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Is  a Plain-English driver or an X Driver? |
| It is neither.
is software that runs on a PC connected to the same Ethernet used for Continuum. It uses the Ethernet
to talk to both the CX controller and the non-Andover devices.
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Do I need to 'enable' a CX Comm Port in order to use ? |
| No.
does not use any CX Comm Ports. It passes point data to and from the CX via Ehternet.
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How do I access the points in Continuum? |
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maps the device points directly to Continuum InfinityNumeric objects that you create. They can then be used as any
other numerics... in programs, in graphics, with alarms, schedules, etc.
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How much programming/configuration is required? |
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does not require you write any programs. Instead, you configure the list of points you wish to exchange
in a plain text file on the PC using any text editor program (NotePad, etc.). When the driver runs, it reads this
text file and begins exchanging point data. To make system modifications, simply edit the text file and
then restart the driver.
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How difficult is to install? |
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installs as a standard Windows application. It comes complete on a CD-ROM with a simple, step-by-step
installation program. Installation takes only minutes. It is compatable with
Windows 98, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000 and Windows XP.
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If communicates over Ehternet, how does it talk to RS-232 or RS-485 Devices? |
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Many of the non-Andover devices you may use with
communicate through an RS-232 port, or on an RS-485 bus. A simple 'Serial-to-Ethernet' device server is used
to move the device point data back and forth from the devices to
over Ehternet-TCP/IP.
With one device server per bus, you can even bring in data from multiple device busses
using a single copy of software. Please see our section on
Example Applications
for more detail.
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How much does Cost? |
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pricing is based on the quantitity and type of devices you wish to bring in. The lowest cost version are
limited to talk with just a few devices (5 or less), then there are higher priced versions that are capable
of handling several hundred devices.
Please contact us by phone or email for a price for your application.
We also offer dealer/reseller pricing levels.
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Does require a dedicated PC? |
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can be run on its own networked PC (see minimum PC requirements
), but it can also be installed on the same PC as the Andover Cyberstation software.
Both and Cyberstation can run simultaneously on the same
PC.
When the PC running is turned off, point data
will no longer be exchanged, so it is important to run it on a PC that will be powered and running full-time.
With improved hardware and operating system reliability of today's PC's, this is usually not a problem.
however, is not intended for use in life-critical or
mission-critical applications where its failure to exchange data, or a failure of the PC could result in
personal injury or property damage.
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configuration for your application. You may contact us at