Ocean Controls KTA-323 Arduino Compatible Ethernet Relay Controller with Mobile Device Control

The KTA-323 is a USB, RS-485, or Ethernet controlled IO module for interfacing PC’s to real world applications, such as controlling lights and sprinkler systems, reading sensors and monitoring switches and other digital signals. It’s also an Arduino compatible controller and can be programmed with Arduino IDE for stand-alone operation.

The relays are capable of switching up to 5A at 250 VAC. Bi directional, optically-isolated digital inputs can be wired to NPN, PNP or dry contact (switch) type sensors. Three analog inputs can be used for 0 to 5 VDC or 0 to 20 mA (including industry standard 4 to 20 mA) signals.

A simple ASCII protocol allows control from Windows/Mac/Linux using either USB Virtual serial port drivers or RS-485. Additionally, multiple devices can be connected to one RS-485 bus, allowing control of many devices from one USB port.

Multiple controllers can be connected to one or more PCs in an RS-485 network. Each controller can be assigned an address and will respond to commands addressed to them.

The KTA-323 can also be controlled over the internet. A webpage is served out over the Ethernet port, allowing monitoring of all I/O, as well as manipulating the relays.

The controller is based on the hardware of the Arduino physical computing controllers. It can be programmed as a stand-alone controller using the free, open source Arduino environment. The Ethernet mimics the hardware of the Arduino Ethernet shield, and is fully compatible with the Ethernet Library. Additionally, the unit ships with a globally unique MAC address.

Features:

• 8 relay outputs 5A, 250 VAC
• DIN rail mountable
• 4 bi-directional, opto-isolated inputs 5 to 30 VDC
• 3 Analog inputs (10 bit), jumper selectable for 0 to 5 VDC or 0 to 20 mA
• Connections via screw terminals
• Power Indicator, relay status, TX and RX LEDs (serial and ethernet).
• All enclosed in professional looking plastic case
• Arduino compatible
• Accepts XBee form factor expansion modules
• Communicates via USB (virtual serial port), RS-485, or Ethernet.
• Easily connect multiple units far apart by RS-485
• Monitor and control I/O remotely on the internet

An example program has been written in Visual Basic to show you how to interface with the KTA-323 using a PC.

Documentation:

• User Manual (PDF)
• Schematic (PDF)
• Eagle CAD Files

Software:

• Arduino Sketch (updated 22nd April 2014)
• Webduino Library
• PC Application and source code (updated 23rd September 2013)