System having I/O module number assignment utilizing module number signal line having pair of inputs adapted for receiving module number signal and propagation of module number signal down stream

An I/O module for use in a programmable controller system having a master controller serially connected to the I/O module, the I/O module comprising:

• programmable memory having a first memory address for receiving a module number and a second memory address for receiving a signal direction indicator;
• a module number signal line operatively coupled with said memory, the module number signal line having a pair of inputs, either of said inputs being configured and adapted for receiving a module number signal across a signal line connected therewith where the other one of said inputs is adapted for propagation of the module number signal downstream;
• and
• circuit means for setting said second memory address with the signal direction indicator corresponding to the module number signal being received by a particular one of said inputs.

An I/O module for use in a programmable controller system, the I/O module comprising:

• a circuit board having an integrated circuit, the integrated circuit having a memory, the memory having a first memory address for receiving a module number and a second memory address adapted for receiving a signal direction indicator;
• a pair of connectors electrically connected to the circuit board, the connectors including a series of signal lines for propagating a signal therethrough, one of said signal lines adapted for receiving a module number signal, one of said signal lines in the other connector adapted for sending said module number signal;
• and
• said integrated circuit having logic means for setting said second memory address with the signal direction indicator corresponding to the module number signal being received by a particular one of said connectors.