Ethernet I/O Modules control up to 6 devices.
Press Release Summary:
BusWorks® 972EN and 973EN Analog Output Modules deliver data from Ethernet Modbus/TCP 10/100 network as voltage or current signals to as many as 6 measurement or control devices. Each 1 in. wide module contains 12-bit D/A converter, microcontroller, and Ethernet interface. Operating off 15-36 Vdc supplies, 972EN models provide user-selectable dc current output ranges of 0-1, 0-20, and 4-20 mA, while 973EN models offer selectable dc voltage output ranges of 0-1, 0-5, or 0-10 V.
Original Press Release:
New Ethernet Analog Output Modules Control Up to Six Drives, Valves, or Displays Based on Network Commands
The latest I/O modules for Acromag's BusWorks® 900EN Series convert Ethernet Modbus/TCP instructions from network controllers to DC voltage or current outputs for driving analog control devices.
Wixom, MI: Acromag's new BusWorks® 972EN and 973EN Analog Output Modules deliver data from an Ethernet Modbus/TCP 10/100 network as voltage or current signals to as many as six measurement or control devices. Typical applications involve controlling valves, drives, motors, and variable level devices or providing analog signals for displays, recorders, and other non-networked process instruments and control systems. These independent I/O devices do not require expensive companion products, such as bus couplers and I/O backplanes, to deliver a more compact and cost-effective solution with very low startup costs. Setup is also faster and easier with embedded web pages allowing configuration using any standard web browser. No other software is required. Each inch-wide module contains a 12-bit D/A converter, a microcontroller for intelligent signal processing, and an Ethernet interface to communicate with the network. Power requirements are also very flexible. The output modules operate off standard 15-36V DC supplies instead of proprietary 5V power sources. Priced at only $500 for a four-output unit or $650 for six outputs, they are very economical for applications that only need to control a few devices per site.
The 972EN models provide DC current output with user-selectable ranges of 0 to 1mA, 0 to 20mA, and 4 to 20mA. On the 973EN models, DC voltage output signals are selectable in 0 to 1V, 0 to 5V, or 0 to 10V ranges. Both units employ a 12-bit D/A converter to deliver highly accurate output signals. Three failsafe options let the user choose how outputs respond if network communication is interrupted. Failsafe outputs can be forced to the 0% output level, remain at the last known value, or set to any desired value in the range. To prevent damage from surges and ground loop errors, units have three-way 1500V AC isolation separating the output, network and power circuits.
The I/O modules provide an isolated Modbus/TCP 10Base-T/100Base-TX network interface. Each module supports up to 10 sockets allowing communication with multiple masters. Automatic negotiation arbitrates 10/100 Mbps and full/half-duplex communication. Built-in watchdog timers monitor communication problems while self-diagnostic capabilities simplify maintenance and troubleshooting. A failsafe mode ensures outputs are sent to a safe state if a failure occurs.
Many other features ensure dependable operation. An internal microcontroller has integrated non-volatile memory for reliable storage of configuration parameters and can be reprogrammed repeatedly. And to visually confirm proper operation, LEDs indicate power, network activity, and individual channel status. The units are pending CE approvals and UL/cUL Class I Division 2 listing.
Acromag, a multimillion dollar international corporation, has been manufacturing and developing measurement and control products for more than 45 years. They offer a complete line of industrial I/O products including process instruments, signal conditioning equipment, data acquisition boards, distributed I/O systems, and communication devices.
For more information about Acromag products, call the Inside Sales Department or Marketing Communications at (248) 624-1541, (800) 881-0268, FAX (248) 624-9234, or write Acromag, Inc. at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. Information is also available on the Acromag web site at www.acromag.com.
BusWorks is a trademark of Acromag, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
