iMod X500 PLUS - modern, ready-to-use platform for automation systems.

What is iMod X500 PLUS?

• a ready-to-use product for automation systems and telemetry
• easy to configure functionalities, which provide trouble-free operation of your system
• flexible platform you may use for carrying out any project

Proper selection of hardware resources and ready to use software packages enable you to adjust the functionalities of the device according to the requirements of your installation.

The iMod platform combines ease of use characteristic of simple devices with possibilities of an embedded computer.

With ready to use solutions, you will significantly reduce the time necessary to launch your installation.

The installations based on the iMod X500 PLUS are currently running in many countries around the world. See where our devices operate.

Due to constant development of applications and the possibility of remote update, you can update software and constantly increase the scope of functions of your device.

iModCloud - dedicated cloud service

iModCloud - a cloud service - allows you to visualize and control parameters of any number of devices via a web browser.

With iModCloud you can control all your facilities via any mobile device, register data and share selected information with other users.

 

See the basic functionalities of the iMod platform:

One of the main advantages of the iMod platform is its ease of use and variety of available functionalities. Due to the available SDK, the platform can be extended with new dedicated functionalities.

The iMod platform guarantees a quick start and full use of the NPE computer, without the need to write complicated software. It is a fully configurable system, that represents the typical C-L-V usage.

 

Functionality of a protocol and interface converter (Convert) collecting data from input interfaces (e.g. Ethernet or USB), converting and transferring to output interfaces, ZigBee, GPRS or to external modules. All the protocols supported by the iMod computer (M-Bus, Modbus, 1-Wire, TCP/IP, SNMP) can be used both as a source and target of conversion.

Functionality of a data logger (Log)The iMod industrial computer can read data from connected devices at high speed. The data can be saved on the device (to internal Flash memory or SD/MMC card) or can be transferred asynchronously to external data bases (PostgreSQL or SQLite). All the archived data can be shared via external or internal systems (e.g. SCADA).

Functionality of access via Websites (Visualize) Graphic Visualization, via Web browser, in order to read and control processed data and alarm statuses - you can use a built-in Apache server and an innovative Web platform - NX Dynamics.

iMod X500 PLUS can perform the following functions:

Data Logger:

iMod X500 PLUS telemetry module offers you huge opportunities of registering and data access, using built-in input/output interfaces and communication channels, such as:

• Serial ports
• Wireless GPRS/EDGE/3G transmission
• Ethernet
• USB
• ZigBee

Protocol and Interface Converter:

Due to flexible configuration, the device can operate as a protocol and interface converter:

• Modbus TCP
• Modbus RTU
• M-bus
• SNMP
• 1-Wire

 

In addition, due to the possibilities of the Linux operating system, each user can create their own protocols with the use of the available SDK.

Embedded Web Server Your can visualize and control parameters via a web browser directly from the device The web-based graphical user interface - NX Dynamics - simplifies the control of the device and allows you to create advanced visualizations.

Embedded Computer:

The design of the iMod X500 PLUS allows for trouble-free operation in industrial conditions. It has a fanless case and is characterised by high resistance to external conditions and high reliability. The Linux system provides stable operation of the device.

Telemetry Module:

iMod X500 PLUS is a multichannel telemetry module, providing constant uninterrupted access to data. It enables you to save the results of measurements and parameter values of connected devices - data can be saved to internal memory or to an SD/MMC card. You can also save data to internal and external databases.

iMod X500 PLUS can generate alarm signals and provide information on current parameter values. Built-in GPRS/3G modem enables wireless communication.

PLC:

iMod X500 PLUS can operate as a typical PLC. The telemetry module can be programmed in ladder logic, which is easy to configure and allows for a quick start of an installation..

Due to the Linux operating system - iMod X500 PLUS is a stable central unit of an automation system.

Industrial modem and GPRS/3G router:

With a built-in GSM modem, iMod X500 PLUS offers advanced functions and can be configured as an industrial modem and a router operating in GPRS, EDGE network as well as in 3G mobile network. You can easily get a backup connection mode and define routing.

