SixTRAK® Local I/O

Can I talk directly to SixTRAK I/O modules?

No. You cannot communicate directly to SixTRAK I/O modules. They can only connect to an EtherTRAK I/O Concentrator, EtherTRAK I/O Expander, SIXNET controller, or SIXNET RTU. If you want to interface to I/O modules directly then you can use either the EtherTRAK Ethernet I/O modules or RemoteTRAK RS485 I/O modules.

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Why can the SixTRAK ST-Bus go only 100 feet? What if I want to go further?

The ST-Bus is a local bus like the I/O bus in your PC. It was not intended for distributing the I/O at any real distance. The 100 feet that we allow gives you extra flexibility in your module placement. For example, you can put your gateway and half your modules in one cabinet and the other half of your modules (with an expander) in a second cabinet 50 feet away. Most of our competitors only allow you to go a few feet with their local bus. Use RemoteTRAK RS485 I/O modules or EtherTRAK Ethernet I/O modules if you need to go beyond this distance.

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What's the difference between -INS (instrumentation) and the other analog input modules?

The -INS (instrumentation) modules have channel-to-channel isolation (differential inputs) and 16 bit resolution. The -20M (4-20 mA) and the -10V (voltage) modules have group isolation (they share a common ground) and typically less resolution. This allows the -INS module to read low level signals such as those of a thermocouple. Also, the -INS module's channels can be individually set for 4-20 mA, voltage or thermocouple signals. The –INS module also has superior noise rejection through its state-of-the-art Sigma-Delta A/D converter.

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Why is SIXNET's "Process Quality" I/O better than typical PLC I/O?

There are numerous reasons. Please go to "Process Quality" I/O for details.

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