Unipi Neuron S103 (Raspberry Pi 4, 4GB)

Features

• universal architecture
• compact size, durable aluminium chassis (IP20 protection) serving as a heatsink
• integrated Raspberry Pi 4 Model B computer (quad-core CPU, 2/4/8 GB RAM)
• designed for DIN rail mounting
• features RS485 serial line for Modbus communication, connection of extension modules and other applications
• software openness (based on Linux OS)

Description

Unipi Neuron S103 (Raspberry Pi 4) is a programmable logic controller designed for automation, control, regulation and monitoring. The S103 (Raspberry Pi 4)’s universal architecture includes digital and analog I/Os, making it suitable for simple installations. The controller also features a single RS485 serial interface and a 1-Wire interface for connecting digital humidity or temperature sensors. The default Neuron S103 variant based on Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ is also available.

Inputs & outputs description

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.

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

Analog output (AO) is 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

As a computing module, the controller uses an integrated Raspberry Pi 4 Model B computer featuring quad-core 1.5GHz CPU and RAM memory with selectable capacity (2, 4 or 8 GB). That gives them more than enough performance for various performance-demanding applications. MicroSD memory cards are used as memory storage.

Communication interfaces

Neuron controllers are by default provided with RS485 serial lines. This type of interface usually uses the Modbus RTU protocol and can be used to communicate with various devices such as Extension xS extension modules, energy meters, touchscreen HMI displays, controllers from other vendors, various sensors etc. A single bus can support dozens of devices 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 100 meters. 

All Neuron models also feature a single Ethernet port for network communication. The S103 (Raspberry Pi 4) model is equipped with a 1Gbit Ethernet port.

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 Guide for choosing the right software 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
• removable screw terminals
• DIN rail holder (35 mm)
• 2× DIN rail holder mounting screws
• 1× grounding screw
• instruction leaflet
• Mervis license request

Other features

All components of the controller are encased within a durable aluminium chassis (IP20 protection). On S103 (Raspberry Pi 4) the chassis also serves as a heatsink for the computing module. The controller is designed for mounting on a standard DIN rail (35 mm).

Possible uses

Certification

Neuron is CE and EMC tested and is compliant with all corresponding European PLC standards. In accordance with these standards Neuron can be used in:

• Residential buildings, apartments
• Commercial areas, offices, banks
• Entertainment areas, cinemas, bars, pubs, dance clubs
• Outdoor places, gas stations, parking lots, sport centers
• Areas of light industry, workshops, laboratories, service centers

Technical parameters

Further info

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