FAQs

1. What is an autonomous controller?
2. What is the difference between FCN and FCJ?
3. How can the FCN and FCJ connect with other devices?
4. How is OPC function implemented to FCN/FCJ?
5. Does FCN/FCJ realize dual-redundant configuration?
6. Which language is supported on FCN/FCJ?

1. What is an autonomous controller?

An autonomous controller is a device that can initiate the sending of alarms and other data by embedded Web, FTP, and e-mail functions over an Intranet or the Internet. The FCN and FCJ autonomous controllers can survive in harsh conditions, with the FCJ able to function at ambient temperatures ranging from 0 to 60 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of 5-95% and the FCN at 0-55 degrees Celsius and 5-95% RH. And both FCN and FCJ are compliant with FM Non-Incendive Class I Division 2 . The following systems can be built to take advantage of the autonomous controller's capabilities. More solutions can be provided by writing Java software.

1. Monitoring data from a remote location such as pipeline or wellhead using an office PC connected to a public switched telephone network (PSTN)
2. Notification via a satellite uplink of an abnormal condition by a device located on a ship
3. Gathering together data for control and monitoring via the Internet or an intranet Use of a wireless communications device such as a PDA or a mobile phone to monitor data
4. Checking the status of equipment at a remote location

2. What is the difference between FCN and FCJ?

A Field Control Node (FCN) is a modulus controller that is equipped with CPU, I/O, and other modules as needed.A Field Control Unit (FCJ) is an all-in-one controller with a built-in I/O interface. An FCN has more expandability and redundancy, whereas an FCJ can function more autonomously. The customer can select either model depending on system size and other requirements.

3. How can the FCN and FCJ connect with other devices?

Application portfolios (APPF) of communication function blocks for connecting with FA-M3, MELSEC, SYSMAC, power monitor, temperature controller, and boiler controller are currently available. For generic communications, an RS-232C and Ethernet access interface APPF is available to facilitate connections with a wide variety of devices via the standard communications port. Modbus communication function blocks for RS and Ethernet communications have also been released.

4. How is OPC function implemented to FCN/FCJ?

By installing FCN/FCJ OPC Server for Windows on a standard PC, the FCN or FCJ can function as an OPC server and send data to SCADA program, which functions as the OPC client. FCN/FCJ OPC Server for Windows has interfaces that are compliant with the OPC (OLE for Process Control) Data Access standard version 2.0 (DA 2.0)

5. Does FCN/FCJ realize dual-redundant configuration?

Yes.
The dual-redundant configuration is derived from the CENTUM technology developed by Yokogawa for the DCS field. With the FCN, all key components including the power, CPU, and modules as well as the control LAN and the internal bus connecting I/O expansion units can be duplicated. With the FCJ, the control LAN can be duplicated.

6. Which language is supported on FCN/FCJ?

The FCN and FCJ support all five IEC61131-3 languages and Java. By implementing Java language, controller's autonomy is improved such as sending e-mail, remote monitoring and so on. Java programs run in the different memory area and do not affect the IEC program's performance.