Fibre-optic repeaters

The Weed Instruments EOTec 2C31 (single self-healing ring) and 2C32 (dual self-healing ring) fibre-optic repeaters are designed for ControlNet applications.

The repeaters provide multiple communication paths between the various elements of the control system and use ‘downstream multicasting’ technology. In the event of a failure on one communication path, communications are still maintained along a secondary path or, in the case of a dual ring, tertiary paths.

Downstream multicasting transmits an incoming message in multiple directions and ensures that while directing the message towards all nodes in the ring it is never retransmitted back to the point of origin — claimed to eliminate process down time due to an accidental break of one of the fibre cables.

The repeaters address power input quality, optical fibre fault and location and link status, with data on the fibres constantly monitored. If a fibre fails to transfer light or is broken, an alarm is instantly activated.

The units are housed in compact DIN rail enclosures.