CIE Components in Electronics
Brainboxes has launched the ED-204, a new flexible, highly-integrated digital networking module for industrial machine control. This device combines a dual-port Ethernet switch, an Ethernet to RS-232 serial interface and an Ethernet to 4-channel digital I/O in a compact 3-in-1 solution that saves the cost of deploying three separate units.
Run from a +5V to +30V DC power supply Brainboxes’ ED-204 Digital inputs can be latched or counter inputs and are TTL to 30V input compatible. Inputs are individually jumper selectable for NPN active low type sensors or PNP active high type sensors. Individual outputs can sink up to 1 amp at 40V maximum load and can cope with high voltage and high current loads making it ideal for inductive, capacitive and resistive loads such as CNC machines and stepper motors as well as operating heating ventilation and air conditioning systems.
The ED-204 10/100 MB/s Ethernet switch allows you to extend your network or ‘daisy chain’ devices. For error-free operation in noisy industrial applications, the device also has an RS-232 serial port offering up to 1 MegaBaud with uncompromising performance. Port Tunnelling allows serial cable replacement over any distance with no additional software required. All I/O pins provide 16kV ESD protection.
The device controls data flow to CNC and DNC machines reliably and works with legacy communication protocols used on industrial machinery. Control and monitoring of the device is implemented with a simple, convenient and easy to use web-based interface. Software drivers give users a local COM port for compatibility with virtually all industry standard packages such as LabView, MATLAB and Agilent VEE. Applications can be run on servers, desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones, including Android, using supplied drivers for all the latest operating systems.
Brainboxes supports the din rail or wall mountable ED-204 with a software suite that allows users to design new systems with mobile in mind. APIs and sample program code are provided for Microsoft .NET, C#, Visual Basic, C++, JavaScript, PHP, Java and Objective-C.
Commenting Eamonn Walsh, Managing Director of Brainboxes, said “This cost effective Ethernet combo module addresses a multitude of applications, especially with the web interface enabling a powerful remote control capability. Why spend time and money finding and installing three devices when you can do it all with this one small box? We have designed all the hardware, written all the software and manufacture this device. We aim to make all our products as easy to use as possible so you can just fit and forget.”
