adccommunitymod (AutomationDirect) asked a question.
Created Date: March 21,2008
Created By: n_spect_r
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We have two specific applications that I could use some advice on. First, I need to monitor 9 zones of 6 inputs. I am considering using 9 05's and networking them together. I will need to display only the ON condition of each input on a single central panel (optimate 400). If I understand correctly, I need a communication module to connect more than two 05's. What would be the simplest option? Second issue we have is remote communication. We manufacture construction equipment. We would like to have remote access to the status of the PLC. A hard wired modem and ethernet are not possible. Is it possible to use a cell phone connected to the PLC modem. The idea of leaving a cell in the control box so that we can dial up the equipment is very attractive.
Created Date: March 21,2008
Created by: marksji
Answer to the first question; Ethernet is probably the simplest to setup and make work.
Answer to the second, yes a cell modem should work or you can use one of the cell-to-Ethernet gateway devices like one of these: http://www.bb-elec.com/product_multi_family.asp?MultiFamilyId=56&Trail=3&TrailType=Top
Created Date: March 21,2008
Created by: n_spect_r
Ethernet is not an option. This is a remote construction location.
Created Date: March 21,2008
Created by: chris.zeman
Are all the 05s in the same facility? Perhaps a wireless mesh network would work for you. Install an H0-ECOM(100) in each controller and connect each one to a wireless AP capable of operating as a mesh client. See the following page for an example: http://www.demarctech.com/products/reliawave-rwo/rwo-plus-hpg-n.htm
I HIGHLY suggest that you do not use anything made by D-Link or Linksys. The product on the page I linked to has several advantages over any consumer-grade AP. One notable advantage is the fact that the transceivers have an RF output of 250mW, which is far more than an AP you'd purchase at Best Buy. Another great feature is the built-in watchdog. Should the device lock up or fail for any reason, it will reset the AP automatically.
You can then setup an addition AP connected to the device suggested by marksji so you can dial in and communicate with the controllers.
I hope this helps.
Chris
Created Date: March 21,2008
Created by: n_spect_r
We have two specific applications that I could use some advice on. First, I need to monitor 9 zones of 6 inputs. I am considering using 9 05's and networking them together. I will need to display only the ON condition of each input on a single central panel (optimate 400). If I understand correctly, I need a communication module to connect more than two 05's. What would be the simplest option?
Second issue we have is remote communication.
We manufacture construction equipment. We would like to have remote access to the status of the PLC. A hard wired modem and ethernet are not possible. Is it possible to use a cell phone connected to the PLC modem.
The idea of leaving a cell in the control box so that we can dial up the equipment is very attractive.