How Distributed I/O Networks Participate in the Quantum Ethernet I/O System

Introduction

A distributed I/O network within a Quantum EIO system is an Ethernet-based network that contains , adapter class devices, , , , server, etc. This network communicates with one or several 140NOC78000 head modules on the , and allows distributed I/O devices to exist on an .

To provide on the Ethernet remote I/O network, use DRSs to connect the distributed I/O devices. These switches control the data flow from distributed I/O devices so that the high priority of the remote I/O network is not disturbed.

For more information about network performance and determinism, refer to the Quantum Ethernet I/O Global System Planning Guide.

What Is in This Section?

This section contains the following topics:

DRS

(dual-ring switch) A ConneXium extended managed switch with one of several possible predefined configurations downloaded to it so that it can participate in an Ethernet I/O network. A DRS provides 2 RSTP-enabled ring connections, one for the main ring and one for a sub-ring. It also manages QoS, which provides a predictable level of performance for both remote I/O and distributed I/O traffic on the same I/O network.

DRSs require a firmware version 6.0 or later.

HMI

(human machine interface) An HMI is a device that displays process data to a human operator, who in turn uses the HMI to control the process.

An HMI is typically connected to a SCADA system to provide diagnostics and management data, such as scheduled maintenance procedures and detailed schematics for a particular machine or sensor.

SCADA

(supervisory control and data acquisition) SCADA systems are computer systems that control and monitor industrial, infrastructure, or facility-based processes (examples: transmitting electricity, transporting gas and oil in pipelines, and water distribution).

local rack

A Quantum rack containing the controller, a power supply, and an Ethernet remote I/O head module. A local rack consists of 1 or 2 racks, the main rack (containing the remote I/O head module) and an optional extended rack. A Quantum Ethernet remote I/O network requires 1 local rack on the main ring.

remote I/O network

An Ethernet-based network that contains 1 standalone PLC or one Hot Standby system and remote I/O devices. There are 3 types of remote I/O devices: a local rack, a remote I/O drop, and a ConneXium extended dual-ring switch (DRS). Distributed I/O devices may also participate in a remote I/O network via connection to DRSs.

determinism

For a defined application and architecture, the ability to predict that the delay between an event (change of an input value) and the corresponding change of an output state is a finite time t, smaller than the time required for your process to run correctly.