Introduction
This document covers installation for the WC-FM300-US Ultrasonic Flow Monitor for pipe sizes of 1.5 - 2”.
The WaterCompass FM300 Ultrasonic Flow Monitor is a clamp-on flow monitor with a 30 V power supply that connects to the WaterCompass Data Collector.
The monitor sends real-time flow data to the WaterCompass Data Collector that is viewed from the WaterCompass dashboard. Hourly summation of flow data is stored for analysis and reporting.
Contact Information:
WaterCompass 707-285-3250
Before you begin, review the safety precautions at the end of this installation guide.
Pre-Configured Settings
To ensure accuracy, the Flow Monitor will be pre-configured with the following settings:
- Pipe size (varies)
- Pipe type (varies)
- Flow direction (right)
- K-value (60.1)
Materials Provided
- WaterCompass Data Collector (LC+)
- WaterCompass Flow Monitor
- 50' of multi-conductor (3+) shielded plenum rated 18 AWG cable
- 4 wire nutes
- 4 Data Collector mounting screws
- Barrel connector
Materials Provided
• WaterCompass Data Collector (LC+)
• WaterCompass Flow Monitor
• 50’ of multi-conductor (3+) shielded plenum rated 18 AWG cable
• 4 wire nuts
• 4 Data Collector mounting screws
• Barrel connector
Equipment Needed
• Philips head screwdriver with long shaft
• Torx screwdriver (for pipes larger than 2")
• Lock Nut
• Zip ties



This installation manual details the process a contractor should follow to install an FM300 Flow Monitor on-site, as well as outlining basic troubleshooting steps.


The FM300 Flow Monitor is a non-invasive flow monitor that reads usage data from an existing water pipe with ultrasonic technology, continuously monitors for leaks, and tracks ongoing water usage.
There are three phases to the installation process:

Phase 1: WaterCompass Data Collector installation
Phase 2: Flow Monitor installation
Phase 3: WaterCompass Data Collector flow validation


You do not need to turn off the water or cut any pipes to install the flow monitor. After installation, the flow monitor will be able to read flow on the supply line and the WaterCompass Data Collector will establish a cellular data connection to upload usage data to the WaterCompass dashboard.
If you have any questions or issues when installing the FM300, please call Professional Services at 707-285-3250.

Wall Mounting Instructions
Mounting the WaterCompass Data Collector enclosure consists of two parts-installing the mounting plate and installing the Data Collector onto the mounting plate.

Step 1: Mount the Water Compass Data Collection Enclosure, cont.


Step 1: Mount the Water Compass Data Collection Enclosure, cont.




Step 2: Connect the Water Compass Data Collector to AC Power, Cont.

120 VAC Applications
For 120 VAC wire applications, connect the conductors as illustrated below from the primary side of the transformer to wiring from an approved electrical source. The unused blue and brown wires are cut short and terminated with a wire nut.
Connecting AC Power
The WaterCompass Data Collector utilizes a single phase, 2.0 amp transformer which can be accessed by removing the safety cover located behind the command module.
Three (3) wire nuts are included with the mounting fasteners to connect to a 3-conductor wire, 120- volt power source as shown below. The primary side of the transformer has three color conductors noted as follows:
• Green: earth ground
• Black: positive
• White: negative
1. Swing open the door of the command and unscrew the safety cover from the transformer.
2. Remove approximately ½” of wire insulation to expose the center conductor. Twist the appropriate colored wires and seal with a wire nut.
3. Re-install the protective safety cover and tighten the supplied fastener.




Step 5: Attach the Flow Monitor to the Pipe, cont.


Step 5: Attach the Flow Monitor to the Pipe, cont.



Step 5: Attach the Flow Monitor to the Pipe, cont.

Step 5: Attach the Flow Monitor to the Pipe, cont.

Step 5: Attach the Flow Monitor to the Pipe, cont.











How to Select an Installation Location
Some important factors must be considered BEFORE installing the FM300-US Flow Monitor. Read and follow the guidelines below to ensure that the flow monitor is installed in just the right location to deliver the results you need.
• Choose a location indoors
• Choose a location that captures all the flow being monitored
• Install on a pipe that is always full of water
• Ensure that the monitor has direct contact with the pipe
• Install in a location that is free of turbulence
• Install in a room where there is 120V power
Choose a location that captures all the flow being monitored
Whether you want to monitor an entire building or just a floor of a building, you will need to install the device in a place indoors that captures all of the flow entering the section of the building that you want to monitor.
For example, if the objective is to monitor the flow for an entire building, the device should be located on the pipe entering the building from the water source. If the objective is to monitor a specific floor of a building, the device needs to be installed on the pipe supplying all the water for that floor.
Install on a pipe that is always full of water
The device needs to be installed in a location where the pipe is always filled with water. Be aware of situations where low flow may allow the pipe to be only partially full:
Ensure that the monitor has direct contact with the pipe
The flow monitor needs to be installed directly on the pipe. Do not install the device on top of insulation or in areas that contain rust or seams.
Install in a location that is free of turbulence
Changes in pipe size and direction can create turbulence in the water and stop the monitor from accurately reading flow. Select an installation location that will ensure adequate distance upstream and downstream of the monitor to allow any turbulence to settle before passing the flow monitor.
Be sure to select a location that is:
• Far enough downstream to allow turbulence to settle
• UPSTREAM of pressure regulating devices
• Far enough away from sources of large pulsation (like from a pump)

