FastNet is a packet radio system used to solve the problem of accessing computer peripheral equipment that may be located some distance away, saving the installation of cables and the disruption that it causes.

Computers, terminals, printers, data loggers, PLC's or any other equipment with an RS232C serial interface can be linked.

Networking or Point-to-Point

A unit can contact any one of up to 255 other units in the same area. Each FastNet unit is addressed so that any sender of data can select the destination address. Destination selection is by an embedded command in the data.

For point-to-point operation a completely transparent RS232 link is achieved. Destination address is selected and fixed during installation.

Error-Free Communications

Comprehensive addressing and error-correction is added to all transmitted data to ensure secure, error-free communications.

Flow Control

FastNet incorporates data handshaking allowing its use with otherwise continuous data streams. Flow control of the data going into the transmitter's buffer is carried out by XON/XOFF or RTS/CTS handshaking.

User-Selectable Functions

The user can select functions such as address and XON/XOFF or RTS/CTS flow control. Set-up parameters are held in the unit's internal non-volatile memory.

Radio Range

Range varies significantly depending on terrain. Typical range within an urban are is 5km with over 40km possible with a good line-of-sight path. Greater ranges are possible using higher efficiency antennas.

FastNet utilises a high performance UHF radio system (licence-excempt in the UK) to provide optimum performance in even the most severe electrical noise conditions. Other radio systems are available.

PLC and Data Logger Control

FastNet units have successfully been used to remotely control PLCs and data loggers. You may find that your PLC or data logger cannot handle half-duplex data due to timing considerations. If you are in doubt whether the standard handshaking will be suitable, please contact our technical staff with details. We will be pleased to advise you of the options available using FastNet.

Technical Details
General

RS232 Serial Interface	Half duplex, 9600 baud, 1 start, 1 stop, no parity, 8 data bits
RS232 Flow Control	RTS/CTS or XON/XOFF
Radio Data Rate	2400 bps, half duplex
Cycle Time per outstation	80ms minimum
Radio System	MP1401 as standard (other Magenta modules optional)
Supply Voltage	9.5-16Vdc (mains options available)
Operating Temperature	-20 to +60° C
Dimensions	220 x 150 x 38mm exc. connectors
Humidity	95% RH, non-condensing

Technical Details
Connections

Male 9 way D connector
2	RXD	RS232 data output
3	TXD	RS232 data input
5	0V	Ground
7	RTS	Request To Send
8	CTS	Clear To Send
Coaxial N type		50 ohm antenna connection