Modbus RTU master, distributed I/O in compact package: microNCS

The microNCS Modbus RTU master and distributed I/O system from Moore Industries can be used to send a few, or hundreds of, process signals between the field or factory floor and a control system.

By Control Engineering Staff November 11, 2008

The microNCS Modbus RTU master and distributed I/O system from Moore Industries

North Hills, CA – The microNCS Modbus RTU master and distributed I/O system from Moore Industries can be used to send a few, or hundreds of, process signals between the field or factory floor and a control system. Part of the NCS Net Concentrator System family of intelligent distributed I/O, microNCS provides Modbus RTU (RS-485) master capabilities, cost-effective distributed data acquisition and, with expansion I/O, control capabilities.The standalone microNCS functions as a Modbus RTU master. One or both ports can be configured to poll other Modbus RTU slaves with network polling functions of a typical Modbus master, including polling of up to 32 (without repeaters) microNCS stations, NCS Net Concentrator System Stations, and/or third-party Modbus slave devices per port; microNCS will handle up to 64 slave devices if both ports are used, company says.It also operates as a real-time signal gateway by concentrating data from four or eight fully-isolated analog inputs and four discrete (contact closure) inputs, transmitting data long distances back to one or more host DCS, PLC, or PC-based control system. It integrates with any NCS Net Concentrator System analog, temperature, discrete, and relay I/O modules. Using one module with expansion I/O, up to 124 signal inputs can be transmitted long distances on one low-cost data link.The microNCS communicates data via simultaneous dual Modbus RTU and Ethernet communications. An industry-standard OPC interface delivers plug-and-play integration with PC-based HMI and SCADA software packages. Features include advanced control and math capabilities using ISaGRAF Control Engine Software from ICS Triplex, a technology that helps deliver complex control, such as PID, and other math functions.The microNCS is equipped with metal construction that installs in harsh environments, RFI/EMI protection, and an ambient operating range of -40 °C to +85 °C (-40 °F to +185 °F).Additional features include a data logger with a back-up battery that can archive up to 64,000 time- and date-stamped values. Operating parameters are selected and set in minutes with the Ethernet or dial-up modem port.Also read: Ethernet hardware: Switches and more

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