FAQ FOR FAM-W ROOM CONTROLLER

1. How do I start a system with FAM-W?

You should start by downloading the app to perform the start-up. This is available for iPhone and Android, and is called TROX Ox ServiceApp.

2. Is there an app for users of the rooms?

There is a user app for iPhone and Android, respectively, called TROX Ox.

3. The apps request permission to use Bluetooth and the camera. Is this necessary?

Both apps use the camera to scan QR codes to connect to FAM-W, and the connection is made via Bluetooth. You must therefore give the apps access to these functions on your phone.

4. How do I start running a system with SystemController?

When you have a SystemController in the system, it must be the Root Node in the mesh system, so you must start by scanning the QR code for the mesh system on the SystemController. This ensures that all devices belong to the same system. Open the TROX Ox ServiceApp on your phone and select System Integration. All FAM-W units that are brand new or have been set up in the mesh system will appear in the app.

5. What happens to FAM-W when I choose Stand Alone setup?

When FAM-W is set to stand-alone mode, each FAM-W creates its own small network, with FAM-W as the root node.

6. Are wireless sensors, control panels and actuators included in the mesh system?

To reduce battery consumption, wireless sensors and actuators only communicate directly with FAM-W. Mesh technology therefore only works between FAM-W devices.

7. How long is the battery life of wireless sensors, control panels and actuators?

The battery-powered components connected to the FAM-W have a minimum battery life of 7 years.

8. The screen on my CP-RCNS wireless control panel is off. Why is it not on constantly?

To save battery power, the display on the control panel is turned off during normal operation. To wake up the display, either turn the wheel or press the button to the right of the wheel.

9. I blow on the wireless sensor/control panel, but the CO2 value does not increase. What is wrong?

To achieve long battery life, the CO2 sensor remains dormant for periods of 2 minutes. This means that the sensor is activated every 2 minutes, takes a measurement, and transmits this value to the FAM-W. Other values such as temperature and relative humidity are measured continuously and transmitted to the FAM-W once per minute.

10. How does communication between FAM-W and SystemController take place? Is it by changing values?

FAM-W is set up to communicate with SystemController once per minute. This is to reduce traffic in the system. If FAM-W has a VAV damper that is in a working range that requires it to control the fans (between 70–100% damper angle and measuring air), FAM-W communicates all values every 10 seconds.

11. Are all values in FAM-W transferred to SystemController every minute?

No, only values that have a natural variation are transferred every minute. These include, for example, air volume, temperature, CO2, damper angle, etc. Values such as Vmin, Vmax, sensor types, etc. are not transferred. If you change these settings, FAM-W will notify the SystemController that the configuration has been changed, and the SystemController will request a complete overview.

12. I have several FAM-W units set up as stand-alone units that I want to connect to a SystemController. Is this possible without restarting?

Yes, this is possible. Use the TROX Ox ServiceApp, select System Integration, and scan the QR code on the SystemController. When you get to the next screen, press the + sign at the bottom of the screen and scan QR code 2 on the FAM-W box (the one on the label on the box). The FAM-W will transfer the Mesh settings to the SystemController and restart.

13. There are two QR codes in the box. Which code do I use for what?

One QR code is marked with the number 2 to indicate QR code no. 2. This is used with the TROX Ox ServiceApp to change the configuration of the FAM-W. The other QR code has a mark with the number 3 to indicate QR code no. 3. This is used with the TROX Ox app (user app) to change the temperature setting for the room.

14. The QR codes in the box are marked 2 and 3, where is QR code no. 1?

QR code 1 = QR code in SystemController

QR code 2 = QR code for TROX Ox ServiceApp

QR code 3 = QR code for TROX Ox (user app)

15. When I start setting up FAM-W in stand-alone mode, I do not need to scan the QR code to access the settings, but afterwards I have to scan the QR code. Why is that?

When FAM-W is brand new (has not been set up), it is open for anyone to connect to. This is because we assume that setup will be done immediately after the devices have been powered up. Once the devices have been set up with their settings, we do not want anyone with the TROX Ox ServiceApp to be able to change the settings, which is why you have to scan QR code 2 to access the device.

