Description
Wireless 4-20mA Current Loop Inputs
Introducing the world’s most powerful Wireless 4-20mA Current Loop input transmitter. The ASM1-2 makes it easy to read industrial 4-20mA sensors with an incredible 2-Mile wireless communication range using 128-Bit AES Encryption. Read industrial 4-20mA pressure sensors, temperature sensors, flow meters, ultrasonic sensors, level sensors, force sensors, weight sensors, distance sensors, strain sensors, and much more. Use several ASM1-2 endNodes and talk to each endNode using secure wireless communications. Read wireless 4-20mA inputs on the factory floor, as we have tested this wireless technology in factories in excess of 1 mile indoor line-of-sight with heavy industrial machines operating. This communications technology is rock solid in electrically noisy environments. Read wireless 4-20mA inputs in industrial buildings, as this wireless technology has the best wireless penetration through walls currently available.
Wireless Targeting and Mesh Communications
Each endNode controller includes a unique serial number. This serial number is used to target the remote endNode controller with a 4-Channel 4-20mA input read request. Query each endNode up to six times per second using wireless communications. Use a single computer to target several endNode devices in the area or use multiple computers to talk to multiple wireless endNodes. endNodes form a wireless mesh to extend communication range beyond the typical 2-Mile line-of-sight range by hopping data between devices to reach the intended target device. All endNode devices are secured using 128-Bit AES Encryption. NCD endNode devices may also be used to repeat data from NCD Enterprise wireless sensors, as they act as a mesh network of repeaters to help sensors extend the wireless range. All endNode devices are available in 900MHz, 868MHz and 2.4GHz versions, but may have a reduced wireless range when using 868MHz and 2.4GHz options.
Definition of 4-20 Current Loop Inputs
Current Loop Inputs are best defined as inputs that accept changes in current in the range of 0-20mA; however, the range may be wider in some applications. Current readings of less than 4mA are typically considered open loop (disconnected). The biggest difference between 4-20mA inputs and 4-20mA current loop inputs is that 4-20mA current loop inputs INCLUDE isolated power to supply the remote sensors with power. In contrast, 4-20mA inputs require an external power supply to power the sensors. In the case of endNode devices, 4-20mA Current Loop Inputs include a isolated 10V, 16V, or 24V Power Supply (power supply options are chosen at the time of purchase). In addition, the internal I2C Communications bus is also isolated to prevent noise contamination.
USB 4-20mA Current Loop Inputs
All endNode devices are equipped with a USB port. Use the USB interface to read 4-20mA current loop input channels. USB is also used for advanced configuration using our Windows 10 Alpha Station Software. endNode devices mount as a Virtual COM Port on your PC to simplify communications. endNode devices are hardware compatible with Mac and Linux computers, we can assist you in using endNode devices on these platforms, but specific software has not yet been developed. Cross-platform Node-Red support for endNode devices is planned.
Wireless I2C Communications
endNode devices include a I2C expansion port, providing many wireless I2C expansion options. NCD endNode devices convert data from Wireless and USB Communications into I2C Communications using our custom conversion processor. Since I2C communications is the foundation technology for all sensors manufactured today, NCD endNode controllers are capable of communicating to all I2C devices ever manufactured today and well into the future, giving endNode controllers limitless expansion possibilities. I2C plays a major role in IoT applications, as it’s not possible to talk to most sensors without some form of I2C conversion along the way. Because endNode controllers are a data conversion technology, firmware upgrades will not be necessary to add support for future I2C expansions and devices. Here’s a current list of all the I2C devices that will plug into endNode controllers.
ProXR Enterprise Command Set
Use the I2C Expansion port to plug in relays and try out our ProXR Enterprise command set. Turn relays on or off, Trigger relay timers, pulse relays, control relays in sequences, toggle relays, and much more. The ProXR Enterprise command set provides users with simple commands that are converted to low-level I2C commands for relay control applications. Integrated FRAM memory retains relay state when power is removed, and recovers relay state on power-up. Check our our line of I2C Relay controllers compatible with endNode.
endNode Power Requirements
endNode devices were designed to operate continuously from a 9-32V external power supply. A +12VDC international power supply is included. A two-position pluggable terminal block is also included for direct wired applications. A red power LED indicates power status while a RGB LED is used to indicate processor status.