Microgate REI2, User Manual

Page: 61 / 64

REI2
User manual
Doc: R2U_2_1079_002_E
Version: 1.07.9
Page
61
of
64
1. Introduction to LinkPod
The LinkPod system allows you to connect a maximum 80 external lines to REI2, in addition to the
4 available on the device. For each line the logical channel to which it corresponds, disactivation
times and possible activation and disactivation can be individually specified.
The system consists of a variable number of Pods (maximum 10) and their respective connecting
cables.
1.1. Information transmitted
The Pods do not send REI2 a simple signal of opening or closing of contact but transmit sets of
information containing the moment at which the event took place and the line and Pod which
acquired it. The protocol used for transmission is RS 485. Each Pod deals with any conflicts of
transmission.
1.2. Measurement and speed precision
The accuracy of measurement obtained by using the LinkPod system is the same as that obtained by
using the normal input lines of REI2.
The Pods keep themselves synchronized with REI2 by using a special synchronization signal sent
by REI2. Consequently the maximum time lag is always lower than REI2’s resolution (1/25,000s).
The system can acquire and transmit to REI2 the status and events acquired by any module in a very
short time (maximum150 ms). Therefore also simultaneous events, such as the simultaneous closing
of all 80 contacts, are acquired and reported to REI2 within 150 ms, maintaining maximum
accuracy of measurement.
1.3. The Pod
Every pod has a series of 8 input lines, 2 connectors for connection to the other Pods and the
stopwatch, a device for setting the number of Pods (address) and a series of switches for the N/O or
N/C configuration of the inputs.
The number assigned to the Pod must be different for each of the Pods connected. When you assign
numbers, you do not necessarily have to follow the order in which the Pods are connected to each
other but can number as you like. However, it is advisable to assign numbers consecutively to
simplify the identification of the lines.
The lines of each Pod can be individually configured as N/O or N/C independently from each other
and from every other Pod.
The cable is used to supply power and the synchronization signal and to transmit the sets of data
containing the information concerning the events acquired (time, number of pods and line). It is
therefore advisable to use the dedicated Microgate cables, type CAB092, or cables of similar
quality.
The maximum distance between REI2 and the farthest Pod is about 1000 m.
Connection cables of different sizes are available. The cable used consists of 3 twisted pairs with
watertight Amphenol connectors at the ends.