UniPi Axon M265 LTE

UniPi Axon M265 LTE is a programmable logic controller (PLC) designed for control, monitoring and regulation. The M265 is focused on a higher number of digital inputs and relay outputs and is also provided with an LTE module, allowing it to connect to the LTE wireless network.

Features

• universal architecture with a higher number of I/Os
• LTE module (antenna included in the package)
• a high number of digital inputs and relay outputs
• a pair of serial lines (RS485)
• durable aluminium chassis (IP20 protection), wider operating temperature range
• integrated industrial computer (quad-core CPU, 1 GB RAM)
• onboard 8GB eMMC memory
• designed for DIN rail mounting
• software openness (based on Linux OS)
• preinstalled Mervis software (can be manually reflashed)

Note: At the moment the product is not supported by the Mervis platform

The UniPi Axon M265 LTE is a compact and highly versatile programmable logic controller based on the UniPi Axon M205. The M265 LTE retains architecture focused on a higher number of digital inputs and relay outputs. It also features an LTE module allowing the controller to use the LTE network for sending notifications and reports.

Basic features

Inputs & outputs description

Digital inputs (DI) are designed to read binary logic states represented by direct voltage levels. That makes them suitable for reading data from various binary sensors and devices such as switches (on/off), motion sensors (movement detected/not detected), liquid level sensors (full tank/empty tank) etc. 

Digital outputs (DI) are intended for switching various binary devices (lighting, smart door locks, drives of shutters and blinds etc.) through direct voltage. DO's also feature a Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM) function allowing to use the output for analogue control. 

Relay outputs (RO) are primarily used for switching two-state devices with higher current draw such as lightbulbs, thermoelectric valve drives, water heaters, pumps etc.

Analogue input (AI) is designed to measure voltage, current or resistance to read values from various analogue sensors such as thermometers, pressure meters, tensometers etc.

Analogue output (AO) serves for control of multi-state external devices through direct voltage or current and is suitable for control and regulation of devices such as three-way valves, heat exchangers, electric motors etc. 

Computing module

As a computing module, the Axon controllers use an industrial computer featuring a quad-core, 1.2GHz Alwinner H5 CPU and 1GB RAM, giving Axons an excellent performance. The 8GB onboard eMMC memory then offers better reliability compared to systems relying on microSD memory cards. 

Special features

The M265 features an LTE module and a microSIM card slot to connect to the LTE high-speed network.

The module allows the controller to serve as a primary or secondary internet access point for remote management and data transmission through the internet. In the role of a primary connection the controller functions as a web access point in locations without a landline internet connection. Secondary connection them comes in play as a backup in case of a primary Ethernet connection failure in technologies reliant on a connection between the technology and a supervision centre. In the case of Ethernet failure, the controller automatically switches to the LTE mode, bridging the connection.

A brief start-up guide for the LTE module can be found on this link

Communication interfaces

Axon controllers are by default provided with RS485 serial lines. This type of interface usually uses the Modbus RTU protocol and can be used to communicate with various devices such as Extension xS extension modules, energy meters, touchscreen HMI displays, controllers from other vendors, various sensors etc. A single bus can support dozens of devices while the bus' length can reach up to several hundred meters.

Selected models also feature a single RS232 serial line. In the field of automation, this interface is usually used for communication with various converters, closed-in technologies or display devices such as HMI panels. 

A single 1-Wire bus is also featured on selected models. This interface uses 2-3 conductors for collecting data from various 1-Wire sensors such as thermometers, humidity meters, light intensity sensors etc.). A single 1-Wire bus supports up to 15 devices, the overall length of the bus can reach up to 100 meters. 

All Axon models also feature a single 1Gbit Ethernet port for network communication. 

Software options

Thanks to the software openness of Unipi controllers customers can choose from a broad range of software solutions and are not limited to a single proprietary platform. Among supported solutions are both commercial and open-source systems. 

The main supported platform for Unipi controllers is the Mervis control system. This platform is developed under the IEC 61131-3 PLC programming standard and consists of comprehensible and user-friendly Mervis IDE development environment, an HMI editor for creating and editing of user interfaces, SCADA interface and an online/on-premise cloud database for long-term collecting of operational data and their analysis. Axon-line controllers are shipped with the Mervis already installed. 

Aside from commercial platforms (such as CODESYS), customers can also choose from a variety of open-source solutions; for the supported software overview please visit this link.

Alternatively, customers can use the Unipi-developed EVOK open-source API to integrate Unipi controllers into already existing software solutions, use custom code or to develop applications for the controllers.

Package contents

• controller
• removable screw terminals
• DIN rail holder (35 mm)
• 2× DIN rail holder mounting screws
• 1× grounding screw
• instruction leaflet
• lifetime Mervis license code

Other features

All components of the controller are encased within a durable aluminium chassis (IP20 protection). The controller is designed for mounting on a standard DIN rail (35 mm). 

Technical Parameters