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New High-Density Ethernet I/O Modules Interface Virtually Any Analog Sensor to a Control Network

 Wixom, MI: Acromag further extends their EtherStax™ line of rugged, high-density Ethernet I/O blocks for distributed I/O and SCADA applications with the release of new combination analog input/output models. The ES2151 and ES2152 interface 16 DC current inputs, 16 voltage inputs, and either 16 current or voltage output signals, respectively, to Ethernet devices or controllers with Modbus TCP/IP or UDP/IP protocol communication. The EtherStax units also Ethernet-enable input signals from a rack of 8B signal conditioning modules through a DB25 port to monitor a wider variety of sensors including temperature, frequency, and load cells. Additionally, ES2152 models have a DB25 output port to control 8B analog output modules. Acromag’s i2o™ technology enables peer-to-peer messaging. Fast, high-resolution 16-bit A/D and D/A scanning updates all channels in under 10 mS. Units are available in a variety of configurations with prices starting at $1950.

Two models, both with 16 analog current and 16 voltage inputs, support a variety of I/O ranges. The current inputs accept ±20 mA, 0-20 mA, or 4-20 mA ranges. Voltage inputs handle ±5 V and ±10 V ranges. A DB25 port allows alternate voltage inputs from a 7B or 8B signal conditioning module rack supporting nearly 100 additional input types with channel-to-channel isolation. Dual-format data registers support 16-bit integer and 32-bit floating point formats. Scaling registers are configurable on a per-channel basis. The ES2151 has 16 analog current outputs while the ES2152 provides 16 voltage outputs and an alternate DB25 interface for use with isolated 8B analog output modules.

The inputs have a configurable sample averaging function and each channel has a non-volatile integrator/totalizer for additional signal processing tasks. On-demand self-test verifies calibration and a built-in loop-back circuit provides output validation to ensure high-accuracy operation.

EtherStax I/O units are designed for high-reliability operation. 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. Internal diode coupling delivers a “bump-less” transfer to the backup power source. A failsafe relay provides alarm output on a power or link-loss failure. A hardware watchdog timer can send outputs to a failsafe state or hold the last value if there is a communication failure. To further minimize downtime, the I/O circuitry features over-temperature, over-voltage, and over-current protection. Continuous 250V AC (354V DC) isolation – with a peak 1500V AC rating – safely separates I/O signals from the power, relay, and Ethernet ports. Other industrial-grade specs include extended -40 to 70°C operating temperatures.

The stackable, high-density packaging enables installation of nearly 150 I/O points in a space-saving 8 x 7” footprint. A high-strength aluminum enclosure gives IP20 protection with shock and vibration resistance.

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. Low power, high efficiency, fanless system designs can be accommodated. CE and UL approvals are pending. EtherStax are suitable for use in Class I, Division 2, Group A, B, C, and D locations.

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. This rugged design is ideal for mounting on DIN rails, walls, or directly on machinery.