Support

The MFR module is an advanced interface module. The "X_P01_" series has 8 inputs and 8 outputs. Each of the 8 outputs can be assigned a function.

The difference is only in the typical application. The interface module does not need to be configured specifically, an external data source communicates with the module via the interface and receives the digital inputs E0..7 or sets the digital outputs A0..7. The MFR module can perform special functions on each output channel in addition to the interface basic function. However, this requires a corresponding configuration.

This error message may appear when installing the configuration software on an older (W98-) system. The GDIPlus.dll from Microsoft is missing, it is installed by default from XP onwards.

The missing file can either be downloaded and installed from Microsoft or downloaded from our download directory. If only the DLL is downloaded, i.e. not the installation version from MS, it is sufficient to copy it to the chosen installation directory, it does not have to be copied to the Windows directory!

RTU stands for Remote Terminal Unit and essentially means a data collection point that communicates with a similar unit, usually without additional control units, and outputs the collected information in a suitable form there. This means: data from location A is output at location B, depending on the type of unit, it can also be the other way around.

Our modules have digital inputs and outputs, so data can be transferred from A to B as well as from B to A.

Yes and no... the modules of this design are as they are. They are held in open design for mounting on a DIN rail and are therefore available at short notice. However, we are always ready to install this existing design in transition housings according to customer specifications, add a power supply and make the desired wiring connections.

Of course, we are still happy to bring the existing circuit into a desired form. However, this requires a certain minimum order quantity or proportional development costs.

By default, the modules contain standard components that are typically specified by the respective manufacturer in the range of 0..70°C. Since the self-heating of the modules is relatively low, they can be used without special measures in the range of 10..60°C. If lower or higher temperatures are expected, e.g. outdoors, appropriate precautions must be taken.

Yes, within the available components, temperature ranges of -40.. +125°C are possible as a special version. However, this can significantly change the price and delivery time.

At present, there are:

• External dialogue with the data source via the interface
• Direct pass-through of the input to the output
• Switch-on delay
• Switch-off delay
• Clock pulse/pause
• Clock pulse/period
• Switch-on wipe impulse
• Switch-off wipe impulse
• Remote input (RTU)

For this purpose, there is currently only a configuration program for Windows, which can be downloaded from our download area. After installation, it is largely self-explanatory, and there is also help available if necessary. The program is only required for setting up, it is not needed for operating the module!

• RS232 to digital I/O
• to digital I/O
• Ethernet to digital I/O

The digital inputs are designed for 24VDC (industrial standard). The input channels are galvanically isolated from each other by optocouplers.

Depending on the version, they are either relay contacts or semiconductor switches (24VDC, positive switching).

No, it was not designed for that purpose. It is deliberately a simple input-output unit for simple applications that allows access to industrial process environments from a PC or similar devices.

For a range of required applications, the availability of 8 inputs and 8 outputs is completely sufficient. For more complex applications, PLCs or modules from competitors may be better suited.

Protocols often have something "complicated" about them and are subject to the most diverse philosophies. The interface modules are intended for simple tasks, so the communication protocol is reduced to an unavoidable minimum.

A three-character sequence consisting of ASCII characters should actually be manageable by anyone from any application that can access the corresponding interfaces.

Yes and no, protocols always require an "overhead", both in terms of memory requirements and runtime. Therefore, the implementation possibility must be checked on a case-by-case basis. However, with the PIC16F877A used by default, the available resources are limited.

Almost anything can be realized in the form of customer-specific solutions.

No, no driver is required for the application. Any application that can operate a serial RS232 interface is capable of communicating with the module. Simple ASCII commands are used to read the inputs and set the outputs.

• Baud rate: 9600
• Data bits: 8
• Stop bits: 1
• Parity: None

According to general recommendations, the maximum cable length at 9600 baud should be between 15m and 150m. The actual values are strongly dependent on the cable quality, environmental conditions, and the required data security. In a rough industrial environment, shorter cable lengths are recommended than in a "clean" domestic environment. With a good cable, distances of several hundred meters can be bridged. If a transparent indirect transmission path (WLAN, LAN, infrared, modem) is chosen, the cable length does not matter, and the corresponding signal propagation time must be taken into account.

Quite simply, connect two interface modules to each other via a crossed cable (2-3, 3-2, 5-5), switch them on, and you're done. Inputs A then land on outputs and vice versa. If direct cabling is not possible, a modem connection will also work.

Yes, for the installation of the virtual COM port. The modules work with an FTDI chip and use a reserved PID, so automatic hardware detection is only possible with the drivers provided by us.

On the included CD or in our download area.