5
User Manual
Interface cards IF-XX
EN
Date: 22-10-2015
About the interface cards
1. General
The interface cards IF-Rx (RS232), IF-Cx (CAN), IF-Ux
(USB), IF-G1 (GPIB), IF-Ex (Ethernet) and IF-PB1 (Profibus)
provide a digital and the IF-A1 an analogue connection to
a control unit like a PC or PLC. Devices like, for example,
a power supply can be monitored and controlled. Basic
software for power supplies and electronic loads, for the
use with some of these interface cards, is supplied with the
included tools CD.
The models IF-U2, IF-R2, IF-C2 and IF-E2B are reduced ver-
sions of the -1 types and may only be used in certain series.
The 25 pole, analogue interface card IF-A1 (supported by
series PSI 9000 and PSI 8000) allows fast monitoring of
actual values and fast setting (with a very short delay) of
set values, all within the nominal values of the device. The
digital inputs and outputs can be parametrised.
PSI 9000 series only: with the combination of a RS232 or
USB card and a CAN card, the user can realise a gateway
from the RS232 or USB port of a PC to a CAN bus. Thus no
extra hardware is required to connect the PC to CAN. The
gateway allows to control up to 30 units in line by the RS232/
USB and CAN cards. The device that is connected to the
PC will handle the data conversion to CAN and back. The
maximum data transmission speed is then limited to what
the serial connection has been set to. Total maximum baud
rate is 57600 baud.
PSI 9000 series only: the cards IF-R1 and IF-U1 addition-
ally support the parallel and/or series connection of multiple
laboratory power supplies to a true master-slave system with
totals formation of the measured values by using the „System
Link mode“. Also see user guide of PSI 9000 and section
„12. The System Link Mode (PSI9000 only)“.
1.1 Area of use
The interface cards must only be equipped in units which
are designed for them.
A set of Labview VIs is included in the package, which will
simplify the use and implementation of the interface cards
in the LabView IDE.
The implementation in other applications and environments
is possible, but also very complex. The telegram structure is
explained in detail in separate documents, available on the
included CD in folder „\manuals\interface cards\“ or on our
web site (ZIP file with instruction manuals for all interface
cards).
The voltage range of the analogue input and output signals
of the IF-A1 is customisable between 0 and 10V. The digital
inputs can be switched between two different voltage ranges
for the logical level and the default logical level can be pre-
defined for the case that these inputs are not used.
1.2 The concept
The interface cards are pluggable and can thus be used
where needed. They are compatible to various types of de-
vices, such as electronic loads. Due to the electrical isolation
of 2000V (with Profibus card: 1000V) you can also connect
multiple devices with different potentials.
The USB, RS232 and CAN interfaces support a unique
communication protocol, which is object orientated. Every
series has its dedicated object (ie. command) list, which
differs depending on the features of a model. Transmitted
commands are checked for validity and plausibility. Non-plau-
sible or erroneous values and objects result in an error which
is sent as an answer telegram.
The digital cards IF-G1 and IF-Ex use the standardised
command language SCPI (Standard Commands for Pro-
grammable Instruments).
Interface IF-PB1 follows the Profibus specification.
Refer to section „13. Programming“ for an overview about
further available documentation.
1.3 Warranty & repair
Attention: The interface card must not be repaired by the
user!
In case of warranty or a defect please contact your supplier
to get informed about the next steps. The cards are conceded
with a statutory warranty of two years (for Germany), which
is independent from the warranty (and its duration) of the
device they are used in.
1.4 Used symbols
In the following description the display and operating ele-
ments are marked differently by symbols.
= Displayed only, all elements which are only dis-
played and which represent a state are marked with this
symbol
= Parameter, changeable values, are marked with
this symbol and are emphasised
= Menu items, selectable, lead to the next sub-level or
to the bottom level with parameters
Brackets {…} mark possible options or adjustment ranges
for parameters.
1.5 Scope of delivery
1 x Pluggable interface card
1 x CD with software, instruction manuals and more
1 x Short installation guide
1 x Patch cable, 0.5m (only with IF-R1 and IF-U1)
1 x USB cable A-A, 1.8m (only with IF-Ux, IF-Ex, IF-PB1 )
1 x RS232 cable, 1:1, 3m (only with IF-Rx)
1 x Adapter cable for firmware updates (only with IF-G1)
