Grid Server Smart Sensors

VARAdvisor Capacitor Bank Neutral Monitor (CBNM)

Commissioning and Installation Instructions

Service Information

S1150-10-3

Note: This document applies to VARAdvisor monitors with serial numbers of 300000XXXX or 100000XXXX.

WARNING:

The Cooper Power Systems VARAdvisor Capacitor

Bank Neutral Monitor (CBNM) is designed to be
operated in accordance with normal safe operating
procedures. These instructions are not intended to
supersede or replace existing safety and operating
procedures. Read all instructions before installing
the faulted circuit indicator.
VARAdvisor CBNM should be installed and
serviced only by personnel familiar with good safety
practice and the handling of high-voltage electrical
equipment.
Improper operation, handling, or maintenance
can result in death, severe personal injury, and
equipment damage.
Figure 1.
VARAdvisor Capacitor Bank Neutral Monitor (CBNM).

Contents

Product Information1
Safety Information 2
Installation Procedures 3
Overhead Capacitor Banks3
Removing the VARAdvisor Sensor 3
Setup Procedure3
Initial Setup3
Operating Description 4
Appendix A: Regulatory Information6
FCC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Important Battery Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

PRODUCT INFORMATION
Introduction
The Cooper Power Systems VARAdvisor Capacitor Bank
Neutral Monitor (CBNM) is cable-mounted and provides
feedback as to which capacitor banks may be offline due
to a fuse operation. The VARAdvisor CBNM consists of an
integral clamp-on sensing unit with a patented clamping
mechanism that allows one unit to be used on cable
sizes from 0.25 to 2.0. The utility can set threshold limits
on neutral current that will alert them of a potential fuse
operation thereby reducing the need for physical bank
inspections. Default values from the factory set the current
threshold at 30 A and the reset threshold at 2 A. When
2A or less is sampled, the device will automatically reset.
The VARAdvisor CBNM is weatherproof, submersible, and
meets or exceeds IEEE Std 495-2007 standard.
October 2013 Supersedes April 2010

Read This Manual First

Read and understand the contents of this manual and

follow all locally approved procedures and safety practices
before installing or operating this equipment.

Additional Information
These instructions cannot cover all details or variations in
the equipment, procedures, or processes described nor
provide directions for meeting every possible contingency
during installation, operation, or maintenance. For additional
information, contact your representative.

Acceptance and Initial Inspection

Each VARAdvisor CBNM is in good condition when
accepted by the carrier for shipment. Upon receipt, inspect
the shipping container for signs of damage. Unpack the
VARAdvisor CBNM and inspect it thoroughly for damage
incurred during shipment. If damage is discovered, file a
claim with the carrier immediately.

Handling and Storage

Be careful during handling and storage of the VARAdvisor
CBNM to minimize the possibility of damage. If the
VARAdvisor CBNM is to be stored for any length of time
prior to installation, provide a clean, dry storage area.

Standards
ISO 9001 Certified Quality Management System

VARAdvisor Capacitor Bank Neutral Monitor (CBNM) Commissioning and Installation Instructions

SAFETY
FOR LIFE

SAFETY FOR LIFE

SAFETY
FOR LIFE

Cooper Power Systems products meet or exceed all applicable industry standards relating to product safety. We actively
promote safe practices in the use and maintenance of our products through our service literature, instructional training
programs, and the continuous efforts of all Cooper Power Systems employees involved in product design, manufacture,
marketing, and service.
We strongly urge that you always follow all locally approved safety procedures and safety instructions when working around
high voltage lines and equipment and support our Safety For Life mission.

SAFETY INFORMATION
The instructions in this manual are not intended as a
substitute for proper training or adequate experience
in the safe operation of the equipment described.
Only competent technicians, who are familiar with this
equipment should install, operate, and service it.
A competent technician has these qualifications:
Is thoroughly familiar with these instructions.
Is trained in industry-accepted high- and low-voltage
safe operating practices and procedures.
Is trained and authorized to energize, de-energize,
clear, and ground power distribution equipment.
Is trained in the care and use of protective equipment
such as flash clothing, safety glasses, face shield, hard
hat, rubber gloves, hotstick, etc.
Following is important safety information. For safe
installation and operation of this equipment, be sure to read
and understand all cautions and warnings.

