What is FLEX Ex I/O?

FLEX Ex I/O is a modular I/O system designed to mount directly to controlled equipment in a hazardous area. It combines the I/O module, intrinsic safety barriers, and the terminal blocks into a compact unit. The FLEX Ex I/O system is designed with intrinsic safety technology, which prevents sensors, human-machine interfaces, actuators, and other low-voltage instruments from releasing enough energy to cause the ignition of volatile materials. The FLEX Ex I/O system contains the following components:
  • Adapter
    One adapter powers the I/O bus for as many as eight I/O modules. Two separate connection terminals for field power let you daisy-chain power connections to adjacent terminal bases depending on power consumption. Removable power connections allow for easy wiring.
  • Terminal Base
    You can remove and insert modules under backplane power without rewiring or disrupting your system. By combining your field wiring terminations and the I/O interface into the same location, you save time and money by making your system easier to troubleshoot and maintain.
  • I/O Module
    The I/O module contains the bus interface and circuitry needed to perform specific functions related to your application. The distribution of I/O offers the following advantages:
    • eliminates wiring from the control room to the field mounted junction boxes
    • eliminates terminal blocks, barriers, and fuses
    • reduces system costs
    • simplifies system architecture
    • speeds up system commissioning
Installation, wiring, and maintenance costs of a FLEX Ex I/O system are low due to the combination of a terminal strip and an I/O interface. You can use the terminal strip on the terminal base to directly wire your field devices.
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