Appendix A - sDIO Module

sDIO Outputs

The 32 output channels are arranged in four groups of eight. Each group is isolated from the other groups and is optically isolated from the sDIO circuitry. The eight outputs within each group share a common power supply and a common ground.

The outputs are accessed through the two female 44-pin D-sub output connectors on the front of the sDIO. Each connector provides access to two output groups. Each group requires 19 pins: 8 output signals, 1 test signal, 9 power supply (all tied together), and 1 power supply ground reference. When an output is on, current will flow in through the power supply pins and out through the output pins. This type of output is considered sourcing, that is, in the “on” condition, current flows out of the output pin. See Figure A-8 on page 109 for details on typical digital output wiring.

Testing sDIO Outputs

Like many solid-state I/O systems, when an output is off, a small leakage current will flow out of the output. This will raise the potential of the output to the power supply voltage level if there is no load. With a load connected, the output will function normally. However, if you need to test the output with a voltmeter with a load disconnected, you will get a false reading. The test signal provides a bias that can be used as a pull-down resistor for system-level troubleshooting. When this is connected to an output, the output will assume the ground potential when it is off.

sDIO LEDs

A pair of two-color LEDs on the sDIO module indicate link status over the IEEE 1394 connection and system status. The upper LED lights green when an IEEE 1394 connection is established. The lower LED blinks green when the software is active and switches to solid green after the controller software has found and configured the DIO block. The lower LED lights solid red whenever an output fault (excessive current or temperature) is detected on any of the 32 outputs. Refer to Table A-3 on page 107 for information about the LEDs and Figure A-6 on page 103 for information on their location.

NOTE: A fault indication is the result of an over-temperature or over-current condition on one or more of the outputs, usually due to a short-circuit condition. As a result, the output driver IC will oscillate on and off as the chip tries to drive the load.

Note that this red fault LED is active only when:

•An extended output (for example, a SIGNAL in the range of 33 to 64) has been turned on by a V+ command.

•An activated output has a thermal overload problem, usually due to a short in the user’s wiring from the output pin to the user’s ground.

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Nortech Systems RS-422/485, XUSR SDIO Outputs, Testing sDIO Outputs, SDIO LEDs, Adept SmartController User’s Guide, Rev. E
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RS-422/485, XSYS, XUSR, RS-232/TERM specifications

Nortech Systems offers a comprehensive suite of serial communication solutions, including RS-232/TERM, XUSR, XSYS, and RS-422/485 interfaces. These products are designed to facilitate reliable and high-speed data transmission in various industrial applications, making them essential for connecting devices in automation, telecommunications, and data acquisition systems.

The RS-232/TERM interface is a widely adopted standard for serial communication, known for its simplicity and robustness. It supports point-to-point communication over relatively short distances, typically up to 50 feet. Key features include a maximum baud rate of up to 115.2 kbps, error-checking capabilities, and a straightforward connection process, making it ideal for connecting peripheral devices like printers, modems, and barcode scanners.

Building on the RS-232 standard, the XUSR and XSYS devices offer enhanced functionalities and flexibility. XUSR, for instance, supports not just traditional RS-232 connections, but also protocol conversion for various serial interfaces, facilitating seamless integration of legacy systems with modern networking technologies. It is particularly useful in environments where multiple protocols need to be managed simultaneously.

XSYS is designed for more complex applications and supports advanced communication features such as multi-drop configurations, enabling it to connect multiple devices on a single bus. This makes it suitable for extensive industrial networks where space and wiring complexity need to be minimized. Synchronous and asynchronous data transfer modes ensure that the XSYS is adaptable for both real-time data collection and standard command-response applications.

On the other hand, RS-422/485 interfaces excel in long-distance communication, allowing for data transmission over distances up to 4,000 feet. They are designed for multi-point connections, supporting up to 32 devices on a single bus through differential signaling, which enhances noise immunity. These characteristics make RS-422/485 particularly well-suited for environments with electromagnetic interference, such as factories or subways.

Nortech Systems’ serial communication solutions emphasize reliability, ease of use, and versatility. With their commitment to high performance and user satisfaction, these interfaces provide critical connectivity in today’s increasingly automated and interconnected world. Whether in data centers, manufacturing setups, or remote sensor networks, Nortech's offerings stand out for their reliability, efficiency, and adaptability, ensuring effective data communication across diverse applications.
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