Model MCX-32
Model MCX-32 Instruction Manual
Rev.2.3
Page 2 of 49
The number of I/O modules supported by the MCX-32 controller will vary depending on the enclosure type
chosen due to physical space limitations. A maximum of 2 I/O modules will fit outside the MCX-32-N1P
enclosure and a maximum of 16 I/O modules will fit inside the MCX-32-N4X enclosure. I/O modules are
normally factory installed unless specifically instructed otherwise. Any additional modules will have to be
mounted in a separate enclosure by the customer. I/O modules are purchased separately.
The available Detcon I/O modules include:
Model DA-4 – Four Channel 4-20mA Input Module
Model DI-4 – Four Channel Dry Contact Input Module
Model AO-4 – Four Channel 4-20mA Output Module
Model RL-4 – Four Alarm Relay Output Module
The controller is capable of communicating directly with the Detcon 100, 600D, 600 and 700 series sensors
without the need for I/O modules.
Direct communication via Modbus
™
provides the controller enough
information to identify a sensor and obtain details on the sensors operation. These details are used to populate
the Details Screen for that sensor. This Auto Configuration capability allows the controller to start a polling
sequence that will identify any 100, 600D, 600 or 700 series sensors, identify the type of sensor, the range, and
current conditions of the sensor.
NOTE:
The controller provides the option to automatically configure or manually configure
channels when using Detcon 100. 600D, 600 and 700 series sensors. Manual configuration is
the only option available for all other Modbus
™
devices that are used.
1.2.1
Interface PCA
The Interface PCA is the primary support for the touch screen controller. This PCA is the interface between
the Touch Screen Controller’s RS-232 ports and the RS-485 Modbus
™
ports. These RS-485 ports include
RS-485 Ports 1 and 2, and the remote port used for communication with the Remote Display (optional). The
PCA monitors the 24VDC, and controls switching between the primary internal 24V Power supply, and a
secondary external 24V power source. When a battery (or set of batteries) is connected to the secondary
24VDC input, the Interface PCA can provide a charging voltage for the battery if the charging circuitry is
enabled on the PCA. The Interface PCA also includes two auxiliary relays for Fault and No-Comm.
1.2.2
Communication Ports
To communicate efficiently with up to 64 sensors and a compliment of I/O Modules the MCX-32 utilizes three
communications ports:
1. Port 1 is utilized for direct communication with channels 1-32 of Modbus
™
capable sensors and
supports all Detcon I/O modules associated with those channels.
2. Port 2 is utilized for direct communication with channels 33-64 of Modbus
™
capable sensors and
supports all Detcon I/O modules associated with those channels.
3. Port 3 is utilized as a Modbus
™
slave port and is labeled ‘RS-485 REMOTE’. It is typically used for
Remote Displays.
If Modbus
™
devices are attached to the MCX-32, they must be installed and configured as follows:
Each device must be addressed correctly to be recognized on the Modbus
™
.
Directly addressable Modbus
™
capable sensors must be connected to the correct port for proper
communication.
Correct I/O type must be configured in the Channel Details screen.
RL-4 modules must be identified on the RL-4 Setup screen.
