Introduction
Zonar equipment will provide years of reliable service if properly installed and maintained. Zonar equipment is typically installed in heavy vehicle applications and is often subjected to extreme temperatures, dust, dirt, vibration, and shock. Proper installation is the critical first step to equipment longevity and optimal performance.
This guide is meant to be a general guideline for the professional installer and technician. While we attempt to point out the most common installation questions and issues, common sense, good housekeeping procedures, attention to detail, safety adherence, and technical competence of the professional installer are critical for a successful installation.
Refer to your specific vehicle manufacturer guidelines for the installation of electrical components and wiring.
Details on operating the V4 and its built-in applications and software are given in this guide.
A professional team of Zonar support technicians and engineers are available to answer your installation questions. Contact Zonar at 1-877-843-3847 or by email at customercare@zonarsystems.com.
System Overview
Installation Checklist
Task # | Task | Required? | Complete? |
1 | Inventory all V4 components and accessories | Required | |
2 | Lay out all cables and accessories in accordance with: | Required | |
3 | - General guidelines | Required | |
4 | - V4 device and mounting plate instructions | Required | |
5 | - Power / Data cable instructions | Required | |
6 | - External GPS antenna guidelines | If used | |
7 | - Discrete input system instructions | If used | |
8 | Disconnect vehicle battery ground cable | Suggested | |
9 | Install V4 Power/Data cable. Do not connect 4-pin connector to V4 at this time. Do not connect OBDII connector to vehicle at this time (if used). | Required | |
10 | Install Discrete IO cable | If used | |
11 | Install external GPS antenna | If used | |
12 | Install V4 mount plate and V4 | Required | |
13 | Interconnect all cables & wires to V4 (except 4-pin power) | Required | |
14 | Reconnect vehicle battery ground cable | Suggested | |
15 | Connect 4-pin power cable to V4 | Required | |
16 | Start engine | Required | |
17 | Connect OBDII connector to vehicle (if used) | Required | |
18 | Complete V4 System function checkout checklist | Required | |
19 | Shut down engine | Required |
V4 Equipment
- V4 GPS Unit
- V4 Mounting Plate and Mounting Screws (Provided)
- GPS Antenna (Optional)
- GPS Antenna Adhesive Tag (Optional - used for non-magnetic rooftop GPS Antenna installs)
See External GPS for detailed information on GPS antenna requirements and recommendations.
General Guidelines
Layout
- V4 unit must be located a minimum of 25cm (10 in) from any person.
- Do not place Zonar RFID tags, cables, or other equipment in any location or position which may compromise human or equipment safety.
- Verify placement acceptability with State DOT/Law enforcement prior to installation.
- V4 has a temperature range of -40°C (-40°F) to +85°C (+185°F). Do not mount V4 in hot engine compartments or near hot exhaust components.
- Lay all components out prior to installation to check for proper cable length and interference issues.
- Avoid mounting Zonar equipment, antennas and wiring near other radio equipment (e.g. two-way radios), PA equipment and high energy electrical sources (e.g. cables, relays, amplifiers, etc.).
Electrical
- Consult the vehicle’s manufacturer for specific installation guidelines. (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for Multiplex electrical systems)
- All power leads (red and white) must be connected to the vehicle's protected circuitry (e.g. fuse panel, circuit breaker panel, protected circuits). Never electrically connect Zonar equipment to unprotected circuits (e.g. directly to battery).
- It is also required that all power leads (red and white) be protected with a 3 to 5 amp fuse and inline fuse holder (included) for optimal system protection.
- Electrical fuses should be installed as close as possible to the source of power.
- Do not connect to the 4 pin power input until all other V4 cables have been connected.
Drill Holes
- Do not drill into the V4 unit. This will void the warranty.
- Capture all drill chips during drilling operations. Do not allow chips to fall onto equipment, furnishings, etc.
- Deburr all drill holes on both sides of drilled surface. Example deburr tool:
- All drill holes must have a rubber grommet or similar anti-chafing system installed to protect cable assemblies (e.g. plastic conduit).