Appendix A: Selecting an Installation Location, cont.
You can use the chart below to help ensure that you are leaving enough space upstream for proper flow.
You will need a caliper and a tape measure to determine the diameter and length of the existing pipe.
The Length (L) should be greater than X times the diameter of the pipe based on the specific pipe change described in the chart.
For example, on a 2” pipe the monitor’s best section of pipe is directly downstream of a 90° elbow. We’d look for at least 10x2” or 20” of pipe between the end of the bend and the beginning of the monitor to allow for the turbulence caused by the elbow to settle.
Install in a room where there is 120V power
The WaterCompass FM300-US Flow Monitor runs on DC power. It is best to install the device in a room where there is a power outlet or where power conduit can be tapped into for use.
The DC supply wire and the two-wire can run in parallel and inside the same outer jacket. The DC supply wire cannot have more than 25ohms* of resistance: 12.5 out, 12.5 back.
Appendix A: Selecting an Installation Location, cont.





Appendix C: Changing Flow Direction, cont.



Appendix D: Setting Simulation Mode, Cont.


If you neeed to edit or change the Flow Sensor configurations, follow the steps below. You will need to place the Data Collector into maintenance mode in order to access the panel. This step unlocks the control panel so you can make changes. If you need password assistance, contact ProServices at 707-285-3250.



Appendix E: Changing Configurations for the Flow Sensor, Cont.


If you need to extend the length of the Flow Monitor wires, follow the steps below.

Appendix F: Extending the Flow Monitor Wires, Cont.

Appendix F: Extending the Flow Monitor Wires, Cont.

Appendix F: Extending the Flow Monitor Wires, Cont.

Appendix F: Extending the Flow Monitor Wires, Cont.


Route Cable
1. Install the cord grip into the Water Compass Data Collector housing.
2. Feed the 18 AWG plenum wire through the cord grip.
Preparer the opposite side of the plenum wire
1. Strip 3-4” of sheath from the 18 AWG plenum wire.
2. Peel back the foil shield to expose the stranded shield wire.
3. Remove the foil but leave the stranded shield wire.
4. Cut the shield wire to 1”.
5. Cut the red wire close to the sheath cable
Extend the Wire
1. Cut a 3 -4” piece of black 18 AWG wire. You can use a piece from the plenum wire or any other 18 AWG wire that you may have on hand.
2. Use a wire nut to wire the black 18 AWG to the shield wire.
Connect to Data Collector
1. Strip 1/2” of insulation from Blue, Black and Brown wires.
2. Insert the shield wire into the earth ground lug and tighten securely.
3. Insert the blue wire into the Flow - port.
4. Insert the black wire into the Flow + port.
5. Use a wire nut to connect the brown 18 AWG plenum wire with the brown power supply wire.

General Cautions

Precautions for Handling

Precautions for Detectable Fluid

The content on this page is from the Keyence FD-R Series Instruction Manual. Used with permission.
Safety Precautions for the FM300-US Flow Monitor, cont.
Precautions for Installation

•

Install the FM300-US Flow Monitor at a location where the inside the measuring pipe is always filled with the fluid.
• To prevent a situation where the FM300-US Flow Monitor is affected by air bubbles or the pipe not being filled with fluid, it is recommended to secure it in a position where the display surface is perpendicular to the ground.
• Arrange piping so that gas does not enter it. When the fluid contains bubbles, detection performance of the FM300-US Flow Monitor may be affected.
• When installing the FM300-US Flow Monitor on a vertical pipe, choose the position where the fluid flows in the upward direction.
• To improve the detection stability, it is recommended that the monitor be installed in a location with straight sections of pipe upstream that are at least five times the length of the pipe`s inside diameter.
• Install the monitor on the upstream side of a flow regulating valve or similar piece of equipment.
• Install the FM300-US Flow Monitor on a surface with no seams or rust.
• Do not install the FM300-US Flow Monitor in a location exposed to intense light, such as direct sunlight, or radiation from a heat source.
• Do not install the FM300-US Flow Monitor at a location where it may become submerged in a liquid.
• When installing the FM300-US Flow Monitor at a location where vibrations occur, fix the pipe with tubes or supports as close to the main unit as possible. Excessive vibration may cause unstable operation.
• To avoid interference of detection signals, do not install multiple units closely in series.
The content on this page is from the Keyence FD-R Series Instruction Manual. Used with permission.
Safety Precautions for the FM300-US Flow Monitor, cont.
Precautions for Wiring

Other Precautions

The content on this page is from the Keyence FD-R Series Instruction Manual. Used with permission.
hydropoint.com
CUSTOMER SERVICE
support@hydropoint.com Toll-free 800.362.8774
Fax 707.769.9695
ORDERING/SALES
orders@hydropoint.com 707.769.9696
Fax 707.769.9695

RevA 020922
© Copyright 2022 HydroPoint Data Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. RevA 12062021