As an enhancement to its point-to-point, two-way wireless device (RAD-ISM-900-BD-BUS) for analog and digital signals, Phoenix Contact Inc.'s RAD-ISM-900-XD-BUS is a bi-directional multipoint-to-point wireless I/O system. The design allows user flexibility in bringing multiple channels of I/O from up to eight remote locations back to one master station. The bi-directional feature enables the use of these devices in monitoring and control applications and eliminates cable and conduit for analog and digital signals in harsh industrial environments.

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It uses spread-spectrum frequency hopping techniques to guarantee a license-free, interference-free link between remote devices and the control room. Costly cable and conduit runs for numerous signals on new projects or retrofitting of existing systems are eliminated and replaced with a maintenance free, reliable and versatile wireless solution.

Typical in-plant range is 600 to 1000 feet with no line-of-sight, and the range is much farther with outdoor applications. The transceivers are powered separately with a 12-30 VDC source (power supply, battery, solar, etc). Quick and easy to install, the process signals are simply wired to the input terminals of the transmitters and output via wires connected to the receivers. No wiring is required in between.

Both transceivers and I/O modules are featured in a slim 22.5-mm DIN-rail mount housing with integrated bus connection for communications and power. This allows them to be plugged into each other for quick and easy installation. The devices offer diagnostic LED indicators for digital input/output signal status and radio link status and a radio signal strength indicator (RSSI) port at each remote location.