AS-i SW Technology
Summary of technology: AS-Interface SW
is a special specification developed for ultra simple devices that are
normally housed in a cabinet - for example switches and indicators. A
low-cost chip enables the cost of connection to be kept very low, commensurate
with typical hard-wiring. The technology can be highly effective when
a network with an existing master has to be run from the field inside
a cabinet or even a control room.
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THE HARD-WIRED WAY
Each device has a single cable connecting it to the controller,
resuslting in a complicated bundle of cables that takes lots of
time to build, debug and commission. Power also has to be applied
somehow.
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THE NETWORKED WAY
With AS-i SW, each device is connected to the same cable, which
can be routed easily and quickly around the cabinet. The same cable
also connects to the controller. Power is routed over the same cable
too. The result? Simpler wiring that costs much less to build, debug
and commission.
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Detailed description: Open Networks
are spreading rapidly throughout the world of factory automation.
However none, not even AS-Interface itself, can cost-effectively
support devices like pushbuttons, pilot lights, simple sensors,
simple valves and other ON/OFF devices at the very lowest level
of automation.
IDEC in collaboration with other companies
has developed a low-cost ASIC solution to meet this challenge. Called
AS-i SW, it's based on the AS-Interface 2.1 specification - and
is therefore fully compatible with existing masters and slaves.
AS-i SW can therefore support a complete,
vertically-integrated, networking solution from control cabinets
to field devices in all kinds of factory automation applications.
Only two wires are needed to daisy-chain
each cabinet device. Even power is carried on this cable saving
still more in wiring costs. Up to 62 devices can be connected
to a single AS-i SW network.
AS-i SW does not even need a special cable,
so users can use commonly available wires at low cost. However,
the new Version 3 specification of AS-i defines a mechanically polarized
cable that is ideal for use with SW. Expert Alliance member company
Belcom
is a supplier of this special cable.
The key to cost effective wiring and mounting
is the ASIC size, which can be incorporated into the standard unit
dimensions of typical devices.
AS-i SW also enables intelligent functions such
as brightness control to be incorporated.
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Summary of features
| Low Cost: |
The AS-i SW ASIC is inexpensive and simple due
to the use of a 0.5 micron single chip construction. |
| Compact: |
AS-i SW ASIC needs just a few components to operate,
making it easy to embed the chip into small products such as 16 mm
diameter pushbuttons. |
| Two Wire System |
Both power and data are carried to each slave using a single two-wire
cable.
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| Flexibility |
Quick and simple integration with existing AS-i
control networks, extending the network reach into cabinets and other
control room equipment. Easy upwards connectivity via gateways with
other major networks such as LonWorks, DeviceNet, PROFIBUS, InterBus,
FIP, Modbus and others. |
| New Functionality |
The networked approach means new functions such
as intelligent pilot lights and illuminated pushbuttons become possible.
Brightness can be controlled from the AS-Interface master. More dynamic
displays and energy savings are possible too. |
| SW Products include |
Pushbuttons, Pilot Lights, Sensors, Solenoid Valves,
and Remote I/O |
The development of the AS-i SW ASIC and
its associated investment was conducted by IDEC, partly with the support
of the Japanese Ministry of International Trade and Industry. In order
to define the chip device specification, chip test specification and to
ensure the chip was accepted in all industries. AMI was selected as the
designer and manufacturer of the AS-i SW ASIC, and sells and distributes
it non-exclusively to customers and users without restriction.
Current UK members specialising in AS-i SW components
include Belcom
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