Jim ‘Slim’ Mimlitz, SCADAmetrics
Model B202: SCADAmetrics Bell-202 Modem for Telemetry Radios.
An interesting application is the use of Allen Bradley MicroLogix PLC’s, B202 modems, and narrowband analog telemetry radios to form a reliable, non-proprietary SCADA radio network.
Rockwell Automation offers the “DF1 Radio Modem” serial communication protocol, which is optimized for radio/SCADA applications. This protocol, in conjunction with appropriate PLC settings, is suitable for radio telemetry communications.
As a result of laboratory validations, we are pleased to report that compatibility is verified between the MicroLogix and the B202.
Our validation testing utilized a Allen Bradley MicroLogix 1400 PLC set up as a DF1 Radio Modem Client communicating with a SCADAmetrics EM-100 EtherMeter® set up as a DF1 Radio Modem Server. The narrowband analog telemetry radios used in this test were Ritron models DTX-PLUS II equipped with SCADAmetrics DTX Din-Rail-Mounting Kits.
As a consequence of the tests, we have authored an Application Note that details the steps required to use the B202 with MicroLogix PLCs and narrowband analog telemetry radios:
An important reference that we also recommend is Rockwell’s SCADA Document:
Link to Rockwell SCADA Document
We have also produced a short YouTube video that demonstrates the live DF1 Radio Modem communications that were achieved in the validation testing:
Link to YouTube Video Demonstration
Bell 202 Radio Modem / MicroLogix / EtherMeter Demonstration Panels
Logix 500 Ladder Logic Development Environment for Allen Bradley PLC’s.
Are you interested in utilizing the SCADAmetrics B202 Modem in an Allen Bradley-based SCADA/Telemetry application? Give us a call, and we’ll be glad to discuss your application in detail.