The Chameleon TP/FT-10 Network Interface Module (NIM-6) provides seamless connectivity to ANSI 709.1 (LonTalk) compliant devices. It uses a standard Neuron© processor to support all network services and all variable types defined by the standard.  It also incorporates a high-performance 32-bit RISC processor with multi-tasking real-time operating system to execute computationally-intensive applications and to interface with other modules in the Chameleon family.

Chameleon NIM-6 modules are configured and commissioned with the familiar suite of Echelon development tools (LonMaker, NodeBuilder).  User programs can be written in the Neuron-C language and/or using Design Pad G3, an intuitive graphical programming tool for real-time data acquisition and control applications.

A Design Pad program (called a schema) is a collection of function-block and/or state-transition diagrams that represent the control algorithm that the device is to execute. Design Pad contains various LonTalk networking function blocks that provide a simple interface to the Neuron Chip and provide support for most SVNTs and Neuron-C data types.  Since application programs can execute concurrently on the Neuron Chip and RISC processor, the computational workload can be divided between the two in any fashion.

Chameleon’s multi-processor architecture allows considerable flexibility in the use of NIM-6 modules: (1) They can serve as a standalone high-end application processor node on a LonTalk network with connectivity to other inexpensive (and computationally-limited) LonTalk devices. (2) They can be arranged with other Chameleon I/O modules to create a high-end Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) solution. (3) They can be combined with other Chameleon networking modules to create a gateway between multi-protocol network segments or to create a bridge between multiple LonTalk segments (using the internal high-speed backplane to transfer data between modules). For example, the NIM-6 LonTalk module can operate alongside a NIM-1 Modbus module, or NIM-7 PROFIBUS module, or NIM-5 Ethernet module executing a supported TCP/IP protocol (e.g., Data Distribution Service), to seamlessly transfer data between networks.

As with all Chameleon modules, NIM-6 units are hot-swappable: when a new module is inserted into a Chameleon node, its neighboring modules automatically transfer the schema program it is to execute—there is no need to shut off the power and there is no need to detach connectors.  They also provide unequaled ruggedness.  They are specifically designed for sustained operation in severe environments, including those characterized by extreme shock, vibration, electro-magnetic interference, temperature, and/or humidity.  Its fully-sealed enclosure (sealing end-caps not pictured) allows the module to operate while submerged.

Features and Benefits
 

• High-Performance Dual-Processor Architecture

• Can Concurrently Run Neuron C and Intuitive Graphically Programmed Applications (Design Pad G3)

• Supports all LonTalkTM Services and Network Variable Types

• Configured with Familiar Echelon Tools (LonMaker, NodeBuilder)

• 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

• Supports Hot Swapping

LonTalk Network Interface Module Type 6 (NIM-6)