FlexIO

General Description

The FlexIO system is intended as a customisable IO module for remote data acquisition, monitoring or control reach extension where conventional wiring is difficult or impractical. The system allows a remote IO unit to communicate back to a central host. This could be part of a larger SCADA system or a small stand-alone system. It can be hard wired or connected via radio data modems. Input states can be read and output states set. This technology demonstrator has 8 inputs, 4 outputs, and iButton port and communicates via RS232 at 9600 BAUD.

General Features of the FLEXIO product range

• 8 Inputs
• Multiple Input types - both hardware and software selectable
• 4 abuse protected Outputs
• Can enter low power state
• Unit ID programmable on site
• Reverse Supply Voltage Protected
• Versions can be automotive load dump protected for 12V or 24V systems
• Versions can be configured for IR, RS232, RS485 or wireless communications
• Outputs and inputs can be protected from abuse and incorrect installation
• Custom input types can be added
• EEPROM or FLASH data storage can be added
• Small footprint which can be altered to suit existing enclosures
• Customizable operation

Inputs

• Can wake on digital state change
• Can be independently specified
• Sampled every 0.1Sec when awake
• Averaging, debouncing and switch event supported
• Analog inputs can have selectable full range response
• Digital inputs go TRUE when the inputs are loaded with 100Ohm or less
• Input negative terminals are 0VDC
• Inputs can be designed to withstand Automotive transients

Outputs

• Abuse protected outputs can sink 100mA each continuously
• Can have a series load specified
• Are completely independent
• Can have timed toggle output specified
• Can be automotive transient protected

Data Communications

• Fully specified serial communications allowing you to integrate with existing systems
• BAUD rates to 115200 BAUD
• 9600BAUD, 8 bit data, No parity, 1 stop bit as the default
• Packet format has framing and a checksum for interference detection
• Carrier detect & PTT support can be added
• Radio power management can be supported
• 12VDC or 24VDC power
• Can have V23 FSK support to reduce radio costs

Software

• PC driver source code is available now for Borland C++ Builder
• Customised remote and PC code is available at standard commercial rates

Power supply

• Can shut down to under 100uA standby current
• The FLEX_IO requires < 20mA at 12VDC with all outputs off and RS232 running. Output loading and radio modem supply current is in addition to this
• Lower power mode supported which turns off the RS322 transceivers unless they are needed
• Reverse polarity protection
• Can be load dump protected

General ratings

• Supply voltage up to 28.4VDC
• -10°C to +70°C Ambient temperature as standard
• Extended temperature range also available (-40°C to +85°C)
• Up to 95%RH non-condensing
• Environmental protection will depend on the enclosure selected

Below is an example of one implementation (8 In x 4 Out + iButton and RS232).
It is not designed to be compact, just an example of the technology.
We produce versions down to 2.5cm square.

Contact us for a quote on your next project.