Protos goes wireless:

Knick's new ComFu radio system facilitates data transmission from sensors which are installed e.g. in inaccessible or mobile measuring points in safe or hazardous areas. ComFu uses the IEEE 802.15.4-based ZigBee standard which enables users to set up so-called Personal Area Networks, allowing terminals and routers to communicate locally. Distance limits due to cable prop-erties are no longer a problem. In the open field, the system bridges a maximum distance of 400 m. It can be easily integrated into the proven, modular Protos process analysis system. The simplest ComFu network consists of two hard-ware components: a radio receiver/transmitter on the sensor side (ComFu E, end device) and the network coordinator (ComFu C, coordinator) which is con-nected to a Protos FIU digital module via its RS485 interface. As usual, all com-ponents are operated and programmed via the Protos system or via the new ProgaLog 3000 configuration software.

The separate network coordinator can be easily positioned in order to enable optimal transmission. Energy supply for ComFu C, which controls the bidirec-tional communication with up to two receivers, is provided by Protos. All data is encrypted according to the 128 Bit AES standard, thereby ensuring secure transmission. Malfunctions and failures are recognized immediately and re-ported to the measuring system.

ComFu E radio receivers are battery-powered which allows for a flexible instal-lation without wiring efforts. The transmission interval is freely programmable. Two LEDs indicate the operating status, battery change or alarms. The stan-dard AA batteries used in the device have a lifetime of approx. one year. Ex-changeable analog modules enable users to easily switch from pH to other measured quantities, such as oxygen. Moreover, ComFu E supports intelligent sensors such as ISM and InduCon®. These systems automatically recognize sensor parameters and allow for the use of pre-calibrated sensors. This results in a reduced workload, especially at inaccessible measuring points.