MIDAS Gas Detector Benefits From New LonWorks Communications Interface
oneywell Analytics has developed a new data communications module that enables the acclaimed MDA Scientific MIDAS range of toxic gas monitors to directly integrate within existing LonWorks data networks.
Equipped with flexible output modes including 0–22mA analog, three programmable relays and Ethernet and Modbus/TCP field bus digital communications as standard, MIDAS is the world's most advanced toxic gas sensing system. The new module interfaces MIDAS® with the LonWorks fieldbus protocol, widely used in semiconductor manufacturing and other industry sectors. It offers a low-cost, intelligent and fast means to transfer real time data between sensors, control devices, relays, alarms and other equipment used in life safety or facilities management control.
Safety managers using Lonworks will now be able to access the advantages of MIDAS as well as replace older or expand current LonWorks installations, as new manufacturing processes continue to demand higher levels of safety monitoring.
Setup is very quick, with a standard MIDAS gas transmitter providing all power and two-way communications via a single connection cable. Should the gas detector need to be replaced, additional programming is not required to ‘re-bind' the detector back into the system as the interface module holds all this identification information in its ‘neuron' chip. Essential data such as gas readings, alarms, faults and other event reminders can all be transmitted to a central control system over the LonWorks protocol. The resident relays on each MIDAS® can now be remotely activated via the central computer, reducing the need for additional expense and wiring associated with local relays to activate alarms or shut down gas valves, turn on ventilation etc in a gas release emergency.
"MIDAS has already been an exceptional success for Honeywell Analytics since it was launched at the beginning of 2005 and the Lonworks Interface enhances the range of applications that it is suitable for," says Chris Cottrell, vice-president sales and marketing for Honeywell Analytics.
SOURCE: Honeywell Analytics