The Chameleon Ethernet Network Interface Module Type 2 (NIM-2) with integrated 6-Port managed Switch offers 10/100 Mbps copper and fiber optic communications. The heart of the device is a programmable 400MHz PowerPC processor core and LynxOS operating system with 128MB of DDR RAM and 16MB FLASH. This processing power makes the NIM-2 a capable remote I/O controller, web server, and general purpose communications platform. Multiple NIMs (additional NIM-2's and/or other networking module types) can be combined to form a network gateway, message router, or bridge.

The NIM-2 provides a variety of Internet applications, protocols, and services including a web server, email client, DNS, DHCP, SNMP, and SSH. It also includes support for common industrial protocols such as EtherNet/IP Server, EtherNet/IP Client, Modbus TCP/IP Server, Modbus TCP/IP Client, TCP Messaging, UDP (Unicast/Multicast) Messaging, and PROFINET IO .

The Fairmount Automation Network Data Access (FANDA) SDK provides MS Windows C++ software developers a mechanism to interface with the NIM-2 through an encrypted connection.  This connection allows remote devices to securely login, retrieve a network definition file that describes what data can be read/written to (both through the shell and multicasts), and allows that data to be read/written in the Chameleon.  The interface also provides remote maintenance capabilities.  The FANDA SDK is available in the form of a DLL and associated .h file.

The NIM-2s on-board managed switch enables the implementation of various network topologies, including star, bus, or ring architectures (or combinations thereof). Virtual LAN (VLAN), Quality Of Service (QOS), and packet rate control parameters can be customized for each port to fine-tune network performance. The NIM-2 also incorporates the Rapid Spanning Tree algorithm to automatically prune and adjust Ethernet connectivity as required, allowing automatic response to cable breaks and topology changes.

Ordering options permit up-to four LC fiber optic ports or up-to two ST fiber optic ports (remaining ports are copper). Each copper port is equipped with 1500 volts isolation and auto-sensing 10/100 Mbps connections. Auto-MDI is also included to provide automatic compensation for crossover wiring errors during installation (i.e. connections are independent of crossover or non-crossover cabling). In addition, two copper ports can be ordered with automatic loop failover relays. This feature automatically connects two ports together (for example the input and output ports on a ring or bus) when power is lost or an on-board failure occurs thereby preventing a network break.

The NIM-2 Power-Over-Ethernet (POE) capability makes it possible to remotely power other Chameleon nodes. Up to two NIM-2 ports can be ordered with 12.5W POE Powered Device (PD) interfaces. These connect to Chameleon DCP-1 power supply modules to provide a DC power source through the Ethernet cable. Note: On-board Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) support will also be available in the near future.

Using Fairmount Automation’s intuitive and easy-to-use graphical programming package (Design Pad) you can develop sophisticated remote I/O control and communications schemes for the NIM-2 in a matter of hours—even without any prior programming experience. Programming the device entails “drawing” a desired control scheme using a vast array of configurable function blocks. These function blocks are wired together to indicate the signal flows from device inputs to device outputs. Design Pad also features network configuration tools for all the supported protocols and applications. Once complete, configuration programs are downloaded to the unit via a wireless IrDA interface.

Each NIM-2 unit provides 6 three-color LEDs for each port to provide status, activity, and speed indication. The module also has a three-color status LED.

As with all Chameleon modules, the NIM-2 offers unequaled ruggedness. It is specifically designed for sustained operation in severe environments, including those characterized by extreme shock, vibration, electro-magnetic interference, temperature, and humidity. Its fully-sealed enclosure (sealing end-caps not pictured) ensures long-lasting operation in the grimiest settings. In fact, Chameleon modules can operate fully submerged.

Features and Benefits
 

• 10/100 Mbps Ethernet Communications

• Integrated 6-Port Managed Switch (1 Port Used Internal)

• Supports Copper or Fiber (LC or ST) Connections

• Broad Industrial Protocol and Internet Application Support

• Network Configuration Tools Integrated in Design Pad

• 25W Power-Over-Ethernet Connectivity

• Power-Loss Automatic Failover for Copper Ethernet Rings

• Multiple NIMs Can Be Combined to Form Gateway, Bridge, Routing, and/or Redundant Connection Functionality

• -40°C to +65°C (-40°F to +149°F) Operating Range

• MIL-STD-901D, MIL-STD-167B, MIL-STD-461E (Pending)

• Supports Hot Swapping

Ethernet Network Interface Module Type 2 (NIM-2) with Integrated Managed 6-Port Switch