This blog on how to send critical signals all at the same time to multiple locations was originally written by our friends at Acromag. To view the original document, click here.
The problem: Send an abort signal to multiple locations at the same time
Firstly, a satellite launch company requires the ability abort the mission immediately if the launching processes don’t follow the procedure. However, equipment for the launch is on the same network but monitored and controlled from different buildings.
System Requirements
Timing is critical. All signals must be sent simultaneously. Signals must be failsafe. Units must be rugged. This due to vibration experienced during the launch.
Solution: BusWorks NT Model NTE2111-1111
- The NTE2111-1111 is part of Acromag’s family of Ethernet products. The NT series has a unique feature called i2o® Multicast. Firstly, Multicast allow the NT to operate as a standard remote I/O unit. But additional Multicast sending and listening IP addresses can be assigned to the unit.
- The NTE2111-1111 is configured for one or more of its channels to act as peer-to-peer outputs of a corresponding input send signal. If it was working normally, the NT would be listening for a message to the Multicast IP Address. However, once it receives the message, it immediately outputs the signal.
- Therefore, the sending unit will broadcast the message to a multicast sending IP address. Upon a change of state to its input. All other NT units that have been assigned the same address as its Multicast listening IP address will get the message. This makes the number of output locations virtually limitless.
About the Product chosen to send critical signals all at the same time
Acromag NT Series
NTE2111-1111: An Ethernet I/O Module with dual RJ45 ports and 16 discrete I/O channels.
Why Acromag?
The Multicast feature on Acromag’s NT Series products. It allows peer-to-peer communication. From a single unit to multiple units over any Ethernet Network. Therefore, discrete inputs to discrete outputs or analog inputs to analog outputs.
The NTE2111-1111 was selected because it is a low side switching. This gives it a positive “off” voltage. But in the case of a power or unit failure, the output would indicate the alarm condition for failsafe operation. Also the NT series operates in a wide range of temperatures. Plus it can withstand 25g of shock and 4g of vibration. Each NTE (Ethernet) unit can have up to three NTX (Expansion) units of any type of I/O added. Therefore, providing ultimate flexibility and customisation at a low cost.
For more information on the NT Series of products, contact us.