Hazard Statement Definitions

This manual may contain four types of hazard
statements:

DANGER:

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not

avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING:

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not

avoided, could result In death or serious injury.

CAUTION:

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not

avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
Caution: Indicates a hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, could result in equipment damage
only.

Safety Instructions
Following are general caution and warning statements that
apply to this equipment. Additional statements, related to
specific tasks and procedures, are located throughout the
manual.

DANGER:

WARNING:

WARNING:

WARNING:

Hazardous voltage. Contact with hazardous voltage will

cause death or severe personal injury. Follow all locally
approved safety procedures when working around highand low-voltage lines and equipment.

Before installing, operating, maintaining, or testing

this equipment, carefully read and understand the
contents of this manual. Improper operation, handling,
or maintenance can result in death, severe personal
injury, and equipment damage.

This equipment is not intended to protect human life.

Follow all locally approved procedures and safety
practices when installing or operating this equipment.
Failure to comply may result in death, severe personal
injury, and equipment damage.

Power distribution and transmission equipment must

be properly selected for the intended application. It
must be installed and serviced by competent personnel
who have been trained and understand proper safety
procedures. These instructions are written for such
personnel and are not a substitute for adequate
training and experience in safety procedures. Failure to
properly select, install, or maintain power distribution
and transmission equipment can result in death, severe
personal injury, and equipment damage.

S1150-10-3

SAFETY
FOR LIFE

INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
Overhead Capacitor Banks
1. Arm the VARAdvisor CBNM clamping mechanism
by carefully grasping both clamping arms, pulling
them apart until the trigger mechanism drops in
place. Stops have been built into the clamping arms
such that they can only be opened to the point where
the trigger will latch (See Figure 2).
2. For applications where the cable diameter is
less than 1, leave the clamp pads attached to
the clamp arms. On installations where the cable
diameter exceeds 1, remove the pads that are
attached to each clamping arm. Removing the pads
will allow the clamping mechanism to properly attach
to larger diameter cables (See Figure 3).
3. Apply a thin layer of silicon lubricant to the inside
of the closed core current transformer (CT).
4. Attach the VARAdvisor CBNM to a shotgun (clamp)
stick using the pulling eye.
5. Push the VARAdvisor CBNM onto the combined
capacitor bank neutral conductor. Ensure that the
CT is around the conductor and good contact is made
between the ends of the CT. The triggering mechanism
will release the clamping arms from the latched position
to securely attach the device to the cable.

Removing the VARAdvisor Sensor

1. Insert the hook end from the shotgun stick into the
pulling eye of the VARAdvisor CBNM and lock the
shotgun stick tight against the device body.
2. Pull straight back on the hotstick making sure that
the center of the cable is centered on the parting
line of the current transformer. This will assist the CT
in opening, allowing the cable to exit.
3. If clamp pads must be used with the VARAdvisor
CBNM upon reinstallation, ensure that the pads are
properly attached to the clamp arms.

Figure 3.
Remove clamp pads attached to each clamping arm
on a mechanism where cable diameter exceeds one
(1) inch.

SETUP PROCEDURE
Initial Setup
1. Once the device is properly installed, use the S.T.A.R.
Manual Reset Tool (SMRT) to activate the Reed Switch
(See Figure 4). A stamped R on the outside of the
sensor housing indicates the location of the Reed
Switch. Press the Reset Tool firmly to the R and the
LED blink sequence will begin to indicate the switch
has been successfully activated (see Table 1).
2. If the Normal Calibrated Sequence is displayed, the
sensor is ready for installation. For other blink sequences,
see Table 1 for explanation and recommended
actions.

