Integrated Alarm and Control System: MCX-32

Teledyne has introduced an integrated alarm and control system called MCX-32. The system has a flexible design that enables users to modify a system by selecting from a range of separately addressable field devices, or simply employ addressable input and output modules.

The complete range of gas sensors (bought separately) from Detcon can be used for producing a gas detection system that contains combustible gas, toxic gas, and/or oxygen deficiency. In addition, an array of field devices, like pressure, temperature, liquid level, flow, etc., can be configured for input to the control system.

Four regular I/O modules are also supplied—a 4-alarm relay output module (RL-4), a 4-channel 4-20 mA input module (DA-4), a 4-relay contact input module (DI-4), and a 4-channel 4-20 mA output module (AO-4).

The I/O modules are stackable and din-rail mounted, enabling smooth expansion of the system. They can also be mounted inside the main system enclosure, or in individual enclosures that are appropriate for the area classification, wherein installation will take place. In a majority of the cases, the use of distributed I/O nodes can considerably decrease the installation and wiring costs.

A backlit LCD touch-screen displays the real-time status of every active sensor. The touch-screen also acts as a user interface. Display formats comprise tag name, field device function, alarm status, and current reading.

Users can configure each input for up to three alarm levels. A fourth alarm output is devoted to fault diagnostics of internal operating systems and field devices. Every system application can feature either common or a restricted number of discrete alarm relays. The MCX-32 Model has been designed to accept either Type I or Type II compact flash cards for data logging purposes.

Calibrations, alarms, faults, and comm errors are logged. In addition, both hourly peak and average readings for every channel are logged. Alarm Reset, one-touch Alarm Inhibit, and Alarm Silence (Acknowledge) functions are the other features.

The MCX-32 also features a 10/100 BaseT Ethernet Port, which enables users to remotely track the controller from a handheld device or desktop computer with an Internet connection. An addressable RS-485 Modbus RTU slave port is also provided for communication with higher level control and automation systems, like PCs, PLCs, and distributed control systems.

The MCX-32 comes in four enclosure options: MCX-32-N1R NEMA 1 rack mount, Model MCX-32-N1P NEMA 1 panel mount, MCX-32-SS NEMA 4X 316 Stainless Steel, and MCX-32-N4X NEMA 4X epoxy fiberglass. The control system can be driven by 24 VDC or 110–230 VAC.

The MCX-32 Integrated Control Systems are meant for installation within buildings or under cover to avoid direct sunlight.

Features and Benefits

With a capacity of 64 active channels, the MCX-32 multi-channel integrated control system can receive and manage inputs from an array of field devices with either a serial output or 4–20 mA DC.

RS-485 Modbus RTU is the standard serial protocol. This system has a unique design featuring “auto-configuration” of addressable devices situated in a device library.

The MCX-32 multi-channel integrated control system offers an exclusive combination of “auto configuration” simplicity and user-friendly feature with modifiable expansion capabilities.

Large LCD with touch-screen user interface

A capacity of 64 channels

Readily field expandable with automatic configuration capability

Digital, analog, or Modbus RTU serial input capability

Comes with multipurpose distributed I/O installation options

Data logging of comm errors, faults, calibration, alarms, as well as peak and average readings

Over-voltage and lightning protection standard