-LC Interface Board be used with other sensors?
A: No, the board is specifically designed for use with the OXY-LC oxygen sensor.

Q: What is the maximum communication distance for RS-485?
A: RS-485 supports communication distances up to 1200 meters, depending on the baud rate and cable quality.

Q: How do I change the baud rate of the board?
A: Use the CONFIG pin to set the desired baud rate. Refer to the manufacturer's documentation for detailed instructions.

Q: Is the board compatible with 3.3 V systems?
A: No, the board requires a 5 V DC power supply for proper operation. Use a level shifter if interfacing with 3.3 V systems.