Measurement modules have their own web servers

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jul 8, 2002

A new series of intelligent web server measurement and control modules allows analogue and digital inputs and outputs to be measured or controlled instantly and transparently over the Internet.

Captec has a new series of intelligent web server measurement and control modules that allows various forms of analogue and digital inputs and outputs, to be measured or controlled instantly and transparently over Ethernet/Internet.

With the proliferation of Ethernet networks throughout commercial and industrial sites, the modules can be used in a wide diversity of applications without the need for adding any additional cabling network to support them.

The modules can be integrated into any existing network LAN or WAN using standard, low cost, CAT5 Ethernet cabling, thereby removing distance and expensive shielded cabling restrictions, commonly associated with the interface to I/O devices.

Furthermore, with the advent of wireless LAN these modules may even be accessible via roaming devices such as PDAs, webpad and tablet PCs.

The modules comprise a family of different functional units each providing a different form of input or output, including digital and analogue, counters, relay switching, as well as various forms of direct sensor inputs.

For example, for temperature measurement there is a thermocouple or RTD input module.

Multichannel modules are also available where more than one input or output needs to be accessed.

These may be of the same type or in some models different types for mixed source.

With local intelligence in the form of a 32bit microcontroller, a number of engineering and scientific computation functions can be performed by the modules, such as scaling the data and converting to real world parameters such as pressure in Newtons or degrees in Celsius/Fahrenheit.

Because software development is expensive and interfacing to I/O, particularly for a small number of points, would make it expensive to justify, the modules incorporate a built-in web server.

This allows the module data to be presented on a customisable web page that the user can define.

Data may then be viewed, or outputs controlled, by means of a standard web browser without the need for any expensive software development.

The family also includes various communications modules enabling gateway connection to the modules via ADSL or PSTN modems for remote/internet access.

The modules are designed to withstand harsh environments and can operate between -10 to +70C powered from an unregulated supply of anywhere between 10 and 30V DC.

The onboard Ethernet is accessible via a standard RJ45 port supporting UDP and TCP/Modbus protocols.

They are conveniently packaged to fit on standard DIN rail as well as equipped with a mounting plate for wall or panel mounting.

By adopting Ethernet open standards for connectivity, web browser for information delivery and a versatile mix of I/Os the modules are ideal building blocks for a very wide variety of applications requiring quick and easy to implement solutions.

From monitoring emissions from chimneystacks, remote pumping stations, cellular mobile transmitting stations, building/access control, tracking dispensing on vending machines, the applications are truly endless.