Different Connection
Methods
● RS485 Communication
CONTOUR Operating Instructions © 2013 Magnetrol International all rights reserved
25
5.3
RS485 Communication
The CONTOUR includes an RS485 communication port. This type of connection allows a
computer to communicate with the scanner. It also allows a multiple scanner connection
on the same RS485 bus and communication with all scanners using a single connection to
the computer running the software.
In both single or multi scanner connection, it is required to use an appropriate cable rated
for RS485, the cable should be of twisted pair, has 120 Ohm impedance and shielded. The
total length of the cable should not reach 1000m (3280ft).
In case of a multi scanner connection, all scanners must be connected in parallel mode in
the RS485 ports. Hence, all the '+' (positive) ports of the RS485 should commonly be
connected and all the '-' (negative) ports of the RS485 should be connected commonly.
The connection must be of Daisy-Chain type and have at each of the far ends of the chain
120 Ohm resistor (such resistor is provided with the scanner).
Each Scanner must be configured with a different polling address.
5.4
Communication using the CONTOUR Connect
In both single and multiple scanner installation, the CONTOUR can be connected to a
GSM/GPRS modem in order to transfer the data over the cellular network. The CONTOUR
Connect should be connected on the RS485 bus as any of the scanners, including cable
and resistors as needed. For further details on wiring and establishing a connection, refer
to the
CONTOUR Connect manual
and to the
CONTOUR Configurator Software
Instructions manual
.
NOTE:
In such communication mode, only one computer running the CONTOUR
Configurator software can be connected to the scanners.
5.5
TCP/IP Communication
The RS485 bus can be converted to TCP/IP communication. TCP/IP to RS485 converter
installation should be done as with any scanner, including the resistors and daisy-chain
considerations.
NOTE:
Consult with CONTOUR Technical Support team for assistance on the
proper TCP/IP converter to use.
