Questions & Answers

Date: January 27, 2000

SLC 500 I/O Line Extension: 1747-BSN Backup Remote I/O Scanner Module

Q1

Why a BSN and not a BCM like the backup module for PLC-5s ?

A1

PLC-5 processors have Remote I/O scanner capabilities integral to them. Since SLC500 processors use
the 1747-SN module for RIO scanner capabilities, a 1747-BCM product would require that customers
buy a minimum of 2 1747-SN modules and 2 1747-BCM modules. By combining the features of both
into a 1747-BSN module, we are providing a backup system for customers that is far more cost
effective.

Q2

Why would I want a backup system ?

A2

In applications where downtime can be costly or present a hazard, the 1747-BSN backup scanner
system ensures high availability of the system control.

Q3

What equipment is needed to create a 1747-BSN backup system ?

A3

A system consists of a minimum of (2) 1747-BSN modules, (2) SLC-5/02 or later processors, (2) local
chassis with power supply for each and Remote I/O.

Q4

How much application code is required to operate the 1747-BSN backup system ?

A4

The only application code needed to operate a BSN backup system is to transfer customer retentive
data. This data is transferred via M-files from the primary SLC processor to the local BSN, which then
transfers it to the backup BSN where it is sent to the backup SLC controller. There is handshaking
required when transferring this data between the controllers and the BSN modules. This handshake
code is included in the user manual for customers to use.

Q5

How do the primary and secondary processors communicate?

A5

The two processors talk via a High Speed Serial Link (HSSL) between the two BSN modules. The
processors talk to the BSN modules via M-file transfers.

Q6

Are the processors synchronized?

A6

No, the processor scans are not synchronized. When a switchover takes place, it may take one program
scan for the backup processor to be in full control. However, outputs will not drop out during this time,
but will be held in their last state.

1747_SLC_BSN_QA.doc

Q7

What is the switchover time of the system?

A7

The switchover time is a maximum of 50 ms plus one processor scan time.

Q8

How is the input image table updated in the backup processor?

A8

The primary BSN sends a copy of the input data from the RIO network to the backup BSN that then
sends it to the backup processor. The backup processor is therefore running with the same input data as
the primary processor.

Q9

How are Operator Interface devices handled?

A9

If the Operator Interface device is an RS232 version for connection to Channel 0 of a SLC-5/03, 04 or
05 processor, it is then wired through the BSN modules to Channel 0. The switchover of the Operator
Interface device from Channel 0 of the primary processor to Channel 0 of the secondary processor when
a system switchover takes place is automatic.

Q10

Do the primary and secondary processors have to contain the same program?

A10

Yes, it is highly recommended that the program files for the primary and secondary controllers are the
same.

Q11

How much data can the customer transfer over the HSSL from primary to backup processor?

A11

Each pair of BSN modules can transfer up to 2K words of data over the HSSL. The maximum number
of BSN modules in each SLC chassis is 8. This assumes no local I/O. Therefore, the maximum amount
of data that can be transferred from the primary system to the backup system is 16K words.

Q12

Who should I contact with questions concerning the 1747-BSN backup scanner module?

A12

The contacts for this module are Jim Wuethrich or Gary Weiss

Q13

How does the program know which processor is acting as the primary?

A13

The 1747-BSN has a dip switch that is read by the program to differentiate which processor is acting as
the primary. Additional status information is available in the 1747-BSNs M-files.

1747_SLC_BSN_QA.doc