Multi-port system allows mixed inputs

Associate Editor Rick DeMeis takes a look at recent product developments that can ease interconnection concerns

By Rick DeMeis -- Design News, February 2, 1998

By being able to accommodate non-standard input sensors, the Brad Harrison(reg) 16 Input Multi-Port System from the Daniel Woodhead Company allows the use of a wide range of non-DeviceNet(TM) equipment. The Multi-Port System provides connections for up to 16 discrete input devices to a DeviceNet sensor bus. But its embedded communications circuitry also permits using many non-net inputs including proximity and photo-electric sensors, limit switches, push buttons, and other 24V dc equipment. The unit automatically configures itself for any combination of sourcing (PNP) or sinking (NPN) devices. LEDs provide diagnostic information regarding network, module, and input status. Such features reduce wiring time and errors, simplify installation and maintenance, and consolidate cables for large numbers of sensors. Input power comes from the DeviceNet bus, eliminating an external power supply. A sealed housing offers protection in wet environments to IP67. Daniel Woodhead Company: Product Code 4167

related stories
resource center
by this author

View more articles by Richard DeMeis

Technology Marketplace

Article tools sponsored by

Talkback

We would love your feedback!

» View All Talkback Threads

» Submit talk back

DN's Resource Center Get Free Information, Made Easy

Friction, Wear and Lubrication Info from Society
Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers | Design Guide
Request Item
Best Practices for Green, Energy, and Supplier Challenges
Dell Computer Corp. | Web Event
Request Item

View all DN resources >>

Design News Partner Zones

CAD/CAE Model Clean-Up: Reduce Iterative Cycles
This webinar featured research and survey results related to problems associated with preparing CAD geometry for CAE applications. We discussed how Recipe-Based Automation can help create "just-in-time" CAE-ready geometry each time a cad model is updated. Watch the Presentation

Light Matters: A High-Performance, "No-Compromise" Solid State Lamp?
First, let's define "no-compromise". In an ideal configuration, this lamp would use a high-brightness LED (HBLED) that is built into a small, integrated package, and is able to produce a large quantity of focused light, operate with a high level of reliability and generate no audible noise. Is this difficult? Yes, but it is possible.
Read More

Design Engineers' Portal for Sensing and Machine Safety
Whatever industry you're in, or whatever product you manufacture, the right sensors to automate your plant, and to improve your overall efficiency, quality and safety are a must. You'll find Banner Engineering to be an amazing resource of products, training and people with expertise.