Neutron Comms Cable Reference Guide

Neutron Comms Cable Reference Guide

1.0 Introduction

The USB-to-RS-485 communication module (NEUT-CBL ) is used to provide communication to a Neutron controller network. It is a high speed USB-to-RS-485 - (2-wire, half duplex) adapter that uses the FDTI serial to USB chip.

 

Using the terminal block that plugs into the adapter's DB9 connector, the module is hard-wired into one of the Neutron controllers (typically the controller located nearest to the host PC).


The adapter will be automatically detected and installed and assigned a COM port number (which can be viewed in Windows Device Manager).

 

When you perform an auto-config, all COM ports on the PC are scanned and the USB-to-RS-485 module will be automatically found and used to detect the Neutron controller(s).

 


2.0 Host PC to Neutron Network Connection 

ATC Controller Connection

  1. Plug the USB end of the cable into an available USB port on the host PC.
  2. The adapter should be installed automatically and you should be able to find it in Windows Device Manager.
  3. Connect RS-485+ of the adapter to TB2-RS-485 A+ of the controller.
  4. Connect RS-485- of the adapter to TB2-RS485 B- of the controller.
  5. Connect the GND of the adapter to the RS-485 shield-drain.

Notes:
- Every system will require the USB-to-RS-485 module for connection.

- When using multiple Neutron controllers, the adapter can be wired into any controller.

- The recommended cable type between the module and the controller network is:
   Belden 9501 (or equivalent) this is a shielded, stranded, twisted pair.

 

3.0 Neutron Network Schematic

This diagram illustrates an example system using the maximum of 8 controllers.

 

Notes:

  • The RS-485 network should be a 'daisy-chain' and not a star configuration.
  • The maximum total RS-485 cable network length is 4,000 ft/1200m
  • RS-485 recommended cable is Belden 9501 (shielded, stranded, twisted pair)
  • Connect shield drain to the first controller's earth-ground.

Neutron Schematic