The AS-i interface is a field bus system that allows connecting a network of actuators and sensors (detectors) to a higher level control device (master).
An AS-i network comprises the following elements:
A power supply, one or several master (or control) modules, bus cable (preformed cable), an IDC connector, an IDC connector to C-TOP+ connector connection cable, and the C-TOP+ prepared for AS-i (special card for AS-i with connector).
The AS-i field bus obtains the required voltage from a power supply. The sensors and solenoid valves connected to the field bus are controlled by the master module.
Every master sends the information to the PLC and is able to control up to 62 slave units (62 C-TOP+ AS-i units).
The interconnection is made with a preformed cable. The preformed cable is used both for the transmission of information and as a power supply for the solenoid valves and detectors. The C-TOP AS-i head must always be used in conjunction with magnetoresistive detectors.
The C-TOP+ AS-i also incorporates three signalling LEDs which continuously indicate the status of the valve, and one flashing red LED to alert in case of signal loss.