Ethernet I/O System offers 32-channel analog input units.

Press Release Summary:




Suited for distributed I/O and SCADA applications, EtherStax(TM) ES2161 and ES2162 accept 32 differential DC current or voltage inputs, respectively, and interface signals to Ethernet devices/controllers with Modbus TCP/IP or UDP/IP protocol. Also, ES2162 units accept signals from 8B signal conditioning module racks through 2 DB25 ports to monitor temperature, frequency, and load cell sensors. Scanning updates all channels in less than 5 msec, and embedded Web page eliminates programming.



Original Press Release:



Rugged, High-Density Ethernet I/O System Now Offers High-Performance 32-Channel Analog Input Units



Acromag introduces high-speed analog input units for its EtherStax(TM) I/O series with fast scanning of up to 32 differential channels monitoring DC current, voltage, or 8B signal conditioning modules.

Wixom, MI: Acromag further extended their EtherStax(TM) line of rugged, high-density Ethernet I/O blocks for distributed I/O and SCADA applications with the release of new analog input models. The ES2161 and ES2162 accept 32 differential DC current or voltage inputs, respectively, and interface the signals to Ethernet devices or controllers with Modbus TCP/IP or UDP/IP protocol communication. ES2162 units also accept signals from 8B signal conditioning module racks through two DB25 ports to monitor a wider variety of sensors including temperature, frequency, and load cells. Fast scanning updates all 32 channels in less than 5mS. An embedded web page provides easy setup menus to eliminate programming. Units are available in a variety of configurations with prices starting at $950.

Two models, each with 32 differential analog inputs and 16-bit A/D, support a variety of I/O ranges. The ES2161 accepts DC current with ±20mA, 0-20mA, or 4-20mA input ranges. ES2162 units accept ±5V or ±10V ranges and provide DB25 ports for alternate connection of two 7B or 8B signal conditioning module racks supporting nearly 100 additional input types. Maximum scan rates of over 1KHz are achievable. Dual-format data registers support both 16-bit signed and 32-bit floating point formats. IEEE-754 32-bit floating point scaling registers are configurable on a per-channel basis.

Numerous features help increase reliability, improve performance, and protect from harsh industrial environments. Dual network ports support 10/100Base-TX copper and 100Base-FX fiber-optic connections with a redundant communication path for critical applications. Dual DC power terminals enable use of redundant power sources. A failsafe relay provides 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 shock and vibration making it ideal for mounting directly on machinery. Multiple units are stackable in a space-saving 8 x 7" footprint. An open board version is available for custom mounting.

An internal isolated dual-port Ethernet switch provides dual-path communication redundancy with support of STP, RSTP, and proprietary redundancy schemes. EtherStax units can operate as controller slaves or communicate independently between units. Ten Modbus TCP/IP sockets allow simultaneous communication with multiple masters.

The stackable, high-density packaging enables installation of nearly 100 I/O points in minimal panel space. A high-strength aluminum enclosure gives IP20 protection with shock and vibration resistance. This rugged design is ideal for mounting on DIN rails, walls, or directly on machinery. Pluggable terminal blocks make for easy installation and servicing. A stackable open board version (no housing) simplifies mounting in alternative enclosures with lower costs for OEMs and system integrators.

EtherStax I/O are designed for high-reliability operation. Units feature 1500Vrms isolation with surge protection to increase performance and minimize downtime. The isolation separates power, relay, I/O, and individual Ethernet ports. To further minimize downtime, the I/O circuitry features over-temperature, over-voltage, and over-current protection. Industrial-grade specs include extended -40 to 70°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 hardware 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 substations, distribution lines, and storage tanks. On the plant floor, the rugged construction 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.

All Topics