UniPi Axon S155

UniPi Axon S155 is a programmable logic controller (PLC) designed for control, monitoring and regulation. The unit features two Ethernet ports and can be used as a connection hub for two separate networks. 

Features

• designed as a communication hub between two separate networks
• a pair of Ethernet ports (1 Gbit + 10/100 Mbit)
• combination of small dimensions, 10 I/Os and three serial lines
• RS485 + RS232 serial lines
• durable aluminium chassis (IP20 protection), wider operating temperature range
• integrated industrial computer (quad-core CPU, 1 GB RAM)
• onboard 8GB eMMC memory
• designed for DIN rail mounting
• software openness (based on Linux OS)

Note: At the moment, the S155 model is not fully compatible with the Mervis platform. Full Mervis support is scheduled for Q4 2019. 

UniPi Axon S155 is a specialized variant of the basic S105 model. It retains S105's I/O architecture but features additional Ethernet port. A pair of Ethernet ports thus allows the S155 to be used as a connection hub between two separate networks. 

Basic features

* 1 Gbit + 10/100 Mbit

Inputs & outputs description

Digital inputs (DI) are designed to read binary logic states represented by direct voltage levels. That makes them suitable for reading data from various binary sensors and devices such as switches (on/off), motion sensors (movement detected/not detected), liquid level sensors (full tank/empty tank) etc. 

Digital outputs (DI) are intended for switching various binary devices (lighting, smart door locks, drives of shutters and blinds etc.) through direct voltage. DO's also feature a Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM) function allowing to use the output for analogue control. 

Analogue input (AI) is designed to measure voltage, current or resistance to read values from various analogue sensors such as thermometers, pressure meters, tensometers etc.

Analogue output (AO) serves for control of multi-state external devices through direct voltage or current and is suitable for control and regulation of devices such as three-way valves, heat exchangers, electric motors etc. 

Computing module

As a computing module, the Axon controllers use an industrial computer featuring a quad-core, 1.2GHz Alwinner H5 CPU and 1GB RAM, giving Axons an excellent performance. The 8GB onboard eMMC memory then offers better reliability compared to systems relying on microSD memory cards. 

Communication interfaces

Axon controllers are by default provided with RS485 serial lines. This type of interface usually uses the Modbus RTU protocol and can be used to communicate with various devices such as Extension xS extension modules, energy meters, touchscreen HMI displays, controllers from other vendors, various sensors etc. A single bus can support dozens of devices while the bus' length can reach up to several hundred meters.

Selected models also feature a single RS232 serial line. In the field of automation, this interface is usually used for communication with various converters, closed-in technologies or display devices such as HMI panels. 

A single 1-Wire bus is also featured on selected models. This interface uses 2-3 conductors for collecting data from various 1-Wire sensors such as thermometers, humidity meters, light intensity sensors etc.). A single 1-Wire bus supports up to 15 devices, the overall length of the bus can reach up to 100 meters. 

All Axon models also feature a single 1Gbit Ethernet port for network communication. The S155 model is provided with a second Ethernet port with the speed of 10/100 Mbit. 

Software options

Thanks to the software openness of Unipi controllers customers can choose from a broad range of software solutions and are not limited to a single proprietary platform. Among supported solutions are both commercial and open-source systems. 

The main supported platform for Unipi controllers is the Mervis control system. This platform is developed under the IEC 61131-3 PLC programming standard and consists of comprehensible and user-friendly Mervis IDE development environment, an HMI editor for creating and editing of user interfaces, SCADA interface and an online/on-premise cloud database for long-term collecting of operational data and their analysis. Axon-line controllers are shipped with the Mervis already installed. 

Aside from commercial platforms (such as CODESYS), customers can also choose from a variety of open-source solutions; for the supported software overview please visit this link.

Alternatively, customers can use the Unipi-developed EVOK open-source API to integrate Unipi controllers into already existing software solutions, use custom code or to develop applications for the controllers.

Package contents

• controller
• removable screw terminals
• DIN rail holder (35 mm)
• 2× DIN rail holder mounting screws
• 1× grounding screw
• instruction leaflet
• lifetime Mervis license code

Other features

All components of the controller are encased within a durable aluminium chassis (IP20 protection). The controller is designed for mounting on a standard DIN rail (35 mm). 

Technical Parameter