Generic ASCII Serial Enhanced Communication Module

MVI56E-GSC / GSCXT

The Generic ASCII Serial Enhanced Communication Modules allow Rockwell Automation ControlLogix Programmable Automation Controllers (PACs) to easily interface with serial devices using non-specific ASCII character text string or byte value serial communication protocols.

MVI56E-GSC enhancements include local and remote diagnostics through the module's Ethernet port, and CIPconnect technology for bridging through Rockwell Automation ControlNet and EtherNet/IP networks.

The module is a single-slot, backplane-compatible solution. Each port is capable of sending and receiving large ASCII character strings or byte streams of up to 4096 characters or bytes. Many different serial communication devices can be integrated into the ControlLogix platform by building upon the sample ladder logic provided for this module.

The MVI56E-GSC and MVI56E-GSCXT are functionally the same. The MVI56E-GSC is designed for standard process applications. The MVI56E-GSCXT is designed for the Logix-XT™ control platform, allowing it to operate in extreme environments. It tolerates higher operating temperatures, and has a conformal coating to protect it from harsh or caustic conditions.

Configuration

ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) provides a graphical configuration tool for quick and easy management of module configuration files, as well as viewing communication and module diagnostic information.

CIPconnect technology routes connections over multiple EtherNet/IP or ControlNet paths, allowing you to manage the module from remote locations.

The MVI56E-GSC Setup Guide, with the sample configuration, provides step-by-step instructions on how to move data through the module from the serial network to the processor.

General Specifications

• Backward-compatible with previous MVI56-GSC version
• Single-slot - 1756 ControlLogix backplane compatible
• 10/100 MB Ethernet port for network configuration and diagnostics with Auto Cable Crossover Detection
• User-definable module data memory mapping of up to 5000 16-bit registers
• CIPconnect-enabled network diagnostics and monitoring using ControlLogix 1756-ENxT modules and EtherNet/IP pass-thru communications
• Sample Ladder Logic or Add-On Instruction (AOI) used for data transfers between module and processor and for module configuration
• 4-character, scrolling LED display of status and diagnostic data in plain English
• ProSoft Discovery Service (PDS) software finds the module on the network and assigns a temporary IP address to facilitate module access

Functional Specifications

• The MVI56E-GSC and MVI56E-GSCXT are functionally identical. The MVI56E-GSC is for normal process and control environments. The MVI56E-GSCXT is conformal coated for extra protection in harsh or caustic environments and operates in extreme high or low temperature environments.
• Both modules transfer data in the largest possible I/O image block sizes, which optimizes data through-put and update time.
• Both modules appear to the ControlLogix processor as input/output (I/O) modules, rather than communication modules.

The two ASCII serial communication ports:

• Can independently transmit and/or receive ASCII character strings and serial byte streams
• Are individually configurable
• Receive ASCII character strings or byte streams up to 4096 characters in length

Received packet termination types:

• Stream mode (no packet termination)
• Receipt of specified character or characters
• Message length timeout
• Intercharacter spacing timeout
• Packet size limit (number of received characters/bytes)

Module error and status conditions returned to processor for diagnostic purposes:

• Module status
• Port error status word (bit mapped)
• Port receive state
• Port receive character count
• Port receive block count
• Port transmit state
• Port transmit character count
• Port transmit block count

Hardware Specifications

Ordering Information

Distributors:
Place your order by email to orders@prosoft-technology.com:, fax to +1 661-716-5101.

Sales and Support: