Features:
- Links a VersaMax PLC or I/O station NIU to an AS-i network.
- Controls as many as 31 addressed actuator-sensor slaves.
- Maps four input bits and four output bits for every slave address.
The AS-i master centralizes small binary field points that would otherwise require individual home-run wiring to the control cabinet.
A fixed four-bit input and four-bit output allocation per address keeps the cyclic map compact while serving up to 31 distributed nodes.
Successful commissioning relies on unique slave numbers, stable AS-i power, correct polarity, and a host configuration that mirrors the installed segment.
The General Electric IC200BEM104 VersaMax AS-i Master Module may continue to be available with support from Apter Power following End-Of-Life (EOL) by the manufacturer (OEM).
General Electric IC200BEM104 VersaMax AS-Interface Network Master Module Manuals,Datasheets,Link
Important Notice: Other accessories, manuals, cables, calibration data, software, etc. are not included with this equipment unless listed in the above stock item description. All prices are shown in USD.
Actuator-Sensor Bus
- Master Function: The module controls polling and data exchange on one AS-Interface segment.
- Station Link: AS-i data reaches a VersaMax PLC or I/O station NIU through the backplane.
- Field Scope: Compact sensors and actuators share the same two-conductor network.
- Address Limit: Up to 31 individually addressed slaves can participate on the segment.
Bit Allocation
- Input Block: Each slave address contributes four bits from the field into the host.
- Output Block: Four command bits are available from the host to every addressed slave.
- Map Order: Controller references should preserve the same address sequence used on the network.
- Unused Bits: Spare positions remain reserved within an address rather than shifting later slaves.
Station Integration
- Carrier Position: An IC200CHS006 mounts the master beside compatible VersaMax equipment.
- Backplane Path: The host reads and writes AS-i data through the local station connection.
- Slave Identity: Duplicate AS-i addresses must be corrected before cyclic exchange can be stable.
- Power Check: Network voltage and conductor polarity should be verified at the farthest field node.
Distributed Field Uses
- Conveyors: Photoeyes, position switches, and small actuators can share one AS-i segment.
- Packaging: Repeated machine stations fit the compact four-input and four-output address pattern.
- Material Flow: Widely spaced binary devices can be brought into a central VersaMax control map.
- Machine Cells: AS-i reduces cabinet wiring where many low-data field devices are clustered.