- Seal all penetration drill holes which may pass rain water.
Cable Management
- Strain relieve and support all cable installations.
- Avoid sharp bends and tight radius installations of cables.
- Avoid moving components (e.g. doors, steering shafts, handles, fans, etc.).
- Provide an adequate “Service Loop” i.e. “cable slack” to allow for servicing of equipment.
- Avoid routing cables thru doors, windows, and other pinch points.
- Avoid routing cables in high personnel traffic areas.
- Avoid routing antenna cables near radio and PA equipment.
CORRECT
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INCORRECT
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General Housekeeping
- Capture all drill chips during drilling operations. Do not allow drill chips to fall onto electrical equipment, furnishings, heating ducts, etc. Magnets, sticky tape, vacuums, physical barriers, etc. may all be used to accomplish this task.
- Remove excess sealant. Sealant should be debris/contaminant free (e.g. no drill chips), consistent, and uniform in appearance.
- Clip excess wire tie protrusions.
V4 Mounting
To comply with FCC RF exposure requirements for mobile transmitting devices, this device must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 25 cm (10 inches) from all persons. See General Guidelines.
The installation technician must record which V4 unit is being installed in each vehicle.
- Find the GPS ID # on the back of the unit labeled “GPSID (S/N) 18xxxxxx.”
- Record the asset (vehicle name) and the GPS being installed—this is important information for Zonar Customer Care or the Ground Traffic Control Administrator.
Mounting Areas
Mount onto an interior flat surface that is large enough to accommodate the footprint. Suggested mounting areas include the following:
- Horizontal mount on dashboard under an angled windshield free of metallic obstructions
- Overhead compartment mount with a clear non-metallic view of the sky (for example, under a fiberglass roof or fairing).
Verify placement acceptability with state DOT/law enforcement prior to installation. Enclosed areas require an external GPS.
Mounting Considerations
- Avoid mount areas with difficult access or areas that do not allow for direct diagnostic LED viewing.
- Do not mount near other radio equipment such as two-way radios, PA equipment and high energy electrical sources (e.g., cables, relays, amplifiers, etc.).
- Avoid dirty, dusty, or damp mount areas (for example, near floors and entry ways).
- To prevent water damage, do not install below windows or doors that open to the vehicle’s exterior.
If enclosing in a radio-shielded area (for example, metallic enclosure) an external GPS antenna may be necessary for proper operation and performance.
Orientation and Placement
- Horizontal with clear (non-metallic) view of sky
- Zonar logo towards sky
V4 Pin Configuration
- External GPS antenna (Optional)
- 4 Pin Power Input (Disconnect first, Reconnect last)
- 6 Pin Accessory Port: Z Pass™/Operator ID
- 8 Pin for 2010/Connect Dock
- 12 Pin Discrete Input (Optional)
- 10 Pin ECM input (SAE J1708/J1939 & OBDII equipped vehicles)
Power And Data Connections
Connecting to Vehicle Electrical and Data System
- Do not connect to the 4 pin power input until all other V4 cables have been connected.
- There are four primary methods to connect the V4 to your vehicle’s electrical and data system:
- 4 Pin, 3 Wire Power Cable (part# 10007)
- Light Duty Power Cable (part# 81153)
- 9 Pin Diagnostic Cable (part# 81523) with optional 6 Pin adapter (part# 81632)
- 2 Pin Deutsch Backbone Cable (part# 81517)
- Additionally there is a fifth uncommon cable specifically used to wire around battery disconnect systems:
- 4 Pin, 4 Wire Power Cable (part# 10030)
See General Guidelines before you begin. Do not connect to the 4 pin power input until all other V4 cables have been connected.
4 Pin, 3 Wire, Power Cable (Part# 10007)
Use this cable for equipment NOT equipped with any of the following databuses:
- OBDII (light duty/commuter vehicles)
- JBus 1708/1587 (heavy duty vehicles 2010 and earlier)
- JBus 1939 (heavy duty vehicles 2006 and later)
See wiring procedures below.
