Ethernet module - optocoupler inputs - optocoupler outputs with FET

Inputs via optocouplers, outputs via FET power switches with potential isolation

The proven EXDUL-518S Ethernet control module with RJ45 socket has 11 digital optocoupler inputs and eight digital power outputs with electrical isolation. These galvanically isolated bipolar optocoupler inputs are secured with additional overvoltage protection diodes. The optocoupler outputs, which are protected with reverse polarity protection diodes, can each switch a maximum current of 1 A per channel due to the downstream FET power switches. Contact A of the FET (source, + connection) is connected to one terminal each, contact B (drain, - connection) is brought together on a common terminal for all 8 channels. A freewheeling diode can be switched on for each channel to protect the FET power outputs from voltage peaks in the case of inductive loads.

Digital inputs programmable as counters

If required, six of the 11 optocoupler inputs can also be programmed as hardware-supported 32-bit counter inputs. The counters are designed for a maximum input frequency of 5 kHz. In order to prevent data loss in the event of a power failure, the counter readings are saved in the module at intervals of 100 us and automatically reloaded into the counter register when the module is restarted.

Integrated webpage

The module can be easily configured via the webpage. A simple function test is also possible.

Communication via TCP/IP connection

The communication between the PC and the module takes place via the sending and receiving of byte arrays via a stable TCP/IP connection. This communication is secured by a handshake protocol.

Watchdog for secure communication

The EXDUL module has various security mechanisms for communication. However, if communication is lost and the connection cannot be reestablished, the module's built-in watchdog timer can be used to troubleshoot the problem.

Programmable logic to reduce data traffic

Sometimes it is advantageous if the module reacts independently to input signals or changes at the inputs. Without this possibility z. For example, a change at the input can only be detected by regularly querying the inputs using polling. This polling causes an increased load on the network and the computer. In order to generate an independent reaction of the module, four logic branches are provided, each with four logic inputs, a link and a logic output. This logic output can then be connected to an optocoupler/FET output or used for messages to the PC.

Power supply

The module is supplied with the necessary operating voltage of between 10 and 30 volts via an external voltage source.

Connection terminals and assembly

The connections for the power supply, like the connections for the input and output optocoupler, are routed to a 24-pin screw terminal strip. The compact housing allows use as a mobile module on the notebook and as a control module in control and mechanical engineering with simple wall mounting or uncomplicated mounting on DIN EN mounting rails.

Software, drivers, programming languages

No driver is required for the EXDUL-518 Ethernet module. A prerequisite is a provided network connection from the PC (network card with driver) or mobile device. The TCP/IP libraries available in many high-level languages such as C, C++, C#, Visual Basic or Java are required for direct access to the module.

Supported operating systems and programming languages

Microsoft Windows^®

Java^®, VB.net^®, C++.net^®, C#.net^®, Python^®, Labview Tutorial^®

Linux^®

C^®, C++^®, Java^®, Phyton^®

Android^®

C#^®