BRAD COMMUNICATIONS PC104 – DPIO DRL – DPM – BKF Introduction

Product Description

The BRAD COMMUNICATIONS PC104-DPIO DRL-DPM-BKF is an industrial – grade computer module that serves as a multifunctional I/O card. Rooted in the PC104 bus standard, it combines data acquisition, control, and communication capabilities into one compact device. Engineered by BRAD COMMUNICATIONS, this module is designed to meet the rigorous demands of industrial applications, offering high – performance operation and reliable functionality.

It features multiple digital and analog input and output channels, making it adaptable to a wide range of scenarios. Whether it’s interfacing with sensors to gather data, actuators to control machinery, or other industrial devices, the PC104 – DPIO DRL – DPM – BKF can handle the task with precision. Its ability to support various I/O configurations further enhances its versatility, allowing it to be tailored to the specific requirements of different industrial automation and process control applications.

Product Parameters

Parameter	Specification
Product Type	Industrial – grade computer module (Multifunctional I/O card)
Manufacturer	BRAD COMMUNICATIONS
Processor	Intel 80486 SX, 50 MHz clock speed
Memory	256 KB RAM, expandable up to 2 MB
Storage	1 x 3.5 – inch hard drive and 1 compact flash card
I/O Interface	2 RS – 232 serial ports, 1 parallel port, 1 ethernet port, 8 programmable I/O lines
Expansion	Supports PCMCIA cards
Power Supply	+5 VDC, +12 VDC, – 12 VDC; approximately 10 W power consumption
Working Temperature Range	– 20 °C to + 60 °C
Protection Level	IP40
Dimensions	167 mm x 104 mm x 23 mm (6.57 in x 4.09 in x 0.91 in)
Communication Protocols	Supports Modbus RTU, TCP/IP, UDP/IP, IPX/SPX; may support RS 232, RS 485, CAN interfaces; some models with optoelectronic converter function, support Profibus DP bus

Product Specifications

Physical Specifications

The PC104-DPIO DRL-DPM-BKF has a compact form factor with dimensions of 167 mm in length, 104 mm in width, and 23 mm in height. This size makes it suitable for installation in space – constrained industrial environments. The protection level of IP40 shields the module from solid objects larger than 1 mm, ensuring its durability in industrial settings where dust and small debris may be present. It can be easily integrated into PC104 – compatible computer systems as it adheres to the PC104 bus standard, allowing for seamless connection to the motherboard.

Electrical Specifications

It operates on a power supply with input voltages of +5 VDC, +12 VDC, and – 12 VDC, consuming approximately 10 W of power. The module’s electrical components are designed to handle the power requirements efficiently, ensuring stable operation. The I/O interface provides a range of connection options, including serial and parallel ports as well as an ethernet port. The 8 programmable I/O lines offer flexibility for customizing the connection with external devices.

Performance Specifications

With an Intel 80486 SX processor running at a clock speed of 50 MHz, the module can process data in a timely manner. The expandable memory, starting from 256 KB and going up to 2 MB, allows for the storage and handling of a significant amount of data. The storage options, including a 3.5 – inch hard drive and a compact flash card, provide reliable data storage solutions. In terms of communication, it supports multiple protocols such as Modbus RTU, TCP/IP, UDP/IP, and IPX/SPX, enabling seamless integration into existing network architectures.

Series

The PC104-DPIO DRL-DPM-BKF is part of BRAD COMMUNICATIONS’ range of industrial – grade computer modules. This series is characterized by its high – quality construction, adherence to industry – standard bus interfaces like PC104, and a focus on providing multifunctional I/O solutions. The series offers different models with varying configurations to meet the diverse needs of industrial applications, from basic data acquisition to complex process control systems. Each model in the series is designed to be reliable, easy to integrate, and capable of operating in harsh industrial environments.

Features

Versatile I/O Capabilities

The multiple digital and analog input and output channels are a key feature. This versatility allows the module to interface with a wide variety of sensors and actuators. For example, it can connect to temperature sensors, pressure sensors, and motor – driven actuators, enabling comprehensive data acquisition and control in industrial processes. The ability to support different I/O configurations means that it can be customized to fit the unique requirements of each application, whether it’s a simple data – logging system or a complex automated production line.

High – Performance Processing

The Intel 80486 SX processor, combined with the expandable memory, ensures high – speed and efficient data processing. This high – performance capability is crucial for applications that require real – time data analysis and control. In scenarios such as automated manufacturing, where quick decisions based on sensor data are necessary, the module can process the incoming data rapidly and send out control signals in a timely manner, improving the overall efficiency of the production process.

