Datakom D-500 MK3 Advanced Genset Controller

One controller for AMF, synchronising and multi-genset duty

The D-500 MK3 is the advanced genset controller in the Datakom D-series. The datasheet describes it as a unit that covers both automatic mains failure (AMF) and synchronising applications with the same hardware, with internet-based monitoring, multi-protocol communication, flexible plug-in modules and an auto-learning function. It supports diesel and gas gensets, 400 Hz operation, DC gensets and DPF regeneration, and it can parallel up to 48 gensets on one busbar with smart load management as a standard feature. For a power plant, data centre standby room or oil-field skid in the Gulf, it replaces a stack of separate relays, synchronisers and load-share units with one 128×64 graphical-LCD panel instrument. It is listed here under its Datakom code alongside our other diesel generator spare parts.

Technical specifications

Conformity as printed on the datasheet: EU directives 2014/35/EC (low voltage) and 2014/30/EC (electromagnetic compatibility), reference norms EN 61010 and EN 61326, and UL 6200 (Controls for Stationary Engine Driven Assemblies, file 20140725-E314374) plus CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 14-13.

Protection, load management and communication functions

The feature list on the datasheet is unusually long, and several items matter in real projects. On the protection side it lists reverse power, over/under voltage and frequency, rate-of-change-of-frequency (R.O.C.O.F), vector shift, mains decoupling, current and voltage unbalance, overload IDMT and excess power protection. For load management it lists peak lopping and peak shaving, base load (power export), load shedding with dummy load, dual mutual standby with equal ageing, run/stop priority, automatic exerciser and a weekly operation schedule. Synchronising features include voltage and phase matching, kW and kVAr load sharing, true soft transfer in both directions, dead bus sensing, a synchroscope with check-synch and direct governor and AVR control with droop support.

• Measurement: 6xCT true mains metering, waveform display and harmonic analysis of V and I, four-quadrant genset power counters, mains power counters, fuel filling and fuel consumption counters.
• Engine side: both CANBUS-J1939 and magnetic pickup, 3 configurable service alarms, idle speed control, battery charge run, fuel filling and fuel theft alarms, automatic fuel pump control, 400 event logs with full snapshot.
• Communication: embedded web server, Modbus and Modbus TCP/IP, SNMP v1 v2c v3, SMS and e-mail, dynamic DNS, GPS connectivity through USB and RS-232, and Rainbow Plus and Rainbow SCADA central monitoring software.
• Plug-in modules listed: 2G, 3G-2G and 4G-3G-2G (CAT-4) GSM modems, NB/IoT CAT-M1 modem, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 100 Mbps Ethernet, USB host, isolated RS-232 and RS-485, a Synchro/LoadShare module, 3x AC current inputs, 3x analog inputs with 2x analog outputs, DC voltage and current inputs and a tilt detector.

Selection and installation notes

Choose the D-500 MK3 when one panel must handle several roles: a single genset in AMF duty today, with the option to add synchronisation or multi-genset sequencing later. The same unit is documented as an AMF unit, ATS unit, remote start controller, manual start controller, engine controller, remote display panel and DC genset controller, so the function is set by programming rather than by a different part number. For simpler sets without synchronising, compare the smaller Datakom D-300 MK3, and for a colour display see the D-700 MK3 pages in the same range.

The installation manual states that programming mode is entered by pressing the two MENU buttons together for 5 seconds, that password level 1 is factory set to 1234 and level 2 to 9876, and that a wrong password still allows read-only viewing. Typical factory values include AMF unit functionality, 500 A current transformer primary, 230 V and 50 Hz nominal, mains limits of V-20% and V+20%, a 120 second cooldown and 3 start attempts. Mount it flush in a panel cut-out of 176 x 121 mm with the supplied gasket to reach the IP65 front rating, and keep the 8-36 V-DC supply protected. Always confirm the engine-ECU type, voltage and current transformer ratio before ordering.

Selection and installation notes

A generator controller is selected from the start and transfer logic needed, the number of sets, the engine and alternator signals and the communication required. Check the battery supply range, wire the voltage and current inputs and the engine sensors as the manual shows, set the engine and protection parameters from the engine and alternator data and test the start, stop, transfer and every protection with the set running before handover. Keep a copy of the parameter file with the site documents.

Information needed for a quotation

Send the full model code, the quantity, the delivery location in Oman or the GCC, the intended use and any accessories needed, so that the complete package can be quoted together.

Documents and supply information

The manufacturer data sheet is attached to this page and should be read together with the project specification and the site risk assessment before a purchase is confirmed. Ratings, standards and dimensions are quoted as printed on that sheet. Lead time, stock position and certificates available with the shipment are confirmed in the quotation, and we supply to Oman and the wider GCC region for industrial, utility and building services projects.

Documents and quotation

The manufacturer datasheet and installation instructions for the D-500 MK3 are linked on this page. Send us the model, quantity and any plug-in modules required and we will respond with a quotation; specifications are quoted from the Datakom documents and should be confirmed against your engine and alternator before purchase.