I/O module for a serial multiplex data system with a programmable communication module selector
AssigneeSquare D Company
InventorRobert E. Riley
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A programmable data link module is used on a time division multiplex data bus. The module is functional as an input device, an output device, or both as an input and output device. It can receive data from the data bus during the selected time slot for a selected number of frames to control output devices connected to it. The data link module includes an input circuit for generating a data output signal data to the data bus in response to the input signals from an input device coupled to the module. The input circuit includes a programmable input communication mode selector, allowing the data bus and the data link module to function with or without a host computer. The mode selector provides simplex or duplex.
Claims14
An I/O module coupled to a data bus for use in a time division multiplexing control system, the I/O module functioning as an input device, an output device, or both an input and output device, the I/O module comprising:
- A. an input circuit for generating a data output signal to the data bus in response to input signals from an input device coupled to the I/O module;
- B. an output circuit for controlling an output device coupled to the I/O module in response to input data received from the data bus;
- C. a memory for storing one of a plurality of communication modes for the I/O module;
- D. a control circuit for receiving a system clock signal having a plurality of time slots per a repetitive time frame and for generating a synchronous signal in synchronization with the system clock signal;
- and
- E. a logic circuit, in combination with the synchronous signal and the stored one of the plurality of communication modes, for producing the data output signal by controlling the input circuit and for controlling the output device by controlling the output circuit.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.