16. Once I have scanned the QR code in SystemController, I do not need to scan the QR code on the FAM-W boxes to access the settings. Why is that?

If you have access to the SystemController and its Mesh ID, we assume that you should have access to make changes to the settings in FAM-W – and therefore you do not need to scan QR code 2 for this.

17. I have set up FAM-W in a system (with SystemController). Why can't I see the FAM-W devices when I open TROX Ox ServiceApp in stand-alone mode?

When you have set up FAM-W in a system, you must scan the QR code on SystemController to see all the devices. This is done to prevent unauthorised persons from accessing the devices.

18. When I try to connect to FAM-W with an app, I cannot access it. Why is that?

If someone else is communicating with FAM-W using the TROX Ox ServiceApp or TROX Ox (user app), others will not be able to connect. FAM-W can only be connected to one mobile device at a time.

19. I am unable to connect to the FAM-W device, and no one else is connected. What should I do?

Unfortunately, Bluetooth technology can be a bit unpredictable at times. If you are unable to connect, try closing the app completely and restarting it.

20. I have tried restarting the app, but I still cannot connect. What should I do?

It may be that the Bluetooth communication is stuck on the previous FAM-W even though the app says otherwise (the yellow light on the previous FAM-W is lit). By turning off Bluetooth on your phone, closing the app and restarting Bluetooth and the app, you will probably be able to continue.

21. How do I perform a factory reset of a FAM-W?

By deleting the content on the NFC card, you can perform a factory reset of the FAM-W. It is recommended to disconnect the FAM-W from the power supply before deleting the contents of the card – this ensures that the FAM-W boots from an empty card and is thus factory reset. The card can be deleted using the TROX Ox ServiceApp.

22. The FAM-W is positioned in such a way that it is difficult to connect the NFC card. What should I do?

The NFC card can be removed from the box and reset by holding the card against the phone while using the function in the TROX Ox ServiceApp to reset the device. Ensure that the NFC card is installed correctly and that all connection pins are inserted correctly.

23. Where do I place the extra QR codes that are in the box?

It is up to each installer/building owner to decide where to place the QR codes. QR code 3 is used to change the temperature setpoint in the room, and we recommend placing the code in the door frame leading into the room if this is natural – or in a suitable place in the room. QR code 2 must be used to make settings on the FAM-W if the system is in Stand-Alone mode, and in this case it is advisable to place an extra QR code on the ceiling profile where the box is located, or on a list that is accessible to qualified personnel.

24. Can I copy settings from one FAM-W to another unit, since the settings in each room are identical?

In the TROX Ox ServiceApp, you can save up to five different settings in a small library, allowing you to easily copy the settings to another room. Please note that wireless components are not copied and must be connected to the FAM-W in each room.

25. I have pre-programmed the FAM-W units, but unfortunately the wrong box ended up in the wrong room. Can this be fixed easily?

The settings for the FAM-W boxes are stored on the NFC card. By swapping cards between rooms, you can move the settings from one room to another.

26. I have set up a FAM-W in two-room mode, but want to use it for only one room. Will the settings be retained when changing modes?

If FAM-W is in two-room mode with a setup for each room, the settings in room 1 will be retained as settings for FAM-W if you switch to single-room mode.

27. I am going to set up FAM-W with components – what should I start with?

The wireless components will take some time to connect and transfer information, so it is recommended to start with these. Then add components such as VAV dampers, actuators for heating and cooling, etc.

28. Do I have to wait until the wireless components have connected before moving on to the next room?

You can proceed to the next room without the wireless components being fully connected to the FAM-W unit. It is easy to go back and check that the values are correct at a later time.

29. Why does it take so long to connect wireless components?

When connecting wireless components, the mesh information must be transferred from the FAM-W to the component via Bluetooth communication, then the component must restart and the information is transferred. Since information is transferred once per minute, it may take almost a minute for the information to be transferred, depending on when you hit the interval with the connection.

30. When I try to add an actuator or sensor in the TROX Ox ServiceApp, I get a blank page with no options to make a selection.

