1.7 MCU System Communications
Located at the rear of the Microcontroller Module is a 9-way D-type socket labelled ‘Programming
and Configuration’. This is the systems RS232 communications port. This provides the system
with three useful communications features:-
Note:
The PC must be running the ‘Mentor PC Software’ to perform any of communications functions.
1.7.1 MCU System Configuration and Interrogation
This provides the ability to perform all of the functions available via the Control Unit keypad (and
more) using a PC.
e.g.
• Displaying live data on the PC screen.
• MCU system configuration.
• Downloading logged data from MCU.
• View and export downloaded data (graphical or tabular format).
These features may be advantageous if the MCU Control Unit is located in a dirty environment.
The system could be remotely monitored from a ‘clean’ room.
Note:
An RS232 cable is usually only suitable for short cable runs (e.g. 10ft), however cables having
lengths of 30-40ft have been known to provide reliable communications.
1.7.2 MCU System Networking
RS485 Network Cards are available from Status Scientific Controls. These interface the RS232
signals from the MCU into a more suitable format for transmission over longer distances. This
provides the MCU system with two powerful features:
• As section 1.7.1 but with less restriction on the cable lengths between PC. and MCU
Control Unit (up to 1km possible).
• The PC can monitor more than one MCU system when utilising network cards.
All PC’s have at least one RS232 COM port to allow communications with external equipment.
The network cards supplied by Status Scientific Controls allow the PC to monitor a maximum of
32 MCU systems via one com port.
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