Figure 2.
Faulted circuit indicator clamping arms in the latched
position.
3

VARAdvisor Capacitor Bank Neutral Monitor (CBNM) Commissioning and Installation Instructions

Operating Description
The VARAdvisor sensor takes a current sample every
hour. Every 14 days, the device will send out the daily
minimum and maximum current samples taken.
If a sample exceeds a user-defined and configurable
value (default = 30 Amps), the unit will send out a
notification packet via wireless communications. The
utility will be notified of an imbalance current that has
exceeded threshold no more than an hour after it appears.
The device will then revert back to the default reporting
frequency (14 days). To allow automatic reset of this
status a reset threshold will be used.
If at any time a sampled value is equal or less than the
reset threshold, the device will clear (zero) the over-current
status, power up the radio and report a data values
message. A new two week interval is initiated at this time
and collection of data begins again. An initial default value
of 2 A is recommended for the reset threshold.

Configurable Parameters
The VARAdvisor CBNM provides the general GridAdvisor
product configurability. In addition, it allows certain
VARAdvisor CBNM parameters to be configured as
detailed below. (Note: The Cooper Power Systems
Software Integration team will have to configure the
devices for the utility. In the future, this functionality will be
added to the Yukon GridServer software.)

History Report Period

The history report period for the device defines the
frequency, or number of days between, history reports.
The default report frequency is set at the maximum period
of 14 days. The configurability range is limited in firmware
to 1 14 days. It should be noted that increase frequency

will affect battery life.

Configuration Report Period

The configuration report period defines the frequency, or
number of history reports between, configuration reports.
The default configuration report period is set to 6 (~3
months). The configurability range is 0 (never/disabled) to
256 (almost never).

Over-current Trigger Threshold

The over-current threshold parameter defines the value
of current for which the device will enter an over-current
state. The configurability range is limited in firmware to
a maximum of 90 A (determined by the devices ADC
saturation point of ~100 A) down to 6 A above the reset
threshold (hysteresis delta).
If the host attempts to reconfigure reset and over-current
thresholds to values too close to each other, the firmware
will adjust the configured values so that the minimum
hysteresis delta is maintained.

Reset Threshold
The reset threshold defines the value of current for
which the device will reset its over-current state. The
configurability range is limited in firmware to a minimum
of 0 A up to 6 A below the over-current threshold (thus
maximum would be 84 A if over-current threshold was
maxed at 90 A).

Reed Switch Testing/Activation

During installation, the operator can identify the
onboard configuration is valid and that the device and
communication path are functional through the use of the
Reed Switch. The Reed Switch is activated by swiping
the ink-stamped R on the side of the housing with a
Manual Reset Tool (SMRT).

WHITE INK STAMP

STAR MANUAL
RESET TOOL (SMRT)

Figure 4.
S.T.A.R. Faulted Circuit Indicator's Manual Reset Tool (Catalog Number SMRT) activates the Reed Switch.

S1150-10-3

SAFETY
FOR LIFE

Table 1 describes the LED sequences for the different

device states. The LED blink sequence for history
reporting is only enabled if triggered by the Reed Switch.
(See Figure 4.) Upon detection of a Reed Switch trigger,
the device will slow blink the LED 3 times and then
initiate a current read. Current readings may take up to
15 seconds to complete, during which time the LED will
be OFF. The device will then initiate a new LED blink
sequence, power the radio and make a data report. Any
data collected in the previous two week interval will also

be transmitted at this time (Note: The LED will continue

to blink until communication has been completed and
the radio is powered down). The type of LED blink will
indicate whether the device is calibrated, and if it is in
over-current state. Any over-current flags will be cleared
at the start of the Reed Switch toggle and be reset based
upon the new current reading. A new two week interval
will begin following this operation.

TABLE 1
LED Blink Sequences Upon Reed Switch Activation
Device Activity

Blink Sequence*

BLINK STATUS

1.5 sec. ON, 1.5 sec. OFF

(3 Cycles)

Enabled to indicate Reed Switch trigger was detected.

*Note: After being triggered there will be a pause
of up to 15 seconds in which time a current
measurement is taken. A new blink sequence will
follow accordingly.

1 Blink, Pause, Repeat

Enabled if triggered by Reed switch.

*Note: This status indicates the capacitor bank is within
the threshold limits and there is good cellular
coverage.