NOTE: Requires vehicle to physically move at least 5 MPH for at least 100 feet to properly complete new install checkout. If this is not performed GPS and discrete IO data will not be present in GTC until those thresholds are met.
Light Duty Cable Kit (part# 81153)
This kit consists of two parts:
- Light Duty, Power/Data Cable (part# 81008)
- Light Duty Breakout (part# 80999)
Use on light duty vehicles equipped with OBDII Diagnostic Port™.
Requirements:
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Failure to comply with these requirements may cause interference with the safe and normal operation of the vehicle. |
Installation:
- Connect to OBDII diagnostic port with engine running. Failure to perform this step may trigger a false Check Engine light on the dash on first engine start after installation. This will require the fault to be manually cleared.
- Required. Drive vehicle for a minimum of 100 feet at 5 MPH or more to properly complete new install checkout. If this is not performed GPS and discrete IO data will not be present in Ground Traffic Control™ until those thresholds are met.
9 Pin Diagnostic Cable (part# 81523)
Use this cable on heavy duty vehicles with SAE J1939 databuses. The cable connects to the 9 Pin Deutsch diagnostic port, typically found beneath the driver-side dashboard.
6 Pin Adapter (part# 81632)
Use with 9 Pin diagnostic cable to connect to J1708/1584 databuses using a 6 pin Deutsch diagnostic port.
2 Pin Deutsch Backbone Cable (part# 81517)
Use this cable on heavy duty vehicles with SAE J1708/J1587 (older) or SAE J1939 (newer) data buses. The cable connects to the data network backbone.
This cable requires specific adapters dependent on vehicle make/model/year and engine manufacturer. The necessary adapters should be provided with the initial installation kit, but if assistance is needed, contact Zonar Customer Support for additional information.
See 4 Pin Testing and Cable Management and Wiring Guidelines for procedures.
4 Pin, 4 Wire Power Cable (part# 10030)
This cable is similar to the Pin, 3 Wire Cable but it adds a green chassis ground wire. This power cable is only needed for vehicles equipped with negative side battery disconnect switches (typically construction equipment).
This cable requires the vehicle to physically move at least 5 MPH for at least 100 feet to properly complete new installation checkout. If this is not performed, GPS and discrete input data will not be present in Ground Traffic Control until those thresholds are met.
4 Pin Testing and Cable Management
The 4 pin power cable is used on Non-J1708/J1939 and non-OBDII installs. It is also used on J1708/J1939 installs with switched power issues (as indicated by flashing “Status” LED with engine running). See General Guidelines and the following requirements.
- All power leads must be connected to the vehicles protected circuitry (for example, the fuse panel and circuit breaker panel protected circuits). Never electrically connect Zonar equipment to unprotected circuits (for example, directly to the battery).
- All power leads (red and white) must be protected with a 3 to 5 amp fuse and inline fuse holder (included) for optimal system protection.
- Electrical fuses should be installed as close as possible to the source of power.
- For vehicles equipped with “noise kill” switches (late model school buses) – Do not wire any Zonar equipment to the “noise kill” circuitry.
Power Bundle Wiring – 4 Pin
- Red – Constant DC (+8 VDC to +32 VDC), dependent on system type
- Black – Battery Ground must be less than 1 ohm (measure from 4 Pin connector to chassis attachment point)
- Green - Chassis ground (Cable P/N 10030 only).
- White - Switched Power
- Engine running (+8 VDC to +32 VDC)
- Engine not running (0 VDC)
- Engine not running (key position ACC or Accessory Mode) (0 VDC)
The white wire must be connected to a power source that is active only when the engine is running or the system will not track idle time properly.
Contact the vehicle manufacturer for any specific electrical questions.
If power cabling is not connected and powered as described in the Power Bundle Wiring section, one or more of the following conditions may occur. Contact Zonar Customer Support for additional information.
