Modbus for Omni-16
May 2001
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Omniflex has released a DIN rail mounted interface module that enables Omni-16 alarm annunciators to be connected directly to any PLC, DCS or scada system. Thus while the Omni-16 is performing its annunciation function in the field or control room, the statuses of all 16 windows are relayed back to the host device.
The Modbus interface may be used on any Omni-16 as it simply plugs into the existing repeat output connector using a ribbon cable. The module effectively turns the Omni-16 into a Modbus slave device that can be read from any master device, including a scada system.
The Modbus interface modules have a single DIP switch used to set the address, the mode (RTU or ASCII), the baud rate and parity. Using the modules in RS485 mode enables 32 Omni-16s (512 alarm channels) to be monitored from a single master Modbus equipped serial port.
The module also provides full 1500 V r.m.s. isolation for industrial strength communications in noisy environments. A single 16 bit register reflects the status of the alarm inputs in the annunciator and a separate 24 V d.c. power supply is required for the modules.
Soon to be available is a general purpose Modbus digital input board which accepts 16 switch inputs and performs exactly the same function as the Omni-16 Modbus Module. This can be linked to the same RS485 network as the Omni-16.
All modules have LED status indicators that indicate healthy/faulty conditions plus send/receive data transmission statuses. The modules support 300, 1200, 9600 and 19 200 baud rate transmissions, fast enough for any alarm annunciation application.
Omniflex
(031) 207 7466
[email protected]
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