Reliable Construction

Built with high – quality materials and manufacturing processes, the PC104-DPIO DRL-DPM-BKF can operate stably for long periods. The IP40 protection level and its ability to withstand a wide temperature range from – 20 °C to + 60 °C make it suitable for use in harsh industrial environments. Whether it’s in a cold storage facility or a hot manufacturing plant, the module can maintain its performance, reducing the risk of system failures and costly downtime.

Easy Integration

Conforming to the PC104 bus specification, the module can be directly inserted into a PC104 – compatible computer motherboard. This ease of integration simplifies the system – building process for users. It also means that it can be easily maintained and upgraded, as replacement or addition of components can be done without significant re – engineering of the entire system.

Function

The primary function of the PC104-DPIO DRL-DPM-BKF is to act as an interface between industrial devices and a control system. It acquires data from sensors connected to its input channels, processes this data using its on – board processor and memory, and then sends control signals to actuators via its output channels. For example, in a temperature – controlled industrial oven, it can receive temperature data from a thermocouple connected to one of its analog input channels. The module then processes this data, comparing it to a set – point temperature. If the measured temperature is too low, it can send a signal to a heater – control actuator connected to one of its digital output channels to increase the oven’s temperature.

In terms of communication, it can use its supported protocols to send and receive data over a network. For instance, it can communicate with a Modbus RTU master device, sending sensor data and receiving control commands. The ethernet port allows for high – speed data transfer in network – based industrial control systems, enabling remote monitoring and control of the connected devices.

Use

In practical applications, the first step is to identify the specific requirements of the industrial process. Based on these requirements, the appropriate I/O configuration of the PC104-DPIO DRL-DPM-BKF is selected. The module is then physically installed in a PC104 – compatible computer system. The power supply is connected according to the electrical specifications, ensuring the correct voltage inputs.

Next, sensors and actuators are connected to the appropriate input and output channels of the module. For example, if a pressure sensor is being used, it is connected to an analog input channel, and if a motor – driven valve is to be controlled, it is connected to a digital output channel. After the physical connections are made, the communication settings are configured. This may involve setting up the Modbus RTU protocol parameters if communication with Modbus – compatible devices is required or configuring the ethernet settings for network – based communication.

Once everything is set up, the module can start acquiring data from sensors, processing it, and sending control signals to actuators. Regular monitoring of the module’s performance, such as checking for any errors in data acquisition or control signals, is essential to ensure the smooth operation of the industrial process.

Application Fields

Industrial Automation

In industrial automation, the PC104-DPIO DRL-DPM-BKF is widely used in automated production lines. It can control the movement of robotic arms, conveyor belts, and other machinery. For example, in an automotive assembly line, it can receive sensor data about the position of car parts and send control signals to robotic arms to accurately assemble the parts. Its ability to handle multiple I/O signals and high – speed data processing makes it an ideal choice for coordinating complex automated processes.

Data Acquisition Systems

It is also commonly used in data acquisition systems. In a manufacturing plant, it can collect data from various sensors such as temperature sensors, vibration sensors, and humidity sensors. This data can then be used for quality control, equipment monitoring, and process optimization. For instance, by continuously monitoring the temperature of a manufacturing process, any deviations from the optimal temperature range can be detected early, allowing for corrective actions to be taken to prevent product defects.

Test Equipment

In test equipment applications, the module can be used to control and monitor the testing process. In a battery testing facility, it can control the charging and discharging of batteries and measure parameters such as voltage, current, and capacity. The high – precision data acquisition capabilities of the module ensure accurate test results, which are crucial for evaluating the performance and quality of the batteries.

Process Control in Chemical Plants

In chemical plants, the PC104-DPIO DRL-DPM-BKF can be used to control and monitor chemical reactions. It can adjust the flow rates of reactants, control the temperature and pressure of reaction vessels, and monitor the composition of the products. For example, in a polymerization process, it can control the addition of monomers based on the temperature and pressure inside the reaction vessel, ensuring the production of high – quality polymers.

In conclusion, the BRAD COMMUNICATIONS PC104-DPIO DRL-DPM-BKF is a highly versatile and reliable industrial – grade computer module. Its advanced features, such as versatile I/O capabilities, high – performance processing, and easy integration, make it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. By providing efficient data acquisition, control, and communication functions, it plays a vital role in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of industrial processes.