Auto-Zone Control Systems Auto-Zone Plus Systems Installation & Operation (Version 03A) - Manual (Page 46)

Section 2
Auto-Zone Plus
2-14 Design Guide
Communications Loops
The daisy chain is the best method for running a communications loop since there is only
one starting point and one ending point for each of the communications loops. See Figure
2-9.
Note: Auto-Zone Plus systems use two separate types of communications loops. The
Network Loop connects only to the Zone Managers and the CommLink. The
Local Loops connect between the Zone Manager and the Zone Controllers for
that HVAC unit. Each Zone Manager has its own Local Loop for connection
to its associated Zone Controllers, any additional CV or CV-C units or Add-on
Controllers and the System Manager.
Do not connect Zone Controllers, CV Controllers, Add-on Controllers or
the System Manager to the Network Loop!
Both the network communications loop and the local communications loops utilize 18
gauge minimum 2 conductor twisted pair with shield communication cable to
interconnect the various controllers and interfaces on the system. The loops are best
connected in daisy chain configuration, meaning the loops are connected from one
controller to another. It is not necessary to sequentially address the zone controllers or
other controllers in relation to their location on the loop. However zone controllers
should be numbered from 1 to 16 and any CV, CV-C or Add-on Controllers should be
numbered from 18 to 30.
WattMaster offers communications cable that is color coded with red or green candy
striping to distinguish the Network and Local Loop wiring runs. The network loop wire
has red striping while the local loop wire has green striping. This can really help you on
large jobs by keeping your network and local loop wiring runs visually distinguishable
from each other and helps prevent potential network and local loop cross connections. If
you do not use the WattMaster communications cable you must use Belden #82760 cable
or its equivalent.
Tip:
Incorrect wiring of the communications loop is the most common mistake made
during installation. Before beginning installation, write down the wire color used
on each terminal connection and consistently maintain that color code. It is
recommended that a continuous wire run be made between devices. Any time a
splice is made in the cable you increase your chance of problems.