ADAM modules are compact, intelligent sensor-to-computer interface units designed specifically for reliable operation in harsh environments. Their built-in microprocessors, encased in rugged industrial grade plastic packages, let them provide intelligent signal conditioning, analog I/O, digital I/O and RS-485 communication.

Remote Programmable Input Ranges
What makes ADAM modules really special is their ability to accommodate multiple types and ranges of analog input. You select type and range remotely by issuing commands from the host computer. The configurability of ADAM modules means that you can use just one type of unit for many different tasks. This greatly simplifies design and maintenance, because you can inexpensively stock only one type of module. You can standardize on a few modules to handle the measurement needs of a whole plant.

RS-485 Multi-Drop Networking
ADAM modules use the EIA RS-485 communication protocol, The industry’s most widely used bi-directional, balanced transmission line standard. RS-485 was specifically developed for industrial applications to transmit and receive data at high rates over long distances. All modules use Opto-isolators to prevent ground-loop problems and limit the chance of damage due to power surges.

Two-Wire Communication
ADAM modules use just a single twisted pair to transmit data. Special circuitry ensures clean and reliable communication by suppressing noise picked up by the communication lines. ADAM’s two-wire RS-485 technology keeps the number of cables, connectors and additional communication conditioners (such as repeaters and filters) reduced to a minimum, simplifying installation and reducing overall costs.

RS-232/RS-485 Conversion
If no RS-485 interface is available on the host computer, you can use the ADAM-4520 RS-232/RS-485 Converter. The ADAM converter and repeater modules automatically control the RS-485 bus direction, so software written for half-duplex RS-232 may be used without modification. RS-485 bus control is completely transparent to the user.

Network Expansion Each
ADAM 4510 repeater lets you add 32 ADAM modules to the network or extend the network by another 4000 feet (1.2 Km). You can connect up to 256 ADAM modules to a single RS-485 network.

Programming and Software
You can use any high-level language with ASCII-based string functions (such as BASIC, PASCAL or C) to communicate with ADAM modules. For example, the command and response for an analog input module would be: Command: #05 Response: >+4.834 The command requests the data stored by the module with address 05 (Hex). The module responds with +4.834 V.

Programming Example
The following BASIC program demonstrates how to communicate with an ADAM-4011 Analog Input Module. It instructs the ADAM-4011 to measure a T-Type thermocouple then displays the result on screen.

10 OPEN "COM1: 9600, N, 8, 1, RS, CS, CD, DS" AS # 1
20 CMD $="%2324100600"
30 PRINT #1, CMD$ ‘ADAM-4011 is configured to address 24H,T-type TC input, baud rate of 9600, engineering unit data format’
40 CMD$="#24"
50 PRINT #1, CMD$ ‘Read analog input data’
60 RESULT$=INPUT$ (5, #1)
70 PRINT "Temperature="; Result$
80 CLOSE: END

Utility Software
Easy-to-use menu-driven utility software makes configuration and calibration of ADAM modules a snap. It also includes a terminal emulation program so you can easily read from and write to ADAM modules. Working with ADAM modules is so simple, you will be up and running in no time.