Remote I/O modules offer choice of EtherNet/IP or Modbus protocols
Acromag has enhanced the BusWorks NT series of remote I/O modules with EtherNet/IP support. The EtherNet/IP Ethernet industrial protocol combines traditional Ethernet combined with an industrial application layer protocol targeted to industrial automation.
The NT2000 Series offers a broad variety of I/O signal processing options. Nine I/O configurations are available as either NTE Ethernet I/O or NTX expansion I/O models. Analogue I/O models feature eight differential or 16 single-ended inputs for monitoring current or voltage signals. Discrete I/O models provide 16 tandem I/O channels with either active high/low input and sinking/sourcing output. A six-channel mechanical relay output model is also available. For temperature monitoring, a thermocouple input model supports many sensor types and also mVt ranges.
NTE Ethernet I/O models have dual RJ45 ports and a webserver with Modbus TCP/IP and Ethernet/IP communication to monitor or control the internal I/O channels. An integrated DIN rail bus allows connections of up to three NTX expansion I/O modules. Each I/O module adds up to 16 input or output signals allowing a mix of voltage, current, temperature, TTL, and relay control signals networked on one IP address.
Applications for these Ethernet I/O modules are remote monitoring and control, condition monitoring and predictive maintenance and building HVAC energy consumption.
The modules were tested at an Open DeviceNet Vendors Association (ODVA), vendor-independent test service provider, and received an ODVA declaration of conformity. (ODVA confirms interoperability across vendors and systems, noted Acromag.)
The space-saving design requires only 25mm of DIN rail per module. Ethernet I/O modules distribute 9.0 to 32V DC power along the DIN rail bus to expansion modules. Hazardous location approvals, high noise immunity, and -40 to 70 degrees C operation make the I/O suitable for use in harsh environments.
“NT Series Ethernet I/O modules are user-configurable for Ethernet/IP or Modbus/TCP, offering a convenient solution for engineers with multi-protocol control systems,” observed Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s business development manager.
More models will release over the coming months for additional I/O functions, with Profinet communication planned for release soon. Each module will support all three protocols which are selectable using any web browser to configure the network settings and I/O operation.
The modules typically function as a network slave, but also offer Acromag’s i2o peer-to-peer communication technology to transfer data between modules directly without a host or master in between. Multicast capability is included.
Acromag has been developing and manufacturing measurement and control products for more than 60 years. It offers a range of industrial I/O products including process instruments, signal conditioning equipment, data acquisition boards, distributed I/O systems, and communication devices.
http://www.acromag.com
