This is a communication hub for the 2600 series of I/O modules. It employs a standard Ethernet interface, enabling simultaneous access to the I/O system from up to four network clients. An embedded, high performance UDP/IP stack works together with a lightweight error recovery protocol to guarantee reliable packet delivery without the overhead of TCP. The embedded real-time operating system and application firmware boots up in approximately one second.

Up to sixteen I/O modules, in any combination of types, may be connected to the 2601.  When multiple I/O modules are connected to a 2601, it is possible for hundreds of I/O points to be monitored and controlled through a single Ethernet connection. Larger data acquisition and control systems can be built using several 2601 modules and an Ethernet switch.

Low-cost, optically isolated data links are used to communicate with I/O modules. This reduces cost by making it unnecessary for each I/O module to have an expensive Ethernet circuit.  Optical isolation helps to eliminate problematic ground loops that can diminish operational reliability and cause equipment damage.
 
Serial Ports
Four general-purpose serial ports are provided to enable network clients to monitor and control remote serial devices over an Ethernet.  Each port is independently configurable for RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485 operation.  Standard baud rates up to 115.2 Kbps are supported. These ports are useful for communicating with bar code scanners, motor controllers and other remotely located serial devices.

Interlocks
Integral support is provided for up to five independent interlock or emergency stop circuits.  An innovative routing system allows these circuits to be directly connected to the 2601, which in turn distributes the interlock signals directly to its I/O modules.  This makes it possible to implement fail-safe interlock operation without the extra costs (e.g., complex wiring, external terminal blocks) that are typically associated with interlock circuits.  In addition to routing the interlock signals, the 2601 also monitors the interlock signals and reports their states to Ethernet clients on demand.

Low-cost cables
Each I/O module connects to the 2601 with a standard Category-5 patch cable. This cable delivers power to the I/O module and it carries the optically-isolated communications between the 2601 and I/O module.   Some I/O module types, such as the 2652 Solid State Relay module, also require a daisy-chain power cable (Sensoray part number 2600C1) for interlock circuit connections.

I/O Modules
A wide range of I/O module types are available.  Each I/O module type has a specialized function such as analog I/O, thermocouples,  relays, digital I/O, etc.  A low-cost category-5 patch cable connects each I/O module to its Communication Module. Any combination of I/O modules may be connected to a Communication Module.

All I/O modules have on-board DC/DC converters to power module circuitry. This feature helps to prevent ground loops and associated common mode voltage problems when the I/O modules are distributed over long distances.  In addition, the inter-module communication circuits are optically isolated so as to eliminate communication ground loops.

 
Design Assistant
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