ApStarnet from Apstar Limited

ApStarnet allows users to modify and work with older systems that include Starnet.

Easy to install and configure Starnet HDLC/ESP to Modbus protocol converter for 4 RS485 communications Links
Four multi use RS845 communications ports are provided
Total galvanic isolation & transient protection
Tx and Rx termination resistors user selectable
Fully configurable from PLC code, or from software configuration package
Simply connect to pre-existing Starnet/ESP serial links
HDLC 48, 180 kb/sec baud rates, Primary or Secondary
ESP 1200, 2400, 4800 and 9600 b/sec baud rates, Control or Tributary

Flexible communications to control systems
Use with Modbus, the most widely implemented protocol there is
Modbus TCP/IP or RTU (each of the four communications ports can provide Modbus RTU access)
Up to 16 Modbus TCP/IP clients supported
Used with Siemens S7-1200, GE Fanuc Rx3i, Schneider Electric M340 and many more

Full Starnet implementation
Special function control implemented as user control messaging
Table exchange mode for up to 111 registers per partner, with user control
Independent link speeds
HDLC Ports can be either Primary or Secondary
ESP Ports can be either Control or Tributary
Up to 31 HDLC slaves per port
Up to 15 ESP Secondary’s per port
Full support for Broadcast commands, with and without response
Compatible with Gem80 products, PLC and drives

An exsisting Gem80 controller can be replaced with any modern PLC that can use Modbus TCP/IP or RTU. In this case the Apstarnet will communicate to existing devices that were using Starnet links.

Downstream devices like drives that communicate with a GEM80 can be replaced without changing the GEM80. In this case the Apstarnet can appear to be more than 1 slave.

There is also a USB port, which allows for configuration and diagnostic access. An application is available to allow configuration as well as simple diagnostic functionality.

The unit is powered by a 12-24Vdc power supply and is DIN rail mountable be default. It can also have the DIN rail adapter removed and be fixed directly to a panel backplate.

PC Application:

This application can be used for configuration and general monitoring:

A pStarnetView (1.0.4.28)

Documents:

Modbus data map, which can be downloaded here:

Modbus Data Map Rev 01 L

The ApStarnet product manual is availible here:

Manual Rev 00 a

Product datasheet is availible for download here:

Data Sheet Rev 001

Product application notes availible for download here:

Application Notes for ApStarnet