Temecula, Calif.—Opto 22 has added a family of I/O modules interfacing Ethernet to any RS-232 serial device. SNAP-SCM-232 two-channel serial communication module extends the SNAP Ethernet I/O system from analog and digital devices to virtually any plant-floor device. Opto 22 vice president Bob Sheffres explains, "Since you can now put any serial device through the Ethernet network to the Internet, SNAP I/O becomes a universal thin server for almost all data types."

Traditionally, users combining analog and digital signals with serial devices had to install a PLC or PC close to the source of the data. SNAP Ethernet I/O allows users to place the I/O system close to the data source and multiplex all signals back on an Ethernet network. The SNAP Ethernet I/O system offers analog modules in either two or four points per module, and digital modules with four points per module.

The new serial module provides two RS-232 ports per module. A total of 16 modules of all three types can be mounted on a single rack, providing flexibility in solving nearly any application requirement.

SNAP-SCM-232 module offers baud rates ranging from 300-115,200 baud through two RJ-45 type connectors mounted on top of the module. All adapter cables with both male and female cable-to-D shell connectors are included. Ready-To-Send (RTS) and Clear-To-Send (CTS) support is provided allowing the user to communicate with devices, such as radios or modems, directly from the serial ports. Furthermore, each port is individually optically isolated up to 750 V rms for an additional level of protection from errant voltage spikes.

Typical applications for include printers, barcode readers, plant floor devices (scales, message displays, and chart recorders), and security system badge readers and solenoids.

Opto 22's SNAP Ethernet I/O includes TCP/IP protocol over Ethernet, 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet support, multiple, simultaneous application-level protocols, and a built-in web server. Opto 22