cheap remote IO devices for devicenet

[robot_works]

I want to extend an existing DeviceNet network to control a light tower (8 DO's). I am having a hard time finding a simple cheap DI/O unit to accommplish this. If I want to go to 24 bits plus some analogs, there seem to be plenty, but way above my budget. I would prefer a unit with a termination block vs 12mm screw ins.

Anyone with any ideas?

robot

[Randy Solomonson]

Hello-

If the task is to toggle some DO's at a set frequency, Cutler-Hammer probably has a timing circuit that's not too expensive. If the DO's need more control, the Fieldpoint 2000 (FP-2000) has an embedded controller that can be accessed through Ethernet. Unfortunately, most DeviceNet devices have CAN circuitry that is not cheap.

Randy Solomonson
Application Engineer
National Instruments

[JAL]

I've used Automation Direct Terminator I/O -- it's like AB Flex I/O but cheaper. You can get into a 16 pt DO Module for < $400. You can mix and match DI,DO,AI,AO. Check out their website. I've used it with LabWindows (have to give an NI plug here) with success.

[bulshavik]

Have you looked at the AB 1790 compact block LDX ? They are small, cheap and you can stack them up lots of different ways. Once you buy a base module , (list about $250) you can add 3 more modules and the add ons are even cheaper