Unfortunately, this is a bug in the app that occurs from time to time. If you go back one step and then back again, it will usually resolve itself. As a last resort, disconnect from FAM-W and then reconnect and try again.

31. When I add a VAV damper with Modbus communication, I get no connection. What is wrong?

Check the actuator to see if it is set to Modbus communication (and not analogue communication) and if it has the correct Modbus address. Extraction dampers should have addresses 1-10 (starting at address 1), and supply air should have addresses 11-20 (starting at address 11). Modbus must have a baud rate of 38400 and a transmission format of 1-8-N-1.

32. Do I need to enter the nominal air volume on the VAV dampers in FAM-W?

If FAM-W communicates with the VAV dampers via Modbus, FAM-W will read the nominal air volume, as well as Vmin and Vmax from the damper. If FAM-W communicates with the VAV dampers via analogue 0-10 V signals, all information must be entered into FAM-W.

33. I have an X-SENS TPDM in the valve front, but I am not getting any communication. What is wrong?

In order for FAM-W to recognise the X-SENS TPDM sensor, it must have Modbus address 125 or 126 (starting at 125). This can be set via the X-SenseNFC app (Android only). Modbus must have a baud rate of 38400 and a transmission format of 1-8-N-1.

34. I am going to use the CP-RCNE control panel (Belimo ePaper). What Modbus address should this have?

In order for FAM-W to recognise the CP-RCNE control panel, it must have Modbus address 91 or 92 (starting at 91), and the device must be set to Modbus communication. This can be set via the Belimo Assistant 2 app. Modbus must have a baud rate of 38400 and transmission format 1-8-N-1.

35. What Modbus settings should components have that are to communicate with FAM-W?

Modbus must have a baud rate of 38400 and a transmission format of 1-8-N-1. The correct Modbus address for each component can be found in the IOM manual for FAM-W.

36. I have a FAM-W MOD2 with two Modbus outputs. Are these outputs connected, or do they function as separate Modbus loops?

If you have a FAM-W MOD2, each Modbus output will be a separate loop. This means that you can have a supply air damper for each output, both of which have Modbus address 11.

37. Can FAM-W recognise connected equipment itself?

Equipment with Modbus communication and the correct Modbus setting can be identified automatically by the FAM-W. Connect to the FAM-W via the TROX Ox ServiceApp, press the three dots in the upper right corner and select "Auto Detect Components". Components that require analogue communication (or digital input) or wireless communication (such as wireless sensors) must be set up manually.

38. Is it possible to set VAV dampers and actuators to maximum during start-up?

When connected to a FAM-W, you can choose to set the device to "Air volume override" via the three dots in the upper right corner. This will bring up a page where you can override the VAV damper, cooling output and heating output to a specific value (0-100%) until you reset this function again. This should make it possible to regulate the air volume on valves, set the correct pressure for the fan, ventilate water systems, etc.

39. How many Modbus devices can I connect to a Modbus contact?

A Modbus output can operate 2 actuators + 1 sensor or control panel. The limitation lies in the power consumption of the equipment. The maximum power consumption for an output is 7 W.

40. I want to connect two thermoelectric actuators to control radiators. How can these be connected?

Since the starting current of a thermoelectric actuator is close to the maximum power consumption for an output, only one actuator can be connected per output. If you have a free output, it can be configured to control a thermoelectric actuator. It does not matter whether the output is designed for Modbus communication, is configurable, or can be used for an EM module. If the output is used to control a thermoelectric actuator, no other components can be connected to this output.

41. I have thermoelectric actuators for a 230 V supply. Can these be controlled by FAM-W?

The FAM-W can control the EM-RM relay module to regulate heating or cooling requirements, thereby controlling 230 V thermoelectric actuators.

42. How many heating actuators can I connect to FAM-W?

Each FAM-W can have 4 actuators connected (4 different addresses). If devices can be controlled in parallel and do not exceed the maximum current draw for the output, then more can be connected. For many actuators, the EM-RM relay module can be used.

