Modular Temperature/Process Control Boards Provide Maximum Flexibility in Embedded Machine Design Applications

Athena Controls' new state-of-the-art EMC 40 Series Controllers offer all the capabilities of a multi-zone PLC with powerful analog functions on a small size, inexpensive control board (4.5" x 7") that provides maximum flexibility in embedded machine design applications. Small in size yet powerful, the EMC 40 offers design engineers a wide range of greatly expanded communications options required by today's demanding temperature and process control applications. The basic control board features four 24 VDC isolated digital inputs and six 24 VDC isolated digital sourcing outputs that share 750 mA of current. The board's 14 MIPS processor easily handles the four PID control zones in addition to the two encoder/counter inputs. The four 16-bit analog inputs can be standard process types (4-20 mA or 0-10 VDC), or low level sensors such as T/C, RTD, Thermistor, or smart sensors that require excitation voltages of 5, 10 or 15 VDC. The board's large (256K) flash code and (8K) RAM memory allow ample room for added software capabilities required by more complex custom "state machines". Smaller optional plug-in boards allow expanded communication and I/O functions beyond the basic board's capabilities. Various display board choices include ten 7-segment digits (80 LED's), ten key pad switches, or an intelligent touch panel display; digital I/O choices include up to two isolated 12-bit analog output cards (4-20 mA or 0-10 VDC) or additional 24 VDC input/output cards; and communications choices include Modbus® over Ethernet or RS 485, and configuration and parameters uploads that can utilize RS 232 or USB.