Developing easy to use IO modules

22 Mar 2013

Challenge:

We are currently working on a new range of products based on a simple challenge.

We want to build IO modules that can be configured and connected to a SCADA system in less then 30 minutes.

Solution:

To accomplish this our modules will have a USB interface for easy setup and configuration. No addressing or multicast identification is necessary.

Simply plug the module into a computer and set up your network information.

For real-time communication to a SCADA system or PLC, we will use Modbus TCP, since it is widely known and accepted as a communications protocol.

All configuration can be done via USB, as well as diagnosing non-functioning system, including testing of the ModBus TCP connection.

Modules will also have a build in embedded webserver as a third option for easy configuration and setup.

Free software for configuring modules will be suplied.

As with everything we design, we want to focus on safety and reliability. Our new modules will be short-circuit protected on all inputs and outputs.

Result:

Module 1 will have 4 analogue inputs with 0(4)-20mA inputs and 4 digital opto-isolated inputs.

The digital inputs will have two-channel quad-counters allowing for angle and rpm measurements using industry standard quad- encoders or inductive sensors/switches.

Module 2 will have the same digital inputs as module 1, but will have four relay-outputs instead of analogue inputs. The relays will be +24Vdc / +230Vac tolerant

Module 3 will have four +/-10V inputs and four outputs. Inputs will have a range selection scale of 1,2,4 and 8 allowing down to 1.25V range on measurements. Sample resolution and speed will be configurable from 12-16 bit (sacrificing sample speed for accuracy, suing sample and hold ADC)

If this sounds like something you would be interested in, let us know!