- Cold Start flags (an indicator that a unit lost and regained constant power)
- Inaccurate idle and stop times
- Inaccurate hour meter data
- Inaccurate mileage data
- Missing path data
- Straight line data segments
Using a Digital Multimeter (DMM) Probe for Testing 4 Pin Cable
A digital multimeter (DMM) is a test tool that is used to measure two or more electrical values such as voltage (volts), current (amps), and resistance (ohms). It is a standard diagnostic tool for technicians in the electrical industry.
Improper use of the DMM probe may damage the pins causing an intermittent connection. Be sure the probe only makes contact with the outside edge of the female connector. If the probe is inserted into the connector it may distort the pin and ruin the connection.
Wiring Guidelines
The wiring guidelines in this section are for unterminated power and ground leads—4 Pin and Backbone. The authorized method for power termination on the Zonar V4 system is the use of Add-a-Circuit fuse taps. Whenever possible, use fuse taps for power termination. If fuse taps cannot be used due to the particular make/model/year of the vehicle being installed, then the poke and weave method of termination can be utilized.
All wiring terminations MUST be fused regardless of method of installation used.
Fuse Taps Installation
- Ensure that the fuse tap seats fully in the correct location.
- If another fuse, a relay, or any other object in the fuse panel prevents the fuse tap from seating fully, relocate the fuse tap. It is not permissible for the fuse tap to rub or make contact with other items in the fuse panel.
- In addition, you must be able to re-secure the fuse panel cover or door once the fuse tap is installed.
- Whenever possible, use an empty location in the fuse panel that does not have an existing fuse. If it is not possible to use an empty location, ensure that the existing fuse is placed in the correct location on the fuse tap. See below for an example.
CAUTION: Zonar has approved two types of fuse taps. Use of other brands is not authorized. Do not install these fuse kits in fuse panel locations greater than 10 amps.
- LitteFuse brand: Add-a-Circuit
- Bussman brand: Add-a-Fuse
Poke and Weave Installation
Whenever it is not possible to use Add-a-Circuit fuse taps then the poke and weave method must be used.
- Locate the proper wire where the poke and weave method is to be installed. Strip 3/4” to 1” of insulation from the wire in the vehicle to be installed. Spread the wire strands apart as shown below.
- Strip 1” to 1 1/2” of insulation from the wire in the fused link to be installed.
- Insert the wire from the fused link into the spread wire in the vehicle. Wrap around the wire several times.
- Cover the exposed wires with several wraps of electrical tape or mastic. Place one wire tie over the electric tape over the exact location where the wires are 'wrapped' together. Place another wire tie 1” to 2” from the first wire tie, to secure the two wires together and as stress relief.
External GPS Antenna (Optional)
External antennas are generally only necessary if the V4 GPS unit is enclosed in a radio signal interfering area (e.g. metallic box, under seats, on dashboards with flat windshields, and in cabs or cockpits constructed primarily from metallic material).
The suggested installation point is the centerline of the vehicle roof, with minimal cable run to prevent wind and car wash damage. Ensure that there is a clear antenna view of the open sky, and maintain a minimum of 6 inches from any rooftop edge or ledge. See below.
Drill, deburr, grommet, weather seal, and cable thru hole as required. Drill hole size - 1/2” (.500”); grommet size - 3/8” (.375”).
Optional GPS Antenna Adhesive Tag (for non-magnetic mounting surfaces)
Whenever possible, avoid installing adhesive in cold, wet, or damp conditions. Ideal application range is: 70˚F to 100˚F (21˚C to 38˚C).
- Clean and dry the surface prior to placement to obtain optimum adhesion. The best surface cleaning solvent is an isopropyl alcohol/water mixture (rubbing alcohol).
- Remove the backing from the peel and stick to the surface.
- Press and hold mounting position for 10 seconds to assure good adhesion.
GPS System Check
At a minimum, the installer must perform a system check to verify proper installation. If at all possible a full and complete checkout using Zonar’s Ground Traffic Control® website should be performed. Not all installers will have access to this area; check with a Zonar Customer Service representative if in doubt. This procedure covers the minimum requirements for a system installer.
