Low-power RTU

Rockwell Automation has introduced an all-in-one controller with SCADA capabilities which is suitable for remote and harsh environments.

Able to be powered by a solar cell or small wind generator, the Allen-Bradley DataSite remote terminal unit (RTU) is a low-power PLC that processes a user program and controls and monitors the operation of other equipment.

The DataSite RTU is designed to operate in remote locations with extreme temperatures, such as those often found in the oil and gas, mining and wastewater industries.

The DataSite RTU can operate on 12 VDC, <0x000A>making it suitable for remote environments that lack mains power and rely on a solar cell or small wind generator to charge a battery.

The DataSite RTU controller features a 32-bit processor with an embedded real-time, multitask operating system, as well as serial and ethernet ports. In addition, the DataSite RTU has a HART multidrop port that can monitor up to 13 instruments on a 2-wire system, reducing installation time and costs.

In addition, the DataSite RTU is available in an electronic flow meter (EFM) version tailored for natural gas wellhead monitoring and offers firmware specially designed to calculate natural gas flow. The embedded algorithms of the DataSite RTU controller measure natural gas flow more easily and consistently in accordance with accepted standards.

Other features of the DataSite RTU controller include an embedded web server that offers tools for interfacing with controller-based data.

Depending on the options selected, the package includes the DataSite RTU or DataSite EFM with I/O terminated on a field-wiring terminal strip, batteries, battery-charging controller, radio modem and antenna, all mounted in a ‘patch-ready’ enclosure.