Data Sheet

Ether I/O 24R Users Manual V1.1
Elexol Pty Ltd Version 1.1 Page 9 http://www.elexol.com
ELEXOL
ELECTRONIC SOL UT IONS
Industrial Automation and Distributed I/O (continued)
Fixed IP.
Fixed IP addressing allows each module to be given a specific address that remains
constant throughout the life of the machine thereby simplifying machine software design and
allowing easy diagnosis of machine wiring faults.
Electrical Isolation.
Electrical Isolation within the Ether I/O 24 module is provided by the
transformer coupling of the data signals. This means that when the module is used with an
Ethernet switch, a severe fault in one section of a machine resulting in high voltage being applied
to the module is unlikely to damage other parts of the machine. Most common bus systems do
not provide this level of isolation.
In industrial systems there is frequently a need for user controls with indicators to be placed at
several points on a machine and the economical nature of the Ether I/O 24 and other Ethernet
components make its use more affordable and easier to use than most other systems.
The star or multi linked star wiring of Ethernet makes for very easy fault diagnosis and the
onboard LED indicators of the module allow the diagnostician to quickly ascertain whether a
module is powered, active or dormant, and whether any Ethernet signals are reaching the module.
As all Ethernet switches also have link and activity LED indicators, it is easy to see if any parts of
the network are not communicating. This allows for quick diagnosis of any wiring faults in the
Ethernet signaling or power distribution systems. As each module has its own serial number, the
system’s control software is able to verify that all parts of the network and all I/O modules are
correctly communicating and notify the operator of the specific location of any malfunction. The
low cost per I/O line of the module allows for the monitoring of non-signaling inputs such as
power supply rails for advanced diagnostics.
Using Ethernet allows companies to utilize their existing IT infrastructure to convey control
information, messages or process data to various points throughout their facilities. The
economical nature of the Ether I/O 24 makes this an attractive alternative to other systems.