Analog Output Units drive voltage/current control signals.

Press Release Summary:




EtherStax® ES2171 and ES2172 each provide 16 channels of process current or voltage output control signals with 16-bit D/A resolution. Both modules accept Modbus TCP/IP, UDP/IP, or i2o® peer-to-peer network inputs, and processing rate enables updates in less than 1 mS per channel. ES2171 outputs DC current signals in 0-20 or 4-20 mA range, while ES2172 units produce ±5 or ±10 Vdc signals. Output ranges are independently configurable, and redundancy for network and power is standard.



Original Press Release:



New Ethernet Analog Output Units Provide 16 Channels of 16-bit D/A to Drive Voltage/Current Control Signals



Acromag announces high-density, high-resolution analog output modules to perform 16-bit Ethernet-to-voltage or current conversion for precise control of up to16 industrial devices.

Wixom, MI: Acromag has released two new high-performance analog output units for their EtherStax® line of rugged Ethernet I/O. The high-density ES2171 and ES2172 models each provide 16 channels of process current or voltage output control signals with 16-bit D/A resolution. Each module accepts Modbus TCP/IP, UDP/IP, or i2o® peer-to-peer network inputs and provides high-resolution analog outputs to drive displays, indicators, chart recorders, positioners, or actuators. The analog outputs can control variable speed drives, motors, or solenoid valves. Units can also provide analog re-transmission to remote controls or SCADA systems. High-speed processing enables updates in less than 1mS per channel. Units are designed to meet Class I Division 2 approvals and are also available in a lightweight enclosure-less version with prices starting at $1300.

Two base models support a variety of I/O ranges and options. The ES2171 outputs DC current signals in a 0-20mA or 4-20mA range. ES2172 units produce ±5V or ±10V DC signals. Output ranges are independently configurable on each channel. An internal loop-back circuit verifies the output levels. Using Acromag's i2o® peer-to-peer technology, ES217x units can function as an output target device for data sent directly from EtherStax analog input units. Both models have an option for 10/100Base-TX copper or 100Base-FX fiber-optic network media. Open board versions offer more mounting flexibility.

Numerous features help increase reliability, improve performance, and protect from harsh industrial environments. Dual network ports provide a redundant communication path for critical applications. Dual DC power terminals enable use of redundant power sources. A failsafe relay enables implementation of auto-failover designs or an alarm output on a power or link-loss failure. Continuous 250V AC (354V DC) isolation - with a peak 1500V AC rating - safely separates I/O signals from the power, relay, and Ethernet ports. The compact, stackable aluminum enclosure resists 50g shock and 5g vibration making it ideal for mounting directly on machinery.

An internal, isolated dual-port Ethernet switch provides dual-path communication redundancy with support of STP, RSTP, or any proprietary ring redundancy schemes. EtherStax units can operate as remote slave devices or communicate peer-to-peer. Ten Modbus TCP/IP sockets allow communication with multiple masters. An embedded web page provides easy setup menus to eliminate programming.

The stackable, high-density packaging enables installation of 48 analog outputs in an 8 x 7" footprint or 96 outputs across a 19" rack. A high-strength aluminum enclosure gives IP20 protection. This rugged box is ideal for mounting on DIN rails, walls, or on machinery. Plug-in terminal blocks offer easy installation and servicing. A stackable open-board version (no housing) is lightweight and simplifies mounting in alternative enclosures with lower costs for OEMs and integrators.

EtherStax I/O are designed for high-reliability operation. Units feature 1500Vrms isolation with surge protection on all ports to increase performance and minimize downtime. Industrial-grade specs include extended -40 to 75°C operating temperatures for low power, high efficiency, fan-less designs. Redundant DC power input with internal diode coupling delivers a "bump-less" transfer to the backup power source. A user-programmable watchdog timer can send outputs to a failsafe state or hold the last value if there is a communication failure. Failsafe SPST 5A fault relays provide local alarming, notification, or shutdown if network communication or power fail.

EtherStax are well-suited to many applications for both end-users and OEMs. The remote monitoring and control capabilities are perfect for SCADA, embedded, and test & measurement applications. Typical uses include power generation, chemical, oil/gas, simulators/trainers, and automation operations. On the plant floor, the rugged design delivers dependable performance for a variety of distributed I/O functions. And in a control panel, the compact design permits mounting in tight spaces. CE and UL approvals are pending. EtherStax are suitable for use in Class I, Division 2, Group A, B, C, and D locations.

Acromag is an international corporation that has been manufacturing and developing measurement and control products for more than 50 years. Acromag offers a complete line of industrial I/O products including process instruments, signal conditioning equipment, data acquisition boards, distributed I/O systems, and network communication devices.

For more information about Acromag products, call the Inside Sales Department at (248) 295-0880 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0865, FAX (248) 624-9234. Write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. Our web site address is www.acromag.com.

EtherStax and i2o are registered trademarks of Acromag, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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