Network functionality

The EXTER panels can communicate in a TCP/IP (Transport Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) network. The operator terminals can be connected in a network in many different ways, through Ethernet or serially. The operator terminal’s built-in Ethernet port can be used for TCP/IP connections. Connections are made according to Ethernet standards.

The operator terminal network is a client/server network. An operator terminal can be both a client and server at the same time, in order to both supply data and access data from other operator terminals. A maximum of 20 different clients can access data from the same server. A client can access data from up to 16 different servers. 

 

The network functionality is useful in many applications, for example to enable remote access to the controller system, to send e-mail messages or files to a PC in the network, to exchange data between two controller systems located in the network. The operator terminals can be connected either serially or via Ethernet.

It is possible to use standardized Internet tools, such as a web browser, an e-mail server and an FTP client, with the operator terminal. A web page can be created in the PC and downloaded to the operator terminal. The web page can contain real-time data from the controller or the operator terminal. The operator terminal can also send e-mail for special events such as alarm and status reports.

See e-Learning about the operator terminal’s Network functionality.