Control Network Newsletter
New BAScontrol22S Adds Support for BACnet MS/TP
Contemporary Controls has expanded its BAScontrol Series of BACnet/IP Sedona Unitary Controllers with the addition of the 22-point BAScontrol22S which supports BACnet client/server operation over BACnet/IP or BACnet MS/TP. While the trend is towards using IP-based networks, the BAScontrol22S offers flexibility at the job site in case there is no access to an IP-based network, and a twisted-pair network is the only option. Sedona function block programming and project archiving is still accomplished over the Ethernet port connected to a PC using the free BAScontrol Toolset while the controller communicates over BACnet MS/TP.
The unit retains the features found in all BAScontrol Series controllers, such as license-free operation and web page configuration over 10/100 Mbps Ethernet. It complies with the B-ASC device profile having a convenient mix of 8 universal inputs, 4 binary inputs, 4 analog outputs, and 6 relay outputs. The unit has 48 web components which link Sedona wiresheet readable/writeable data to web pages, and 24 virtual points which link Sedona wiresheet readable/writeable data to a BACnet client. Its rugged metal enclosure, low device profile, and outdoor temperature operation of -40°C to +75°C make it ideal for indoor or outdoor applications.
Like the recently released BAScontrol22D, the BAScontrol22S was built on firmware release 4.0.x with operational enhancements made to improve performance, develop more sophisticated Sedona components, increase application memory space, and to upgrade to BACnet release 15. In addition to the BACnet/IP Ethernet port, the BAScontrol22S has one non-isolated (2-wire) BACnet MS/TP serial port to provide BACnet client/server operation over BACnet/IP or BACnet MS/TP up to 115.2 kbps. The unit has transmit and receive LEDs that flash on MS/TP traffic.
As a BACnet server device, the BAScontrol22S will respond to a BACnet client request by default over either the IP port or MS/TP port. This means that the BAScontrol22S can function as remote I/O to BACnet clients over IP or MS/TP without needing a Sedona program. Through webpage configuration of connected BACnet servers, the BAScontrol22S can function as a BACnet client to these devices over IP or MS/TP. This requires the use of Sedona network variables (NetVs) found in the NetV kit. This capability allows the BAScontrol22S to initiate messages over IP to other BACnet devices without the need for BACnet headend intervention.
These capabilities are highlighted in the video, "Introduction to the BAScontrol22S." To learn more, visit the BAScontrol22S product page.