You can build a VPN with iMod X500 PLUS. You can access other devices with one telemetry module with a defined public IP. The VPN guarantees high security of data transmission.

3G technology provides higher speed and lower latency at packet data transmission.

I/O Expansion Module:

Due to digital I/O and analog inputs, iMod X500 PLUS can successfully replace expansion modules.

The iMod device allows:

• visualisation at the monitoring point
• remote control via a Web browser
  
• transfer values via any user protocol (e.g. Modbus, SNMP).

GSM / GPRS / EDGE /3G Notify Module:

With a built-in GSM modem, the iMod X500 PLUS industrial computer can operate as a notify module: it can send alerts when defined parameter values are exceeded (e.g. temperature, humidity). You can easily and quickly configure the content of a message which is send instantly when the value is exceeded. System supervisor will immediately receive SMS or e-mail notification.

GPS:

A GPS receiver allows to use the satellite navigation system. The system is widely used in vehicle monitoring (e.g. transport, railway industry or municipal communication). It allows to synchronize time in extensive industrial networks. It is also used to set a route for industrial machines.

What you should know about our device

Hardware and software features of the device:

Special Features:

• Standard protocol (e.g. Modbus, M-Bus, 1-Wire) and SQL data bases support
• Fully configurable, no programming required
• Access to hardware resources of the device
• Event-triggered communication
• Unlimited number of supported parameters
• Unlimited number of SMS or email notifications
• Any number of data acquisition, data sharing and notification channels
• Data access via SQL/FTP/HTTP
• Data logger, saving to 1GB Flash or SD/MMC card
• Web visualization in PHP technology or with NX Dynamics

Hardware Features:

• Based on a tried and tested NPE hardware platform with Linux operating system.
• Adapted to continuous operation in industrial conditions
• WPowerful, energy-efficient processor
• Wide selection of I/O interfaces: including digital and analog I/O, relay outputs, RS-232/RS-485 serial ports, USB
• Built-in Ethernet communication (LAN), GPRS (WAN), 3G, Wi-Fi, ZigBee
• Economic 1-Wire bus support (mainly used for reading temperature sensors).
• Hardware version with client logo on request (OEM version).

Software Features:

• You just need to define a proper configuration in order to use iMod X500 PLUS.
• Free documentation and Java based iMod SDK tools enable you to support your own selected protocol and functionalities.
• Possibility to scan (automatic configuration) devices/sensors via 1-Wire and M-Bus.
• Event-triggered communication allows cost savings in transmission
• Data is buffered and instantly accessible (e.g. for SCADA systems).
• Possibility to operate with external expansion modules in order to increase the number of available interfaces.
• Remote software update
• Full technical support via dedicated portal
• Possibility to join the TECHBASE Solution Partner program.

Adaptation for Industrial Conditions:

• Low energy consumption
• RTC with battery backup
• WatchDog function enables control of selected hardware/software services
• File systems for effective data management over Flash
  memory enable long and trouble free operation.
• Durable ABS casing suitable for DIN rail mounting
• Easy installation due to detachable screw terminals
• No moving parts (fans, disc drives).
• Increased temperature range versions.

Three ways to access the resources of the device:

There are three ways to access the hardware and software resources of the device:

NX Dynamics – Web-based Graphical User Interface. Enables you to build your own modules (e.g. for process visualization).

HMI– due to a range of communication interfaces and built-in protocols, you can connect any HMI panel and manage the installation locally.

WWW – the device has a built-in web server, data base and PHP language support. You can easily create and share a dedicated website with view and control functions of selected parameters of the device.

Protocols and SDK:

iMod operates on the NPE hardware platform with Linux operating system. Linux provides a wide range of programming tools, e.g. C, C++, Java support, tools for data bases support, SSH, SSL and VPN.

