Unipi Neuron M523 (RPi3)

Product description

Unipi Neuron M523 is a programmable logic controller (PLC) designed for automation, control, regulation and monitoring. The M523 is an entry model of the Neuron 500 line focused on a higher number of analog I/O, but also features a sufficient number of all inputs/outputs available on Unipi products (digital, relay). That makes it suitable for complex projects including measurements and control of analog components. The controller is equipped with two RS485 serial interfaces. 

Basic features

*more detailed info about the number and type of analogue I/Os is available in the product's datasheet (see the Files tab above)

Raspberry Pi 4 Model B (quad-core 1.5 GHz CPU), selectable RAM capacity (2/4/8 GB), 2× USB 2.0, 2× USB 3.0, 1× 1Gbit Ethernetm Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ (quad-core 1.4 GHz CPU), 1 GB RAM, 4× USB 2.0, 1× 300Mbps Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.

Inputs & outputs

Digital inputs (DI) are designed for reading states of two-state devices such as various digital sensors, switches and buttons, motion sensors etc. All digital inputs feature counter functionality by default. 

Digital outputs (DO) are applicable for switching two-state devices using direct current (DC) such as locks, external relays, contactors etc. DO’s can be also used for analog control thanks to the pulse-width modulation (PWM) function.

Relay outputs (RO) serve for switching devices with higher current draw and devices requiring alternating current (AC) such as water heaters, pumps, contactors or external relays with higher switching current.

Analog inputs (AI) are designed to measure voltage, current or resistance in order to read values from various analog sensors (pressure meters, thermometers, tension gauges etc.).

Analog outputs (AO) are used to control and regulate devices such as three-way valves, electric motors, inverter drives, heat exchangers etc. by direct current or voltage.

Computing module

The controller is powered by Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ featuring quad-core 1.4 GHz CPU and 1GB RAM, or Raspberry Pi 4 Model B with quad-core 1.5 GHz and selectable RAM capacity (2, 4, or 8 GB). Giving it more than enough performance for various performance-demanding applications. MicroSD memory cards are used as system storage, which must be purchased separately.

Communication interfaces

By default, all Neuron PLCs feature one or more RS485 serial interfaces. Usually, the RS485 uses the Modbus RTU protocol and can be used to communicate with a wide range of devices such as Extension xS modules, energy meters, touchscreen HMI panels, PLCs from other vendors etc. A high number of devices can be connected to a single bus while the bus' length can reach up to several hundred meters.

A single 1-Wire bus is also included. This interface uses 2-3 conductors for collecting data from various 1-Wire sensors such as thermometers, humidity meters, light intensity sensors etc.). A single 1-Wire bus supports up to 15 devices, the overall length of the bus can reach up to 200 meters.

All Neuron models feature a single Ethernet port for network communication. 

Software options

Thanks to the software openness of Unipi controllers customers can choose from a broad range of software solutions and are not limited to a single platform Among supported solutions are both commercial and open-source systems. Visit the Other software overview for the list of other supported solutions.

The main supported solution is the Mervis control system - a platform developed in accordance with the IEC 61131-3 standard for PLC programming, that includes SCADA interface for remote management and monitoring, a comprehensible development environment, a human-machine interface (HMI) editor and an online/on-premise database for storing historical data and retrospective analysis of the controlled technology's operation. 

Aside from commercial platforms you can also choose any from the list of supported open-source solutions, or use the EVOK API (Websocket, REST,...) Modbus TCP, SysFS or other tools for implementing your own logic in any programming language. Visit this link for the list of supported software solutions. 

Package contents

• Neuron controller
• pluggable screw terminals
• DIN rail holder (35 mm)
• 3× mounting screws for the DIN rail holder
• 1× grounding screw
• instruction leaflet
• lifetime Mervis license code

Other features

All components are encased within a durable aluminium chassis (IP20 protection). The controller is designed for installation onto a standard DIN rail (35 mm)

Neuron product line overview

Further info

• Neuron line introduction
• Comparison of Unipi product lines
• A guide for choosing the right software