Reed Switch Triggered

Indication

Calibrated - Normal
History Reporting

Calibrated - OverCurrent
History Reporting

2 Blinks, Pause, Repeat

Enabled if triggered by Reed switch.

*Note: This status indicates the capacitor bank neutral
current is above the threshold limit. A new limit
must be set or the problem must be fixed.

Uncalibrated History
Reporting

4 Blinks, Pause, Repeat

Enabled if triggered by Reed switch.

*Note: If this status is seen, please notify a Cooper
Power Systems Representative.

3 Rapid/3 Slow/3
Rapid, Pause, Repeat
(SOS Pattern)

Enabled if triggered by Reed switch.

*Note: This status indicates the radio cannot connect,
an issue with coverage or towers, or device
failure.

Radio Error

* NOTE: LED Blink - 0.5 sec ON, 0.5 sec OFF

LED Pause - 2 sec OFF

TABLE 1
LED Blink Sequences Upon Reed Switch Activation
Device Activity
Blink Sequence
Normal Blink Sequence
OverCurrent Condition
Device not Calibrated
Radio Error

Action

A+B

Normal - OK to install

A+C

Device has seen current sample exceed threshold. Possible fuse

operation. Once repairs have been made, activate Reed Switch and
observe Blink Sequence.

A+D

Device was not calibrated properly during manufacturing. Return the

unit to factory.

A+B+E
or
A+C+E
or
A+D+E

Network connection failure may be due to lack of signal strength,

communication network may be in-operable or device hardware
failure. Unit should be relocated. If unit experiences radio error at
new location, return unit to the factory.

VARAdvisor Capacitor Bank Neutral Monitor (CBNM) Commissioning and Installation Instructions

APPENDIX A: REGULATORY
INFORMATION:
COMPLIANCE INFORMATION:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC):
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part
15 and 24 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet or circuit different
from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help.
IMPORTANT: Changes or modifications to this device
not expressly approved by Cooper Power Systems could
void the users authority to operate this equipment.
Industry Canada:
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the
Canadian Interference Causing Equipment Regulations.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure:
In accordance with FCC requirements of human exposure
to radio frequency fields, the radiating element shall be
installed such that a minimum separation distance of
20cm is maintained.

Important Battery Information

Do not disassemble or open crush, bend or deform,
puncture or shred
Do not modify or remanufacture, attempt to insert
foreign objects into the battery, immerse or expose to
water or other liquids, expose to fire, explosion or other
hazard.
Only use the battery for the system for which it is
specified
Only use the battery with a charging system that has
been qualified with the system per this standard. Use of
an unqualified battery or charger may present a risk of
fire, explosion, leakage, or other hazard.
Do not short circuit a battery or allow metallic conductive
objects to contact battery terminals.
Replace the battery only with another battery that
has been qualified with the system per this standard,
IEEE Std 1725TM-2006 standard. Use of an unqualified
battery may present a risk of fire, explosion, leakage or
other hazard.
Promptly dispose of used batteries in accordance with
local regulations
Battery usage by children should be supervised.
Avoid dropping the phone or battery. If the phone or
battery is dropped, especially on a hard surface, and
the user suspects damage, take it to a service center
for inspection.
Improper battery use may result in a fire, explosion or
other hazard.

S1150-10-3

SAFETY
FOR LIFE

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VARAdvisor Capacitor Bank Neutral Monitor (CBNM) Commissioning and Installation Instructions

SAFETY
FOR LIFE
2013 Eaton. All Rights Reserved.
Eaton, Cooper Power Systems, VARAdvisor, S.T.A.R., GridAdvisor, and Yukon are
valuable trademarks in the U.S. and other countries. You are not permitted to use
these trademarks without the prior written consent of Eaton.
IEEE Std 1725 -2006 and IEEE Std 495 -2007 standards are trademarks of
the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.
IEEE is a registered trademark of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers, Inc., (IEEE). This publication/product is not endorsed or approved by
the IEEE.
S1150103 Rev 1 Supersedes S1150103 Rev 0
8

2300 Badger Drive

Waukesha, WI 53188
www.cooperpower.com