The is a variety of communication protocols implemented in the iMod platform (these allow for communication with the most popular automation devices), such as:

• Modbus
• SNMP
• M-Bus
• 1-Wire
• TCP/IP

There is also a possibility to add additional protocols. We have prepared an SDK (Software Development Kit) - a set of tools for adding new functionalities and mechanisms in “plug-in” system. It enables the advanced system integrators to adjust the platform to their solutions.

Internal Architecture of the device:

The iMod X500 PLUS Platform was designed to cooperate with all the modern automation systems communications and telecommunications, at the same time providing clear and flexible configuration. This is why there are 3 types of communication channels defined:

Source Channel – a channel for cyclic retrieving the values of defined parameters (e.g. Modbus Master polls other devices)

Access Channel – this channel allows access to iMod data (e.g. Modbus Slave shares data with SCADA software)

Message Channel– Event-triggered communication allows for notification e.g. by SMS, email or Modbus Push

 

 

Object Definitions

Apart from the channels defining the communication structure of the iMod device, there are other configuration elements, such as: parameters, events, messages.

Messages

Message template send to predefined recipients. You can also insert MACROS in the messages, which will be dynamically filled when the message is sent.

Parameter definitions

After defining sources, ways of access and message channels you need to define parameters.

Parameters

Each parameter has an alphanumeric, unique ID for creating an internal array of parameters. Apart from the ID, you need to provide the information on the defined source-channel, where the parameter will retrieve its value. You can also add a proper access-channel, if you want to share the values.

Events

You can easily view and share data. You can also add a mechanism for event-triggered actions, e.g. sending email. You assign message channels and predefined message templates.

Technical specification
System
CPU	ARM11
RAM	512MB
Flash Memory	4096MB
Operating system	Linux 3.6
Real Time Clock	RTC, 240 byte SRAM, Wath Dog Timer
Ethernet interface
	1x Ethernet 10/100 Mbps (RJ45 connector)
Serial ports
RS-232 / RS-485 Ports	2x RS-232 (3 pins) / 2x RS-485 (2 pins)
Usb ports
	1x external USB 2.0 (host), 1x internal USB 2.0
Inputs/outputs
Digital inputs (DI)	4x DI (0..5V DC
Digital outputs (DO)	4x DO (0..30V), max. power efficiency: 500 mA
Analog inputs	2x AI - range 0..10V DC (18bit resolution)
1-Wire	1x 1-Wire
M-bus	1x M-bus Master / RS-232
Power supply
	9 ~ 24 V AC/DC, 1000 mA / 6 VDC battery
Mechanical parameters
Dimensions	91 x 106 x 61 mm
Weight	300g
Casing	ABS or Aluminum, DIN bus instalation
Operating and storage conditions
	0 ~ 70°C, humidity: 5 ~ 95% RH (no condensation) Extended operating temperature: -25 ~ 80°C, humidity 5 ~ 95% RH (no condensation)*
Available expansion cards
	Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n, speed up to 150 Mbps, 64/128-bit WEP, WPA, and WPA2) LTE/3G modem, GPS module Bluetooth
Connectors and physical interfaces
	CES 1x RJ45 (Ethernet) 2x monostable switch button 1x32 pin screw terminal 1x USB 2.0 type A 1x 2 pin power 1x SIM CARD slot

Product features:
Converter
Computer, PLC
Cloud services
Manufacturer	TECHBASE
Compatible OS	Linux
Interfaces	M-bus USB GPIO 1-Wire Ethernet
Storage	Flash
GSM Modem	GPRS 3G/HSPA LTE
Wireless communication	Wi-Fi Bluetooth Zigbee GSM Modem
Module type	I/O module Telemetry module IoT Module
Device features	Programmable Modbus SNMP MQTT
Device type	BOX Computer iMod NPE
Serial ports	RS-232 RS-485 RS-232 x2 RS-232 x3 RS-485 x2 and more
Processor speed	500MHz - 1,5GHz
Converter type	Device server Programmable converter
Other	Box computer
Device features	Device server SNMP Embedded
Switch features	Non-fiber
I/O	Analog in Digital in Digital out
GPS	GPS
Processor type	ARM11