Audon Electronics is now offering a low-cost
solution to web based analogue and digital
control in the form of the NET-IOM.
NET-IOM is a stand-alone network aware Input / Output
module which can be controlled over most networks
including the Internet. It can be accessed from the Internet
over a standard ADSL or other always-on connection
making remote monitoring and control a cost effective
option.
It has 16 digital and 4 analogue inputs, 16 digital outputs and
an RS232 serial port, all of which can be accessed from a
standard web browser. Web pages are served from its 32K
bytes of on board non-volatile memory. Graphic and sound files
can be served as well as static and dynamic HTML pages.
Web pages may be password protected and can be fully
customized. NET-IOM can work as a totally independent web
server or as part of a larger web site.
As well as serving web pages, NET-IOM can be used to connect
to remote servers. Connections can be established on demand
in response to specified events or on a regular timed basis. Once
connected, the server can have complete control over NET-IOM ’s
operation. E-mails can be generated in response to specified
events such as alarms. The message and the subject may be
customized and may contain the current status of all the inputs
and outputs. A watchdog mode is available which allows NET-IOM
to monitor network connections and operate outputs when failure
is detected.
Special interface software is included which can be used to configure
NET-IOM and download web pages via a PCs serial port. On the
opening page there are controls for loading and sending data and
a logging area which will show a log of activity as well as any problems
encountered. Sections are provided which cover server and general
parameters, e-mail options, client connections and web page
selection and downloading. The NET-IOM is supplied with sample
web-pages already uploaded into it's memory which allow the user
to read analogue input values, set and read the digital I/O and send
data over the RS232 port, all from within a web browser.
The NET-IOM is supplied as a compact circuit board measuring
only 110mm x 110mm. There are standard RJ45 and RS232
connectors and the I/O are accessed either via header connectors
or screw terminals. A 8-channel relay board is also available which
connects to the NET-IOM digital outputs.
Applications include server room monitoring, weather station
monitoring, building monitoring and remote data acquisition
and control.
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March 2005
