A Data Acquisition System for Small Process Control Applications

EtherNet/IP update to the RSG45 data acquisition system helps plants integrate their legacy instrumentation into a DCS, PLC, PAC or PC-based control system.

Endress+Hauser will demonstrate the RSG45 in Booth 441 at Rockwell’s Automation Fair, November 9 and 10, 2016, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Endress+Hauser adds EtherNet/IP capability to the Memograph M RSG45 Data Manager. The RSG45, a data acquisition system for small process control applications, now provides a cost effective way to integrate legacy 4-20mA, RTD, thermocouple and HART-based instruments into a modern control system. The RSG45 can quickly integrate up to 20 individual instruments into an EtherNet/IP environment using a single standard Cat 5 cable. The EtherNet/IP connection also allows a plant to control batch start/stop activities from the control room. The strategic alliance between Endress+Hauser and Rockwell Automation provides seamless integration to manage processes.

EtherNet/IP is one of the fastest-growing fieldbus-type digital communications systems available. Other fieldbus technologies are designed primarily for connection to distributed control systems. But EtherNet/IP can easily connect to programmable controllers (PLCs), programmable automation controllers (PACs), distributed control systems (DCSes) and PC-based control systems. Also, unlike other fieldbus protocols, EtherNet/IP does not require an expensive and complex power and I/O wiring infrastructure. These features make EtherNet/IP the most attractive communications protocol for process plants that want to upgrade their legacy instrumentation and control systems to a PLC, PAC or PC–based system—or even to a new or upgraded DCS.

The RSG45 is able to accept up to 14 discrete and 20 universal/HART analog inputs from process sensors. It can then display this sensor data on its 7-inch multicolor TFT screen, records the data internally, performs math calculations and alarm checks, and transmits the data to a PC or any control system via EtherNet/IP, Ethernet , RS232/485, Modbus, Profibus DP or PROFINET digital communication links. Data can also be stored to external memory plugged into the USB or the SD port. In case of a wiring failure, the RSG45 continues to record data on the storage device, and can download this data to the control system when communications are restored.

The RSG45 works with all standard instruments including 4-20mA, 4-20mA with HART, voltage, RTD, thermocouple, pulse, frequency and current, allowing existing instruments to be added easily to a new control system.

The RSG45 has a HART gateway function that allows direct access from the PC configuration software to the field devices connected to the unit without the need for an additional HART modem or loop interruption. This allows configuration of the field devices to be done easily and quickly from the control room. With this feature, detailed instrument health status is available as well. This helps simplify maintenance and troubleshooting. An integrated web server provides browser-based access to the unit via laptops, PCs, smartphones, tablets, handheld maintenance devices and other remote systems.

A built-in Advanced Data Manager includes packages for mathematics, alarm functions, batch management and energy calculations. Batch management software allows users to reliably record and visualize process data. The energy package allows users to calculate the mass and energy flow in water and steam applications on the basis of the flow, pressure, temperature or temperature difference input variables. Other energy calculations are also available for glycol-based refrigerant media.

The RSG45 is a panel-mounted device with an optional 316L stainless steel front panel and touchscreen. Since the touchscreen option protects against contamination, it fulfills hygienic requirements in the food & beverage and the life sciences industries.

The RSG45 has UL and ATEX approvals, meets IEC 60529 and 61010-1 requirements for protection and safety, and is available in an ATEX Ex p hazardous area version.