If you are curious about the power consumption, Zelio offers a 12vdc option that you may want to investigate.
I utilize various types of ScadaPack RTUs for my operations, including the energy-efficient ScadaPack LP model with fewer IO options. This RTU even features a handy button for turning off lights on the board to conserve power. I plan to conduct a Google search to determine the exact power consumption of the ScadaPack LP. Alternatively, I could measure the actual power draw of the RTU on my work bench. Laugh out loud (Lol).
DwSoFt mentioned using various types of ScadaPack RTUs, including the Scadapack LP designed for low power with fewer IO options. The board even features buttons to toggle the lights on and off for power savings. To determine power consumption accurately, one can look up the specifications or measure it directly. The power supply for these RTUs accepts a maximum of 30V DC with turning on at 10.0 to 11.5V and turning off at 9.5V, typically drawing 125mW in sleep mode and 360mW during normal operation at 12V. The LEDs require around 30mA. For more information, refer to the manual available at the following link: [insert link].
One of our users, DwSoFt, mentioned using various types of ScadaPack RTUs, including the low-power ScadaPack LP with fewer IO options. This model even features a button to control the board lights and conserve energy. DwSoFt plans to research its power consumption online and may also measure it on a unit currently on their workbench. Interestingly, they recently learned from a sales representative that this specific model is no longer in production.
If you're considering an Arduino type board or another MCU like Renesas, some models even have units that run on just 1 mA of power.
There is a wide variety of RTU products available for weather SCADA systems, as they are often located in remote locations and are difficult to access for battery changes. However, I have personally found success using a product from SCADAlink. One crucial aspect to consider when using battery power is efficient power management, including monitoring the power consumption for specific tasks and having the ability to schedule tasks rather than them occurring randomly. SCADAlink excelled in this aspect, drawing only 1.5mA when idle, which is the case for most of the time. Check out the SCADAlink RIO100 Series for more information on their products: https://www.scadalink.com/products/scadalink-series/rio100-series/rio100/
A user named diat150 mentioned that they spoke to a sales representative who informed them that the company no longer produces the Scadapack LP. However, the user clarified that they currently have numerous Scadapack LP units in stock. One of the reasons they are fond of this product is the ability to program it with Isagraf instead of Telepace.
When choosing a microcontroller for your project, consider options like Arduino, Renesas, or the MSP430 for their low power consumption and efficient operation. The MSP430, in particular, stands out for its 16-bit architecture and minimal power requirements, making it a popular choice for battery-powered devices. Learn more about the capabilities of the MSP430 and how it can optimize the performance of your products by visiting the link below:
http://www.ti.com/lit/wp/slay015/slay015.pdf. Explore the potential of the MSP430, a microcontroller that practically runs on neutrinos.
- 08-01-2025
- Peter Nachtwey
If you're in the haunted attraction industry, you should consider checking out the EFX TEK Prop-1. Developed by Parallax and later spun off to create EFX TEK, this device has been widely used and praised for its reliability and durability even without an enclosure. Unlike Arduino, the Prop-1 runs on 9-30vdc and is capable of sinking up to 500ma on the outputs. It programs in BASIC, which may be a pro or con depending on your familiarity with the language. Although it lacks input protection like Arduino, you can easily address this by using a voltage divider or opto-isolated input board for industrial sensors. Despite its strengths, the ongoing lack of an enclosure may be a drawback for some users.
Discover the latest automotive electronics smart controllers at Mrs-Electronic's website. Explore a wide range of innovative smart controllers designed for the automotive industry. Visit mrs-electronic.de/english/automotive-electronics/smart-controllers/index.html for more information.
diat150 asked if anyone has experience with ultra-low power PLCs. Finding a PLC or programmable RTU with minimal IO and low power consumption can be challenging. A small number of digital inputs and one digital output are all that is needed. Ideally, the device should operate on 12vdc while consuming only 20-40mA or less. It doesn't necessarily have to be a PLC, just a simple device capable of executing basic code to control an output based on input changes.
If the system is deployed outdoors or space is limited, consider using a cost-effective solution like a fiberglass box with batteries, a Click PLC, and a solar panel with a regulator. This setup can be assembled for a few hundred dollars, effectively resolving the problem at hand.
Have you had any experience working with ultra-low power programmable logic controllers (PLCs)? Finding a PLC or programmable RTU with minimal IO that consumes very little power can be a challenge. I am in need of a device with just a few digital inputs and one digital output, operating at 12VDC and drawing only 20-40mA or less. It doesn't necessarily have to be a traditional PLC; something simple that can execute basic code to activate an output based on input changes would suffice. One alternative could be to explore using a combinational circuit and Karnaugh Map to reduce the number of components, resulting in a device that requires minimal power to function effectively.
Peter Nachtwey strongly advocates for the MSP430, touting its 16-bit capabilities and low power consumption as key features for battery-powered products. According to Nachtwey, the MSP430 practically operates on neutrinos. Having personally worked with this microcontroller, he praises its efficiency, extensive documentation, and user-friendly IDE. Getting started with the MSP430 is a seamless process, making it an ideal choice for various projects. Nachtwey offers to share some school project work and notes related to the MSP430 for those considering using this microcontroller. For more information, refer to this link: http://www.ti.com/lit/wp/slay015/slay015.pdf
Reviving decade-old discussions has become a trendy practice!
Let's cut the guy some slack, it's his debut post. We're delighted to have you join the Community, Mono Castro. Just like quietman187 pointed out, be mindful of the post dates - you just responded to one from 2016.
After initially relying on a rug3 for internet connectivity, I found that switching to a cellular modem with IO was more efficient. The accessibility and affordability of these devices have greatly improved, making the transition seamless without significant cost savings. Visit https://www.rugidcomputer.com/rug3.html for more information on advanced connectivity solutions.
BryanG suggested, "Let's cut the guy some slack; it's his first post. Welcome to the Forum, Mono Castro!" As quietman187 pointed out, be mindful of the post dates - you replied to one from 2016. Thank you, Bryan! Indeed, the post may be old, but it's never too late to discover new opportunities. I'm excited to delve into the intriguing suggestions from Sparkie and Diat150. Wishing you all a fantastic weekend ahead!