Block 2 - Network Devices - Automation & Instrumentation Control Systems Flashcards
What is RS232?
A widely used standard for serial communication between two devices
It has been in use since the 1960s.
What are the key features of RS232?
- Simplicity and ease of implementation
- Widely supported by various devices
- Bidirectional communication
- Cable lengths up to 50 feet (15 meters)
What are the limitations of RS232?
- Relatively slow data transfer rate (max 115.2 kbps)
- Restricted range of 50 feet (15 meters)
- Lacks built-in error-checking mechanisms
- Limited to single point-to-point communication
What is the purpose of RS422 and RS485 protocols?
Developed to overcome limitations of RS232 for device communication in industrial and commercial environments
What are key features of RS422 and RS485?
- Differential signaling for superior noise immunity
- Higher data transfer rates (up to 10 Mbps)
- Longer cable distances (RS422: 4,000 feet, RS485: 10,000 feet)
- Supports multiple devices on a single bus
- Built-in error-checking mechanisms
What are the limitations of RS422 and RS485?
- Increased complexity in implementation
- Requires additional hardware (transceivers)
- RS485 necessitates half-duplex mode for multi-device communication
What is the MODBUS protocol primarily used for?
Communication protocol primarily used in industrial automation
What are the features of MODBUS?
- Straightforward and easy to implement
- Open standard with no licensing fees
- Supports various communication methods (RS232, RS485, Ethernet)
- Accommodates multiple data types (binary, decimal, hexadecimal)
What are the limitations of MODBUS?
- Slow data transfer rate (115.2 kbps for serial, 100 Mbps for Ethernet)
- Limited security features
- Minimal error-checking capabilities
- Does not support real-time communication
What is BACnet MSTP?
A variation of the BACnet protocol designed for building automation over RS485 networks
What are the features of BACnet MSTP?
- Token-passing scheme for efficient bandwidth utilization
- Supports multiple devices on a single network
- Accommodates various data types (binary, analog, character strings)
- Built-in error-checking mechanisms
What are the limitations of BACnet MSTP?
- Maximum data transfer rate of 76.8 kbps
- Restricted range of 1,200 meters (4,000 feet)
- Lacks robust security features
- Does not support real-time communication
What is BACnet IP?
A protocol that utilizes the Internet Protocol for communication over Ethernet networks
What are the features of BACnet IP?
- High-speed data transfer suitable for real-time communication
- Supports multiple devices on a single network
- Accommodates various data types
- Built-in error-checking mechanisms
- Security features including encryption and authentication
What are the limitations of BACnet IP?
- Distance limitation (Ethernet cable lengths typically restricted to 100 meters)
- Challenges in integrating with legacy systems
- More complex configuration process compared to BACnet MSTP
What is Metasys N2?
A proprietary protocol developed by Johnson Controls for building automation systems
What are the features of Metasys N2?
- Token-passing scheme for optimizing bandwidth utilization
- Supports multiple devices on a single network
- Wide range of data types
- Built-in error-checking mechanisms
What are the limitations of Metasys N2?
- Proprietary nature limits interoperability
- Maximum cable length of 1,200 meters (4,000 feet)
- Lacks advanced features like real-time communication and encryption
What is the LON protocol?
An open standard for building automation systems promoting interoperability across devices from different manufacturers
What are the features of LON?
- Open protocol design for interoperability
- Supports multiple devices on a single network
- Handles various data types (binary, analog, character strings)
- Built-in error-checking mechanisms
- Highly scalable
What are the limitations of LON?
- Limited data transfer rate of 78.125 kbps
- Range capped at 500 meters (1,640 feet)
- Limited support for advanced features
- Requires specialized knowledge for design and maintenance
What is DeviceNet?
A proprietary protocol widely used in industrial automation systems
What are the features of DeviceNet?
- Supports multiple devices on a single network
- Plug-and-play capability for easy installation
- Supports real-time communication
What is DeviceNet particularly beneficial for?
Large industrial facilities needing to manage numerous devices simultaneously
DeviceNet is designed for effective device management in complex industrial environments.
What is a key feature of DeviceNet that simplifies installation?
Plug-and-play capability
This feature allows for effortless installation and configuration without intricate programming.
What allows DeviceNet to facilitate rapid and responsive control in industrial operations?
Support for real-time communication
This feature enhances the efficiency of industrial operations.
What is the maximum data transfer rate of DeviceNet?
Up to 500 kbps
This makes it suitable for applications requiring high-speed data transfer.
Name two applications where DeviceNet can be utilized.
- Motion control
- Machine vision
- Robotics
DeviceNet’s flexibility allows it to handle diverse automation tasks.
What is a limitation regarding the cable length for DeviceNet?
Maximum cable length of 500 meters (1,640 feet)
This can pose challenges in larger industrial facilities.
True or False: DeviceNet is compatible with products from multiple manufacturers.
False
DeviceNet is only compatible with products from Rockwell Automation.
What advanced features does DeviceNet lack?
- Encryption
- Authentication
- Network management
These limitations can constrain its applicability in secure environments.
What is HART in the context of industrial automation?
A hybrid communication protocol used in process automation
HART stands for Highway Addressable Remote Transducer.
What type of communication does HART support?
Both analog and digital communication
This dual capability ensures seamless integration.
What is HART’s maximum data transfer rate?
1.2 kbps
This may not suffice for high-speed data transfer applications.
What is the maximum cable length supported by HART?
2 kilometers (1.2 miles)
This can be a challenge in larger facilities.