43. Can I connect multiple actuators for heating or cooling to one output if it has 0-10 V regulation?

Actuators for controlling water valves can be of the "thermoelectric" or "motorised" type. Devices that are typically mounted on a radiator are normally of the thermoelectric type. This means that the current draw is like a normal thermoelectric on/off regulator at full power, and only one per output can be used. Motorised actuators are often located above the ceiling on a manifold for heating or cooling and have a much lower current draw. Here, several actuators can be connected in parallel to one output without exceeding the maximum current draw.

44. Can FAM-W control the lighting in my office?

Using an expansion module with a relay, EM-RM, FAM-W can control the lighting on/off. A PIR sensor or light switch can be used to control the lighting. The PIR sensor can be located in the X-SENS TPDM connected to FAM-W via Modbus, or be an external PIR sensor connected via a digital input.

45. Can FAM-W be equipped with a daylight sensor and regulate lighting according to need?

FAM-W can only control lighting on/off based on a digital input. It is not possible to dim the lighting via FAM-W.

46. I have several temperature sensors connected to FAM-W. What does FAM-W choose to control?

If FAM-W has several temperature sensors connected, FAM-W will regulate based on an average of these sensors. The same applies if the unit has several sensors for CO2 and/or relative humidity. You can choose to control only selected sensors by deactivating sensors via the TROX Ox ServiceApp.

47. I understand that configurable outputs can control two analogue VAV dampers. Is that correct?

A configurable output (T2 and T3 for FAM-W MOD1, and T3 for FAM-W MOD2) has two inputs and outputs. Each of these can be used for two analogue inputs and outputs for a VAV damper (0-10 V output to control air volume and 0-10 V input to read actual air volume), for two digital inputs (key card holder, light switch, external PIR sensor), or one of each. In the TROX Ox ServiceApp, select connection 2.1 and 2.2 (for output T2) and 3.1 and 3.2 (for output T3) respectively.

48. I want to use one expansion module to control lighting and one to control heating. How can I connect both of these to FAM-W?

Communication between FAM-W and the EM modules takes place via I2C bus communication, and the units can be connected in a daisy chain. This means that each device must be given a unique address (done via dip switch in the EM device). Only output T4 can be used for EM modules.

49. I have a room with existing VAV dampers that I want to reuse. How do I set up the room in the simplest way possible?

If the VAV damper has Modbus communication, set the dampers to the correct setting and connect them to FAM-W via output T1. If the VAV damper only has analogue communication, connect the dampers via a configurable output (T2 and T3 for FAM-W MOD1, and T3 for FAM-W MOD2). The room is then equipped with a wireless sensor or control panel and a wireless actuator for the radiator.

50. My old VAV damper has Modbus, but not the correct connection. What should I do?

FAM-W only has connection points for RJ45 data cables, so to connect components without such a connection, use the ADP-MOD-SPC adapter (Adapter – Modbus – connection terminals).

51. I need to connect a thermoelectric actuator to FAM-W, but the unit only has a 2-wire cable for connection. What should I do?

To connect a thermoelectric actuator, use the ADP-AD-SPC adapter (Adapter – analogue/digital – connection terminals).

52. I need to connect a thermoelectric actuator to FAM-W, but I have been given the wrong adapter. I should have had an ADP-AD-SPC, but I have been given an ADP-MOD-SPC. Can this be used?

Yes, the only difference between ADP-AD-SPC and ADP-MOD-SPC is that the MOD variant has two RJ45 connectors. If you use the MOD variant to connect analogue equipment, you only need to connect to one of the RJ45 connectors.

53. I have many FAM-W units that appear in the TROX Ox ServiceApp during start-up. How do I know that the correct box is configured for the correct room?

When you have an overview of all FAM-W boxes in the overview, you will find an "Identify" button for identification. Pressing this button will cause the yellow light on the box to flash and a beep will be emitted from the specific box. This makes it easy to find the correct box.

54. My FAM-W box has a green flashing light. What does this mean?

A green flashing light means that the box has not been set up; it is like "factory new". Once it has been set up, either in a system with a system controller or in stand-alone mode, the light will remain green.

55. My FAM-W box has no light on, and I cannot connect to the app. Is there something wrong?

If you do not have a light on or a flashing light, the device is dead. This may be because the device is not receiving power or is defective. Check the power supply before contacting support.