Phoenix Contact offers a solution combining the new RS-485 bus coupler with Radioline I/O wireless modules to provide customers with a multiplexer system specifically for process use.

As in the Radioline wireless system, thumbwheels on the front provide a fast and simple way to address the head modules and easily perform I/O mapping of the expansion modules. This allows users to distribute I/O signals in an RS-485 bus system without any programming or software configuration.

In addition to operation by means of a two-wire RS-485 bus line with up to 99 stations, the new RS-485 stations can also expand the Radioline wireless system, so that I/O mapping can be extended to cover all media. Alternatively, the stations can also be operated in stand-alone mode on a Modbus/RTU master, thus allowing for direct connection to a controller.

For robust use in continuous industrial operation, the I/O expansion modules from the Radioline product family feature electrical channel-to-channel isolation and a wide operating range from –40 to +70 °C. The system also offers an extensive package of approvals including ATEX, IECEx, and UL certifications.