Check the LEDs
Turn the key on, and with the engine running check the LEDs on the GPS unit within 2 minutes. They should display the following sequence after everything is connected.
LED |
Condition |
CELLULAR |
Solid green. If blinking, ensure unit is in an area with cellular coverage. |
GPS |
Solid green or orange. If blinking, the GPS is acquiring satellite positioning (antenna must have a clear view to sky). Do not proceed further until GPS LED is solid. |
STATUS |
Solid green. If blinking, check the cables at the GPS unit and the vehicle connector. Also check the integrated 4 Pin power pigtail at the GPS unit. If the cables and the 4 Pin power pigtail are good, use a standalone 4 Pin power cable. STATUS will blink fast red when power is removed and the device is operating on internal backup power. STATUS will blink blue upon startup If Bluetooth is enabled while the device is in pairing mode. |
DATALINK 1 |
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DATALINK 2 |
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Turn Key Off
Turn the key off, and check the STATUS LED on the GPS unit. It should be blinking green—solid may indicate an issue properly seeing the engine. Contact Zonar Customer Support if in doubt.
Disregard the other LEDs for this check.
Turn to Accessory Position
Turn the key to the accessory position with the engine off. STATUS LED must be blinking.
A proper and complete system/LED functional check requires the engine to be running.
System Checklist
System Specifications
Electrical | |
DC Input Range: | 8 VDC to 32 VDC |
Operating Current: | 100 mA @12V (typical without peripherals) |
500 mA @12V (maximum without peripherals) | |
Key-Off Current: | <1mA |
Environmental | |
Operating Temp: | -40C to 85C |
Storage Temp: | -40C to 85C |
Humidity: | 95% R.H., non-condensing |
Shock/Vibration: | SAE J1455, MIL-STD-202G |
GNSS Receiver | |
GPS/Glonass | WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN, QZSS |
Very High Sensitivity receiver | Rapid satellite acquisition |
Anti-Jamming, Anti-Spoofing | |
Cellular | |
LTE (Cat4) bands 2/4/5/7/17 | UMTS (3G) 850/900/1700/1900/2100 MHz |
GSM (2G) 850/900/1800/1900 MHz | |
External GPS Antenna (optional) | Zonar Part 81304 (17’) |
V4 and Mount Dimensions
V4
V4 Mount
DIMENSIONS IN INCHES
These are reference dimensions only.
Typical Installation
External Antenna Installation (Optional)
System Installation
Zonar Discrete Input System
The V4 is capable of recording GPS points when a system on the vehicle is activated or deactivated. See below schematic to tap into an existing switched control circuit.
WARNING:
Observe all general and specific warnings in regards to electrical installations at the beginning of this guide.
When in doubt, consult the specific vehicle's manufacturer for electrical installation instructions.
When installing multiple discrete inputs, ensure that the polarity is consistent on all installed connections. Failure to do so may result in feedback to the wired device, resulting in a failure to operate with the V4 plugged in.
Do not connect to multiplex wiring.
Zonar Discrete Input Wiring Details
- 5 Inputs (depending on application, not all inputs may be used)
- 20 AWG wire gauge
Notices
Warning: (Part 15.21)
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Zonar Systems could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Caution: RF Exposure (OET Bulletin 65)
To comply with FCC RF exposure requirements for mobile transmitting devices, the antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 25 cm (10 inches) from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. Users and installers must be provided with antenna installation instructions and transmitter operating conditions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.
Use only supplied and approved antennas. Use of unauthorized antennas or modifications could impair signal quality, void your warranty and/or result in violation of FCC regulations.
FCC Compliance Statement (Part 15.19), IC Compliance Statement (RSS-210)
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada (IC). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
- This device may not cause harmful interference, and
- This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Warranty And Legal Notices
For more information regarding Zonar Warranty and Legal Notices, see the Zonar Product Warranty page on our website (https://support.zonarsystems.net).