SATEC AX-8 - Manual (Page 4)

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1 Introduction
1.
The AX-8 Analog Expander is an instrument that enables Powermeters to
interface with other devices that require analog signals. The AX-8 can be
connected to any Powermeter equipped with an RS-422 communication
port and analog expander option.
The AX-8 provides up to 8 analog outputs. Two units can be connected in
sequence, providing as many as 16 analog outputs with use of one
Powermeter
1 . For information on analog output and analog expander
setup and connections, refer to the Installation and Operation Manual of
the specific Powermeter.
Features
Accuracy - The AX-8 provides 8 or 9 bit resolution on each analog output.
Output values on all channels are updated continuously at a rate of 0.3 to
0.5 seconds, depending on the speed of communication (baud rate).
Flexibility - The analog outputs are provided with current output options
of 0-20 mA and 4-20 mA, 0-1 mA and
± 1 mA , and voltage output
options of 0-10V DC and ± 10V DC. Depending on the specific model of
Powermeter, a wide range of output values are user-selectable, from the
Powermeter front panel or via communications software.
Installation - DIN rail or wall mounting. No auxiliary power supply is
required; an internal switching power supply with a wide AC/DC range is
provided.
Communications - The AX-8 is connected to the Powermeter using a
twisted pair cable via the RS-422 port, using ASCII, Modbus or DNP3.0
protocols. This allows communication over a distance of up to 1000 meters
at a baud rate of up to 19,200 bps. Installation of the AX-8 does not
interfere with the inclusion of the Powermeter in a communication network
(RS-422 or RS-485) of up to 31 Powermeters.
Figure 1-1 shows a typical communication network with two AX-8
expanders.
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If your Powermeter supports 7 (14) channels, then the AX-8 will also provide 7
(14) channels.